Travel ideas for 2020: Visit the 12 UEFA host cities
This year, the UEFA European Football Championship will be hosted uniquely, in a total of 12 different locations across Europe.
This summer, why not take a trip to some of these iconic European cities hosting the UEFA Euro 2020 to mark the tournament’s 60th anniversary.
Munich
Munich, the capital city of Bavaria, southern Germany is famously known for being home of boozy Oktoberfest. However, there is much more to see in beautiful Munich, such as its stunning architecture and gardens. Furthermore, Munich is a cultural hub for Germany with a wide range of museums such as Glypothek, claiming to be the world’s only museum devoted to ancient sculptures. Also, car enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the BMW museum to learn about the famous automobile manufacturer.
Saint Petersburg
St Petersburg in Russia is the perfect summer city break destination, with the city being lit by sunlight for 24 hours a day between mid-June to early July. It is super easy to explore the art-rich city, being home to the world’s deepest metro system. Also, why not enjoy world-class ballet and opera at The Mariinsky Concert Hall.
Bucharest
The Romanian capital, Bucharest is an inexpensive trip for those trying to save their pennies. The pound is strong in Bucharest, that you can get 2 pints of beer for less than £5! Stroll around the city’s old town or even its very own Arcul de Triumf, modelled on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, which was built in celebration to mark the end of world war one. Marvel at the city’s elegant architecture, which has earned it the nickname, thes Little Paris of the East.
Budapest
The Hungarian city is a nightlife hot spot, flooded with trendy bars, especially ‘ruin bar’ Szimpla Kert. If you’re looking for a more relaxed view of the city, the luxurious 20th century baths are an escape from the busy city. For a more humbling experience, pay your respects to those who lost their lives during the Holocaust on the banks of the Danube at the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial.
Baku
Baku, Azerbaijan holds a contrasting mix of both old and new architecture. Explore the old city on a walking tour, and then check out the modern skyline on The Caspian Sea Cruise, allowing you to see the glowing Flame Towers in all their glory. Foodies have to check out the Azeri cuisine, including a Azerbaijani tea speciality, tea with strawberry jam in!
Copenhagen
When in Copenhagen, take a stroll around Nyhavn- which translates to New Harbour in English. You will feel like you’re taking a step back in time in this picturesque scenery, where wooden ships from the 1700’s are moored. The Little Mermaid statue is the most iconic landmark in Copenhagen, which was built as a tribute to Hans Christian Andersen’s well-loved fairy-tale.
Amsterdam
Get lost in the arty culture of Amsterdam at world-class museums such as Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, the Stedelijk Museum and more. For an eye-opening experience, visit the house that Anne Frank and her family used to hide from the Nazis is now a museum Also, why not use a bicycle as your mode of transport on your trip to Amsterdam whilst exploring the streets and canals. Amsterdam is one of the world’s most bicycle-friendly cities and there are actually more bikes in the city than people!
Rome
Rome is one of Europe’s most visited tourist spots, with endless history on every corner. Throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain whilst you’re in town, or take a walk up the Spanish Steps. The Vatican is must-see if you want to learn about Rome’s history- soak up the culture in Saint Peters Basilica and the Vatican museums at the home of the Pope (be sure to bring your passport). Not forgetting the ancient landmark, The Colosseum, which is one of the seven wonders of the modern world and Rome’s most popular attraction. All that sight-seeing will be sure to help you build up an appetite! The Italian cuisine is second to none, especially for pizza, pasta and ice cream lovers.
Dublin
Ireland’s colourful capital is oozing personality. The perfect destination for a fun-filled weekend of Guinness with friends. You can even take a tour of the Guinness Storehouse and pull your very own pint of the classic Irish beer. Another popular drinking spot is Temple Bar, you can’t miss it’s red, sparkly exterior! However, despite the Irish being known for their drinking culture, Dublin has some unmissable features. Catch a glimpse of the beautiful Book of Kells, which was written around 800 AD at Trinity College. The Library at Trinity is awe-inspiring, which you can see on a tour of Trinity College campus, holding over 200,000 books!
Glasgow
Scottish city Glasgow has become popular with tourists, just like their neighbour, Edinburgh. The city has transformed into a cultural hub after it rapidly developed during the Industrial Revolution in the early 19th century. You can also stay in The Grand Central Hotel, placed within the train station itself, perfect for those always travelling to their next destination. Whilst wandering down the city’s cobbled lanes be sure to check out Glasgow’s music scene, they were actually the first UK City to be designated UNESCO City of Music.
Bilbao
Take a step back in time, literally. Bilbao’s Casco Viejo is the oldest part of this Spanish city, first laid out at the end of the 14th century. Its Siete Calles (Seven Streets) is a great path to take in a summary of local life, with a wide variety from independent shops to bars serving up cheap local delicacies, Txakoli (slightly sparkling white wine) or Zurito (small beer). The Guggenheim holds some of the most impressive modern art in Europe, you can’t miss the huge sculpture of a puppy made of tulips by Jeff Koons in the entrance!
London
London is the final destination, as this is where the UEFA European Championship final will take place. But whilst you’re here, be sure to the visit the Queen at Buckingham Palace, a staple tourist destination for first-time visitors. See all the sights of the iconic London skyline, on the London Eye, or enjoy a drink up the Shard, for an equally spectacular view of the city. Street food lovers will revel in vibrant Camden Town, known for its alternative culture and vintage market, perfect for collecting souvenirs. To get away from the hustle and bustle of the non-stop city, Hyde Park is London’s most famous park, allowing you to escape the madness for a moment. Alternatively, trendy areas such as Brick Lane and Shoreditch are heaving with hidden gems, such as themed bars and mouth-watering independent eateries. If retail therapy is what you’re looking for, London’s Oxford Street is Europe’s busiest shopping street, welcoming 500,000 visitors daily to Britain’s best-loved high street and designer shops. If you’re looking for something a bit more off the beaten track, take a look at London’s famous markets including Borough, Spitalfields and Portbello Road.