Sites worth exploring in the 11 cities hosting the Euro 2021 tournament

The EURO is considered the second-best international tournament after the World Cup. 

The 2020 UEFA EURO tournament was postponed over the outbreak of Covid-19. New dates for the tournament are 11 June to 11 July 2021. UEFA decided to keep the EURO 2020 name even though the game is happening in 2021. 

Here are some of the interesting things to do once you visit the 11 host cities and stadiums.

Amsterdam (Johan Cruijff ArenA)

The Dutch capital is widely known for its tolerance of recreational drugs, sex, and overall reverie, attracting tourists searching for allocentric experiences in a city of cycle paths and canals. CNN Travel describes it as a brand built on 600 years of tolerance and openness. 

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The Covid-19 pandemic imposed border closures and lockdowns that hollowed out the streets of visitors and travelers. Many locals found the absence of intoxicated adventure lovers as a breath of fresh air but the city cannot do without the economic impact from tourism.  Amsterdam received over 20 million visitors in 2019 alone, 70% of whom came from neighboring Germany, the UK, and Belgium. 

Baku (Baku Olympic Stadium)

Located in the Caucasus, ‘The city of winds’ offers several hidden relics of ancient society, Turkish, Persian, and European history. Baku has iconic sites like the Flame Towers - a landmark symbol, the Shehidler Hiyabani cemetery, and excellent food and drink. 

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Bucharest (Arena Nationala)

‘The Paris of the East’' is a unique blend of the old and the new. From communist-era office blocks to Byanzine-era buildings, art nouveau mansions, and centuries-old churches - the variety is intoxicating. Visitors can also visit the pristine city parks, gritty charming lanes, and excellent museums while weaving through its old towns. For starters, Dracula's castle's countryside tour should be a conversation starter, not to mention other remarkable feats like the Romanian Athenaeum, Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, among other places. 

Budapest (Puskas Arena)

It's a no-brainer that Budapest ranks high among Europe’s most beautiful places. The city stands out as an architectural and historical relic. Hidden landmarks such as the Vajdahunyad Castle constructed in the early 1900s continue to marvel many. 

Copenhagen (Parken Stadium)

Often claiming the title as the ‘happiest city in Europe’, Copenhagen offers colorful houses, a canal system, and a complex canal system. There are lots of activities visitors can do while in the city. Superkilen Park would be a great place to start as it accentuates the multicultural vibe and diversity of the city. 

Glasgow (Hampden Park)

‘Dear green spot’ is Scotland’s second-largest city with a rich history and an excellent center for entertainment. The city has several museums and cultural institutions worth exploring in addition to doubling up as an entertainment center. Visitors looking to evade the hustle of the city’s inner life can opt for Kibble Palace which is right at the heart of Glasgow’s Botanical Gardens. 

London (Wembley Stadium)

The city of London is in a league of its own with over 31 million tourists flocking annually. There's always a plethora of activity from tourists gathered on the London bridge taking pictures to a walk to Tower Bridge on the Thames. As the world’s third most visited city, the capital has several relics of its historic past, modern skyscrapers, and an endless string of restaurants and bars beneath the buildings. 

Munich (Allianz Arena)

Munich is often known for its annual beer-inspired Oktoberfest event. Apart from the thrill of the game, you can take a stroll across the city or wrap your evening with a visit to the Drehleier Theater. 

Rome (Stadio Olimpico)

The Italian capital offers some of the best-preserved historical ruins including an undisputed reputation for insatiable foods. Rome’s inner marvel and beauty are often discovered walking through the neighborhoods and unraveling iconic Italian architecture, combining a mix of Ancient Greek, Roman Baroque, Medieval, and Art Nouveau. 

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Saint Petersburg (Gazprom Arena)

Arguably Russia's modern and cosmopolitan city, St. Petersburg stands out as a cultural and historical hub. You can visit the Hermitage museum as a first-time visitor, walk through the beautiful Nevsky Avenue, while flanked by churches, restaurants, and palaces. Going to the Peterhof Palace Complex also requires an out-of-town day trip. 

Seville (Estadio de La Cartuja)

The cathedral at Seville, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the largest Gothic church in Christendom with a majestic tower that once stood as the minaret's great mosque. Part of the charm is its peaceful courtyards, winding alleys of the medieval Barrio Santa Cruz, the Plaza de España, and the beautiful open spaces of the Parque de María Luisa. The Real Alcázar is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, like a medieval fortress for Moorish leaders and Christians. 

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