Fans are increasingly choosing to travel abroad to support their favourite teams and enjoy the atmosphere of live events. As the UEFA Champions League approaches its winter season, from November 26 to January 19, many football fans are already planning their trips to European cities that promise not only exciting matches but also a memorable, wellbeing focused experience.

To help fans find the ideal destination, Live Football Tickets analysed key factors in 16 cities hosting Champions League teams. These included the average temperature, daily sunlight hours, park space per 1,000 people, and average costs for dining and accommodation. The findings point to several cities across Europe that combine a love of football with a revitalising environment for winter travel.

The top destinations for an uplifting UEFA Champions League experience:


1 - Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon ranks as the best destination with an impressive score of 8.19/10. The Portuguese capital stands out for its mild winter climate with an average temperature of 12.8Cº, making it the warmest destination on the list. With 6.03 hours of sunshine per day during the game months, fans can enjoy outdoor activities in a bright and inviting atmosphere. Lisbon also offers an affordable stay, with a three-course meal for two averaging just £41.66 and hotel prices at around £117 per night. The combination of great food, sunny weather, and accessible accommodations makes Lisbon a top choice for sports fans seeking both relaxation and excitement.


2 - Girona, Spain

Girona, located in the northeastern region of Spain, ranks second with a solid score of 8.04/10. This charming city offers 6.7 hours of sunlight per day, the most of any city in the study. Its mild winter weather and abundance of daylight make it perfect for outdoor exploration or simply enjoying the city’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Dining and hotel costs are moderate, ensuring that visitors can focus on enjoying the experience without breaking the bank. For football fans looking for a relaxed yet uplifting getaway, Girona offers a balanced combination of sport and wellbeing.


3 - Bologna, Italy

Bologna takes third place with a score of 7.97/10. This Italian city is known not only for its football culture but also for its extensive green spaces, with 58,263 square metres of parkland per 1,000 people. Football fans can enjoy ample space for walks or outdoor activities while soaking up the five hours of daily winter sunshine. Although the average cost of a three-course meal for two is slightly higher at £58.33, Bologna’s serene atmosphere and proximity to nature make it a great destination for those seeking a more relaxed sports experience.


4 - Guingamp, France

Guingamp, a small town in Brittany, ranks fourth with a score of 7.67/10. While the town’s winter temperatures average around 6.85ºC, it stands out for being the most affordable destination for accommodation in the study. With an average nightly hotel cost of just €77.93, visitors can allocate more of their budget to experiencing local cuisine, with a three-course meal for two costing €60.53. despite its smaller size, Guingamp offers a welcoming environment and great value for sports tourists on a budget.


5 - Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona takes fifth place with a score of 7.59/10. The city boasts a mild winter climate of around 10ºC, accompanied by an average of 6.95 hours of sunshine per day. While the city offers an exciting football experience and lively atmosphere, it does come at a higher cost. Hotel prices in Barcelona average £197.15 per night, making it the most expensive city on the list for accommodation. However, for those willing to splurge, the vibrant culture, beautiful parks, and world-renowned cuisine make Barcelona a top-tier destination for sports lovers.

Beyond the excitement of watching live football, sports tourism has significant mental and physical wellbeing benefits. Amanda Strowbridge, wellness expert and CEO of This Balm notes that sports tourism allows travellers to escape from the daily grind and immerse themselves in a new environment. She highlights how participating in or attending sporting events fosters camaraderie and social connections, which have a positive impact on mental health.

“Sports tourism is like a mental reset”, Strowbrige said. “It engages your mind fully in the present moment, which can have a calming, almost meditative effect, whether you’re part of a team or cheering on your favourite squad, the shared excitement and focus can elevate your mood and reduce stress.”

Strowbridge also pointed out the physical benefits of sports tourism. “Being active, whether through walking, participating in sports or simply exploring a new city, helps boost energy and mood by releasing endorphins and dopamine”. Additionally, the change in scenery, particularly if you’re visiting cities with abundant green spaces or coastal areas, can have a soothing effect on the body and mind.

Whether you’re looking for a sports getaway or a city where you can soak up the sun while watching top-tier football, the cities listed above offer something for every type of traveller. From the warm winter days of Lisbon to the tranquil parks of Bologna, each destination presents an ideal environment for both sports fans and those seeking a wellbeing focused trip. As the UEFA Champions League continues to captivate football fans this winter, these cities provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable sports tourism experiences.