Euro 2024 is just around the corner, and this year’s host is Germany. Did you know the nation has participated in more Euro tournaments than any other country? Germany is also the winner of three European titles - in 1972, 1980 and 1996. Let’s see if 2024 is their fourth!
If you’re visiting this year and want to take some time to soak up the culture, you’re in for a treat. Here’s your guide to the ten cities hosting the Euros this year, with some must-see attractions and activities in each area.
Berlin
Germany's vibrant capital is truly a city that never sleeps and is renowned for its rich history and edgy culture. Start your visit at the iconic Brandenburg Gate and take a stroll down Unter den Linden to reach the historic Museum Island, where you’ll find no less than five of the world’s best and most famous museums. Don’t miss the Berlin Wall Memorial and East Side Gallery if you want to delve more deeply into the city's complex history.
Berlin’s nightlife is legendary. Head to Kreuzberg for its eclectic mix of bars and clubs, or if you prefer a more laid back vibe you’ll love Prenzlauer Berg. Markthalle Neun is a haven for foodies, offering a fantastic array of local and international cuisines.
Cologne
Cologne is famous for its stunning Gothic architecture including the imposing Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Climb to the top for a breathtaking view of the city before exploring the vibrant Old Town and its charming squares and narrow streets.
Visit the Chocolate Museum for a sweet experience and the Romano-Germanic Museum to learn about the city’s ancient history. End your day with a leisurely cruise on the Rhine River - perfect if you’re making time for a romantic city break after a day of football.
Dortmund
As a football fan, you won’t want to miss a tour of the Signal Iduna Park, home of Borussia Dortmund and the club’s museum. Then if you want to get away from all the excitement for a while and take a break in nature the nearby Westfalenpark is another highlight, offering beautiful gardens and panoramic views from the Florian Tower.
Dortmund is also known for its fantastic eateries and traditional German beer. Indulge in some traditional Westphalian cuisine at one of the local breweries, where you can try dishes like Pfefferpotthast (a type of beef stew) and Dortmunder Salzkuchen (a savory pastry).
Düsseldorf
The heart of German style, Düsseldorf is world famous for its art and fashion scene. The Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen showcases contemporary masterpieces, while the Museum Kunstpalast offers a diverse collection of art through the ages. Those who love high end fashion won’t want to miss a walk through Königsallee, a luxurious shopping boulevard lined with high-end boutiques and designer stores.
Later you can enjoy a walk along the Rhine Promenade, which comes alive in the evenings with bars and restaurants, and don’t forget to check out the Rheinturm (Rhine Tower) for stunning views of the city.
Frankfurt
Frankfurt is a blend of modern and traditional. Start with a visit to the Main Tower for a panoramic view of the city’s impressive skyline, then go back in time and explore the historic Römer square and its mediaeval buildings.
Like the majority of German cities, Frankfurt is home to numerous museums, including the Städel Museum and the German Film Museum which is a must-see for movie buffs. And the Palmengarten is a beautiful botanical garden spanning over 50 acres with a stunning array of plant species from around the world. Visitors can explore various themed greenhouses, including tropical rainforests, desert landscapes, and Mediterranean climates.
Gelsenkirchen
Gelsenkirchen is another football hub, home to FC Schalke 04. Visit the Veltins-Arena for a tour of the stadium and an opportunity to delve into the club’s history that no die hard football fan will want to miss. Or for a total change of pace, the nearby Zoom Erlebniswelt is a fantastic zoo that offers an immersive experience with animals from around the world.
You might also want to head across to the Nordsternpark, a former coal mine turned into a beautiful park with gardens and a large lake.
Hamburg
Hamburg is the ideal location for fans of maritime history, with the International Maritime Museum and boat tours of the harbor. For culture lovers the world famous Elbphilharmonie concert hall is also a must see. Since its opening in 2017 it has already become one of Germany’s most famous landmarks, with a distinctive architecture that has solidified Hamburg's reputation as a major cultural center.
The Reeperbahn in St. Pauli is known for its nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and music venues. Or if you prefer a more laid-back evening, the Schanzenviertel area offers a variety of cosy bars and cafes.
Leipzig
Leipzig has a rich musical heritage. Visit the Bach Museum and the Mendelssohn House to learn about the composers who lived here. The city also played a significant role in the Peaceful Revolution. Visit the St. Nicholas Church and the Forum of Contemporary History to learn more.
Leipzig is also known for its abundant green spaces, including the expansive Clara-Zetkin Park. The Leipzig Zoo is another highlight, which has gained worldwide recognition for its innovative enclosures and diverse species.
Munich
Munich is the picturesque heart of Bavaria, and if you like your pretty fairytale architecture you’ll love it here. Start at the Marienplatz and watch the famous Glockenspiel, then head to the English Garden, one of the world’s largest urban parks, where you can relax or watch surfers ride the Eisbach wave.
And of course, no visit to Munich is complete without experiencing its beer culture. Visit the Hofbräuhaus for a traditional beer hall experience, and don’t miss trying Weisswurst (white sausage) and Brezen (pretzels).
Stuttgart
Stuttgart is probably best known for its automotive industry. No self-respecting petrolhead can visit this giant of industrialism without a visit to the Mercedes-Benz and the Porsche museums for their stunning collections of classic and modern cars.
It’s also a vibrant and diverse city which is rich with culture and surrounded by vineyards. Stuttgart and the surrounding Württemberg wine region are famous for their excellent red and white wines, with a particular emphasis on regional specialties like Trollinger, Lemberger (Blaufränkisch), and Riesling. It’s also a must for food lovers, with markets like Makthalle offering plenty of opportunities to sample local cuisine after an afternoon of wine tasting.
Stay connected with Breeze
An eSIM can help you avoid high roaming costs and ensure you have reliable internet access wherever you go. Check out our German eSIM data plans for seamless connectivity as you explore everything each city has to offer during Euro 2024!