These UK and European football tournaments are dominating the field right now and we just have to give you the low down on all they offer you and your team.
They are the perfect opportunity to sub your regular local routine and go head-to-head with junior teams from across the globe and the UK.
The thrill of competition, the celebrations, the strategies, the camaraderie that comes with representing YOUR team on a global stage – it’s all up for grabs!
The Biggest Youth Football Tournaments in Europe
The Gothia Cup, Sweden
Based in Gothenburg, Sweden, the Gothia Cup is the world’s largest youth football tournament! Expect an amazing atmosphere and meet fellow U11 to U18 players from over 80 different countries – plenty of games and (hopefully) plenty of goals!
This football tournament is THE place for young footballers to meet and make friends. The Gothia Cup Foundation drives the tournament’s success, giving kids the chance to enjoy football through its impactful projects. There’s a huge emphasis placed on celebrating diversity, and the event provides plenty of opportunity for teams to explore what Gothenburg has to offer.
There are so many things to see and do in this bustling Scandinavian city – we’ve compiled a list of places to visit here outside of tournament time.
Pros:
- Features a fantastic Opening Ceremony, which includes music, dancing, and a presentation of participating nations.
- The biggest youth football tournament, with approximately 1,700 different teams participating.
The Dana Cup Football Tournament, Denmark
Another massive youth football tournament (3rd in the world!), the Dana Cup is in Hjørring, northern Denmark. With over 1,000 teams from 45 nations making the trek to this stunning town, you’re guaranteed to have a good time. U11 to U19 boys and U12 to U19 girls have the chance to learn new skills, gain confidence, and network with other passionate players.
Matches are played on 60 private football pitches, in one of Northern Europe’s best football arenas. Once you’ve played your games, Dana Cup organisers will keep you busy by providing full entertainment. Party under neon lights at a disco night or make a splash at the Fårup Summerland Theme Park!
Pros:
- Award for best visiting club – so get practising!
- Ranked as one of the top youth tournaments in the world.
Lisbon Football Youth Cup, Portugal
Head to the warm and vibrant capital of Portugal to take part in one of the fastest growing football tournaments in Europe! Lisbon Football Youth Cup may be one of the newer tournaments to the football scene, but it is already attracting over 600 players from more than 30 different countries.
This cup gifts you the opportunity to perfect your team techniques – you’ll have the chance to meet both U11 to U17 boys and U15 to U17 girls from all over the world. Take the time to make new friends, improve play styles, and explore the picturesque city of Lisbon, from ancient ruins to exploring the Oceanarium. Portugal’s passion for football is sure to excite you, so pull on those football boots and get playing!
Pros:
- The tournament is held in Estádio Universitário de Lisboa, a stadium equipped with top-notch facilities.
- Located in a sunny climate – soak up the sunshine!
Something Different?
Fancy attending something closer to home? No problem! Take a look at the biggest UK tournaments below. Or… If you want to venture abroad, but fancy a more relaxed game experience, take a look at our tailor-made European sports tours.
There’s something for everyone!
The Biggest Youth Rugby Tournaments in the UK
Blackpool Football Tournament
Looking for a legendary football tour without leaving the UK? Blackpool is the place to be! With Easter, Mayday, and Spring tournaments on offer, it’s a football-packed calendar set in one of Britain’s best-loved seaside towns. These 2-day tournaments are part of the Fleetwood Town FC Youth Football Series, giving teams the chance to battle it out on the professional-standard pitches at Poolfoot Farm, the official training ground of Fleetwood Town FC. Expect fast-paced games, great facilities, and a buzzing atmosphere from the first whistle to the final trophy lift.
But it’s not just about the football – Blackpool brings the full tour experience. After the matches, your team can hit the town to ride the rollercoasters at Pleasure Beach, chill along the promenade, or just soak up the classic British seaside vibes. Plus, with the tournaments set over bank holiday weekends, there’s no Monday morning rush – just good football, great memories, and a weekend your team won’t forget.
Pros:
- Play at Fleetwood Town FC’s official training ground – top-quality pitches and facilities.
- Ideal bank holiday tournament with time to enjoy Blackpool’s iconic seaside attractions!
Somerset Football Tournament
Looking for a weekend full of football, fun, and unforgettable team spirit? The Somerset Football Tournament is the perfect one-day tournament that brings together teams from across the UK in a buzzing, competitive atmosphere. Held at Banwell FC, this event is open to U7–U15 teams and is all about high-energy matches, good sportsmanship, and creating lifelong memories. With food and entertainment on-site, and a special guest awards ceremony to cap off the day, this is more than just a tournament – it’s a proper football celebration.
And the fun doesn’t stop at the final whistle! Teams and families will stay at Holiday Resort Unity in Brean Sands, one of the South West’s best-loved holiday parks. Think waterparks, arcades, theme park rides, indoor and outdoor play areas – your players will be entertained from the minute they arrive. Whether you’re chasing trophies or just good vibes, the Somerset Cup is a bank holiday hit for the whole team.
Pros:
- Stay at an award-winning resort with NON-STOP entertainment!
- The chance to relax on a brilliant beach after games
West Sussex Football Tournament
Brand new for 2025, the West Sussex Football Tournament brings a fresh football buzz to the South Coast! Set in a fantastic local venue, this 1-day tournament is open to U7–U15 teams and promises a full day of exciting matches, tasty food stalls, and a brilliant family atmosphere. With clubs travelling in from across the UK, expect a mix of strong competition, team bonding, and that unbeatable tour energy. Wrap up the action in style with a special guest awards ceremony and take home more than just memories.
Your team will stay at the incredible Seal Bay Resort in Chichester, packed with top-tier facilities and non-stop activities. From indoor and outdoor pools to arcades, a wave rider, laser tag, and even axe throwing – there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re lifting the trophy or just there for the fun, the West Sussex Cup is your chance to make 2025’s tour one to remember.
Pros:
- All-action weekend at with award-winning family entertainment!
- An epic BRAND-NEW tournament experience with great football and top facilities.
Ready to Tackle a Major Football Tournament?
You know what they say – go BIG or go home! Just talk to our team to kickstart your team’s adventure.
Or… If you want to venture abroad, but fancy a more relaxed game experience, take a look at our tailor-made European sports tours.
There’s something for everyone!
