Best European Destinations for International Sports Tours

Two young footballers battling it out at the Dutch Soccer Cup

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Imagine loud cheers, winners’ medals, and an electric atmosphere – all in a brand-new country! Whether it’s scoring a last-minute winner in Spain or preparing for a rugby clash in Portugal, international sports tours and tournaments across Europe offer unforgettable experiences both on and off the pitch.

From world-famous football tournaments to growing rugby festivals, these four European destinations stand out for their quality competition, fantastic facilities, and incredible tour experiences!

Spain – Sun, Skill & Elite Football Culture

Every tournament in an international sports tour is a fresh new challenge for young athletes- new opponents, new environments, new crowds and new energy from both teams. The pressure is high for teams, but that’s when the motivation and adrenaline kicks in! Players come together to create a strategy and push each other to win the games. And when they do, it’s a roar of celebrations, pride, and high fives which fuels their energy for the next games!

Why Spain is great:

  • Strong footballing heritage and technical playing style
  • High-quality facilities at venues like Futbol Salou and Sabadell
  • Ideal for combining football with sightseeing and beach time
  • Great for both boys’ and girls’ teams across many age groups

Portugal – Football & Rugby with a Competitive Edge

Portugal offers something special for multi-sport clubs. With excellent university-level facilities in Lisbon and a growing rugby scene, it’s ideal for teams looking for strong competition and a cultural city break.

Why Portugal is great:

  • One of the best dual-destination countries for football and rugby

  • Excellent facilities at Estádio Universitário de Lisboa

  • Strong international competition

  • Fantastic city experience in Lisbon

  • Warm climate and great value

Top tournaments include:

The Netherlands – Europe’s Tournament Hotspot

The Netherlands is one of Europe’s most popular sports tour destinations thanks to its huge choice of tournaments, excellent organisation, and team-friendly accommodation like Center Parcs.

Why the Netherlands is great:

  • Massive choice of football and rugby tournaments

  • Well-run, professionally organised events

  • Easy travel via coach/ferry and short flight times from the UK

  • Popular Center Parcs accommodation for team bonding

  • Great for mixed-age squads and touring clubs

Top rugby festivals include:

Sweden – Home of the World’s Biggest Football Tournament

Sweden is home to the legendary Gothia Cup, the largest youth football tournament in the world. This is the ultimate football tour for teams wanting a truly global experience.

Why Sweden is great:

  • The Gothia Cup is the biggest youth football tournament on the planet

  • Teams from all over the world

  • Incredible facilities including Kviberg (28 pitches) and SKF Arena

  • Electric tournament atmosphere

  • A true “World Cup” experience for young players

  • Amazing memories on and off the pitch

Gothia Cup highlights:

  • U11 – U18 boys’ and girls’ teams

  • Heden Center tournament HQ

  • Stadium matches with thousands of spectators

  • Activities, food courts, souvenir shops, and team zones

Return home like a champion!

With international Sports Tours, your team will come back all fired up motivated and ready to take on their next game! Your squad will be unstoppable, with new skills and a stronger team.

What are you waiting for? Book your international Sports Tour, where multiple training sessions turns into one unforgettable experience!

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