Ever dream of traveling to see a major sporting event or take part in your hobby itself? Or maybe it appeals to you to visit a famous sports venue overseas? The heart of sports tourism is where the thrill of sports or sports memories meet the adventure of travel. Simply put, it’s traveling to either participate in or spectate a sporting event or venue – but it comes in many forms. You could follow your favorite team across the country, run a marathon in a foreign city, or even just explore a famous sports location dedicated to your favorite sport.
The world of sports tourism is incredibly diverse. You can be an active participant in events like golf tournaments, skiing trips, or cycling races, or a passive spectator soaking in the atmosphere of major events like the Olympics, the World Cup, or the Super Bowl. Each offers a unique experience, from the adrenaline rush of competition to the cultural immersion of a global sporting event.
So grab your passport and consider international destinations like Melbourne for the Australian Open or Formula 1, Barcelona for world-class soccer, or the mountains of Colorado for world class skiing and snowboarding. These are just a few of the many places where sports and travel combine to create unforgettable memories.
Monaco 🇲🇨
Formula One Racing
Since 1929 the Monaco Grand Prix Formula One race has been held on the twisting and narrow streets of Monte Carlo. To many, it’s considered both the most iconic and challenging motorsports race in the world. With cars racing through the spectacular vistas of Monaco with the Mediterranean as the backdrop, the event has become synonymous with glamor and luxury. The circuit is often described as an “exceptional location of glamor and prestige”, drawing not just racing enthusiasts but also celebrities, royalty, and international jet-setters.
The Monaco Grand Prix has a significant impact on travel and tourism, turning the small principality into a global destination during race weekend. The event attracts so many visitors from around the world, extensive travel service infrastructure has developed to handle the influx. These range from specialized transfer services, hotel packages, and VIP experiences that cater to Formula One teams, sponsors, and high-end tourists. The entirety of the race weekend has become more than a sporting event. With parties and other gatherings, the comprehensive entertainment experience boosts Monaco’s international profile and generates substantial economic gain for the region.
Wrigley Field, Chicago, Illinois, USA 🇺🇸
Baseball
Wrigley Field is a quintessential symbol of Chicago, drawing not just baseball enthusiasts, but also tourists seeking a taste of classic Americana. Its famous ivy-covered walls, hand-operated scoreboard, and seventh-inning stretch create an atmosphere that’s uniquely Chicago. As does the surrounding “Wrigleyville” neighborhood that welcomes travelers year round and contributes significantly to the city’s tourism economy.
The ballpark’s frequent appearances in movies and television have solidified its place in popular culture, making it a destination for visitors from around the world. The classic, old-time ballpark resonates with an authentic American sporting experience in the heart of a renowned city.
Melbourne, Australia 🇦🇺
Formula One Racing, Olympics, Tennis and Cricket
While Sydney was the most recent Australian city to host the Olympic Games, Melbourne was the first (Summer Games, 1956) to host the Games and continues to reign supreme as the epicenter of Australian sporting culture.
Every January, Melbourne kicks off the Grand Slam season for professional tennis by hosting the Australian Open. This three week event boasts an attendance of over one million visitors; many of which travel from overseas. Over the past decade, the tournament is estimated to have contributed $3 billion in economic benefit to the state of Victoria.
While the Open is considered the largest sporting attraction to the area, not to be overlooked is the annual Formula One Australian Grand Prix. Attracting massive worldwide attention, the Albert Park Circuit is a high speed spectacle through Melbourne’s picturesque streets. The event delivers a thrilling combination of cutting-edge technology, intense competition, and a vibrant festive atmosphere.
Also of note is the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). In addition to being a world famous cricket ground, it hosts major regional soccer and rugby tournaments. In 1956 the stadium was the setting for both the opening and closing ceremonies for the Summer Games.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 🇧🇷
Football (soccer), Pan America Games, World Cup and Formula One
Rio de Janeiro is a city with a big heart and vibrant spirit, so it’s only fitting it’s also a travel destination for major international events. Rio is more than just spontaneous samba festivals and iconic beaches. The legendary Maracanã Stadium hosts some of South America’s most fevered football matches. As the largest stadium in Brazil, it’s been the main venue for the Pan American Games (2007) and the FIFA World Cup (1950 and 2014).
These major international events not only brought world-class competition to the city but also showcased its ability to host large-scale international gatherings. Tourists are drawn to the city’s sporting legacy, seeking to experience the venues and atmosphere that hosted these historic moments. Whether they return for Carnival or a Grand Prix race, the spirit of Brazil is always there to welcome tourists with an emphatic olá!
Travel Trivia: Other than 3 locations in Australia, the only city to host the Olympic Games South of the equator is Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Summer 2016).
Eden Gardens, Kolkata, West Bengal, India 🇮🇳
Cricket
Eden Gardens is a legendary cricket ground, deeply embedded in the heart of Indian cricket. Its sheer size, passionate crowds, and the numerous historic matches played within its walls make it a pilgrimage site for cricket fans. As a cultural landmark, the stadium transcends sports by drawing tourists seeking the authentic essence of Indian cricket. The electric atmosphere during matches, particularly those involving the Indian national team or the Kolkata Knight Riders, rocks the oldest cricket stadium in India.
The stadium’s location within a major metropolitan area near the Victoria Memorial makes it easily accessible, and the surrounding area offers a variety of accommodations and attractions. The combination of world-class cricket and Kolkata’s historical charm makes for a compelling destination for sports tourists, contributing to the city’s tourism economy.
London, England, UK 🇬🇧
Tennis, Football (soccer), NFL and Olympics
London has a long tradition as a hub for sports tourism. It offers a diverse range of events and venues that attract visitors from around the world. Wimbledon, the oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament, draws crowds each summer to witness world-class tennis on the hallowed grass courts of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. The event’s tradition, elegance, and quintessentially British atmosphere make it a must-see for more than just tennis enthusiasts.
Wembley Stadium stands as another iconic landmark, hosting a variety of major sporting events. Beyond its traditional role as the home of English football, Wembley has also become a regular venue for NFL games, bringing American football fans from both sides of the Atlantic to London. The ability to see major football and American football games in the same venue increases the stadium’s already renowned history.
London’s legacy as a host city for the 2012 Olympic Games continues to influence its sports tourism. The Olympic Park, now known as Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, has been transformed into a vibrant public space with world-class sporting facilities. Visitors can explore the park, attend events at London Stadium, or simply soak in the atmosphere of a venue that hosted the historic games. When visiting London there’s no shortage of amazing sporting events and venues to take part in or explore!
The world of sports tourism offers a wide array of experiences for travelers and sports fans. From witnessing the blur of a Formula One race car speeding past, to the more relaxed atmosphere of posh tennis or cricket grounds – there’s something for every enthusiast. Cities around the world have recognized and embraced this phenomenon making it easier than ever to cheer for a football club overseas or travel to see an American football game that is also taking place overseas. The world and its passion waits to welcome you.
Have you ever attended a sporting event outside your home country? Whether as a spectator immersing yourself in the local culture, or as a participant, let us know in the comments. If not, don’t sweat it.