For football enthusiasts on a budget, Europe offers a plethora of affordable top-flight football cities that combine the thrill of the game with wallet-friendly experiences. In today’s blog, we explore the cheapest European top-flight football mad cities to visit.

  1. Belgrade, Serbia: The capital city of Serbia, offers a captivating experience that combines affordability, a rich football culture, and vibrant attractions. Explore the city’s fascinating history, from the ancient Belgrade Fortress to the bohemian district of Skadarlija. Immerse yourself in Belgrade’s lively atmosphere, sample delicious Serbian cuisine, and discover the city’s buzzing nightlife. Belgrade’s biggest match is between Red Star Belgrade and Partizan Belgrade, two eternal rivals.
  2. Budapest, Hungary: Budapest offers accommodation choices range from budget hostels to 5* hotels, providing options for all budgets. The city’s tram and metro networks make getting around a breeze and transport costs are affordable. Beyond football, explore the city’s stunning architecture, thermal baths, and the scenic Danube River. Budapest’s dining scene caters to various budgets, with affordable traditional Hungarian dishes and international cuisine available. The biggest fixture here is a clash between Ferencváros TC and Újpest FC, two historic rivals.
  3. Warsaw, Poland: Warsaw is a budget-friendly destination where you can immerse yourself in Polish football culture. Being a capital city, the city’s metro system offers convenient access the city, including the stadiums. Warsaw’s dining options range from affordable traditional Polish restaurants to Michelin star cuisine. Explore Warsaw’s rich history, from the reconstructed Old Town to the sombre remnants of the Warsaw Ghetto. For a memorable fixture, consider a match between Legia Warsaw and Lech Poznań, two hugely prominent Polish clubs.
  4. Bucharest, Romania: Bucharest provides an affordable and vibrant football experience in Eastern Europe. Explore Bucharest’s rich history, from the grandeur of the Palace of the Parliament to the charm of the Old Town. Dining out in Bucharest is reasonably priced, with a mix of traditional Romanian dishes and international cuisine. A noteworthy fixture is a match between Steaua Bucharest and Dinamo Bucharest, a heated rivalry in Romanian football.
  5. Sofia, Bulgaria: Sofia offers an affordable football destination without compromising on excitement. Sofia’s public transport system is cost-effective and safe, and the city’s metro network efficiently connects travellers to stadiums. Beyond football, explore Sofia’s historical landmarks, such as the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and Boyana Church. A notable fixture is a match between CSKA Sofia and Levski Sofia, a huge local derby.
  6. Zagreb, Croatia: Zagreb combines affordability with cultural charm, creating a captivating football experience within a capital city. When it comes to dining, sampling traditional Croatian dishes and exploring local tavernas can be cost-effective. Explore Zagreb’s unique blend of history and charm, from the medieval old town with its cobblestone streets to the stunning architecture of the Zagreb Cathedral. A recommended fixture is a match between Dinamo Zagreb and Hajduk Split, two fierce rivals in Croatian football.
  7. Athens, Greece: Athens is steeped in history, with attractions like the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, showcasing the city’s ancient glory. Explore the historic Plaka neighbourhood, visit the fascinating National Archaeological Museum, and stroll through the vibrant Monastiraki flea market. Immerse yourself in Greek mythology and history by visiting sites like the Ancient Agora and the Theatre of Dionysus. Indulge in traditional Greek cuisine, sample mouth-watering souvlaki and gyro, and experience the vibrant nightlife in areas like Psiri and Gazi. A notable fixture is a match between Olympiacos and Panathinaikos, the legendary Athens derby that ignites the city.

A notable fixture is a match between Olympiacos and Panathinaikos, the legendary Athens derby that ignites the city.

— Secret Match Day Team