When it comes to sports, there are several locations around the world that are near and dear to the hearts of fans. The dedicated ones plan their travels to catch major sporting events and tours – whether it is to hear the roar of a Formula One engine taking on the city Circuit de Monaco, or to see experienced skiers take on the most challenging downhill Alpine slope.
There’s no doubt that the spirit of sportsmanship can expose us to new destinations as much as its food, music, and art.
Being part of a cheering crowd or touring group brings fans together to share aspects of their favourite sports that are not always relatable to others, so there’s a special experience in store for visitors to each of these sports pilgrimage locations on our list.
Barcelona's Camp Nou, Spain
Football fans come here by the thousands to experience El Clasico in person, in one of Europe's landmark stadiums from August to May. Another famous location in the country is Real Madrid's Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
Gold Coast, Australia
Catch the best waves in December through April - or if you're more of a fan than a surfer, visit the renowned beach down under for the World Surf League in March. W australia.com Image: TheInertia.com
All Blacks in New Zealand
Known for their gritty, pre-match haka warrior dance, this champion rugby team is the pride of New Zealand. Check out the fixture schedule to catch these sports warriors on your Kiwi adventure.
Monaco Grand Prix
This is no ordinary race because the Monaco circuit's sharp turns, corners and changes in elevation puts even the best racers to the test to nail-biting effect. The next Monaco Grand Prix is slated for 28 May 2018.
British Open golf courses in Scotland
With over 500 lush green courses, Scotland is where the rules of golf was first detailed in 1744. Three of the British Open courses - The Old Course at St. Andrews, Royal Troon and Carnoustie - are open to the public with booking.
Top EPL stadiums in England
Old Trafford, Anfield, Stamford Bridge, St James' Park - these are just some of the many iconic stadiums that attract football fanatics, especially during the English Premier League from August to May.
Hahnenkamm-Race in Kitzbühel, Austria
The Hahnenkamm-Race is when the world's best skiers tackle the notorious Streif run in this annual World Cup highlight, celebrated throughout a whole week of festivities in January.
Super Bowl final
This annual showdown between the NFL's best two teams takes place in an all-American February blowout amongst deafening cheers, chants, and star-studded performances. The Super Bowl final is one of the world's largest sporting events not just in scale, but corresponding value.
Tour de France
July is typically the month of the classic 3,500 km Le Tour, but there's the 22-stage La Vuelta 2017 coming up from August 19 to September 10. The routes for this fine showmanship of passion and perseverance vary, but end in Paris every year.
Wimbledon, London
The All England club in the Wimbledon district of London is known to tennis fans near and far as home to the prestigious tournament. You can visit the grounds all year around, but getting a courtside seat to see the world's best face off in June/ July may not be as easy!
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Images courtesy of respective official organisers.