Embark on a journey through sports tourism in 2024, with Europe leading the charge. From Wimbledon’s famed courts to the roaring tracks of the Italian Grand Prix, one of this year's top rail trends promises an unforgettable blend of athleticism and exploration. In fact, in a recent survey conducted by Trainline, 88%1 of travelers noted they would prefer to travel to cultural and sporting events by train while in Europe.
To inspire those thinking about their travel this summer, Trainline tapped someone who has traveled the globe in pursuit of winning big, a gold medalist and one of the best divers of all time – Tom Daley – to co-curate his “Summer Sports Tour of Europe.” Tom offers insider insights to elevate your sporting adventures across the UK, France, Italy, and Spain, with all events and activities accessible by rail.
Discover the excitement of Europe's most iconic sporting events paired with local charm and culture. Whether you’re rolling down English hills in pursuit of cheese or witnessing tennis royalty at Roland Garros, Tom’s recommendations have you covered.
The tour also dives into the best spots to catch the action, from bustling sports bars to historic landmarks. For those looking to get a bit more active between sporting events, you can also find a list of unique, out-of-the-box experiences across Europe that are sure to get the heart racing and adrenaline pumping.
From London to Rome, Barcelona to Glasgow, let Tom Daley’s “Summer Sports Tour of Europe” be your ticket to a summer filled with excitement and unforgettable moments.
United Kingdom
The UK offers many thrilling activities this summer, including experiencing the exhilarating rush of wakeboarding along England’s stunning coastline in Plymouth, Tom’s hometown.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or just learning, catch the perfect waves of the Atlantic Ocean for an adventure-filled day along the same coast where the gold medalist fell in love with this thrilling water sport. In fact, Tom’s favorite train route is from London to Plymouth, a path he traveled often, as well as trips to Leeds and Sheffield with his team growing up.
Additionally, perfect for a day trip from Edinburgh, the scenic seaside town of North Berwick in Scotland awaits. Just a short train ride from Edinburgh Waverley, North Berwick offers a stroll up its iconic Law, or hill, with breathtaking views across the Firth of Forth to Fife and Edinburgh.
After enjoying the scenery, explore North Berwick's independent gift and antique shops for a souvenir before heading back to the capital.
Additional sporting events include:
1. Cooper’s Hill Cheese-Rolling and Wake
Gloucestershire, England, May 27
Dive into the adrenaline-fueled madness of Gloucestershire’s cheese rolling competition on May 27. Brave souls chase wheels of cheese down steep slopes at Cooper’s Hill, promising centuries-old thrills, spills, and laughter amid the picturesque English countryside.
- Consider grabbing a pint at The Butchers Arms after the event. A classic English rural pub, there won’t be much sport available on TV, but you can go one better by chatting to competitors who are comparing their bruises and swapping stories about the contest.
- Train tickets from London to Gloucester typically available from $28.
2. Wimbledon
Travelers can experience the excitement of watching top-ranked tennis players compete on grass courts during the Wimbledon Championships.
- Consider watching at The Famous Three Kings. Situated in the Fulham district of West London, The Famous Three Kings is renowned as one of London’s best sports bars, featuring numerous screens displaying a variety of sports events, along with a range of drinks and pub grub.
- Train tickets from London Waterloo station to Wimbledon station typically available from $7.
3. The Open Championship
Troon, Scotland, July 14 to 21
One of golf's major championships, The Open is held annually at various prestigious golf courses across the United Kingdom. This year’s championship will take place at Royal Troon Golf Club on Scotland’s west coast, where travelers can witness top golfers compete for the Claret Jug trophy.
- If you’re staying in Glasgow and hopping on the train to Troon, consider watching sport at Waxy O’Connor’s, a rabbit warren of a bar spread over three floors with multiple screens showing sport and a great atmosphere.
- Train tickets from Glasgow Central to Troon typically available from $13.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Westend61. Image Location: North Berwick, Scotland, UK
France
France has a plethora of outdoor activities to enjoy this summer, with one of the best activities being the ultimate alpine adventure at the iconic Tour du Mont Blanc in Chamonix. Trek through breathtaking landscapes across France, Italy, and Switzerland, circling the majestic Mont Blanc massif. Marvel at towering peaks, glaciers, and quaint villages on this unforgettable journey through the heart of the Alps.
For a different kind of adventure, escape the urban hustle to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Les Calanques between Marseille and Cassis. Trek scenic coastal trails to hidden coves and beaches, experiencing the exhilaration of swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea surrounded by stunning landscapes.
And for general travel in France, the train from London to Paris holds a special place in Tom’s heart, as it was one of the first trips he took with his husband Lance as a couple back in 2013.
Additional sporting events include:
1. French Open
Paris, France, May 20 to June 9
One of tennis’s four Grand Slam tournaments, the French Open is held annually at Roland Garros Stadium in Paris, typically during late May and early June. Travelers can experience the unique atmosphere of clay court tennis as top players compete for the prestigious title on the red clay courts of Roland Garros.
- Consider watching at Paris’s Le Players. Situated in the heart of Paris, Le Players is a popular sports bar known for its lively ambiance, extensive drinks menu, and large screens showing a variety of sports events.
- Train tickets from London to Paris typically available from $65.
2. Tour de France
Multiple cities, France, June 29 to July 21
Spanning over three weeks each June to July, cyclists from around the globe embark on a grueling journey across breathtaking landscapes, picturesque villages, and challenging mountain passes in the Tour de France. As riders battle for the coveted yellow jersey, the race winds its way through iconic French landmarks, showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty.
- Consider watching at Nice’s Ma Nolan’s. With locations in both the Old Town and the Port area, Ma Nolan’s is a favorite spot for sports fans in Nice. They have multiple screens showing a variety of sports, including soccer, rugby, tennis, and more.
- Train tickets from Paris to Nice typically available from $21.
3. 24 Hours of Le Mans
Le Mans, France, June 15 to 16
An iconic endurance racing event held annually at the Circuit de la Sarthe in Le Mans, France. The 24 Hours of Le Mans features a grueling 24-hour race where teams of drivers compete in prototype and GT cars, attracting motorsport enthusiasts from around the globe.
- Consider watching at Le Mans’ Le Mulligan’s. Situated in Le Mans, Le Mulligan’s is a popular sports bar to watch games and grab drinks.
- Train tickets from Paris to Le Mans typically available from $11.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Westend61. Image Location, Mount Blanc, France
Spain
Spain offers an array of exciting activities this summer. Enjoy the rush of swimming and sailing in San Sebastián’s La Concha Bay, where you can explore scenic Basque Country vistas from a sailboat or dive into the tranquil waters for an unforgettable aquatic experience on Spain’s northern coast.
For those seeking adventure on land, embark on a thrilling adventure along the Caminito del Rey in Andalucía. This hiking trail is suspended along sheer cliffs and narrow gorges, offering breathtaking views and an exhilarating experience in the heart of southern Spain.
Additional sporting events include:
1. La Liga matches
Various cities, Spain, August to May, numerous dates
Spain's top professional football league, La Liga, offers travelers the opportunity to attend matches featuring world-class clubs like FC Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atlético Madrid, and Sevilla FC. Matches are held at iconic stadiums such as Camp Nou in Barcelona, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, and Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán Stadium in Seville throughout the football season.
- Consider watching at Madrid’s Sports Bar. Located in Madrid, Sports Bar is a dedicated sports bar offering a wide range of screens showing live sports events, along with a selection of drinks and snacks for fans to enjoy.
- Train tickets from Barcelona to Madrid typically available from $8.
2. Spanish Grand Prix
Barcelona, Spain, June 23
A Formula One racing event held at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya near Barcelona, Spain. The Spanish Grand Prix is a prominent fixture on the Formula One calendar, allowing motorsport enthusiasts to witness the world's premier racing teams and drivers compete on the challenging track. The event typically takes place mid-May.
- Consider watching at Barcelona’s O'Neill's Irish Pub. A popular Irish sports bar in Barcelona, O'Neill's offers a cozy atmosphere, live music, and screens showing sports events, along with a selection of Irish beers and whiskey.
- Train tickets from Seville to Barcelona typically available from $23.
3. La Tomatina Festival
Valencia, Spain, August 28
Experience the world's juiciest food fight on August 28 in Valencia. Join participants from around the globe at Spain’s famous festival in hurling ripe tomatoes at each other for a messy and unforgettable event of culinary chaos.
- After, consider going to Valencia’s Giant's Pub, known for its giant screens, creating an immersive viewing experience. Giant's Pub Valencia frequently shows football matches, Formula One races, and other major sporting events. The bar serves a range of drinks and offers a menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, and more.
- Train tickets from Barcelona to Valencia typically available from $14.50.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Luis Dafos. Image Location: La Concha Bay, San Sebastián, Spain
Italy
Italy offers many adventurous activities to embrace this summer. Conquer the legendary peaks of the Dolomites between Bolzano and Cortina d’Ampezzo, as you lace up your boots for challenging ascents with breathtaking alpine scenery. Traverse rugged trails and dramatic ridgelines for an unparalleled mountaineering experience in the heart of the Italian Alps.
For a different kind of adventure, feel the thrill of sailing on Italy’s largest lake, Lake Garda, nestled between Riva del Garda, Salò, and Sirmione. Navigate sparkling waters surrounded by towering mountains and charming lakeside villages. Whether novice or experienced, Lake Garda offers ideal conditions for a memorable sailing expedition.
Additional sporting events include:
1. Giro d’Italia
Multiple cities, Italy, May 4 to 26
Experience the thrilling Giro d’Italia 2024 as cyclists embark on a 13-day journey from Turin’s Venaria Reale to Rome, traversing Italy’s diverse landscapes and historic cities. Watch as riders compete for victory and the coveted pink jersey in one of the world’s most prestigious bike tours.
- Consider watching at Turin’s The World Famous. Located in the city center, The World Famous is a lively sports bar known for its friendly atmosphere and large screens showing a variety of sports.
- Train tickets from Turin to Rome typically available from $22.
2. Italian Open
Rome, Italy, May 6 to 19
The Italian Open held at the Foro Italico is regarded as one of the most anticipated events on the tennis calendar. Played on the red clay of the Foro Italico situated on the outskirts of Rome, the Italian Open offers a festive atmosphere unlike anywhere else, attracting the world's top tennis talents to compete.
- Consider watching at Rome’s The Highlander Pub. Situated in Rome, The Highlander Pub is a Scottish-themed sports bar known for its lively ambiance, screens showing sports events, and a selection of Scottish whiskies and beers.
- Train tickets from Florence to Rome typically available from $10.
3. Italian Grand Prix
Monza, Italy, September 1
A Formula One racing event held at the Autodromo Nazionale Monza near Milan, Italy. The Italian Grand Prix is one of the oldest and most prestigious races on the Formula One calendar, attracting motorsport fans to witness high-speed action at the historic Monza circuit. The event usually takes place in early September.
- Consider watching at Milan’s Offside Sports Pub, one of the city’s most famous pubs to watch F1, offering many screens showing sports events, and a selection of drinks and snacks for fans to enjoy.
- Train tickets from Rome to Milan typically available from $17.
Image Credit: Getty Images, David C Tomlinson. Image Location: Lake Garda, Italy
Knitting on-the-go: tips from Tom Daley for train travelers
Olympic diver and knitting aficionado Tom Daley is also sharing his top tips for knitting on-the-go, ensuring travelers make the most of their train journeys while indulging in one of his favorite portable hobbies.
- Pack smart. Always bring a drawstring bag to keep your knitting essentials organized and easily accessible. This ensures maximum knitting time without the hassle of rummaging through a big bag.
- Choose portable projects. Opt for smaller projects like hats, bags, or even small clothing items like tank tops or Tom’s personal favorite, bucket hats. These are manageable to knit within the duration of a train journey and a fun keepsake to remember your trip.
- Keep it social. If traveling with friends, bring along a game like Skyjo to add a social element to the journey. Knitting and playing games around a train table with friends can make the experience even more enjoyable and memorable while taking in the scenic view.
If you’re looking for additional inspiration for upcoming travel, check out more guides on Trainline’s Travel Journal to help plan your next trip.
Methodology:
1This data was collected using an online interview administered to members of the YouGov Plc UK panel of 2.5 million+ individuals who have agreed to take part in surveys. The survey was conducted between February 7th - 15th, 2024 with a total sample size of 7,237 adults. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).