We just found out that during our 4 peaceful days in Salzburg there are the European Soccer (Association Football) Championships in Austria and Switzerland. We are constrained to those particular days as we are with friends and family during the remaining parts of our trip and must acommodate their schedules. Any suggestions - has anyone encountered this on other trips? We are wondering if all will be so unbearably crowded that we should just try another destination or should we muddle through and enjoy.
Thanks!
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9110 posts
I've been to several of the European Championships over the years, and never found it to be "unbearably" crowded; just very expensive. Salzburg is only hosting three matches during the entire tournament, and they are spaced about four days apart; there will probably be only one day of craziness-if that. Instead of dreading it, become a temporary local and get into the tournament. On games days head over to the fan fest in the center of the city and watch the match on the big screen for free.
Posted by
OP
Northern VA, VA, USA
121 posts
Michael - thanks so much for the encouragement! We'll make a go of it - m
Posted by
burlington
427 posts
Posted by
Frankfurt am Main, Germany
2779 posts
Michelle, the world cup took place in Germany just two years ago and every night there were great multi-national, multi-cultural parties in Frankfurt, the city where I live. It'll be the same on a much smaller scheme as only European nations participate (real European nations, this is why the UK failed to qualify). So just go out and enjoy the street festivals.
Posted by
Calgary
2297 posts
Most likely the only real problem you might encounter is booking accommodation for that time. Hotels will be more expensive and book out much quicker.
As Andreas said, it's a wonderful opportunity to celebrate along with the locals and other visitors. I was in Germany in 2006 as well and went to a game in Dortmund. As crowded as it was it was still very organized and I was even able to meet up at the train station with my cousin who was coming in on a different train than myself - and that was in the middle of rush hour coupled with World Cup traffic.
Crowds do not always mean it has to be "unbearable", especially if the crowd is in a party mood ;-)