Euro 2024: What You Need to Know Before the Kick‑off

Europe’s biggest football party is back, and this time it lands in Germany. Whether you’re a die‑hard supporter or just love the buzz of a big tournament, knowing the basics will make the experience way more fun.

When and Where: The Core Schedule

The tournament runs from June 14 to July 14, 2024. Six cities host the action – Berlin, Munich, Dortmund, Stuttgart, Cologne and Hamburg – each offering a modern stadium and plenty of local flavor. Group matches are spread out so you can catch several games in one day if you’re up for it. The knockout stage starts on June 30, leading to a grand final at Berlin’s Olympiastadion on July 14.

Who’s Playing: Teams & Key Contenders

Twenty‑four national teams have qualified, divided into six groups of four. Traditional powerhouses like Germany, Spain, France and Italy are in the mix, but look out for surprise packages – England’s young squad, Belgium’s golden generation, and Croatia’s resilient side often bring extra drama.

If you love a good underdog story, keep an eye on nations such as Denmark or Portugal; they’ve shown they can turn matches upside down. The top two from each group move to the round of 16, joined by the four best third‑placed teams, so even a loss doesn’t always spell doom.

Fans also love tracking star players. Watch for Germany’s Leroy Sané on home turf, Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo looking for one last big win, and England’s Harry Kane leading the charge. These names often decide close games.

Getting Tickets Without a Headache

The biggest headache for many fans is scoring tickets. The official UEFA portal opens sales in stages – first for fans of the participating nations, then a general public phase. Sign up early, set alerts and be ready to buy as soon as the window opens.

Resale platforms are safe if you stick to verified sellers on UEFA’s partner list. Avoid random third‑party sites; they can be pricey or risky. If you’re flexible about seating, consider matches that aren’t high‑profile – you’ll still get great football and a cheaper price.

Traveling to Germany? Use the excellent rail network; tickets between cities are cheap and frequent. Book accommodation early, especially in Berlin and Munich where demand spikes.

How to Make the Most of Your Euro Experience

Don’t limit yourself to the stadium. Each host city throws its own fan zones with big screens, food stalls and live music. It’s a perfect way to soak up the atmosphere without a pricey seat.

Download the official Euro 2024 app – it gives you real‑time scores, match highlights and even push notifications for any schedule changes (weather can shuffle kick‑off times).

Finally, remember the basics: stay hydrated, wear comfortable shoes, and bring a light rain jacket. German summer weather can swing from sunshine to sudden showers.

With the schedule set, teams ready, and ticket tips in hand, you’re all set for an unforgettable Euro 2024. Grab your jersey, find a good spot – whether it’s a stadium seat or a bustling fan zone – and enjoy the football frenzy!