Anyone who has ever been to an away match as a football fan knows that the experience is completely different to that of a home match. Not only are you the ‘outsiders' at the match itself, but an away day also provides an opportunity for you to experience a new town/city and all that it has to offer.
For some fans, the 90 minutes of football can sometimes even turn into an inconvenience on what is otherwise an enjoyable day (or three) experiencing a new area with family and friends. In fact, there are plenty of football fans who follow the mantra ‘don't let the football ruin a day out at the football'.
If you are embarking on your first away day in the coming weeks, or if you just want an idea of how best to experience a new city as a football fan, our guide below has you covered.
Away day tips: How best to experience a city as a football fan
Organise travel
First things first, you need to organise how you are going to get to the place you are visiting. This does need some prior research, as winging it on the day can leave you with an inadequate amount of time to sample what the local area has to offer.
Most football fans enjoy heading to an away day on the train as it is often a) the quickest route and b) the route which allows additional drinking time.
Decide what type of pub you want (if at all)
A big consideration for a lot of away supporters is nailing down the best pub to visit pre-match. For some, this could be the designated away pub, while for others, it could be more of a case of finding a quiet spot where you can guarantee quick service and no hassle.
Regardless of which type of pub you are after, do some research beforehand, as otherwise, you may well end up in a pub that doesn't fulfil your needs.
Our football ground guides include key information on local pubs, and perhaps a good place to start.
Are you even a proper football fan if you haven’t been in this establishment on an away day. 🤩 pic.twitter.com/BVXU3zoSbN
— Football Away Days (@footyawayday) December 16, 2025
See the sights
If you are visiting a city that has its fair share of famous spots, then it would be odd not to go and visit them. For example, if your team is playing PSG in the Parc des Princes, then just block out a bit of time to go and see the Eiffel Tower. Who knows when you will next be there?
We all enjoy a good sing-song in a boozer, but sightseeing can not only give you a better feel of what the city you are in is all about, but also give you a bit of time to recharge your social batteries.
Allow room for spontaneity
Some of the best advice we could give when it comes to away days is not to over-plan everything. If you arrange an itinerary where you know exactly where you are going to be at every hour of every day you are away, then you are going to potentially miss out on an experience or place that will make the trip extra special.
Enjoy the stadium
Look, we understand the whole ‘don't let the football ruin a day out at the football' mentality, but ultimately, the main reason you are in the city is for a football match. Therefore, if it's a stadium you have never been to before, make sure you arrive in plenty of time before kick-off so you can properly appreciate it.
Take a walk around the perimeter of the stadium, see what food is on offer outside and inside, and take it all in before the chaos ensues on the pitch.