Considering soccer is the most popular and beloved sport on the continent, it's little surprise that there's a lengthy list of thrilling soccer derbies that you can attend when visiting Europe.
From the long-standing rivalry between Spanish giants Real Madrid and FC Barcelona to the hotly-contested Old Firm derby in Scotland, clashes between Europe's finest clubs are among the world's most exciting sporting events.
If you're a keen soccer fan and are in the midst of planning a trip to Europe, make some room in your itinerary for one of these gripping soccer derbies ahead of your next visit.
Real Madrid vs. Barcelona
We're kicking things off with one of the most famous soccer rivalries on the planet, Real Madrid and FC Barcelona.
Known by most as El Clasico, the battle between these esteemed clubs is akin to a cultural event each time it rolls around. Moreover, the cities of Madrid and Barcelona are known for having somewhat hostile political relations, which means that fans of both clubs are especially passionate when these fixtures take place.
These two soccer powerhouses meet at least twice each season for league games but often have additional meetings thanks to the Champions League and Copa del Rey. As a result, you'll have quite a few opportunities to soak up the electrifying atmosphere when these teams go head-to-head.
If you're lucky enough to get your hands on tickets for these highly coveted clashes, you'll likely be watching from Real Madrid's home ground, the Santiago Bernabeu, or Barcelona's Camp Nou.
Manchester United vs. Liverpool FC
Another derby that most soccer fans are all too familiar with is that of Manchester United and Liverpool FC. Much like FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, these illustrious clubs are two of the most decorated teams on the planet.
Manchester and Liverpool are less than an hour apart, and the northern England cities have been fierce rivals since the Industrial Revolution. This animosity has carried over into the football world and has been amplified as the two respective teams have gone on to become the most successful teams in England.
Whether you attend a game at Old Trafford in Manchester or Anfield in Liverpool, you'll be assured of an unforgettable experience amongst some of the most dedicated fans in football.
Though both teams go through alternating periods of success where one club dominates, these games are no less competitive and are as riveting as ever each time.
Celtic FC vs. Rangers FC
We're staying in the United Kingdom a little longer and heading to England's northern neighbor, Scotland. The nation's largest city, Glasgow, plays host to an incredibly tense rivalry between the clubs of Celtic FC and Rangers FC.
More than just a soccer fixture to most, fans of the respective Old Firm teams often hold opposing religious and political views. The deep-rooted conflict between the two is made more intense as Celtic FC, and Rangers FC are the only teams ever to win the Scottish Premiership.
Unfortunately, these games have led to violence on a number of occasions, and fans of the opposing team have even been banned from attending matches in the past. In most cases, however, these games are exhilarating and enjoyable experiences, particularly as an impartial attendee.
These clubs face off at least three times every season, though they often compete in four or five fixtures, depending on the results of different competitions.
Inter Milan vs. AC Milan
It just so happens that two of Italy's most accomplished both call the city of Milan home. For decades, Inter Milan and AC Milan have both endured success after success, both domestically and in international competitions.
Dubbed the Derby della Madonnina, the meetings between these Milanese titans are made even more enthralling as the two share the San Siro stadium. Traditionally, Inter Milan was the club of choice for affluent members of society, while AC Milan's fanbase was thought to be comprised of working-class locals. Nowadays, allegiance to a particular club has little to do with wealth and is typically a matter of preference.
You can catch these teams battling it out twice each year in Serie A, Italy's premier league. Thanks to the Coppa Italia, the two often meet in additional fixtures. Though they've been few and far between, the pair have occasionally participated in a Champions League showdown.
The north of the San Siro is typically filled with die-hard chanting Inter Milan fans in blue and black stripes. Opt for the southern half of the stadium, and you'll be surrounded by devoted AC Milan fans donning red and black jerseys and displaying imaginative tifos.
FC Porto vs. Benfica SL
FC Porto and Benfica SL are two of Portugal's most treasured soccer clubs. As is often the case among a pair of great teams, the two are in competition in terms of geography and soccer.
Porto, the home of its namesake soccer club, lies in the north of the country and is the second-largest city. Lisbon, the nation's capital, is much further south and is home to their biggest competitor, Benfica SL.
The tension between the two has resulted from the status of both spots as Portugal's brightest and best cities, and this has spilled over into football as FC Porto and Benfica SL tend to dominate Liga Portugal.
You'll find fervent fans arguing over every decision and goal whether you attend a game at Estadio do Dragao in Porto or Estadio do Luz in Lisbon. No matter which side you're on, you can pretty much be guaranteed an otherworldly atmosphere as these Portuguese superpowers come to blows.
It’s Time for a Derby
Enjoy a sporting spectacle like no other next time you're in Europe by securing your tickets to some of the most hard-fought fixtures in world of soccer.
Whether you have a fondness for a certain team or are simply a neutral soccer supporter, there's no better way to experience the enthusiasm and energy of European fanatics than at one of these legendary derbies.
