I went to Euro 2024 ⚽️
This summer, I embarked on a football adventure I’ll never forget: following Scotland at Euro 2024 in Germany. We stayed in Duisburg, a fantastic base that allowed us to easily hop on trains and travel to the various host cities. Over the course of two weeks, we explored Germany, celebrated my 30th birthday, and watched Scotland take on Europe’s finest. It was a whirlwind of football, travel, and brilliant memories.
Exploring Germany by Train
One of the highlights of the trip was travelling between host cities by train. Germany’s rail network is fast, efficient, and easy to navigate, which meant we could relax and enjoy the stunning scenery between matches. Staying in Duisburg was a great decision; it’s a well-connected city, and we were able to reach places like Stuttgart, Dortmund, and Cologne without any fuss. There’s something uniquely enjoyable about sipping a coffee on a train while looking out over the rolling countryside and picturesque towns - knowing that another exciting football match awaits.
Following Scotland’s Journey
As a passionate Scotland supporter, watching my national team compete on the international stage was a dream come true. We were not lucky enough to secure tickets for any Scotland games, but the atmosphere at every match looked electric even though a TV screen, with fans draped in kilts and tartan, belting out the songs that make Scottish football culture so unique.
Even when results didn’t go our way, the camaraderie among the fans was unforgettable. The mixture of optimism, nervousness, and unshakeable pride that fills a host city before a big game is something only a true football fan can understand. And in Germany, with fans from all over Europe, there was an infectious spirit of togetherness. Every game felt like a celebration of the sport, and it was a privilege to be part of it.
Celebrating My 30th Birthday in Stuttgart
I was lucky enough to celebrate my 30th birthday during the trip, and we marked the occasion with a trip to see Ukraine take on Belgium in Stuttgart. What better way to spend a milestone birthday than in a packed stadium, enjoying top-level international football? Stuttgart was buzzing with excitement, and the match did not disappoint - it was a high-energy game with a fantastic atmosphere.
Afterwards, we wandered around Stuttgart’s bustling streets, soaking up the post-match festivities. We found a lively beer garden where we celebrated my birthday properly, surrounded by a mix of fans still buzzing from the match. It’s hard to imagine a more memorable way to mark turning 30, with laughter, friends, and, of course, plenty of local beer.
Soaking Up German Culture
Between matches, we made the most of our time in Germany. We made day trips to some of the host cities, taking the opportunity to explore beyond the stadiums. From the lively shopping streets of Dusseldorf to the historic charm of Cologne’s old town, every city had its own unique vibe.
The food and drink were another highlight - I can’t count how many bratwursts I ate over those two weeks! Sampling local dishes and enjoying Germany’s famous beers became part of our match-day ritual.
A Trip to Remember
Our two weeks in Germany for Euro 2024 were more than just a football trip - it was an adventure that combined my love for the game, my 30th birthday, and the chance to experience Germany’s culture firsthand. From the excitement of Scotland’s matches to the simple joy of a birthday celebrated in a beer garden, it was a journey filled with unforgettable moments.
Travelling by train, exploring different cities, and meeting fans from across the continent made it a truly European experience. I came home with a new appreciation for Germany, countless memories, and a renewed sense of pride in Scottish football. Here's hoping we’ll be back for the next tournament, with just as much passion and a little more luck on the pitch!
Check out my film photos from the trip.
