The World Cup is finally here. FIFA’s showpiece event features 32 teams, competing in 64 games over 32 days. As the best players from around the world congregate in Russia to battle it out for footballs ultimate prize, we’re celebrating by taking you on a tour of some of Europe’s best property spots for footy fanatics. Places where you’ll be able to get your fix of the beautiful game in beautiful surroundings.
Madrid
We had to begin in the home of the current Champions League holders. In fact Real Madrid has won the most coveted prize in European football four out of the last five seasons and 13 times in total – comfortably more than any other club.
Madrid
When you’re not cheering on the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo in the impressive Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, you’ll be able to enjoy this elegant city. Spain’s capital combines an artistic and culinary pedigree with its beautiful architecture and killer nightlife, giving it an infectious energy.
Barcelona
Real Madrid’s arch rivals, FC Barcelona, have been giving the Los Blancos a run for their money in recent years. The current champions of Spain have won the La Liga title nine out the last 14 seasons, and in Lionel Messi have one of football’s true greats firing them to glory. They even have the biggest ground in European football: the 99,000 capacity Camp Nou.
Barcelona
Life in the capital of Spain’s fiercely proud Catalonia region offers an impressive mix of art and architecture. Where iconic landmarks designed by one of its most famous sons, Antoni Gaudi, can be found at every turn. Throw in its sweeping sandy beach and you have an enticing selection of city centre and seaside apartments to choose from.
Milan
You’ll be able to choose from two of the biggest clubs in world football – Internazionale and AC Milan – when you make the move to this famous city in northern Italy. Whichever you choose to give your allegiance to, success will be round the corner. Both teams have won the Italian title on 18 occasions over the years, so strap yourself in for one of the biggest local derby’s in world football at the San Siro – home to both AC and Inter.
Milan
If you love shopping as much as you love football, this is the place for you. As a global capital of fashion and design, haute couture and the shops that provide that high-end retail fix are woven into the city’s fabric. Purchasing a pad around here will also bring you within easy reach of the enchanting Italian lakes and ski resorts to the north.
Rome
Home to two more Italian heavyweights – Roma and Lazio – Rome is as proud of its footballing pedigree as its impressive history. Thankfully these days the locals prefer to gather en masse in the Stadio Olimpico to indulge their passion for the national sport, rather than the Colosseum to see more grisly proceedings. Success has been a little harder to come by than some of their rivals in recent years, but the passion of both sets of fans really sets them apart. Whether you opt for the imperial purple of Roma or the sky blue of Lazio, match days are full of Latin passion.
Rome (Luciano Mortula – LGM / Shutterstock.com)
Back in the Eternal City you will be able to immerse yourself in its beautiful historic surroundings, with iconic Roman ruins and beautiful renaissance buildings at every turn. Combine this with the city’s awe-inspiring art and vibrant street life and it’s easy to see why this place is so romantic and inspiring.
Lisbon
Benfica is the most successful Portuguese club side of all time, having won the Primeira Liga a staggering 36 times. When you’re not enjoying the panoramic views of cobbled lanes, terracotta rooftops and domed cathedrals atop one Lisbon’s seven hills, head to the Estádio da Luz to watch the all-conquering Águias (Eagles). The city is also home to Sporting CP, who are no slouches either, with 18 league titles and a European Cup Winners Cup to their name.
Lisbon
Lisbon’s impressive historic architecture is complemented by a mix of regeneration projects and contemporary developments, making Portugal’s capital one of Europe’s most enticing cities to invest in.
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Wherever you choose to buy you’ll have a few financial matters to sort out : Download the Traders Guide to Currency
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