Holiday Ports of Call: The Best Christmas Destinations to Visit by Yacht

Set sail over the holiday season for an unforgettable Christmas adventure. From the shimmering lights of Monaco to the sun-soaked beaches of Sydney, discover the most enchanting stopovers for a luxurious and festive yacht getaway.

Ahoy, holidaymakers! This festive season, why not trade in the traditional for some Christmas luxury getaways? Embark on a yuletide voyage to some of the world’s most enchanting ports, where every sunset is a celebration. Imagine gathering around a tree in a scenic harbor, exchanging customized gifts while experiencing the magic of age-old traditions unique to the region. 

Let’s set sail to these unmissable Christmas destinations by yacht.

Mediterranean Magic: Christmas in Monaco

Picture this: the glimmering Mediterranean coastline, where Monaco transforms into a winter wonderland despite the absence of snow. Stroll through festive markets that hug the harbor, where the scent of mulled wine and artisan crafts fills the air. As the sun dips below the horizon, Monaco offers an ambiance that’s both cozy and opulent, perfect for a Christmas to remember.

Festive Attractions: Monaco’s Christmas Village at Port Hercules is a treasure trove of festive cheer. Wooden chalets overflow with artisanal crafts, gourmet delicacies and charming holiday trinkets. The nearby Place du Casino is transformed into a dazzling holiday spectacle, complete with sparkling decorations and projections on the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo.

Local Holiday Traditions: In Monaco, Christmas traditions reflect the principality’s blend of Mediterranean charm and Old-World Catholic traditions. The highlight of the season for many locals is the December Mass at the Saint Nicholas Cathedral. This historic cathedral, with its stunning Roman-Byzantine architecture, becomes the heart of spiritual and communal gatherings during the holidays.

Saint Nicholas, the inspiration for Santa Claus, is celebrated here with a focus on his role as a protector of children and sailors. Monaco’s seaside location makes this connection especially meaningful, with its port bustling with yachts decorated in dazzling holiday lights. 

Local Cuisine: Treat your taste buds to holiday specialties like fougasse, a soft and sweet bread adorned with oranges and nuts. Pair this with a glass of local wine for a festive culinary experience.

Tropical Escape: St. Barts for a French Caribbean Christmas

On this vibrant, sun-soaked island, Christmas is celebrated with a tropical twist. In St. Barts, the azure waters and swaying palm trees form the backdrop for a holiday filled with joy, fireworks and indulgence.

Festive Attractions: Gustavia Harbour is the heart of the celebration, with its fireworks display illuminating the tropical night sky. The harbor buzzes with energy as yachts light up in their holiday finery, and lively street parties spill into the early hours.

Local Holiday Traditions: In St. Barts, Christmas Eve is all about connecting with loved ones, often in open-air settings like courtyards or on the beach. The evening begins with shared meals, where traditional Creole dishes take center stage. As the night deepens, steel drums and guitars fill the air, often accompanied by impromptu dances that bring generations together.

Unlike the more commercialized parts of the world, St. Barts keeps holiday traditions grounded in family and community. Children might receive small gifts exchanged at midnight, but the focus is on the experience: the glowing lanterns, the delicious food and the joy of being surrounded by loved ones. It’s a celebration that captures the essence of island hospitality, where visitors are often welcomed as family, and the holiday spirit radiates through every laugh, song and shared bite of food.

Local Cuisine: Feast on Creole-inspired holiday dishes like roasted meats, fresh seafood and tropical desserts. Don’t miss the chance to try accras (salt cod fritters) or the island’s famous coconut tarts.

Christmas Down Under: Sydney, Australia

Trade snowy streets for sandy beaches in Sydney, where Christmas celebrations are drenched in sunshine. Anchor in Sydney Harbour, with iconic landmarks like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge providing the ultimate festive backdrop. 

Festive Attractions: Sydney’s Christmas markets are a feast for the senses, offering gifts, gourmet treats and a laidback Aussie vibe. Circular Quay comes alive with lights and decorations, while Darling Harbour hosts live performances and holiday events.

Local Holiday Traditions: In Australia, Christmas lands in the peak of summer, flipping traditional holiday expectations on their head. Locals embrace the season with sunshine, sandy beaches and outdoor celebrations. In Sydney, the holiday spirit spills out of homes and into parks, backyards and beaches, where families and friends gather for barbecues and picnics.

At Bondi Beach, the festive vibe reaches its zenith on Christmas Day. The iconic shoreline becomes a buzzing hub of sun-soaked revelry, drawing both locals and travelers who make sandcastles instead of snowmen. Santa himself joins the fun, swapping his sleigh and reindeer for a surfboard. The beach is a kaleidoscope of activity, from families grilling fresh seafood and sausages on portable BBQs to groups playing beach cricket and volleyball.

Events like the famous Carols in the Domain draw thousands for an open-air sing-along under the stars, with a distinctly Australian twist: kids in Santa hats paired with swimmers and sunscreen.

Local Cuisine: Indulge in fresh-grilled seafood like prawns and lobster, paired with tropical fruits and chilled Australian wine. Dessert? Pavlova topped with passionfruit and berries is a must.

Old-World Charm: Amsterdam, Netherlands

The shimmering reflections in Amsterdam’s canals double the charm of the city’s twinkling holiday lights. The scent of spiced cider and freshly baked oliebollen fills the air, while the sound of laughter echoes through cobblestone streets. Whether exploring Christmas markets or catching a glimpse of Saint Nicholas (Sinterklaas), Amsterdam offers a holiday steeped in tradition and wonder.

Festive Attractions: Amsterdam’s Christmas markets are a delightful mix of cozy and festive, featuring handmade crafts, gourmet food stalls and live music. For a unique experience, visit the floating market on the Singel canal. In Dam Square, a towering Christmas tree illuminates the city center.

Local Holiday Traditions: At the heart of Dutch Christmas celebrations is Sinterklaas, the tall, stately figure dressed in red robes and a bishop’s mitre, who arrives in early December to bring gifts to children. Unlike Santa Claus, Sinterklaas doesn’t come from the North Pole; instead, he’s said to travel from Spain by steamship, a nod to the country’s maritime trading history.

And Sinterklaas doesn’t travel alone. He’s (in)famously accompanied by Zwarte Piet, aka Black Pete, a mischievous yet helpful character who assists in distributing gifts and sweets. Traditionally depicted in blackface (from chimney soot, supposedly), Zwarte Piet’s origins trace back to Dutch folklore, where he may have been inspired by Moorish servants or earlier tales of naughty spirits. While the depiction of Zwarte Piet has sparked debate in modern times, many communities have adapted the tradition with more inclusive interpretations, focusing on colorful costumes and cheerful antics.

The festivities truly come alive on Sinterklaasavond (Saint Nicholas Eve) on December 5, when children place their shoes by the fireplace, hoping to find small gifts or treats left by Sinterklaas and his helpers. Adults often join the fun with playful Sinterklaasgedichten — personalized rhymes poking gentle fun at the recipient, tucked inside wrapped presents.

Local Cuisine: Warm up with oliebollen, golden fried dough balls dusted with powdered sugar, or poffertjes, mini pancakes served with butter and syrup. Pair them with a hot cup of glühwein (mulled wine) for the ultimate festive treat.

Northern Lights: Tromsø, Norway

For a truly magical holiday, set your course north to Tromsø, where the Arctic sky lights up with the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights. Here, Christmas is a celebration of nature’s wonders, from snow-dusted landscapes to vibrant holiday markets. 

Festive Attractions: Tromsø’s Christmas markets are an enchanting blend of traditional crafts, local delicacies and festive lights. Don’t miss the chance to witness the Northern Lights from the comfort of your yacht.

Local Holiday Traditions: In Tromsø, Christmas is a time where folklore meets the enchantment of the Arctic. Norway’s version of Santa, Julenissen, is a mix of the modern Santa and the nisse — a gnome-like guardian from Norse mythology. Families leave bowls of porridge with butter out for the nisse, honoring its role as a protector of farms and bringer of small gifts during Jul, the Scandinavian version of Christmas.  

Another beloved tradition is julebukk (Christmas goat), where children dress in costumes and sing carols door-to-door in exchange for treats. This echoes ancient customs tied to Thor’s goat-pulled chariot, blending pagan roots with modern festivities.

Local Cuisine: Savor reindeer steaks, hearty stews and lingonberry desserts, each offering a true taste of the Arctic. Warm up with mulled berry gløgg, a hot spiced and slightly sweet wine.

Deck the Hulls: A Luxury Holiday Adventure Awaits

Embarking on a Christmas yacht journey offers a blend of luxury, adventure and cultural immersion. From the festive markets of Monaco to the Northern Lights of snowy Norway, each destination provides its own special brand of holiday cheer. Plan ahead, choose a yacht that caters to your desires and prepare for a holiday season that sails beyond the ordinary. –Joyce Veloso

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MORE MAGIC OF THE SEASON: Christmas Around the World

The Most Famous Sports Memorabilia — and the Stories Behind Them

From a bitten-off ear to Air Jordans, these sports artifacts have become the stuff of legends, marking record-breaking achievements, infamous incidents and pivotal games by Michael Jordan, Pelé, Babe Ruth and more.

Pelé, Michael Jordan and Babe Ruth are all connected with some of the world’s most famous (and sometimes strange) sports memorabilia.

Sports memorabilia offer a unique glimpse into the history of athletics, capturing moments of triumph, controversy and sheer oddity. From iconic game-worn gear to objects shrouded in superstition, these items tell the stories of the athletes and events that have left an indelible mark on sports history. 

Evander Holyfield’s Ear, Bitten Off by Mike Tyson

In one of the most shocking moments in boxing history, Mike Tyson went full-on Hannibal Lecter and bit off a piece of Evander Holyfield’s ear during their 1997 bout. After the chomp heard ’round the ring, the piece of ear was retrieved from the canvas and sent to the hospital with Holyfield — but doctors were unable to reattach it. This body part has become an infamous piece of sports memorabilia, symbolizing one of the sport’s most controversial incidents. Tyson was disqualified from the fight, and the resulting shock shook the boxing community to its core.

Barry Bonds’ Controversial Asterisk Ball 

When Barry Bonds hit his 756th home run, surpassing Hank Aaron’s long-standing record, controversy wasn’t far behind. The ball, marked with an asterisk, represents the widespread debate over Bonds’ alleged use of performance-enhancing drugs. Still, the famous ball was purchased for $752,467 and later donated to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. The asterisk on the ball serves as a reminder of the era’s contentious legacy and the ongoing debate about Bonds’ place in baseball history.

Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” Ball and Jersey 

Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” goal during the 1986 World Cup quarterfinals against England is one of soccer’s most legendary (and infamous) moments. Using his hand to punch the ball into the net, Maradona’s cheeky maneuver went unnoticed by the referees, leading to a goal that left England fuming and Argentina cheering. The ball and the jersey worn by Maradona during that match have become iconic artifacts. The jersey sold for $9.3 million at auction in 2022, while the ball fetched nearly $2.4 million the same year.

Paul “Bear” Bryant’s Houndstooth Hat 

Paul “Bear” Bryant, one of the most successful college football coaches, is often remembered for his signature houndstooth hat. This hat has come to symbolize Bryant’s legacy at the University of Alabama, where he won six national championships. The hat remains a cherished piece of memorabilia, representing Bryant’s enduring influence on college football. Where to see it? It’s on display at the Paul W. Bryant Museum at Bama in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

Kirk Gibson’s Pine Tar Bat 

The L.A. Dodgers’ Kirk Gibson was called to pinch-hit in the bottom of the ninth with two outs during the 1988 World Series against the Oakland Athletics. Gibson, hobbling on injured legs — a strained left hamstring and a swollen right knee — hit a dramatic game-winning homer using a bat coated with pine tar for a better grip. The bat sold at an auction for $575,912 and is now a treasured piece of memorabilia symbolizing Gibson’s grit and determination in one of baseball’s most memorable moments​.

The “Curse of the Bambino” Piano 

Legend has it that in 1919, the Boston Red Sox made a fateful decision that would haunt them for nearly a century. They sold Babe Ruth, one of baseball’s greatest players, to the New York Yankees. This transaction not only shifted the balance of power in baseball but also gave rise to the infamous “Curse of the Bambino.” 

The curse began to weave itself into the very fabric of the Red Sox’s identity, as the team went without a World Series title for 86 long years. Superstition and folklore became intertwined with this narrative, with one of the strangest tales involving a piano. It’s rumored that Babe Ruth, in a fit of frustration, threw a piano into a pond on his Sudbury, Massachusetts farm. Despite various searches and efforts to locate it, the piano has never been found — but it has become a symbol that marks the beginning of the Red Sox’s misfortunes.

As fans look back on these monumental moments, many find that Massachusetts sports betting offers a new way to experience the games. It allows them to predict and partake in potential new chapters of success, much like spectators of the past who witnessed the curse’s end, when the Red Sox won the 2004 World Series.

Brazil’s Cursed Jersey of the 1950 World Cup

In one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history, Uruguay defeated Brazil in the 1950 final, an event forever etched in memory as the Maracanazo. Brazil, the overwhelming favorite, was left stunned by Uruguay’s shocking victory. The jersey worn by team Brazilian captain Augusto da Costa during this match is believed to be cursed, embodying the sorrow and anguish of an entire nation, a relic of a day when dreams were shattered at the Maracanã Stadium. The jersey can be found at the Museu do Futebol (Soccer/Football Museum) in São Paulo.

Michael Jordan’s Flu Game Shoes 

During Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals, Michael Jordan played through severe flu-like symptoms to lead the Chicago Bulls to victory. The sneakers Jordan wore during this “Flu Game” (black and red size 13 Nike Air Jordan XIIs) are one of the most iconic pieces of sports memorabilia, sold at auction for $104,765. These shoes represent Jordan’s unparalleled willpower and legendary status in basketball history.

Pele’s 1,000th Goal Ball 

On the evening of November 19, 1969, the legendary Pelé, one of soccer’s greatest players, stood poised on the brink of history. The Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro buzzed with anticipation as Pelé’s team, Santos, faced off against Vasco da Gama. 

In the 34th minute, Pelé seized his chance. A perfectly placed pass found its way to his feet. With the grace and precision that defined his career, he danced past defenders and drove the ball into the net, scoring his 1,000th goal. The stadium erupted in celebration, a wave of euphoria washing over the crowd as Pelé, overwhelmed with emotion, lifted his arms in triumph.

The ball used in this historic moment isn’t just a piece of leather but a cherished artifact, celebrating Pelé’s incredible career and his indelible impact on the sport. It’s preserved at the Museu do Futebol (Museum of Football) in São Paulo, serving as a testament to the magic of that night and a beacon of Pelé’s legacy in the world of soccer.

Tony Hawk’s First Skateboard 

On a summer evening in 1999, at the X Games in San Francisco, Tony Hawk etched his name into the annals of sports history: After nearly a dozen failed attempts, Hawk nailed the elusive 900, a trick that involves completing two and a half mid-air revolutions on a skateboard. He was the first skateboarder in history to do so in competition. 

Hawk’s first skateboard, a Bahne model given to him by his brother Steve in 1977, holds a special place in the Smithsonian National Museum of American History’s collection. This board, which Hawk learned to ride as a child, symbolizes his early beginnings and significant contributions to skateboarding. Before donating it, Hawk took one final ride on the board during the Innoskate festival, celebrating his innovative spirit and impact on the sport​ 

These pieces of sports memorabilia are more than just objects; they’re tangible connections to some of the most memorable and peculiar moments in sports history. Each item holds a story, encapsulating the passion, controversy and unforgettable events that continue to captivate fans around the world. –Eduardo Solano

Iconic Stadiums and Sporting Landmarks Around the World

From the Colosseum to Dodger Stadium, from Wembley to Yankee Stadium, we’ve got a winning itinerary of the planet’s most iconic sporting landmarks. Game on, sports fans!

Sports stadiums have been gathering spots for ages, where people have come to witness athletic feats, whether that’s a fight between gladiators in Ancient Rome or today’s games. From the deafening cheers to the hushed silences, these places have seen raw emotions on full display.

Now, get ready for a global journey for sports fans: We’ll be making stops at some of the world’s most iconic stadiums and sporting landmarks. From an ancient arena to modern architectural marvels, we’ll dig into their history and the architects who brought them to life, throw in some interesting facts, and even point out a few nearby attractions.

All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club

This London site has hosted Wimbledon since 1877. The world famous tournament is one of the big four in professional tennis, commonly known as the Grand Slams. And when  tennis folk mention a “Grand Slam,” they mean winning all four major championships, held in Australia, France, the U.K. and the United States, in the same calendar season.

Architect: Stanley Peach

Fun fact: The retractable roof installed in 2009 ensures that play can continue even during the all-too-common English summer rain. 

Nearby attractions: Visit the Victoria & Albert, an amazing museum of art and design, or grab your baking buddies and live your Great British Bake Off fantasy at the Big London Bake.

Cleveland Browns Stadium

For die-hard American football fans, this place is like sacred turf. When the players hit the field and the game intensifies, you’re in for all the highs and lows of a typical game. And if you’re looking to crank up the experience and try to win some money, hedge your bets with this deal.

Architect: Populous (formerly HOK Sport) 

Fun fact: The stadium was designed to give spectators unobstructed views of the city skyline and Lake Erie. 

Nearby attractions: Why not make a day of it? You can check out the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame or take a leisurely afternoon stroll through the Cleveland Botanical Garden.

The Colosseum

The ancient world had its own versions of sporting arenas, but let’s be honest — none could quite rival the grandeur and infamy of Rome’s magnificent Colosseum. This colossal wonder serves as a testament to the might of the Roman Empire, along with its insatiable appetite for entertainment. The arena’s innovative elliptical shape laid the foundation for modern stadiums.

Constructed under the Flavian dynasty between 72 and 81 CE, the massive amphitheater could seat over 50,000 spectators. In addition to hosting animal hunts and gladiatorial battles, the arena could be flooded with water, where battles between ships would take place — all to the roaring approval or dismay of the audience.

Architect: Commissioned by Emperor Vespasian and completed by his son Titus

Fun fact: Beneath the Colosseum’s floor was a vast subterranean substructure known as the hypogeum. This included a complex network of tunnels and chambers where gladiators, ferocious beasts and sinister contraptions for special effects were kept before fights. 

Nearby attractions: You won’t have to go far at all to dive into Ancient Roman history. Just a stone's throw away, you’ve got the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, waiting to transport you back in time.

Dodger Stadium

SoCal vibes meet America’s so-called favorite pastime at Dodger Stadium. Serving as home base for the Los Angeles Dodgers, it’s been an integral part of the MLB (Major Baseball League) scene since it opened in 1962. Built in the valley of Chavez Ravine and set against the backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains, its scenic beauty complements the thrilling baseball action. 

Architect: Emil Praeger 

Fun fact: The concept for Dodger Stadium began to take shape in 1957, following the team’s relocation from Brooklyn, New York. Today, it holds the title as the oldest ballpark west of the Mississippi River and ranks as the third-oldest MLB ballpark, behind Boston’s Fenway Park and Chicago’s Wrigley Field. 

Nearby attractions: Reach for the stars at Griffith Observatory or visit historic Olvera Street, where you’ll find the colorful Mexican Marketplace. 

Estádio do Maracanã

Constructed to serve as the main venue for the 1950 World Cup, Rio de Janeiro’s Maracanã Stadium embodies Brazil’s unwavering passion for football (known to us Americans as soccer). This stadium has borne witness to some of the sport’s most historic moments, including the legendary Brazilian footballer Pelé scoring his 1,000th career goal here in 1969. 

Architect: Rafael Galvão and Pedro Paulo B. Machado 

Fun fact: The World Cup final held at Maracanã still holds the record for the highest attendance, with a crowd estimated at over 199,000.

Nearby attractions: Take the cog train to the top of Corcovado Mountain to reach the awe-inspiring Christ the Redeemer statue or visit the white sand beaches of Ipanema.  

Estadio Santiago Bernabéu

Madrid’s Estadio Santiago Bernabéu stands as a monument to football royalty. It has hosted the final match of the UEFA Champions League on four occasions (1957, 1969, 1980 and 2010) and is the home of the Galácticos: the world’s priciest players signed to play for Real Madrid. From David Beckham to Alfredo Di Stéfano to Cristiano Ronaldo, this stadium has borne witness to legends and epic clashes.

Architect: Manuel Muñoz and Luis Alemany Soler, with a revamp by L35, Ribas & Riba, and GMP Architekten

Fun fact: The Bernabéu has an unusual vertical design, making it one of the steepest stadiums in the world, helping ensure that every fan has a great view. 

Nearby attractions: For those seeking a cultural experience, Madrid beckons with its treasures, such as the Prado Museum and the Royal Palace.

Fenway Park

As home to the Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park proudly holds the title of being the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball. It boasts a 37-foot-high (11 meters) left field wall affectionately known by locals as the Green Monster. (It was added a couple of years after opening to deter curious passersby from sneaking a glimpse.)

Architect: James McLaughlin

Fun fact: The lone red seat that sits among the green right field bleachers commemorates the longest home run in Fenway Park history, which was hit by Ted Williams on June 9, 1946. Legend holds that Williams spotted a fan taking a nap and decided to wake him up by launching a ball at him.

Nearby attractions: After the game’s over, you’ve got some great options for entertainment. You can explore Boston's historic Freedom Trail or head over to the lively Quincy Market. 

Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Racing enthusiasts know that there’s no place quite like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indiana. The thrill, the speed and the history — it’s all there. Traditionally, the race is held over the last weekend of May and stands as one of the oldest and largest single-day sporting events in the world.

Architect: Not attributed to a specific architect or firm

Fun fact: Originally, this race was called the 500-Mile Sweepstakes, but its name went through quite a few changes over time. The “500” stuck around, though. Drivers hit 500 miles by going 200 laps around the 2.5-mile oval.

Nearby attractions: The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum offers an in-depth exploration of racing history. You can also discover artworks along the 100-acre riverfront Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park. 

Madison Square Garden

New York City’s Madison Square Garden has been the stage for some of the 20th century’s greatest athletes, from boxing legend Muhammad Ali to hockey great Mark Messier. Nicknamed the World’s Most Famous Arena, the venue has witnessed a bit of everything — from Marilyn Monroe singing “Happy Birthday” to President John F. Kennedy at the 1962 Democratic Party fundraising dinner to the excitement of Knicks basketball and Rangers hockey games.

Architect: Stanford White, Cass Gilbert and Charles Luckman

Fun fact: Madison Square Garden has been rebuilt a total of four times since 1879. Its current iteration was designed by American architect Charles Luckman in 1968, whose firm also designed the Prudential Tower in Boston and the Forum in Inglewood, California.

Nearby attractions: Explore the High Line, a public park built on a historic elevated rail line and watch the sunset over Manhattan from the 86th floor of the Empire State Building. 

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Over in Australia, you’ve got the Melbourne Cricket Ground, or MCG to locals. This place is like the crown jewel of Aussie sports venues, and it’s a big deal, as it’s the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. It was built to satisfy the continent’s cricket craze, and it was here that the world’s first test cricket match took place, in 1877. Test cricket is like the granddaddy of the sport, lasting a full five days, where two national teams take turns batting and bowling. It was a faceoff between Australia and England, and in the end, Australia came out on top, winning by 45 runs. 

Architect: Various (the stadium has undergone multiple renovations)

Fun fact: The MCG’s six light towers are 75 meters high, equivalent to a 22-story building and are the tallest of any sporting venue in the world.

Nearby attractions: Take a leisurely stroll along the Yarra River or visit the National Sports Museum for a comprehensive exploration of Australia’s sports legacy. 

San Siro Stadium 

Italy’s San Siro is one of the most legendary venues for football (soccer). It’s officially named Stadio Giuseppe Meazza in memory of Milanese footballer Giuseppe Meazza and is home to both Inter and AC Milan, two top professional teams.

AC Milan was founded in 1899, and Inter Milan followed nine years later in 1908. Interestingly, Inter’s formation was a result of a disagreement within AC Milan’s ranks, particularly regarding the signing of foreign players. A fierce rivalry emerged, cranking up the already electrifying atmosphere of the annual Milan Derby, which, as you might have guessed, takes place at none other than San Siro.

Architect: Ulisse Stacchini and Alberto Cugini

Fun fact: In preparation for the 1990 World Cup, architects Giancarlo Ragazzi and Enrico Hoffer, along with engineer Leo Finzi, designed the addition of the stadium’s third tier, suspended by its 11 spring-like towers and crisscrossed red steel girders. These enhancements were aimed at boosting San Siro’s seating capacity. 

Nearby attractions: The Castello Sforzesco and the gorgeous Gothic-style Milan Cathedral, known as the Duomo, (the third largest church in the world) are situated in the heart of the city.

SoFi Stadium

Home to the Los Angeles Rams and Chargers, this stadium sets the bar high with its innovative design and immersive state-of-the-art facilities. The 3.1-million-square-foot (288,000-square-meter) arena is the largest in the NFL. 

Architect: HKS 

Fun fact: The stadium features the Oculus, an oval, double-sided infinity screen suspended 122 feet (37 meters) above the playing field. This massive display includes a 4K HDR video board and 27,000 embedded LED pucks capable of displaying images and videos in such high resolution that you can spot them from airplanes arriving at Los Angeles International Airport.

Nearby attractions: Take in a concert at the Kia Forum or grab a donut at Randy’s. The original shop features a massive 32-foot-tall donut on its roof, and has appeared in movies like Wayne’s World and Iron Man. 

Stade Roland-Garros

Paris is home to this mecca for clay court tennis. It’s the place where the French Open goes down every year. For two action-packed weeks, the best international players, including Björn Borg and Rafael Nadal, gather to battle it out on its challenging courts. And there are 17 of them, including the central Philippe-Chatrier court, which has a retractable roof to keep the game going when it rains.

Architect: Louis Faure-Dujarric 

Fun fact: The stadium features an open-air courtyard dedicated to France’s Four Musketeers, or les Quatre Mousquetaires. It’s a nod to a quartet of iconic French players: Jean Borotra, Jacques Brugnon, Henri Cochet and René Lacoste, who made their country proud in the tennis scene during the 1920s and ’30s. Lacoste even got his nickname “the Crocodile,” thanks to his big grin and iron grip on his racket. And guess what? He later went on to create the clothing brand famous for that embroidered crocodile logo.

Nearby attractions: The enchanting Bois de Boulogne park is right next door, and the Eiffel Tower is a short distance away.

Wembley Stadium

Crossing over to the British Isles, Wembley Stadium in London is a pilgrimage site for football/soccer fans. The venue hosts major matches, including the home games of the England national football team and the Football Association Challenge Cup final as well as hosting concerts from bands like Green Day. 

Sir Robert McAlpine laid the foundation for the original, which was constructed for the British Empire Exhibition of 1924 and was quite a marvel, being the largest reinforced concrete building of its time. Its famous twin towers were symbols of the game and served as the backdrop for some of the most epic moments in football for over 75 years.

The new Wembley, designed nearly 16 years ago by Foster + Partners, is twice the size of the old one and comes with modern upgrades like a retractable roof for those unpredictable weather days and a soaring arch that’s taken over as the iconic replacement for the twin towers.

Architect: Robert McAlpine, then Norman Foster

Fun fact: The Wembley Arch soars to a staggering height of 133 meters, equivalent to about 30 stories, and stretches 315 meters (over 1,000 feet), solidifying its status as the world’s longest single-span roof structure. It’s functional too, though: It bears the majority of the roof’s weight.

Nearby attractions: Located adjacent to the stadium, the London Designer Outlet (LDO) is a great place to get your shopping fix. Or you can spend a fun afternoon at the landmark Natural History Museum. They’ve got hands-on exhibits and even animatronic dinosaurs!

Wrigley Field

If you breeze into Chicago, aka the Windy City, you’ve got to stop by Wrigley Field, America’s second-oldest Major League ballpark. If we’re talking about a stadium that can rival Boston’s Green Monster, Wrigley’s ivy-covered outfield wall is a strong contender. It’s so iconic, it’s got its own set of rules: If a baseball disappears into its vines, the batter (and all runners) are granted two bases. However, to make it official, an outfielder must raise his hand to signal that the ball is lost in the ivy. If he doesn’t, it’s considered fair play. 

Architect: Zachary Taylor Davis

Fun fact: The neighborhood stadium was one of the last Major League ballparks to install lights for night games, which didn’t happen until 1988. The tale of these floodlights dates back to the early 1940s, when plans were set in motion, but a pivotal twist occurred after the attack on Pearl Harbor. In a patriotic gesture, Philip K. Wrigley, owner of the Cubs, diverted 165 tons of steel to support the war effort instead of installing the lights.

Nearby attractions: After the game, you can wander the lively Wrigleyville neighborhood. And if you’re up for more adventure, don’t miss the chance to explore the city’s legendary architecture by taking a boat tour along the Chicago River. 

Yankee Stadium

The original Yankee Stadium was a massive horseshoe-shaped ballpark and one of the most beloved structures in the history of baseball. Its field witnessed legendary players like Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Mantle rounding its bases, to name just a few.

In 2009, the torch was passed to the new Yankee Stadium. Inspired by the 1923 Bronx Stadium, the modern four-story limestone and granite-faced ballpark even re-created the arched Art Deco metal frieze that crowned the upper deck of its illustrious predecessor.

Architect: Populous (formerly HOK Sport)

Fun fact: The Yankees’ impressive HD display is about 103 feet (30 meters) wide and 58 feet (18 meters) tall — six times larger than the screen at the old stadium. 

Nearby attractions: Check out the Bronx Museum of the Arts and explore the impressive Victorian-era greenhouses of the New York Botanical Garden.

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These stadiums and sporting venues are more than just places to watch a game — they are monuments to athletic achievement and the human spirit. Within their walls and on their fields, records have been broken, underdogs have triumphed, and fans have bonded over the shared passions of competition and community. Though styles and designs may change with the times, the thrill of cheering for the home team endures. The legends, memories and traditions attached to these landmarks will continue to inspire athletes and fans for generations to come. Wherever you are in the world, paying a visit to one of these iconic sporting meccas is a must for any true sports lover. –Taylor Miller