The 6 best destinations to watch rugby

End-to-end action, (usually) high-scoring games and a family-friendly atmosphere – you don’t have to be a die-hard fan to enjoy watching the rugby. So, whether you’re a life-long supporter or just fancy a day shouting at men rolling around in the mud, these destinations were voted to have the best atmosphere by rugby-loving travellers.*

History in Twickenham, United Kingdom

The home of England Rugby, Twickenham Stadium is the second-largest stadium in the UK and the fourth-largest in Europe. Located in London’s leafy Twickenham district, there’s a quintessential English feel to the stadium. Its witnessed some of the greatest rugby matches of all time, including when France beat New Zealand in the 1999 World Cup semi-final.

Fortunately, even if you can’t manage a ticket, there’s plenty of places to watch the game in Twickenham itself – The Cabbage Patch, The Eel Pie and Alexander Pope are all perennial favourites, and you can even stay at the latter if you have one too many pints.

Passion in Limerick, Ireland

Rugby-loving Limerick is unsurprisingly a go-to destination for rugby. More than just a sport, mention rugby here and you’ll draw out a kind of breathless enthusiasm and raw passion rarely seen elsewhere. It’s a game of the heart in Limerick, so don’t miss going to watch one of the local clubs play, or the provincial team of Munster. Their home ground Thomond Park is well-known for an electric atmosphere, courtesy of its jubilant and dedicated fans and their arsenal of anthems, and has previously been awarded the title of best rugby stadium in the world.

No matter if you’re at the stadium or not, the atmosphere will stick with you wherever you go and the town is often ‘painted red’ in honour of the team’s colours. Boutique townhouse No. 1 Pery Square Hotel & Spa will restore you after a day of celebrations.

Songs in Toulon, France

The last 10 years has seen an unprecedented level of investment in Toulon rugby (RC Toulonnais), and a resurgence in the popularity of the sport. In that timeframe, they’ve won three Champions Cup titles and a Top 14 title (the top-tier French rugby union league). It’s no surprise then that visitors rate this port city highly as a rugby destination. Make the trip to Toulon’s Stade Mayol ground and you’ll hear the anthemic hum of their signature chant – Pilou pilou – a battle cry that likens the Toulon rugby players to mountain warriors.

For a slightly more relaxed experience, have a wander around the old town, once nicknamed ‘le Petit Chicago’ courtesy of its raucous nightlife, and you’ll find plenty of bars to catch the game in. Stay close to the action at Port de Toulon / Stade Mayol.

Atmosphere in Cardiff, United Kingdom

Ask any rugby fan where to go for the best atmosphere, and you’ll likely hear all about Cardiff and its Principality Stadium (formerly the Millennium Stadium). Boasting an impressive capacity of 74,500, it’s home to the Welsh Rugby Union and is the second-largest stadium in the world with a retractable roof.

Nearby, you’ll also find Cardiff Arms Park, home to regional team Cardiff Blues. Both stadiums have a proud musical tradition, and the fans’ singing is so morale-boosting, intimidating and legendary, it’s said to count for at least a try for the home side. Rugby’s a game of the people here, so soak up the atmosphere in town, before dreams of a Welsh victory at Hotel Indigo – Cardiff.

Excellence in Toulouse, France

Toulouse is arguably the rugby town of France, home to Stade Toulousain, the nation’s most successful rugby team and one of Europe’s top sides. The side have broken records, winning the French Championship 19 times, and the Champions Cup four times. Domestic games are mainly played at the smaller Stade Ernest-Wallon but bigger games are played at the Stadium Municipal.

Toulouse is also a gorgeous city; dubbed “The Pink City”, it’s a jumble of coral and clay-coloured buildings that may temporarily distract you from the pitchside action. Once the game is over, a post-match stroll is in order through the historic old quarter to Chambres D’hôtes Amarilli.

Spectacle in Auckland, New Zealand

The capital of the most successful rugby union nation in the world, Auckland serves as the gateway to New Zealand rugby. The Auckland Blues are perhaps the most well-known team internationally, playing in the Super Rugby league – a southern hemisphere only competition.

Eden Park is the premier Auckland stadium, and the largest in New Zealand, but there are plenty of places to catch a big game. The Kingslander is a popular sports bar nearby, although it gets busy on game days, so head a little further afield to The Fox or The Patriot in a bid to beat at least some of the crowd. M Social will keep you central when it’s time to head home.

**These destinations were picked based on endorsements for ‘Rugby’ according to Booking.com travellers.