Revealed: Man United’s away defeat to Copenhagen caused a 230 PER CENT increase in travel demand – but which Champions League fixture attracted the biggest influx of supporters?
- Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund face each other in the Champions League final
- Before the tie, Expedia conducted a survey of its competitors’ travel demand
- IAN LADYMAN: The Premier League title race was on the rocks, it’s not boring compared to other European leagues! – Listen to the It all starts! podcast
The UEFA Champions League remains a global phenomenon and with it comes a strong increase in demand for travel to major matches.
Fans have traveled from all corners of the world during the 2023-2024 season to watch some of Europe’s best teams compete on the biggest stage.
Now, ahead of the showpiece competition between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund on June 1, Expedia has conducted a survey to see which matches caused the biggest travel demand this season and the results are surprising.
Out of 125 matches, the quarter-final between Barcelona and PSG, hosted at Camp Nou, has led to a staggering 360% increase in travel interest.
This highly anticipated rematch, which the Catalan side lost 4-1, was fueled by past rivalries and superstar players and was clearly a magnet for passionate fans.
A study found that Champions League matches generated the greatest demand for travel
Man United’s defeat to Copenhagen resulted in a 230 percent increase in travel bookings
Closely followed by another PSG match, this time against Borussia Dortmund in the group stage.
The Signal Iduna Park clash has led to a 260 percent increase in travel demand, highlighting the appeal of witnessing the French giants battle the passionate Yellow Wall.
Manchester United is the first English team to appear on the list. Their group match against FC Copenhagen saw a 230 percent increase in travel interest.
Those who did make the trip were treated to a thriller as the Danish side struck in injury time to secure a 4-3 win over Erik ten Hag’s Red Devils.
The data also shows strong demand for Italian clubs, with Barcelona’s round of 16 tie against Napoli seeing a 225 percent increase in travel bookings.
Similarly, Dortmund’s group match against AC Milan saw a significant 185 percent increase in travel interest.
Interestingly enough, some surprise packages emerged. Feyenoord’s group stage match with Celtic FC in Rotterdam has led to a 205 percent increase in travel demand, indicating a strong desire to witness the battle between these historic clubs.
The trend continues with Real Sociedad’s round of 16 match against PSG, which generated a 200 percent increase in travel bookings.
Even teams outside the traditional powerhouses attracted even more demand. BSC Young Boys’ group stage match against Manchester City in Bern saw a 160 percent increase in travel demand, highlighting the appeal of witnessing a potential underdog story.
Finally, Copenhagen’s group stage match against Bayern Munich helped increase travel demand by 130 percent.
This data paints a clear picture: the UEFA Champions League is not just a battle for glory on the pitch, but also a key driver for travel and tourism.
Fans are eager to experience the electric atmosphere and witness the action from the world’s best players, stadiums and cities.
Commenting on the research, Expedia’s Michele Rousseau said: ‘If European football fans have taught us anything this season, it’s that Dortmund and Copenhagen should be added to your travel wish list.
PSG feature three times on the list, demonstrating the impressive dedication of their fanbase
The Yellow Wall at Borussia Dortmund has proven to be a reason for the increased demand for travel
“That yellow wall of Dortmund, along with the well-traveled fans of Real Madrid, will descend on London for this year’s final, and there’s nothing like being there to experience matchday in the city.
‘Our Expedia research shows that fans are most looking forward to visiting the iconic Tower of London and Big Ben, but also want to explore London’s foodie scene – the main activity fans enjoy when traveling to away matches.’
London artist Kelly Anna has also teamed up with Expedia and has put together special artwork and a limited edition jersey that brings to life as the beautiful game travels across Europe, all the way to London.
The artwork will be unveiled during the Expedia Live activation at the UEFA Champions Festival in Trafalgar Square, taking place from May 30 to June 2, with the limited edition jerseys up for grabs over the weekend.
Visit for a city guide to London Expedia Live — the destination for fans to book trips and experiences
