Winter Sporting Fun in Europe’s Most Iconic Cities

You can’t rely on much during winter, other than the fact that it will rain pretty much every day and that Christmas will come and go in a drunken fuzz. As depressing as that is, at least the sporting calendar continues throughout the colder months. Whether rugby, horse racing, football or tennis is your thing, there are countless competitions, matches and tournaments taking place in sunnier climbs this winter. Book your plane tickets and your sports tickets and save yourself from the winter blues!

Paris

First up, the Prix d’Amerique takes place in Paris on 30thJanuary.  Set at the Vincennes racecourse this prestigious harness race horse race takes places just once a year, causing hundreds of racing fans to flock to Paris. Place a cheeky bet- if you’re lucky you can spend your winnings in the countless bars that make up the Montmartre area of the city, the designer boutiques or at the infamous Moulin Rouge!

Rome

Rome is hosting the Six Nations Italy versus Ireland rugby on 5thFebruary for those who prefer contact sports. Italy currently sit at the bottom of the table but where will they be in a few months time? With Ireland only just behind France in second place right now, it looks set to be a good match. Post-match, indulge in pizza, pasta, Italian wine and rich desserts.

Barcelona

The Nou camp is one of Europe’s most spectacular football grounds and better still, it’s found in the exciting city of Barcelona, where you can visit La Rambla for buzzing bars and amazing food. With La Liga fixtures taking place throughout winter there are countless opportunities to visit this Catalonian hotspot. Superstars including Lionel Messi, David Villa and Andres Iniesta, will be taking to the pitch throughout the season, hoping to defend their La Liga title.

Monaco

For those who like their sports to include a racket, Monte Carlo holds the Master’s Finals in April 2011. Bask in the sun watching the intense tennis final at the beautiful Monte Carlo Country Club with it’s beautiful sea views. Once the excitement has died down, why not visit the prestigious Monte Carlo Casino to try your luck on the roulette Jame’s Bond style, or treat yourself to a cultural delight in the form of an opera show at the L’Opera De Monte-Carlo.