Scotland Euro 2024 travel guide: Best tourist attractions in Munich, Cologne and Stuttgart

As the Tartan Army prepare for Germany here are the go to attractions to make the most of your time at the Euros.

With just three weeks to go until the hotly anticipated opening night in Munich, the countdown is firmly underway for Scotland’s long-awaited return to an international tournament abroad.

The Tartan Army has a global reputation as one of the friendliest and most passionate international fanbases in the world but has been missing from the championship scene for decades having failed to qualify time and time again with an amass of glorious failure.

That is set to change though, as an estimated 200,000 faithful supporters will descend into Germany in June as a new generation finally sees their country represented at the Euros.

When Germany was announced as host nation prior to qualifying there was a great eagerness throughout the continent as countries vied for a place in one of the most renowned footballing nations.

German football fanatic Noah Lutter is ecstatic for the influx of supporters. “You can definitely tell people are getting hyped up, people are getting excited. Germany has always been a football country,” he exclaimed. “Germany’s always very good at football, near the top of the world rankings. And we definitely have the infrastructure and support.

“We have large stadiums and every city is bigger than 400,000-500,000 people. Stadiums are not going to be empty like in other countries where the championships have been hosted before.”

Of course, the main thing on everyone’s mind is the 270 minutes of football that will decide whether thousands may need to extend their stay in the land of poets and thinkers. However, with three matches, in three cities, across 12 days Scotland fans have plenty more time to fill in their trip.

First up – Munich.

Boasting the biggest stadium of the tournament, the eyes of Europe will be firmly focused on the Bavarian city as Scotland gets this year’s championship underway. But what else is there to enjoy?

Nicole Thorpe of the German National Tourist Board insists all host cities are “very much looking forward to welcoming the Scottish fans.”

She said: “Munich boasts a unique British connection, highlighted by the famous Englischer Garten, one of the world’s largest urban parks. This cultural link is further enriched by its enchanting architecture and rich history but also for its football connection.”

For fans searching for culture, Munich has no shortage. “It is a fascinating blend of historical landmarks and cultural attractions,” she added. “The Marienplatz, with the iconic Glockenspiel, Neuschwanstein Castle just a short trip away, and the Munich Residenz are must-visit sites that offer a glimpse into Bavaria’s royal past.”

No matter whether the team leaves Munich as expected losers or if the unthinkable happens and Scotland somehow salvages a result against the pot one hosts, the Tartan Army will travel west to Cologne full of hope and anticipation.

Thorpe also speaks highly of the Rheinland city. “Cologne is a popular destination for British travellers, drawn by the majestic Cologne Cathedral, vibrant beer culture and scenic Rhine River cruises.”

There is something for everyone in Cologne, a city offering enjoyment to people of all tastes – whether savoury or sweet. “The Chocolate Museum is where visitors can delve into the sweet world of chocolate making. The city also offers a unique perspective from above, courtesy of its scenic cable car,” she also recommended.

Finally, just a short journey south will remain for the travelling Scots as they depart for the final group encounter in the more industrial city of Stuttgart.

“Stuttgart is globally recognised for its significant contribution to the automotive industry, housing the world-famous Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum.”

Aside from its industrial nature, Thorpe insists that there’s plenty of culture to explore. “The majestic Stuttgart Palace and Schlossplatz, symbolising the city’s historical grandeur with its Baroque architecture,” she said.

“Additionally, the Wilhelma Zoo and Botanical Garden merges diverse wildlife and botanical collections in an enchanting Moorish landscape, and the Fernsenhturm Stuttgart, known as the world’s first TV tower, offers sweeping views from the top.”

In terms of travel to and around these cities, Germany has an extensive public transport system that will be utilised heavily by Scotland fans throughout the tournament.

Lutter said: “You definitely want to go by public transport because cities are going to be very full on game day. Especially if the Euros it’s not just people going to stadiums. There are also people going to public viewing events so the cities are going to be packed.”

He offered a word of warning to fans used to cutting it fine on matchdays: “Be careful because sometimes in Germany the trains tend to be late. That’s what the German public transport is known for – being late and not too reliable.”

As a national partner for UEFA Euro 2024, train company Deutsche Bahn has pledged an increase in services, particularly at night, which may be essential for Scotland fans whose matches are set to finish at around 11 pm.

Ticket holders will be granted free transport in each host city for 36 hours surrounding the game and are offered discounted rail tickets between cities.

Introduced by Deutsche Bahn to combat the German cost of living crisis, the €49 Deutschland Ticket can be purchased by Scots travelling over next month. The ticket offers unlimited monthly travel throughout all of Germany on all forms of local and regional transport.

I asked Lutter for a German phrase that Scotland fans should be learning before heading over this summer. “I think you should definitely learn how to order a beer.” He replied.

I noticed a smirk appear across his smug face before he added, “That’s the most important one for Scottish fans anyway!

“Ein Bier, bitte? I say if you want to large one you say Ein großes Bier, bitte?

“There’s a lot of local specialities and special local beers. I think you’re probably just like best off trying out the local beer brands. Those are usually pretty good.”