The Best Football Tours for School Teams from the UK

A football tour is one of the most rewarding types of sports trips for school. It gives pupils more than just time on the pitch—they take on more responsibility, step outside their comfort zone, and learn to figure things out as a group.

Whether you’re planning something here in the UK or looking further afield... choosing the right destination and getting the details right can make all the difference. With a bit of thought and the right setup, a football tour can be a real highlight of the school year.

Why Football Tours Make a Real Difference

A football tour gives pupils more than just time on the pitch. Pupils take on more responsibility, get used to being outside their comfort zone, and start to figure things out as a group.

Playing new teams and adapting to a different environment gives them a challenge they tend to rise to. It builds confidence—not just in football, but in how they carry themselves and work together.

For some pupils, it’s the first time they’ve travelled without family. For others, it’s a chance to see football through a new lens. Either way, it gives them something they don’t usually get from a term of fixtures.

What to Consider When Planning a Football Tour

The best football trips are the ones that actually suit your team—not just the flashiest ones on offer. Before locking in a destination, here are a few things worth thinking about.

Level of Play

The matches should challenge your players without knocking their confidence. It’s worth asking who you’ll be up against and whether it’s the right fit.

Purpose of the Trip

You need to ask yourself what you're looking for first—whether that’s a performance boost, a cultural experience, or just a fun way to round off the season. Getting that clear early on makes planning easier.

Budget and Numbers

Taking a larger group can help bring the cost down for each student, since many costs—like transport—are shared. But only go big if you can manage it comfortably. Give parents plenty of notice to spread out payments, and consider some light fundraising if needed to ease the pressure.

Timing and Travel

Think about the school calendar, how many days you can take, and whether your group is ready for a long trip or something closer to home.

Facilities and Support

Pitches, accommodation, meals, first aid—make sure the basics are solid. And if you’re using a provider, check they know how to work with school groups.

Where to Take Your Football Team Next

If it’s your first time running a football tour, staying in the UK can be a good starting point. Places like St George’s Park offer great facilities with less to organise—but the experience often feels more like a training camp than a proper tour.

France and Germany are a step up. In France, you might train at Clairefontaine and play against local sides, while in Germany, visits to Bundesliga academies—like Borussia Dortmund’s—let pupils experience a different style of the game altogether.

Spain, though, tends to tick all the boxes. In Barcelona, teams can train with local coaches, take on Spanish opposition, and experience the atmosphere at Camp Nou. It also makes a great sports trip to Costa Brava, with plenty of opportunities to play, train, and enjoy time by the coast—while still being close enough to soak up everything the city has to offer. And since you're there, it’s also a great chance to tie in an educational trip to Barcelona—whether it’s history, language, or food, there’s a lot to build into the itinerary beyond football.

Finding the Best Fit for Your Team

Every school team is different—some just need a change of scenery, others are ready for something more competitive. Whether you're planning your first tour or looking to level up this year’s trip, the right destination can make all the difference.

Not sure where to start? We’re happy to talk it through. Send us a message and we’ll help you build a trip that works for your team.