Football is the most popular sport in the world, with an estimated 700 million people from across the globe tuning in to watch the final of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
The popularity of the sport means that many people who travel ensure they fit a stadium tour or match into their itinerary to ensure they get their football fix while away from home, with the fans encountered on such trips bringing a different cultural dimension to their journeys.
Competitions like England's Premier League and Spain's La Liga have seen an influx of foreigners buying tickets for their matches, with derbies and big clashes the major drawcards for travelling fans from around the world.
But which cities are the best to visit in order to tick off both the football and culture boxes on your travel checklist?
London, England
London is home to three of the Premier League's five current best teams, while six teams in total from the city ply their trade in the top flight. The North London Derby between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur is extremely popular, while matches between Chelsea and Arsenal are always fierce affairs. Whenever big teams from the north of the country head to London there is great interest, with the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool and Manchester City all providing headline clashes with any of the six London sides they face. Then, of course, there is Wembley - the self-proclaimed 'home of football'.
For something away from football one need not look further than the tens of world-renowned sights found dotted around the city, not forgetting the royal palace, regal landmarks, theatres and shows.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona are arguably the best footballing side in the world and are only just behind fierce rivals Real Madrid in the popularity stakes. Lionel Messi is the major drawcard for football fans, while the way his side plays in general gets people excited the world over. When Madrid come to town the city hits fever pitch, while Barca have a derby with city-rivals RCD Espanyol which divides opinions in Barcelona.
The football, however, is only one entertainment factor in a city which houses eight World Heritage Sites and some incredible coastal views. Some of the architecture found around the city is quite impressive too.
Johannesburg, South Africa
While Johannesburg may not be seen as the top destination on many people's travel lists, it is home to one of the world's biggest derby clashes - the Soweto Derby. When Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs meet, the city comes to a standstill. The fierce rivalry divides households and provides the city itself with a major boost as people from all over the country converge upon it. Not many atmospheres in world football come close to a sold out FNB Stadium for a Bucs versus Amakhosi clash.
From a cultural standpoint, Soweto is a great place to visit as it is steeped in history and tradition, while Johannesburg itself is a central hub for those looking to head out on safari or towards the coast. But one must not forget that exploring Jozi itself has its rewards, with the Apartheid museum and Cradle of Humankind must-see destinations on a humanistic level.
Milan, Italy
The San Siro for the Milan derby is quite an experience and is one which has the ability to draw in massive crowds both inside and outside of the stadium, even if either team is not living up to expectations. A fierce derby, when Inter meet AC Milan the world stands still from a Milan perspective.
Away from the football, Milan is known as the fashion capital of the world, while the city itself is soaked in culture and tradition. From the many World Heritage Sites to the plethora of activities and musical culture, Milan has something for everyone away from the football pitch.
São Paulo, Brazil
With the World Cup in Brazil fast approaching, the coastal city of São Paulo is expected to see hordes of visitors descend upon it. However, there is already a football carnival available for fans going on during the club season. With massive clubs São Paulo FC, Palmeiras and Corinthians all calling the city 'home', there is plenty going on to keep football-mad travellers occupied. 'Majestoso', as the rivalry between São Paulo and Corinthians is known, is massive and is an experience to revel in.
São Paulo itself boasts incredible beaches and bustling nightlife. Seen more as a trip away with the lads, the city does contain cultural hotspots, with the very different cuisines found due to foreign influences a treat for the senses.
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