The results are in; and after what can only be described as simply spectacular semi-final matches, it is Real Madrid and Liverpool who advance to the UEFA Champions League final 2022.
As we’re all aware of the devastating events unfolding in Ukraine ; UEFA decided to move the final to Paris (the Stade de France in Saint-Denis to be exact!) ; with the date of Saturday 28th May remaining unchanged.
This will actually be the 3rd time both teams have faced off with one another at this stage of the tournament. Liverpool took the crown back in 1981, with Real Madrid only recently in 2018 winning that match 3-1. One may see this as the decider of two exceptional teams, both leaders in Europe in their own rights.
There is no doubt, on paper, Real Madrid are favourites. With them looking for this final to bring them their 14th Champions League trophy. Were as Liverpool would have to settle with it being lucky number 7 for them. Either way, both teams have dominated this tournament in recent years and we are all in for yet another dazzling showdown. With Liverpool’s current form and chasing a record quadruple, I’m sure there will be a fight to the end ; so I wouldn’t write them off.
However, before we can even begin to dream of this showdown ; we must make preparations for traveling there and also plan on how to make the most out your time in Paris. Who better to assist you with this than the reliable service of Alfred! Below I have broken it down into 5 questions you must ask yourself whilst preparing for your trip. Whether you have a ticket for the game or not ; I have no doubts the energy in Paris on the night will be electrifying and you wouldn’t want to miss.
Will you be flying to Paris to see the Champions League Final?
First things first – if you’re planning to fly try and make sure you book a non-stop flight!
With all the excitement for the upcoming game, you do not want to find yourself having to take 3 flights across the continent to get you there. Also, the journey back: whether you’re on the winning side or losing ; the last situation you want to be in is having to take connecting flights for a relatively short journey!
Charles de Gaulle and Orly Airports may seem the obvious choice of airports to fly into. However make sure you check out Beauvais Airport ; where Ryanair often offer very cheap flights to and from.
Note: you will have to get a coach from the centre of Paris to Beauvais airport which takes roughly 75 minutes. This can be very easily booked for a relatively low price. Check out our other article which details how to get around Paris upon arrival.
What is your budget?
As with any holiday it is best to budget. If you’re anything like me, you can quite easily be caught up in the moment of ‘living your best life’. And before you know it all your funds have evaporated and all you’re left with is a hangover ; and that free biscuit you were given on the flight over which you threw into your back ‘just in case’!!! Check out some of Alfred’s favourite bars here ; or feel free to contact us for a personalised itinerary for the city which we create based on your budget!
What is the best way to store your luggage?
Whether you travel to the city by plane, train or automobile you will need to figure out what to do with your luggage. Especially if you arrive earlier than your hotel or Airbnb check-in time.
Now I don’t know about you but that excitement for the game will be surging through my veins. I already know all I’ll be wanting to do is find myself a café/bar ; where I can get some food and a good drink to start my weekend off right.
The last thing I want holding me back is my luggage!
Now there are some storage facilities located around the city. Nevertheless who really wants to be hunting around time wasting precious supporting time.
Why not reach out to Alfred on https://www.alfred.travel/ or email (we-are-alfred@alfred.travel) to come and pick up your luggage directly from a designated location of your choosing and drop it at your accommodation when needed later. It will save you a lot of hassle and stress. You’ll be feeling enough of that before kick-off for your team!
How are you going to get around Paris on game day?
Walk walk walk! When planning your trip around one of the most prestigious sporting events of the year ; you need to remind yourself, how will everyone else be getting around? The city will be jam packed. Particularly during those few hours leading up to kick-off, it will be near to impossible to take taxis or even to drive close.
We’re lucky the final is now in Paris!
This city has one of the best public transport systems in the world. And it is so easy to navigate, plus it’s cheap – €1.90 for a ticket!. Get yourself a day pass for the metro (10 tickets, €16.90) ; and you can hop on and off it all day long as you’re moving about the city (another reason why you’ll want Alfred to take care of your luggage!).
You will also find it far more exciting in the build-up to be soaking up the atmosphere walking the Parisian streets. Read this article and you will be a master in no time!
Where will you be staying?
If you’re only now looking for accommodation, I’d probably hazard a guess it will be slim picking. No doubt there will not be much left near the stadium. If there are, they will likely bankrupt you and that budget of yours will well and truly be out of the window!
Consider staying somewhere away from the stadium ; and closer to a monument or area you would like to explore during your time in the city.
We know everyone’s primary interest come the weekend of the 28th will be the football. However once it’s done ; why not look around and use this precious time to discover the delights that Paris has to offer?
Because trust me, there are plenty.
Conclusion
No matter what you decide to do come the Champions League final and whoever you are supporting ; we at Alfred wish you the most enjoyable weekend in Paris. We love this city and hope your time there will make you feel the same. Stay safe, enjoy the football and go Liverpool 😉
