NHL Games in Europe: Watch Your Hockey Team on the International Stage in 2024

The NHL Global Series is an annual initiative to bring top-level hockey games to international markets and grow the sport's global presence. Each year, the NHL Global Series schedule takes a handful of regular-season games to cities across Europe and other parts of the world.

The NHL Europe games expose new audiences to the fast-paced action of the National Hockey League and give established international fan bases a chance to see their favorite players and teams. They also offer North American fans the opportunity to travel overseas to watch their teams in new destinations.

Whether you're a lifelong fan with a generation of playoff superstitions or a hockey convert mesmerized by the game’s fast pace and hard hits, attending an NHL game provides an electrifying atmosphere that can't be replicated in your living room. The full NHL experience doesn't have to begin and end on your screen.

Be part of the roaring crowd as your team faces off rather than being silenced by thousands of miles of distance. Part of the beauty of catching your team abroad is combining that visceral excitement with the chance to explore a new city or country's culture, cuisine, and iconic sights, adding to your everlasting memories of the game and trip.

With Zicasso's personalized travel planning services, you can enhance your NHL Global Series experience by exploring the host country with custom-tailored tours designed by destination specialists. Share your interests and preferred activities, and Zicasso's experts will craft an itinerary that seamlessly blends the thrill of the game with immersive cultural experiences, culinary adventures, visits to iconic landmarks, and more. Whether you want to delve into a city's rich history, indulge in local cooking classes, or discover off-the-beaten-path villages, Zicasso will ensure your NHL trip is enriched with unforgettable moments beyond the stadium, the NHL games in Europe being an opportunity to cheer on your team while exploring the world.

The key is thoughtfully scheduling your trip to allow time before or after the game to go beyond the arena. Many American fans have traveled internationally for live games, willing to endure long flights and steep ticket costs. It's a demonstration of devotion that drives supporters to plan entire vacations around team schedules.

But it's about more than just the game. During your trip, you become an ambassador representing your fandom and your team abroad. The key is striking the perfect balance by scheduling extra days to dive into the local culture or unique experiences that can only happen in the country you visit.

Order a liter in Munich’s traditional beer halls. Chase the Northern Lights in Scandinavia. Visit Stonehenge in England after a game in London. Connecting with a travel specialist can help you craft an itinerary that combines the best of hockey passion with enriching travel experiences tailored to your interests.

The teams playing in this year’s NHL Global Series are:

• The Buffalo Sabres face off against the New Jersey Devils
• The Dallas Stars will take on the Florida Panthers

NHL games in Europe in 2024 take place in Czechia and Finland, stunning travel destinations to add to your European wish list. The league has announced the following game locations and dates, and we have shared some exciting travel opportunities for each:

The Buffalo Sabres vs. New Jersey Devils

• Location: O2 Arena in Prague, Czech Republic
• Dates: October 4 and 5

This gives you the chance to experience the energy of an NHL opener while exploring one of Europe's most captivating cities, known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and lively beer culture. You could also explore the Bone Church in Kutná Hora, hike among the unique sandstone rock formations in Český ráj, or visit the castles and gardens of Lednice-Valtice.

The Dallas Stars vs. Florida Panthers

• Location: Nokia Arena in Tampere, Finland
• Dates: November 1 and 2

Hockey is the most popular sport in Finland, adding another dimension to the promise of an energetic crowd, exciting game, and unforgettable live experience. With the inclusion in the Panthers of Finnish players like Sasha Barkov, Anton Lundell, Eetu Luostarinen, and Niko Mikkola, the arena will undoubtedly be packed. Outside of the game, you could discover more of Finland by visiting Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, exploring the design-forward capital of Helsinki, or witnessing the impressive display of the Northern Lights, which are best experienced in November, and are also more active in 2024.

Whether you're a lifelong fan, carrying the torch of generations, or a new hockey enthusiast, attending NHL international games gives you a unique opportunity to go beyond the game by connecting with other experiences and cultures that may equally indulge in a love of hockey.

Discover more ideas on what to do and where to go based on your interests with our trips of a lifetime or learn more about the best places to travel by month.