For England fans, the dream of a World Cup title may not be confined to football this summer. A family's excursion to Amsterdam for the 2026 Hockey World Cup provided a unique opportunity to experience a major international sporting event in Europe, blending the thrill of competition with the appeal of a European city break.
The journey to Amsterdam was motivated by a combination of sporting hope and the potential for an affordable European getaway. With the tournament being held in the Netherlands and Belgium, the prospect of attending live matches became a tangible possibility. The cost of tickets for a full day of international hockey, featuring four top-tier matches, was noted as being under €40, making it an accessible option for fans.
England's performance in the group stages offered a glimpse of success, with a 4-2 victory over rivals India at Amsterdam's Wagener Stadium. This win fueled optimism among supporters, drawing parallels to the national refrain of "it's coming home," a sentiment often associated with the England football team's aspirations.
Beyond the hockey pitch, Amsterdam presented itself as a welcoming destination. The city offered a refined experience, with attractions like the picturesque canals and historic architecture. Exploring the Brouwersgracht, once named Amsterdam's most beautiful street, and enjoying the ambiance of its 17th-century canals provided a cultural counterpoint to the sporting event. The city's culinary scene was also a highlight, with a notable dining experience at Jansz, a restaurant recommended for its contemporary take on classic dishes.
The travel experience was enhanced by the choice of accommodation, with a boutique hotel located conveniently near Central Station. The hotel's amenities, including free bicycle rentals, encouraged guests to explore the city in a manner akin to locals. This approach to experiencing Amsterdam involved not only sightseeing but also enjoying local customs, such as visiting bars for drinks and trying regional snacks like bitterballen.
The Hockey World Cup, contested across the Netherlands and Belgium, served as the central focus of the trip, but the surrounding cultural and leisure opportunities in Amsterdam contributed significantly to the overall family experience. The event concluded at the end of August 2026.