The World’s Best Rugby Stadiums for Fans

With the Six Nations tournament around the corner, Betway reveals the best rugby stadiums around the world for fans in 2025.

Whether you’re a devoted rugby enthusiast, or simply a casual viewer, the annual Six Nations Championship represents a celebration of competition, camaraderie, and cherished traditions that transcend the sport itself.

However, if you’re attending a match, this goes beyond just watching a game; it’s an unforgettable experience. From the thunderous roar of the crowd to the anticipation that fills the air, every moment is steeped in history and passion. But which stadiums amplify the magic for fans and top the list as the best venues for rugby supporters?

To uncover the ultimate destinations for rugby fans this upcoming season, the team at rugby betting site Betway have analysed 50 stadiums across the UK and around the globe. The ranking considers key factors including stadium capacity, Google ratings, proximity to transport, nearby food options, and even their Instagram-worthy appeal.

The best rugby stadiums for fans in the UK

With almost five million UK fans tuning in to watch the England vs Ireland match during the last Six Nations Championship, it’s clear that rugby is enjoyed by many across the country. But which stadiums offer the best match day experience for fans?

1. Principality Stadium, Cardiff

The Principality Stadium, previously the Millennium Stadium, sits at the heart of Welsh rugby and is a key venue in the Six Nations Championship. It holds 74,500 spectators, making it one of the world’s largest rugby stadiums – the electrifying experience it provides its visitors is evidenced by its impressive 4.7 Google rating and over 56,300 Instagram posts.

Located just 0.2 miles from Cardiff Central Station, its central position ensures easy access for attendees. For visitors wanting to extend their stay, Cardiff offers accommodation for around £65.71 per night. While dining options are fewer compared to other cities, with around 850 restaurants, there’s still a variety to suit all tastes.

2. Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh

Securing second place is Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, Scotland’s largest venue with 67,144 capacity. Another pivotal venue for the Six Nations, Murrayfield welcomes large crowds during the tournament.

Dining options around the stadium are plentiful, with 1,846 options across the city. However, those wanting to stay overnight should prepare for higher prices, with a hotel in the Scottish capital costing around £102.13 per night. Ultimately, with a 4.6 Google rating, Murrayfield remains a top choice for an unforgettable rugby experience.

3. Coventry Building Society Arena, Coventry

The Coventry Building Society Arena ranks third, excelling in accessibility. Just 0.1 miles from Coventry Arena Train Station and 20 minutes from the nearest airport, it is ideal for both international and local visitors. And, with 2,200 on-site parking spaces, all travel options are hassle-free.

Hotel rates nearby average at £60.96 per night, making it one of the most affordable stadiums to visit overnight. While the area features fewer dining options (611), the arena compensates with on-site amenities, including a hotel, catering, and a coffee shop, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable experience

4. Headingley Stadium, Leeds

Headingley Stadium, near central Leeds, has risen in popularity, despite its more modest capacity of 20,112. With a 4.6 Google rating and 4,878 Instagram posts celebrating it, it is clear the stadium is loved by those who visit.

Headingley also enjoys a prime location near Leeds City Centre, providing easy access to 1,633 dining options for post-match meals.

5. Ashton Gate Stadium, Bristol

Rounding out the top five is Aston Gate Stadium, home to the Bristol Bears and Bristol City F.C. Its popularity shines on Instagram with 5,671 posts and easy access to 1,423 nearby restaurants. Affordable public transport fares, averaging £4.00, add to its appeal as a versatile and fan-friendly destination.

The UKs most affordable rugby stadiums

For many, affordability plays a key role in which stadiums they choose to visit. But which UK stadiums offer the best value for money?

Coventry Building Society Arena not only excels for its accessibility, but also for its affordability. Excluding ticket prices, it would cost visitors approximately £71.96 to attend a game. This price includes an overnight stay, two one-way tickets on public transport, and even a meal from McDonalds for the appetite you may have worked up during the game.

Headingley Stadium comes in second as the most affordable rugby stadium in the UK, despite its close proximity to Leeds City Centre. Those visiting the stadium for a game can expect to pay a very reasonable £72.56 for accommodation, travel and food. Meanwhile, in third place, a visit to Meadow Lane, followed by Darlington Mowden Park Rugby Club, and Franklin’s Gardens where a game day will cost around £75.

The world’s best rugby stadiums for fans

While the Six Nations may be firmly rooted in Europe, the love for rugby extends far beyond its borders, with iconic stadiums around the globe offering unforgettable experiences for fans.

1. Boris Paichadze Stadium, Tbilisi

The Boris Paichadze Stadium is truly a hidden gem in the world of rugby. While it may not have the same name recognition as Stade de France or Twickenham, it is one of the largest stadiums in Eastern Europe, with a capacity of 56,000. It also boasts the highest Google review rating among its peers, scoring an outstanding 4.7 out of 5.

Visitors can also benefit from exceptional affordability, as well as convenience with the closest train station being just 0.6 miles away.

2. National Stadium, Singapore

The National Stadium in Singapore, renowned for its breathtaking waterfront views and iconic city skyline, ranks second. Featuring the world’s largest free-spanning dome, a retractable roof, and cooling technology for comfort in the tropical climate, it delivers a cutting-edge fan experience, highlighted by 96,400 Instagram posts celebrating its grandeur.

When it comes to dining, Singapore truly excels, with over 10,000 dining options, and affordable meals like a McDonald’s McMeal costing just £5.89. Combining stunning views, advanced technology, and abundant food options, the National Stadium is a must-visit for fans worldwide.

3. DHL Stadium, Cape Town

Originally built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, this 58,310-capacity stadium has become a prime rugby destination, hosting the South Africa Sevens since 2015. Held at the start of the South African summer, it combines thrilling rugby with sunny summer skies, earning a 4.6 Google rating for its vibrant atmosphere.

The stadium is fairly close to the closest station (0.7 miles) and also offers fans affordability with a two way ticket in the city costing less than £2.

4. Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

With a 52,500 capacity, this Australian stadium offers a perfect mix of grandeur and intimacy. Its design brings fans just six meters from the sideline, ensuring an immersive experience. With a 4.6 Google rating and a prime location in vibrant Brisbane, visitors can choose from over 5,000 food and drink spots for pre-game, or post-game, dining.

5. Stade de France, Saint-Denis

The Stade de France, ranked fifth, is one of rugby’s most iconic venues. Located near Paris, its 81,338 capacity makes it one of the world’s largest rugby stadiums, hosting events like Rugby World Cups, the 2024 Olympics, and the upcoming 2025 MLB World Tour.

Visitors to this globally renowned stadium are quick to share their experience, as evidenced by an impressive 338,000 Instagram posts. Despite its prime location, nearby accommodations are affordable, averaging £66.50 per night. The Stade de France remains a bucket-list destination for its rich history and electrifying atmosphere.

The most affordable rugby stadiums in the world

For the most affordable rugby trip away from home, fans should look to visit the Boris Paichadze Stadium in Tbilisi. A visit to this stadium will cost fans as little as £26.73 on top of their ticket price for an overnight stay (£19.79), journey on public transport (£0.58) and a post-match McMeal (£6.36).

Loftus Versfeld Stadium, based in Pretoria, is the next most affordable costing fans around £46.41 on top of ticket price. In fact, South Africa seems to be somewhat of a hotspot for affordable rugby with four other South African stadiums appearing in the top ten most affordable stadiums: Emirates Airline Park (£49.36), FNB Stadium (£49.36), Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium (£56.48) and DHL Stadium (£68.27).

The best stadiums for rugby fans

In the UK, both the Principality Stadium and the Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium will host several Six Nations matches this season, including games for Italy, Ireland, and England. If you’re a rugby fan, a visit to one of these iconic venues promises an unforgettable atmosphere and a chance to witness the action up close.

The Stade de France will kick off this year’s tournament with the highly anticipated opening match against Wales, fresh from hosting the 2024 Olympics. While no Six Nations games will take place at the Boris Paichadze Stadium, its reputation as a hidden gem makes it a worthy addition to any rugby fan’s travel bucket list for later in the year.

Sources and Methodology

To uncover the best stadiums in the UK for rugby fans, we looked at 25 of the biggest stadiums in the UK and ranked them according to the following metrics:

·       Google review score

·       Average cost of accommodation

·       Walking distance from the train station in miles – according to shortest route on Google Maps

·       Price of two one-way trips on public transport

·       Price of a McMeal at McDonalds

·       Number of food and drink locations in the city

·       Number of Instagram posts tagged with the relevant hashtag

To find out the best stadiums worldwide, the same methodology was repeated using a seedlist of the top 28 largest rugby stadiums in the world.