Punters can't enough of the Champions League draw but the real thing is pretty special too.
Celtic and their supporters have waited five years for a return to European football's top table. And they have a thrilling adventure awaiting them. Every Parkhead diehard has long desired a two-legged dust-up with Real Madrid and now it is here. And the chance to head to the Spanish capital will follow. A visit to Leipzig is certainly appealing with great transport links for other German cities and it should prove to be a popular option.
It would be remiss not to note the sad reason why Shakhtar Donetsk are unable to play in their home region of Donbass, as the ongoing Russia invasion of Ukraine leaves the chances of playing on home turf as an impossibility. Shakhtar have suffered an uncertain few years but will find a temporary home in Warsaw, as they base themselves at Legia's stadium. The circumstances are unfortunate but a trip to Warsaw will likely be well received.
With firm dates still outstanding, Record Sport aims to give Celtic supporters the latest on how to get to their venues and what to expect when they arrive.
Cheapest and fastest flights?
Madrid
You can fly to Madrid from Glasgow via Bristol for less than £80 with easyJet leaving on a Tuesday and returning on the Thursday. However if fans want a more straightforward option, you can travel to the Spanish capital direct from Edinburgh but it will set you back around £200 return for that pleasure.
Warsaw
Budget airline Ryanair is your friend when looking for flights to Warsaw. Depending on your route and if you are willing to have a short stopover, travel can cost as little as £70. If that fails then KLM also do flights via Amsterdam for around £150 return.
Leipzig
Rangers enjoyed two trips to Germany last season, now it's Celtic's turn. Currently, there are no airlines that fly direct from Glasgow to Leipzig. But we found flights with one stop from £273.
Alternatively there's the option of flying into Berlin and taking a two hour train ride into Leipzig on matchday. That's likely to be the best option especially for those who fancy saving a bit of cash as a return journey with easyJet can be less than £100.
A train journey from Berlin to Leipzig starts at €4.99 one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance.
Hotel options?
Madrid
It's regarded as one of the most versatile of cities and it shows when it comes to booking hotels. You can grab a basic apartment for £59 per night, or there's city centre options from the usual big companies ranging between £88 to £166 per night, depending on specifications.
*Prices reflect October availability
Warsaw
The city which has become a specialist in stag, hen and city break trips knows how to cater for travelling groups. And the price reflects the differing options. You can get something basic for £34 per night, but, like most big cities, the prices can rise to upwards of £100 per night.
*Prices reflect October availability
Leipzig
Same rules apply, a local run hotel is available for £52 per night but the big city options again go over £100 per night. There are plenty of hostel options and there is value to be had.
*Prices reflect October availability
How much is food and drink?
Madrid
Madrid is not only the capital of Spain, but it’s also the country’s biggest city. Best of all, it’s one of the cheaper cities in Western Europe. A pint of local beer can range from as little as €1.60 to around €4. While an average meal in Madrid should cost around €11 per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner.
Warsaw
Despite also being a capital city, Warsaw is a fairly cheap place to visit. You are looking at 10-12 PLN , which is between £1.80 and £2.20 a pint of beer. Food costs aren't too shabby too. The average cost for a meal at a restaurant is 27 PLN, roughly £5. Although prices can differ depending on the establishment or area you are located in.
Leipzig
This German city is probably the most expensive of the three destinations for Celtic fans. A beer will set you back around €3.90 in this part of the country. But compared to rising prices in the UK, you are still not needing to take out a bank loan to enjoy a cold one. The price for a meal may vary between €8 to €14 at a regular restaurant.
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