Opening Hours
There’s something special about standing where tennis history has been made. From watching world-class players compete on Centre Court at Wimbledon to soaking up the electric atmosphere of a US Open night session, visiting one of the sport’s iconic venues is an experience every tennis fan should have.
The best tennis destinations offer far more than just great matches. They combine sporting history, unforgettable atmospheres and incredible cities that make every trip memorable. Here are five destinations every tennis enthusiast should consider adding to their travel bucket list.
1. Roland-Garros, Paris, France
The French Open is unlike any other Grand Slam. Played on its famous red clay courts, Roland-Garros showcases a slower, more tactical style of tennis that has produced some of the sport’s greatest matches.
Beyond the tournament, Paris offers everything you’d expect from one of the world’s most iconic cities. Spend your mornings exploring landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre or Montmartre before heading to the courts to watch the world’s best players battle it out.
Why visit Paris?
- Experience the world’s premier clay-court tournament
- Explore one of Europe’s most beautiful cities
- Visit Philippe-Chatrier Court and the Roland-Garros grounds
- Enjoy exceptional food, culture and history between matches
2. Monte-Carlo Masters, Monaco
Set against the stunning backdrop of the French Riviera, the Monte-Carlo Masters is one of the most picturesque events on the ATP Tour.
Although technically located in France, the tournament represents Monaco and attracts the world’s top players every spring. The spectacular views overlooking the Mediterranean make this one of the most photogenic venues in tennis.
Away from the courts, visitors can discover Monte Carlo’s famous casino, luxury marina and scenic coastal walks, or explore nearby Nice and the surrounding Côte d’Azur.
Why visit Monaco?
- Incredible Mediterranean scenery
- One of the most prestigious ATP Masters tournaments
- Mild spring weather
- Easy access to Nice and the French Riviera
3. Australian Open, Melbourne, Australia
Known as the “Happy Slam”, the Australian Open combines world-class tennis with a relaxed summer festival atmosphere.
Held every January, it kicks off the Grand Slam season with packed stadiums, live entertainment and an impressive line-up of the world’s best players.
Melbourne itself is consistently ranked among the world’s most liveable cities, offering fantastic restaurants, cafés, sporting culture and easy access to Australia’s famous coastline.
Why visit Melbourne?
- Watch the year’s first Grand Slam
- Enjoy Australia’s summer sunshine
- Explore one of the world’s great sporting cities
- Experience Melbourne’s vibrant food and coffee culture
4. Italian Open, Rome, Italy
Before the world’s best players arrive in Paris, many compete at the Italian Open in Rome.
Held at the beautiful Foro Italico, this tournament combines elite clay-court tennis with one of Europe’s most historic cities. The venue’s impressive marble statues and classical architecture make it unlike any other tournament on the calendar.
After a day watching tennis, you can wander through ancient Roman streets, visit the Colosseum or enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in one of the city’s many piazzas.
Why visit Rome?
- A unique historic venue
- Watch top players prepare for Roland-Garros
- Combine tennis with Rome’s famous landmarks
- Enjoy authentic Italian food and culture
5. US Open, New York, USA
The US Open brings the Grand Slam season to an unforgettable finish.
Held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, the tournament is famous for its lively crowds, spectacular night sessions and Arthur Ashe Stadium–the largest tennis stadium in the world.
When you’re not watching tennis, New York offers endless opportunities to explore. Visit Central Park, Times Square, Broadway, the Statue of Liberty or enjoy some of the world’s best shopping and dining.
Why visit New York?
- Experience the unique atmosphere of a US Open night session
- Visit the world’s largest tennis stadium
- Explore one of the world’s greatest cities
- Combine sport with culture, entertainment and sightseeing
Planning your tennis holiday abroad
Travelling overseas to watch a tennis tournament takes careful planning. Grand Slam tickets often sell out months in advance, while flights and accommodation become more expensive the closer you get to tournament dates.
Before travelling, remember to:
- Book tournament tickets early
- Reserve accommodation close to the venue
- Check passport and entry requirements
- Arrange Travel Insurance before you travel
If you’re living with a pre-existing medical condition, having specialist Medical Travel Insurance can provide peace of mind while you’re abroad.
Game, set and match – where will you go first?
Every one of these destinations offers something different. You might dream of watching epic clay-court rallies in Paris, soaking up the glamour of Monte Carlo, experiencing the summer atmosphere in Melbourne, exploring ancient Rome or enjoying the incredible energy of New York.
Whichever tournament tops your list, planning ahead – and making sure you have the right Travel Insurance – means you can focus on the tennis, the destination and the memories you’ll make along the way.
