Handball is more than just a sport in Europe โ itโs a cultural experience. The roar of thousands of fans, the chants echoing through the stands, and the sight of elite players battling on the court make the right arena unforgettable. For those who want to experience handball at its very best, weโve ranked the top 10 arenas in Europe that every fan should try to visit.
1. LANXESS Arena โ Cologne, Germany
The home of the EHF FINAL4, LANXESS Arena is widely regarded as the cathedral of handball. With a capacity of around 19,500, it hosts some of the sportโs biggest matches in front of electric crowds. If you want to witness handballโs Champions League climax, this is the place to be.
2. Jyske Bank Boxen โ Herning, Denmark
Denmark lives and breathes handball, and Jyske Bank Boxen is its crown jewel. With room for 15,000 fans, it has hosted both World and European Championships, creating unforgettable atmospheres for the Danish national team and international tournaments alike.
3. Papp Lรกszlรณ Budapest Sportarรฉna โ Budapest, Hungary
Hungaryโs biggest indoor arena is a regular host of European competitions and Hungarian national team games. Its capacity of 12,500 and passionate fanbase ensure it is always buzzing with energy, especially during major tournaments.
4. Paris La Dรฉfense Arena โ Paris, France
One of the most modern arenas in Europe, La Dรฉfense Arena can hold up to 16,000 handball fans. With PSG Handball being one of the sportโs powerhouses, the arena regularly witnesses some of the best club matches in the world.
5. Scandinavium โ Gothenburg, Sweden
Steeped in history, Scandinavium has hosted numerous World Championships and European Championships. Swedish handball culture shines brightest here, with capacity crowds of 12,000 creating an electric Scandinavian atmosphere.
6. Arena Zagreb โ Zagreb, Croatia
This 15,200-seat venue has become one of the premier arenas in Southeastern Europe. Known for its modern design and raucous Croatian supporters, Arena Zagreb offers one of the most passionate atmospheres in international handball.
7. Tele2 Arena โ Stockholm, Sweden
Though primarily built for football, the Tele2 Arena has been adapted for major handball events, including European and World Championship finals. With its retractable roof and massive seating, it provides one of the grandest stages in handball.
8. St. Jakobshalle โ Basel, Switzerland
An arena that has become increasingly important in European handball, St. Jakobshalle has hosted major EHF events and is a favourite for neutral fans thanks to its central location in Europe.
9. Kombank Arena โ Belgrade, Serbia
Now known as ล tark Arena, this 18,000-capacity venue hosted the 2012 European Menโs Championship final, which drew one of the largest crowds in handball history. Serbian fansโ passion makes this arena unforgettable.
10. Max-Schmeling-Halle โ Berlin, Germany
The home of Fรผchse Berlin, one of Germanyโs leading clubs, the Max-Schmeling-Halle is famous for its intense Bundesliga atmosphere. With a capacity of over 9,000, it offers one of the most authentic club-level experiences in Europe.
Final Thoughts
Whether you want to see the drama of the EHF FINAL4 in Cologne or experience the raw passion of Croatian fans in Zagreb, Europeโs arenas offer something unique. Each venue blends world-class facilities with a handball culture that makes matches unforgettable. If youโre a fan, adding these arenas to your travel list is essential.
