Ultimate Celje Soccer Travel Guide

Nestled in the green heart of Slovenia, Celje offers football fans a charming and underrated destination. As home to NK Celje, the city blends modern stadium experiences with an old-world backdrop of castles, rivers, and medieval streets. For those looking to combine football with a taste of Slovenian culture, Celje is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Explore This Guide

At Soccer Trippers, we’ve explored the world’s greatest stadiums, matchday cultures, and fan experiences. This soccer travel guide combines expert knowledge and local insights to help you plan the perfect football trip to Celje.

Why Celje is a top destination for football fans

NK Celje may not be a household name internationally, but in 2020 the club stunned Slovenia by winning its first national title. Since then, it has become a regular contender in the Slovenian PrvaLiga and a symbol of football’s growing appeal in the country.

Celje’s compact size means football is woven into daily life. With beautiful landscapes and a city center that feels both historic and vibrant, it’s an ideal setting for a relaxed but memorable football weekend.

Insider tip: Celje is known for developing young talent—keep an eye out for future stars during matches.

Must-visit football stadiums in Celje

Stadion Z’dežele (NK Celje) → Stadium Guide: Stadion Z’dežele

Built in 2003, this modern 13,000-capacity stadium is one of the best in Slovenia. It regularly hosts league matches and international fixtures.

Insider tip: The west stand offers the best view of both the pitch and the surrounding hills.

Where to stay in Celje as a football fan

Celje offers a welcoming mix of hotels near the stadium and in the city center:

Pro-tip: Stay near the Savinja River for beautiful views and walking distance to the stadium and old town.

Best sports bars & places to watch the game

Celje’s bar scene is small but passionate:

  • Pubs → Try local haunts like Bar Stadion and Guinness Pub for match screenings.
  • Gostilna Stari Pisker → Grill house with TVs, perfect for post-match meals and analysis.
  • Pub Cabana → Youthful vibe, big screens, and beer on tap.

Recommended bar for a club: Bar Stadion sits just outside the stadium and is a gathering place for NK Celje fans.

How to get around in Celje

Celje is walkable, but there are also simple transit options:

  • Buses: Connect the city center with suburbs and the stadium.
  • Taxis: Readily available and affordable.
  • Walking: Ideal for matchdays and sightseeing alike.

Celje Public Transport Guide

Matchday tip: Arrive an hour early for food trucks, music, and pre-game warmups.

Other must-visit landmarks for football fans

Besides the stadium, Celje offers historical and cultural highlights:

  • NK Celje Club Shop (Stadium) → Official kits, scarves, and fan gear.
  • Celje Castle → Towering over the city, it’s one of Slovenia’s largest and most scenic castles.
  • Savinja River Promenade → Ideal for a football-themed photo walk.

Best Football Landmarks in Celje
Football Restaurants in Celje

Medieval pride, modern game

Celje brings together history, hospitality, and football in a way few cities can. Whether you’re watching a league clash under the stadium lights or exploring castle ruins at sunset, this Slovenian city offers a football trip that’s both peaceful and powerful.

Seen a match at Stadion Z’dežele or wandered through Celje Castle in club colors? Share your story—we’d love to feature it!

→ Discover more rising football destinations like Maribor or Ljubljana.

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Team Soccer Trippers

Team Soccer Trippers is a group of passionate football travelers who have spent nearly 20 years exploring the world’s greatest stadiums, clubs, and matchday cultures. Our mission is to help fellow fans plan the ultimate football trip with expert insights, insider tips, and must-visit recommendations. Whether it's the electric atmosphere of a derby match, the history of legendary clubs, or the best football pubs in town—we’ve been there, and we’re here to guide you through it. Join us in discovering the world through football! Contact us? info@soccertrippers.com

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