Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) has solidified its status as one of the premier titles in esports, attracting players and fans worldwide. Choosing the right host city is crucial, as thousands of fans seek to experience the excitement of CS2 tournaments in person. The roar of the crowd and the chance to meet legendary players make these events unforgettable. But with tournaments happening worldwide, where should you plan your travel? From historic esports arenas to emerging gaming hubs, each destination offers a unique atmosphere and thrilling competition. Understanding what each city brings to the table can help you make the most of your CS2 experience.
Cologne, Germany
Cologne is a vibrant German city known for its stunning architecture and rich history. It is home to the Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), the most visited place in Germany. This UNESCO World Heritage site attracts around 6 million visitors annually, making it the country’s top tourist attraction. Known for its stunning Gothic architecture, towering twin spires and breathtaking interior, the cathedral is a must-visit landmark in Germany.
Beyond its historical charm, Cologne has also earned the title of “The Cathedral of Counter-Strike” due to its long-standing tradition of hosting ESL One Cologne, often referred to as the “Majors of Majors.” Each year, thousands of esports fans flock to LANXESS Arena, which accommodates 20,000 spectators for one of the most prestigious tournaments in Counter-Strike history.
The upcoming Intel Extreme Masters Cologne 2025, set to take place from July 23 to August 3, promises to maintain its tradition of high-stakes, world-class competition. With a $1,250,000 prize pool on the line with 24 teams, the tournament will once again attract the top-tier teams and a massive global audience, reinforcing Cologne’s reputation as a premier esports’ destination.
Esports rise can be attributed to betting as well, as it has created new revenue streams, enhanced fan engagement and fuelled the growth of dedicated platforms that allow enthusiasts to wager on their favorite games and tournaments. Today, betting in esports has become increasingly popular, with fans wagering on major tournaments and matches across games like CS2, League of Legends and Dota 2. This growing trend has led to the emergence of dedicated esports betting platforms, offering odds, live betting and unique opportunities for fans to engage with their favorite games and players. For those looking to bet on their favorite esports’ teams, CS2Luck provides exciting opportunities to wager on matches and interact with the CS2 community.
Finally, visitors can also tour ESL’s headquarters for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights into the world of professional gaming or dive into the local gaming scene at Cologne Game Haus, a hub for gamers and industry professionals alike.
From exploring the iconic Cologne Cathedral to enjoying the city’s bustling nightlife and gaming hubs, visitors can experience a perfect mix of tradition and modern entertainment.
Katowice, Poland
Katowice has rapidly transformed from a coal-mining hub into a lively cultural and business centre, drawing travellers with its unique mix of modern architecture, art galleries and historical sites. Visitors can explore the Silesian Museum, housed in a former coal mine, stroll through the green spaces of Kosciuszko Park and enjoy the city’s thriving nightlife and local cuisine. With excellent transport links and an ever-growing number of festivals, including the world-renowned OFF Festival, Katowice has become an emerging destination for both leisure and cultural tourism.
Katowice is also known as the “Esports Capital of Europe”. Katowice hosts the Intel Extreme Masters (IEM) Katowice in the new year, one of the most prestigious Counter-Strike 2 tournaments in the world. Each year, thousands of esports fans gather at the iconic Spodek Arena, a UFO-shaped venue with a capacity of over 15,000, to witness intense competition. Visitors can also visit the Silesian Esports Academy, a training hub for aspiring professional gamers. The recent 2025 edition of IEM Katowice scheduled from January 29 to February 9, 2025 saw Team Vitality winning the final and a grand prize of $400,000.
Dallas, USA
Dallas, Texas, is a unique travel destination known for its blend of Western heritage and modern sophistication. Visitors can explore iconic attractions like the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, the Dallas Arboretum and the vibrant arts district. The city boasts a thriving food scene, from classic Tex-Mex to upscale dining, and offers plenty of shopping and entertainment in areas like Deep Ellum and Uptown. Recently, Dallas has emerged as North America’s premier Counter-Strike 2 hotspot, hosting major tournaments like IEM Dallas and BLAST Premier. The city’s esports scene has experienced rapid growth, drawing both professional teams and passionate fans. In 2024, IEM Dallas shattered U.S. viewership records, peaking at 180,000 concurrent viewers.
Dallas is home to esports Stadium Arlington which is the largest dedicated esports venue in the US. Major organizations like Team Liquid and Complexity Gaming have also established training facilities in the area. Beyond the tournaments, Dallas offers plenty for gaming enthusiasts. Fans can visit the GameStop Esports Arena to watch or participate in grassroots tournaments. With its rapidly growing esports infrastructure and passionate community, Dallas is cementing its place as a must-visit destination for CS2 fans.
Dubai, UAE
Dubai is a world-renowned travel destination famous for its futuristic skyline, shopping and luxurious lifestyle. Visitors can visit the iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, explore traditional markets in the historic Al Fahidi district or unwind on pristine beaches. The city offers thrilling experiences, from desert safaris and indoor skiing to world-class dining and vibrant nightlife. Dubai has quickly emerged as the esports capital of the Middle East, hosting high-profile tournaments and attracting some of the biggest names in competitive gaming. With its cutting-edge infrastructure, luxury venues and a growing gaming community, the city is positioning itself as a global esports’ powerhouse.
The city recently hosted the Global Esports Tour Dubai 2024, a premier event featuring top-tier CS2 teams and a massive prize pool. Dubai’s commitment to esports is further demonstrated by the Dubai Esports & Games Festival, which brings together gamers, industry leaders and developers from around the world. Coca-Cola Arena, one of the region’s most advanced venues has become a hub for major esports events. With its unique blend of modern innovation and rich Emirati culture, Dubai promises an unforgettable adventure for every traveller.
Stockholm, Sweden
Swedish capital Stockholm is a stunning travel destination spread across 14 islands connected by picturesque bridges. Visitors can explore the charming cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan (Old Town), visit the royal palace and enjoy world-class museums like the Vasa Museum and ABBA The Museum. Surrounded by nature and rich in history, Stockholm offers the perfect mix of urban adventure and peaceful escapes. Stockholm also holds a special place in Counter-Strike 2 history, having produced legendary teams like Ninjas in Pyjamas (NiP) and Fnatic, both of which have dominated the global esports scene for years.
As a city deeply rooted in gaming culture, Stockholm has also hosted some of the most significant events in Counter-Strike history. One of the most memorable moments came in 2021 with PGL Major Stockholm, the first CS:GO Major to feature a live audience post-pandemic. Held at the Avicii Arena (formerly Ericsson Globe), the tournament brought together 15,000 passionate fans, creating an electric atmosphere that further cemented Stockholm’s status as an esports powerhouse. Visitors can stop by Gamer’s Paradise, Sweden’s largest gaming café, to experience high-end setups and immerse themselves in a thriving gaming community.
With its deep-rooted esports culture and world-class events, Stockholm remains an iconic destination for CS2 fans.
Singapore
Singapore is a vibrant travel destination known for its futuristic skyline, cultural diversity and world-class attractions. Visitors can explore iconic spots like Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and the bustling streets of Chinatown and Little India. The city offers a culinary paradise, from hawker centres with affordable local dishes to Michelin-starred restaurants. Clean, safe, and efficient, Singapore blends modern luxury with rich cultural heritage, offering a perfect experience for travellers of all kinds.
Singapore has established itself as a premier destination for esports in Southeast Asia, hosting world-class tournaments and fostering a rapidly growing gaming community. With state-of-the-art venues, strong government support, and a passionate fanbase, the city is becoming a powerhouse for competitive gaming. One of Singapore’s biggest esports events is ESL One Singapore, which attracts top-tier CS2 teams competing for prestigious titles and lucrative prize pools. Additionally, the Singapore Major has solidified the city’s reputation in global esports, drawing international players and fans. These tournaments are held at Suntec Singapore Convention Centre, an advanced venue known for its high-end production and immersive fan experience.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is a charming travel destination known for its colourful harbour, bike-friendly streets and cozy Scandinavian atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy iconic sights like the Little Mermaid statue, Tivoli Gardens, and the royal Amalienborg Palace. The city boasts a thriving food scene, from traditional Danish smørrebrød to world-famous New Nordic cuisine. Copenhagen is another key player in the Counter-Strike 2 esports tournaments, largely due to the dominance of Astralis, Denmark’s most successful esports organization. With multiple Major titles to their name, Astralis has solidified Copenhagen’s reputation as a global esports’ hub.
The city continues to grow as a premier CS2 destination, hosting major tournaments like the BLAST Premier Spring Final 2024, which featured a $500,000 prize pool and attracted some of the world’s top teams. These high-stakes competitions are held at the Royal Arena, one of Europe’s top esports venues. Beyond tournaments, visitors can dive deeper into Denmark’s esports culture by touring the Astralis Nexus, the official training facility of the legendary team. It offers an inside look at how pros prepare for the highest level of competition.
With its blend of historic charm, modern design and relaxed vibe, Copenhagen offers a unique and memorable experience for every traveller.
Belgrade, Serbia
Belgrade, Serbia’s capital, is a dynamic travel destination known for its rich history, vibrant nightlife and scenic riverside views. Visitors can explore the historic Belgrade Fortress, stroll through the lively streets of Skadarlija, and enjoy panoramic views from Kalemegdan Park. The city’s nightlife is legendary, with floating river clubs and lively bars. With its unique blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian and modern influences, Belgrade offers an unforgettable experience for history lovers and partygoers alike.
Belgrade is rapidly emerging as a key esports hub in Eastern Europe, attracting top-tier gaming tournaments and fostering a passionate gaming community. With a growing number of professional players, dedicated gaming venues and increasing investment in the industry, the Serbian capital is making its mark on the global esports scene. One of the biggest esports events hosted is the Belgrade Esports Championship, featuring top CS2, Dota 2 and League of Legends tournaments. The city also plays a crucial role in regional esports development, with organizations like Relog Media and Fortuna Esports helping to elevate Serbia’s presence in the competitive gaming landscape. Many of these events take place at the Belgrade Fair and Kombank Arena, both of which have hosted international gaming tournaments.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio de Janeiro is a stunning travel destination, famous for its breathtaking beaches and iconic landmarks. Visitors can take in panoramic views from the Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado Mountain or relax on the golden sands of Copacabana and Ipanema. The city’s vibrant culture comes alive during the world-famous Carnival, where samba music, colourful parades and festive street parties take over.
Rio de Janeiro is as one of South America’s premier esports destinations. Known for its passion and energy, Rio is attracting top-tier esports tournaments, solidifying its reputation as a hotspot for competitive gaming in Latin America. The city is home to CBLOL (Campeonato Brasileiro de League of Legends), one of the most prestigious esports leagues in Brazil and regularly hosts major events like IEM Rio. These tournaments, often held at the Jeunesse Arena, draw massive crowds and offer significant prize pools. With its blend of natural beauty, energetic nightlife, and rich history, Rio offers an unforgettable experience for every traveller.
Where Should You Go?
If you’re a fan of esports and want to experience the best of CS2 tournaments, your destination will depend on what you’re seeking. For those interested in history and legendary events, Katowice and Cologne are must-visit locations, known for hosting some of the most prestigious tournaments in the world. If you’re after hype and excitement, head to Dallas or Rio de Janeiro, where the energy and atmosphere are unmatched. For those looking to witness future stars of esports, Copenhagen and Singapore offer a glimpse into the next wave of talent and innovation.
Staying informed about upcoming events ensures that fans never miss out on the rapidly evolving world of CS2.
