Northern Ireland Fans Prepare for Italy World Cup Qualifier Trip

Fans of the Northern Ireland national football team are gearing up for an exciting trip to Bergamo, Italy, for the upcoming World Cup playoff semi-final against Italy on March 26, 2024. The match is set to kick off at approximately 19:45 local time, and the winner will proceed to face either Bosnia or Wales in the final qualifying match.

Traveling supporters are eager to know how much they can expect to spend on their journey to support the Green and White Army. For those considering direct flights to Bergamo’s Caravaggio International Airport, the most economical option is available from Belfast. Prices are fluctuating, but current fare estimates provide valuable insights.

Ryanair offers a direct flight departing from Belfast International Airport at 09:25 on the day of the match, landing in Bergamo shortly before 13:00. The return flight is scheduled for 10:00 the following day, with a total cost of approximately £413. Alternatively, a flight departing at 17:35 on March 25, the day before the match, is priced at around £468, returning on March 27.

For those willing to endure a layover, there are cheaper options available. British Airways provides a flight from Belfast City Airport at 15:40 on March 25, arriving at Heathrow Airport at 17:05. Passengers will then depart Heathrow at 18:35 and land at Milan Linate Airport. This route involves a 35-minute train ride to Bergamo and costs approximately £257 for a return trip on March 27.

Alternatively, fans located in Dublin can take advantage of a Ryanair flight that departs at 11:35 and arrives at Milan Malpensa Airport at 15:05 on match day. This option, while requiring a two-hour train ride to Bergamo, is priced at around £316, with a return flight scheduled for the following day.

Another cost-effective route is available through British Airways, which offers a flight from Dublin at 10:20 that stops at Heathrow before continuing to Milan Linate Airport. Although this airport is also two hours from Bergamo, this option is priced at £229 and includes a return flight on March 27.

Accommodations in Bergamo are varied and can significantly affect travel expenses. Bed and breakfasts offer competitive rates, with prices starting at around £50 per night. In contrast, hotel prices in the area range from £100 to £200, depending on the level of comfort and amenities desired.

As fans prepare for this crucial match, securing travel arrangements early is advisable, especially as prices are subject to change. With anticipation building for what promises to be an exciting clash against the Italian national team, supporters are looking forward to rallying behind their team in Bergamo this spring.