Photo:Chabe01/CC BY-SA 4.0

Benito Villamarín

Seville, Spain

Capacity

60,721

Opened

1929

Surface

Grass

Home Team

Real Betis

Overview

Estadio Benito Villamarín, home to Real Betis since 1929, is one of Spain's largest and most passionate football venues. With a capacity of 60,721 spectators following a major renovation completed in 2017, this historic stadium combines Andalusian tradition with modern facilities. Named after former club president Benito Villamarín, the stadium is known for its vibrant atmosphere created by the fervent Béticos supporters. The venue has undergone several expansions and renovations, most recently a comprehensive upgrade that added a third tier and modern amenities while preserving its character. Located in Seville's Heliópolis neighbourhood, the stadium has hosted numerous international matches and continues to be a fortress for Los Verdiblancos.

Key Features

✓Spain's 4th largest stadium with 60,721 capacity after 2017 renovation
✓One of La Liga's most passionate atmospheres, especially during the Seville derby
✓Major renovation completed in 2017 added third tier and modern facilities
✓Historic venue celebrating over 90 years of football tradition
✓Located in the heart of Seville with easy access to city centre

History

Estadio Benito Villamarín opened on March 17, 1929, with a friendly match against Real Balompédica Linense. Originally named Estadio de Heliópolis, it was renamed in 1982 to honor Benito Villamarín, a beloved club president who served from 1969 to 1972. The stadium initially had a capacity of around 30,000, which was gradually increased through various expansions. The original single-tier design was expanded to include a second tier in the 1970s and 1980s. Between 2000-2005, extensive renovations modernized the venue, and between 2014-2017, a major €40 million project added a third tier to three sides of the stadium, increasing capacity from 52,500 to 60,720. The stadium has hosted Copa del Rey finals, international matches, and serves as one of the epicenters of Andalusian football culture.

Seating Guide

Benito Villamarín's seating offers diverse viewing experiences across its three tiers. The lower tier (Gol y Preferencia) brings fans close to the action, with sections 101-134 wrapping around the stadium. The Preferencia sections along the sides (108-114 and 123-129) offer premium central views and are popular with season ticket holders. Prices for these sections typically range from €50-90 for La Liga matches. The middle tier (Primera Gradería) provides excellent elevated views of the entire pitch. Sections 201-234 mirror the lower tier, with central positions offering the best tactical perspectives. These mid-level seats (€40-70) strike a great balance between proximity and overview, making them favorites among regular attendees. The upper tier (Segunda Gradería), added in the 2017 renovation, wraps around three sides (absent on the north end). Sections 301-334 provide bird's-eye views and are the most affordable option (€25-45). Despite being higher up, the modern design ensures good sightlines throughout. These sections are perfect for understanding team formations and tactics. The Gol Sur (sections 101-107) houses Betis's most passionate supporters, particularly the Supporters Gol Sur ultras group. This area creates incredible atmosphere with constant chanting, displays, and choreography. For the authentic Betico experience, these sections are unbeatable. The Gol Norte (sections 128-134) also features passionate support. Away fans are typically allocated sections in the Gol Norte corners.

Match Day Experience

Match day at Benito Villamarín is a carnival-like celebration of Andalusian football culture. The stadium opens 90 minutes before kickoff, but festivities begin hours earlier in Seville's tapas bars, particularly in the Heliópolis and Nervión neighbourhoods. Fans gather at local establishments for pre-match cerveza and traditional tapas, creating a vibrant street party atmosphere. Inside the stadium, the atmosphere is electric, especially for big matches and the Seville derby against Sevilla FC. Béticos are known for their creative displays, constant chanting, and unwavering support even during difficult times. The "¡Viva el Betis Manque Pierda!" (Long Live Betis Even If They Lose!) chant embodies the passionate, unconditional support. The Gol Sur creates spectacular tifo displays and leads the singing throughout matches. The stadium offers typical Spanish football concessions including bocadillos, churros, and local beers. However, many fans prefer the pre-match tapas experience. The renovated stadium features modern amenities including spacious concourses, numerous food and beverage outlets, and improved restroom facilities. After matches, fans often gather at nearby bars in Heliópolis or return to the city centre (just 3km away) to continue celebrating or commiserating. The area around the stadium comes alive with street celebrations after important victories, particularly following derby wins.

Getting There

🚇 Metro

Take Metro Line 2 to Estadio Benito Villamarín station, which is a short walk from the stadium. From Seville city centre (Puerta Jerez), the journey takes about 15 minutes. This is the most convenient option on match days.

🚌 Bus

Multiple bus lines serve the stadium area, including lines 6, 34, and several special match-day shuttle services. Regular city buses connect the stadium with Plaza de España and other central locations.

🅿️ Parking

Limited street parking is available in the surrounding Heliópolis neighbourhood, but it fills up quickly on match days. There are some public parking lots nearby, but using public transport is highly recommended. Resident parking restrictions apply in much of the area.

🚶 From City Center

The stadium is approximately 3km from Seville city centre (Plaza de España). It's a 35-40 minute walk through pleasant neighbourhoods, or you can take a taxi for around €8-12. Many fans enjoy the walk, especially on pleasant days.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Benito Villamarín has a capacity of 60,721 spectators, making it the 4th largest stadium in Spain. The capacity was increased from 52,500 to 60,721 following the 2014-2017 renovation that added a third tier.

The easiest way is via Metro Line 2 to Estadio Benito Villamarín station, a short walk from the venue. From Seville city centre, the metro journey takes about 15 minutes. Buses and taxis are also readily available.

Yes, Real Betis offers stadium tours on non-match days, including access to the changing rooms, tunnel, pitch-side, press room, and club museum. Tours must be booked in advance through the official Real Betis website and typically last 60-75 minutes.

While there are some hotels in the Heliópolis area near the stadium, staying in Seville city centre (around Santa Cruz, Arenal, or near Plaza de España) provides better dining and sightseeing options with easy metro access to the stadium. The centre is only 3km away.

The Seville derby between Real Betis and Sevilla FC is one of Spain's most passionate rivalries. Matches are intensely contested both on and off the pitch, with incredible atmospheres at both stadiums. Tickets for derby matches are extremely difficult to obtain and must be purchased well in advance.

Match tickets range from €25 to €120+ depending on the opponent, seat location, and match importance. Derby matches and games against Barcelona and Real Madrid command premium prices. Stadium tour tickets cost approximately €12-15 for adults.

The famous Betis chant "¡Viva el Betis Manque Pierda!" translates to "Long Live Betis Even If They Lose!" in English. It exemplifies the unconditional, passionate support Béticos have for their team, celebrating the club's identity beyond just results.

Related Stadiums

Other stadiums in La Liga

Stadium Name History

1982Benito Villamarín

1929Estadio de Heliópolis

Nearby Hotels

Hotel Sevilla Center
1.2km
Ayre Hotel Sevilla
1.5km
Vertice Sevilla
2.0km
Hotel Becquer
3.5km
Hotel Alfonso XIII
4.0km