Leganés, Spain
Overview
Estadio Municipal de Butarque, opened 1998, is CD Leganés' home and La Liga's smallest stadium. With just 12,450 capacity, this is one of European football's most intimate venues. Located in Leganés, working-class city in southern Madrid metropolitan area, the stadium was initially built for regional football, never anticipating it would host La Liga and face giants like Real Madrid and Barcelona. Following Leganés' extraordinary 2016 back-to-back promotions reaching La Liga for the first time in 87-year history, Butarque underwent rapid renovation to meet top-flight standards. The stadium features distinctive blue and white seats matching club colours, and the compact design means every supporter feels remarkably close to the pitch—creating unique atmosphere where players can hear individual voices. When Leganés faces Madrid's giants like Atlético at the Metropolitano, the contrast between stadiums highlights football's diversity—from intimate community venues to modern mega-stadiums.
Butarque embodies the romantic, underdog side of football—a small community club punching far above its weight. The stadium is famous worldwide for the unique "pepinero" (cucumber) tradition: fans celebrate goals by throwing inflatable cucumbers onto the pitch, referencing Leganés' historical association with cucumber cultivation. The surreal, joyful scenes are uniquely Butarque. Despite modest facilities compared to Spain's major venues like Santiago Bernabéu, the passionate support and extraordinary proximity create genuinely intimidating atmosphere for visiting giants. Butarque represents football's possibilities for small clubs through smart management, teamwork, and never-give-up spirit—proof that you don't need 80,000 seats to create something special.
Key Features
- ✓La Liga's smallest stadium with intimate capacity of 12,450 spectators
- ✓Modern facility opened in 1998, transformed to host top-flight football
- ✓Located in working-class Leganés in southern Madrid metropolitan area
- ✓Famous for unique "cucumber" tradition - fans celebrate with inflatable cucumbers
- ✓Represents classic football underdog story and community club values
History
Origins
Estadio Municipal de Butarque opened on 13 September 1998, replacing CD Leganés' previous home, Estadio Municipal de San Nicasio. The new stadium was built in the Butarque neighbourhood with an initial capacity of approximately 8,000. At opening, Leganés was playing in Segunda División B (third tier), making the stadium seem ambitiously sized for the club's modest status.
For the first decade, Butarque hosted lower-division football as Leganés struggled in the regional leagues. The stadium saw incremental improvements - modern floodlights, basic renovations - but remained a modest municipal venue rarely noticed beyond southern Madrid.
The Extraordinary Rise
The club's fortunes changed dramatically in the 2010s. In 2014, under innovative management, Leganés began an extraordinary rise through Spanish football. In 2016, the club achieved back-to-back promotions, reaching La Liga for the first time in their 87-year history. Suddenly, this tiny stadium needed urgent improvements to meet top-flight standards.
Between 2016-2017, Butarque underwent rapid renovation on a shoestring budget. The project expanded capacity to 12,450 through temporary seating, improved facilities, and enhanced media areas - all completed quickly and cost-effectively. Despite being La Liga's smallest stadium, Butarque met league requirements.
La Liga Era
The stadium has since hosted extraordinary encounters - Real Madrid and Barcelona visiting this 12,450-capacity venue created surreal David vs Goliath atmospheres. In 2018, Leganés reached the Copa del Rey quarter-finals, hosting Barcelona at Butarque in a match that captured world attention.
Modern Character
Butarque became famous for the "pepinero" (cucumber) tradition. Leganés is historically known for cucumber cultivation, and fans celebrate goals by throwing inflatable cucumbers onto the pitch - surreal, joyful scenes unique in world football. Although Leganés has fluctuated between divisions, Butarque remains a symbol of small-club achievement and football romance.
Tickets & Tours
How to Get CD Leganés Tickets
As one of La Liga's smallest clubs, CD Leganés offers a more accessible and community-focused ticketing experience that reflects the club's working-class roots and family-friendly values:
1. Official Club Tickets (Best Value)
Purchase directly from the CD Leganés official website (cdleganes.com/entradas). Tickets are typically available up until match day for most fixtures, making Butarque one of the most accessible grounds in La Liga. The online ticketing system opens approximately 2-3 weeks before each match. Prices range from €30 (Fondo ends) to €65 (Tribuna Principal central sections), representing excellent value for top-flight Spanish football. The intimate 12,450 capacity—La Liga's smallest—means tickets are generally easier to obtain than at major clubs, though this also means fewer seats overall.
The stadium box office at Butarque (Avenida de Butarque, 20) opens on match days and selected weekdays. Hours are typically Monday-Friday 10:00-14:00 and 17:00-20:00, with extended hours on match days from 10:00 AM until kickoff. The box office accepts cash and cards. Staff primarily speak Spanish, though some English support may be available. Purchasing in person allows seat selection on visual charts.
⚠️ Important: High-profile matches against Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atlético Madrid sell out quickly despite the small capacity—often within days of going on sale. Book at least 2-3 weeks in advance for Madrid derbies and matches against major clubs. For the biggest fixtures (especially Real Madrid), booking 3-4 weeks ahead is advisable.
Membership Benefits
Becoming a club socio (member) provides priority ticket access and discounted prices. Memberships typically cost €40-60 annually and are worthwhile for visitors planning to attend multiple matches or wanting guaranteed access to high-demand fixtures.
2. Third-Party Platforms (Sold-Out Matches)
When official tickets sell out (mainly for big fixtures against Madrid clubs), alternatives include:
- FootballHost - Specialises in La Liga tickets, from €120-200+
- SeatPick - Comparison platform aggregating multiple sellers
- Viagogo - Secondary marketplace with variable pricing
- StubHub - Resale tickets at premium rates
⚠️ Note: Third-party sellers charge significantly above face value (often 2-4x official prices). For a community-focused club like Leganés, official tickets are usually available for regular fixtures and offer much better value whilst supporting the club directly.
VIP & Hospitality
Butarque offers limited VIP packages in the Tribuna Principal with premium seating, lounge access, and food/beverage service. Given the stadium's modest size and community focus, hospitality options are basic compared to major venues but provide the unique experience of top-flight football in an intimate setting. Packages typically cost €100-150 per person for regular matches, €150-250 for Madrid derbies. Contact the club directly for availability and booking.
Stadium Tours
CD Leganés occasionally offers stadium tours including access to the pitch, dressing rooms, press areas, and club facilities. Availability is more limited compared to major clubs due to Butarque's smaller operation.
- Check availability: Contact the club directly via cdleganes.com
- Price: Approximately €10-15 (when available)
- Duration: Tours typically last 45-60 minutes
- Experience: Intimate tour of La Liga's smallest stadium with opportunity to learn about the unique cucumber tradition and the club's remarkable journey to top-flight football
Booking
- GetYourGuide - Stadium tour experiences
- Viator - Leganés stadium tours
Quick Tips
- Book via official site: Tickets are usually available and considerably cheaper than third-party platforms
- Cucumber tradition: Purchase an inflatable cucumber from the club shop before the match for the authentic Pepinero experience
- Big matches: Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atlético sell out fast—book weeks in advance
- Community atmosphere: One of Spain's most authentic, family-friendly football experiences
- Best value in La Liga: Smallest stadium, biggest character, most affordable tickets in top-flight Spanish football
Best Seats at Estadio Municipal de Butarque
Butarque features a simple four-stand configuration perfectly suited to its intimate, community-focused character.
Tier Structure
Estadio Municipal de Butarque features a single-tier design throughout all four stands (Tribuna Principal, Tribuna Lateral, and both Fondos), creating an intimate atmosphere that places all supporters remarkably close to the pitch. Unlike larger stadiums with multiple tiers and upper grada levels, Butarque's compact single-tier layout means every seat offers excellent proximity to the action. This design amplifies the atmosphere, as all 12,450 fans are concentrated in a tight, enclosed space that creates intense noise and energy.
Tribuna Principal (West): The main stand offers the best facilities and central views, with covered roof providing weather protection. Seats cost €45-65 for La Liga matches. Most comfortable option with decent amenities for such a modest venue.
Tribuna Lateral (East): Opposite the main stand with similar central views at €35-55. Houses many season ticket holders and traditional Leganés families, creating a loyal, passionate atmosphere. Excellent value for quality sightlines.
Fondo Sur (South End): Home to Butarque's most passionate supporters, who lead constant chanting and coordinate the famous inflatable cucumber displays when Leganés scores. Tickets deliberately kept affordable at €30-50 for working-class local fans. The heart and soul of Butarque's atmosphere.
Fondo Norte (North End): Typically allocated to away supporters, though capacity is limited given the tiny stadium size.
The Butarque Advantage: The 12,450 capacity means all seats are remarkably close to the pitch - there's genuinely no bad view. The intimate size creates unique atmosphere where players can hear individual voices, making it intimidating for visiting giants despite modest numbers. You're not just watching football, you're part of the action.
VIP & Hospitality
The stadium offers limited hospitality options in the Tribuna Principal. VIP boxes provide premium seating with dedicated services for corporate clients and special guests. Given Butarque's modest size and community focus, hospitality facilities are basic compared to major stadiums but offer the unique experience of watching top-flight football in an intimate setting. Contact the club directly for hospitality packages and availability.
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible seating available in designated areas of the stadium, with companion seats provided. Book accessibility seats directly through CD Leganés' official channels to ensure proper accommodation and assistance.
Pro Tips
- Best atmosphere: Fondo Sur for the most passionate supporters and cucumber celebrations
- Family sections: Tribuna Lateral offers a quieter, more family-friendly environment
- Away fans: Located in Fondo Norte with limited capacity
- Photography: Any seat offers excellent close-up views given the intimate size
- Value: All sections offer remarkable proximity - choose based on budget rather than view quality
Match Day Experience
Match day at Butarque offers an authentic, community-focused football experience that captures the sport's grassroots spirit.
What to Bring
⚠️ Important: Security policies at Butarque follow La Liga standards for safety and security.
Allowed at Butarque:
- Small bags and backpacks (subject to security checks)
- Sealed plastic water bottles (security may require opening or removing caps)
- Tickets (mobile or printed), ID/passport
- Phone, small wallet
- Layers for evening matches, sunscreen for afternoon games
Prohibited Items:
- Large suitcases and oversized backpacks
- Professional cameras with detachable lenses
- Selfie sticks, flags with poles
- Flares, smoke devices
- Glass containers, cans
- Weapons of any kind
Security: Checks are thorough despite the modest venue - arrive 30 minutes early to clear entrance queues, especially for high-profile matches.
Pre-Match Atmosphere
Local fans gather in neighbourhood bars around Leganés town centre hours before kickoff. The atmosphere is family-oriented and welcoming, with supporters meeting in familiar local establishments that have served Leganés fans for decades. Visitors from Madrid centre typically arrive via metro and bus connections, approximately 30-40 minutes from the capital.
The Cucumber Tradition
You'll immediately notice Butarque's defining feature: inflatable cucumbers everywhere. The club's unique symbol references Leganés' historical association with cucumber cultivation - the team nickname is "Pepineros" (cucumber growers). When Leganés scores, hundreds of inflatable cucumbers fly onto the pitch in joyful celebration. It's surreal, charming, and uniquely Butarque - a tradition that's become famous worldwide.
Inside the Stadium
The passionate supporters in the Fondo Sur lead constant chanting despite the modest numbers, creating extraordinary atmosphere. The tiny 12,450 capacity means players are extraordinarily close to fans - close enough to hear individual voices. This intimacy makes Butarque genuinely intimidating for visiting giants like Real Madrid or Barcelona, despite the stadium being a fraction of their size.
Practicalities
Concessions are basic but affordable: bocadillos, hot dogs, soft drinks, beer. The club shop sells official merchandise including the famous inflatable cucumbers - essential souvenirs for the full Butarque experience.
After the Match
Local supporters return to neighbourhood bars to dissect the game, whilst visitors can easily return to central Madrid via direct metro and bus connections.
Getting There
🚇 Metro
The nearest metro connection involves taking Metro Line 12 (MetroSur) - Madrid's circular orbital metro line serving southern suburbs - to Leganés Central station, then taking local buses to the stadium (approximately 2km). Line 12 is distinctive as it doesn't pass through Madrid city centre, instead forming a ring connecting southern municipalities including Leganés, Getafe, Móstoles, and Fuenlabrada. To reach Line 12 from central Madrid, you'll need to transfer: take Line 6 from central stations (Nuevos Ministerios, Cuatro Caminos, Príncipe Pío) to Laguna, then change to Line 12 and continue to Leganés Central (approximately 8-10 stops). Total journey time from Madrid centre is approximately 35-45 minutes depending on connections. Alternatively, use Cercanías commuter rail Line C-5 (purple line) to Leganés station, which is faster and more direct from central Madrid. C-5 departs from Atocha (major hub), Méndez Álvaro, and other central stations, taking approximately 15-20 minutes to Leganés with trains every 15-20 minutes during daytime, more frequent during rush hours. From Leganés train station, you can take local buses or walk 25-30 minutes to the stadium. Cercanías is generally the better option - faster and simpler than the metro connection. Standard metro/Cercanías fare from central Madrid to Leganés is approximately €1.50-2.00 depending on zones (Leganés is Zone B1). The 10-journey Metrobús ticket (€12.20) works on both metro and Cercanías within appropriate zones. The rechargeable Tarjeta Multi card also covers all services. Metro and Cercanías operate from approximately 6:00 AM to 1:30 AM daily, with extended hours to 2:00 AM Friday/Saturday. After evening matches finishing around 10:00-10:30 PM, services are still running comfortably. Be prepared for crowded trains/metro on match days, particularly for high-profile fixtures against Madrid giants. The suburban location means services can be less frequent than central Madrid lines - check schedules for last departures after late matches.
🚌 Bus
Several interurban and local bus routes serve Butarque, providing alternatives and connections from metro/train stations. From Madrid centre, the 341 interurban bus runs from Méndez Álvaro (major transport hub near Atocha) to Leganés, stopping near the city centre. This operates every 15-20 minutes during daytime, with journey times approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. Fare is around €1.70 for the interurban service. Within Leganés, local buses 5 and 6 are crucial for reaching the stadium from the centre. Bus 5 runs from Leganés Central metro station and train station area to the stadium neighbourhood, operating every 15-20 minutes (increased to every 10-12 minutes on match days). Journey time is approximately 10-12 minutes from Leganés Central metro. Bus 6 provides similar service from slightly different routes through Leganés, also taking 10-15 minutes to the stadium area. From Leganés Central metro station or Leganés train station, buses 324 and 325 also serve the stadium area, though routes can be slightly longer. These operate every 20-25 minutes. Local Leganés bus fares are €1.35-1.50 per journey, or use multi-journey cards for savings. On match days, Leganés local transport (Ruiz bus company operates local services) increases frequency on routes 5 and 6, with extra services added 90 minutes before kickoff and continuing for 60 minutes post-match. Buses are clearly marked with Estadio Butarque or CD Leganés on match days. The main bus stop for the stadium is on Avenida de Butarque, directly outside the stadium entrance. Services are reliable, modern, and comfortable. For visitors from central Madrid, the most straightforward approach is: Cercanías C-5 to Leganés station, then Bus 5 or 6 to the stadium - total journey around 30-40 minutes. Post-match, expect short queues for buses (5-10 minutes wait), though services clear quickly given the small stadium capacity. Night bus services are limited in Leganés, so plan return journeys to ensure metro/Cercanías connections are available.
🅿️ Parking
Butarque has very limited dedicated parking directly at the stadium - perhaps 100-150 spaces in a small lot adjacent to the ground. These fill extremely fast (90+ minutes before kickoff for regular matches, 2+ hours for Madrid derbies) and are primarily claimed by season ticket holders and local supporters who know the area. Attempting stadium parking on match day as a visitor is almost certainly futile. Street parking is available throughout surrounding residential areas around Avenida de Butarque and nearby streets, but as typical for Spanish stadiums, these operate under resident permit zones during weekdays. Even when permits don't apply (evenings, weekends), spaces within 10-15 minutes walk of the stadium are nearly impossible to find inside 90 minutes of kickoff. You'll likely need to park 15-20 minutes away in outer residential streets. Parking is generally free on non-permit streets, but read signs carefully - fines for violations are around €90-100. Some supporters use public car parks in Leganés town centre, approximately 2km from the stadium. The largest is near the Ayuntamiento (town hall) and around the Centro Comercial Plenilunio area. Expect to pay €1.50-2.00 per hour, or around €8-12 for 4-6 hours. From central Leganés car parks, you can take Bus 5 or 6 (€1.50) or walk 25 minutes to the stadium. This park-and-ride approach is sensible for those driving. The location in suburban Madrid means car access is straightforward via M-40 and M-45 ring roads. From central Madrid, take M-30 south to M-40, exit at Leganés, then follow local signs to Butarque - allow 25-35 minutes from Madrid centre depending on traffic. From southern areas (Getafe, Parla), access via M-45 is quick, approximately 15-20 minutes. Traffic congestion builds around the stadium 60-90 minutes before kickoff, particularly as the single main approach road (Avenida de Butarque) handles most traffic. Immediately after matches, expect 15-20 minute delays leaving the area as everyone departs simultaneously from a small stadium with limited road infrastructure. For drivers, arriving 2+ hours early allows you to find street parking, grab food/drink in Leganés, then walk to the match. Alternatively, park in central Madrid and take Cercanías C-5 (€2) - it's faster, less stressful, and you avoid post-match traffic entirely. Most fans genuinely prefer public transport given Leganés's good connections and parking challenges.
🚶 From City Center
From Leganés Central metro station (Line 12), the walk to Butarque is approximately 2km (25-30 minutes) through residential Leganés neighbourhoods. Exit the metro and head south/southwest following signs for Avenida de Butarque. The route passes through typical suburban Madrid streets - apartment blocks, local shops, neighbourhood bars. On match days, you'll likely join streams of supporters in Leganés blue and white, making navigation straightforward. The walk is entirely flat (Leganés sits on the Madrid plains), on urban pavements, and safe. From Leganés train station (Cercanías C-5), it's a similar distance, approximately 2-2.5km (25-30 minutes walk). Exit the station, head west then south toward the stadium, following Avenida de la Universidad then Avenida de Butarque. The route is well-signed on match days with Estadio Butarque directional signs. Many local fans from central Leganés and nearby residential areas walk to matches - it's part of the ritual for a community-focused club. The walk allows you to experience authentic suburban Madrid life, passing local bars where fans gather pre-match. From Madrid city centre, using public transport to Leganés then walking is the recommended approach rather than attempting the entire 12-15km walk from central Madrid (which would take 2.5-3 hours). However, for those staying in southern Madrid districts like Getafe (7-8km away), walking is feasible for the very committed, taking about 90 minutes. Taxis from Leganés town centre to Butarque cost approximately €6-9 depending on traffic and pickup point, with journey times 8-12 minutes. From Madrid centre (Sol/Atocha), taxis cost approximately €25-35 with journey times 25-35 minutes depending on traffic. After matches, taxis are available near the stadium on Avenida de Butarque, though expect queues of 10-15 minutes for bigger fixtures. Surge pricing is relatively modest in Leganés (10-15% maximum). Rideshare services (Uber, Cabify, Bolt) operate in Leganés but with less density than central Madrid. From Leganés centre, expect €7-10; from Madrid centre, €20-30. Pre-booking for post-match pickup is wise, setting pickup points on quieter side streets away from the main stadium exit to avoid congestion. However, most fans - particularly visitors - use Cercanías and buses rather than taxis, as it's faster (no traffic), significantly cheaper (€2-3 total vs €30+ for taxi from Madrid), and more reliable. The train back to Atocha after the match, sharing carriages with celebrating or commiserating Pepineros fans with their inflatable cucumbers, is genuinely part of the authentic Butarque experience.
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Where to Stay for Estadio Municipal de Butarque
Near the Stadium (Leganés/Southern Madrid)
B&B Hotel Madrid Fuenlabrada (3.5 km)
Modern budget hotel offering clean, comfortable rooms at excellent value. Part of the reliable B&B chain, it provides functional accommodation perfect for match-focused trips. The hotel features air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and on-site parking. Breakfast buffet available. Good base for exploring southern Madrid suburbs whilst maintaining affordability.
Hotel Aranjuez (4.0 km)
Family-run hotel with traditional Spanish hospitality in nearby Aranjuez area. Simple, well-maintained rooms with essential amenities. The location offers a quiet retreat after matches, though dining options are limited nearby. Good value for budget-conscious travellers who prefer authentic local accommodation over chain hotels.
Sercotel AB Arganda (12 km)
Business-oriented hotel east of Madrid offering modern facilities and spacious rooms. Features on-site restaurant, fitness centre, and meeting rooms. The distance from Butarque makes it less convenient for match days, but excellent transport links via metro compensate. Popular with business travellers during the week, offering competitive weekend rates.
Hotel Laguna Park Madrid (10 km)
Comfortable mid-range hotel in southern Madrid with contemporary design. Rooms are well-equipped with modern amenities, air conditioning, and comfortable beds. The hotel offers good breakfast spread and helpful staff familiar with local transport to Leganés. Free parking available. Decent option for combining match attendance with exploring southern Madrid.
Ibis Budget Madrid Getafe (8 km)
No-frills budget accommodation offering Ibis' consistent quality standards. Compact but functional rooms, perfect for overnight stays focused on the match. Located in nearby Getafe with good metro connections to both Leganés and Madrid centre. Continental breakfast available at modest cost. Excellent value for those prioritizing location and price over luxury.
City Centre Options (Better for Sightseeing)
Search hotels in Madrid City Centre
For visitors combining the match with Madrid tourism, staying in central Madrid (Sol, Gran Vía, or Atocha areas) and taking the 30-40 minute metro/train journey to Leganés offers better overall value.
Pros:
- Walking distance to Prado Museum, Royal Palace, Retiro Park, and major attractions
- Hundreds of restaurants, tapas bars, and vibrant nightlife options
- Easy metro/rail connections to Butarque via Line 12 or Cercanías C-5
- Full Madrid experience with diverse accommodation choices
Cons:
- 30-40 minute journey to stadium (manageable but requires planning)
- Higher accommodation costs than Leganés/southern suburbs
- Need to navigate metro system on match days
- Busy, touristy atmosphere vs authentic local feel
Our Recommendation
Stay near Butarque only if the match is your sole purpose and you're flying in specifically for this game. The Leganés area is quiet, residential, and lacks the cultural attractions that make Madrid special.
For most visitors, central Madrid accommodation offers significantly better value - you'll experience world-class museums, dining, and nightlife whilst still reaching Butarque easily via metro. The extra 30 minutes of travel is worthwhile for the superior overall Madrid experience. The cucumber tradition and intimate atmosphere make the journey part of the adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Estadio Municipal de Butarque has a capacity of 12,450 spectators, making it the smallest stadium in La Liga and one of the most intimate venues in top-level European football. The small size creates extraordinary atmosphere and connection between fans and players.
Leganés is historically associated with cucumber cultivation (the team nickname is "Pepineros" - cucumber growers). Fans celebrate goals by throwing inflatable cucumbers onto the pitch, creating unique, joyful scenes. The tradition has become famous worldwide as a symbol of the club's character and humour.
CD Leganés achieved back-to-back promotions in 2016, reaching La Liga for the first time in the club's 87-year history. The rise was achieved through smart management, teamwork, and limited resources, making it one of Spanish football's great underdog stories.
Take Metro Line 12 to Leganés Central or Cercanías Line C-5 to Leganés station, then local buses (5, 6, 324, 325) to the stadium area. Alternatively, interurban bus 341 runs from Madrid. Total journey is approximately 30-40 minutes. Many fans combine metro and walking.
Absolutely! Butarque offers one of football's most authentic experiences - a tiny community stadium hosting top-flight football, with unique traditions like the inflatable cucumbers. It represents the romantic, underdog side of football that contrasts completely with commercialised major venues.
Despite the small capacity, Butarque creates intense atmosphere through passionate support and remarkable proximity between fans and pitch. The compact design amplifies noise effectively, and the intimate size means every supporter feels connected to the action.
Yes! The club shop at Butarque sells inflatable cucumbers as official merchandise. They've become popular souvenirs for visitors wanting to participate in or remember the unique tradition. They're also available from vendors around the stadium on match days.
CD Leganés occasionally offers stadium tours, though availability is more limited than at larger clubs given the basic facilities and limited staff. It's best to contact the club directly through their official website or by phone to enquire about current tour availability.
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