Riyadh Air Metropolitano

Riyadh Air Metropolitano, home to Atlético Madrid since 2017, is one of Europe's most modern football stadiums. With a capacity of 68,456 spectators, this state-of-the-art venue replaced the iconic Vicente Calderón Stadium and has quickly become a fortress for Los Rojiblancos. The stadium features steep stands that create an intimidating atmosphere, advanced LED lighting, modern sustainability features including rainwater collection, and exceptional facilities throughout. Originally built as La Peineta athletics stadium in 1994, it underwent a dramatic €240 million transformation between 2011 and 2017 to become a football-specific venue.

Located in the San Blas-Canillejas district of eastern Madrid, the Metropolitano has already hosted major events including the 2019 UEFA Champions League Final between Liverpool and Tottenham. Its innovative design combines tradition with cutting-edge technology, making it a benchmark for modern stadium architecture alongside other top-tier Spanish venues like Santiago Bernabéu and Camp Nou. The name "Metropolitano" honours Atlético Madrid's original stadium from 1923-1966, creating a symbolic link between past and present whilst establishing itself as one of Europe's most atmospheric venues for big matches.

From Athletics to Football

Originally built in 1994 as La Peineta athletics stadium with a capacity of 20,000, the venue sat largely unused for years in Madrid's eastern outskirts. Designed by Cruz y Ortiz Arquitectos, it featured a distinctive lattice steel exterior that would be preserved during transformation. Between 2011 and 2017, it underwent a dramatic €240 million transformation into a football-specific stadium, adding 48,000 seats and completely reimagining the interior whilst retaining the distinctive exterior arches. The renovation removed the athletics track, installing steep stands that bring spectators remarkably close to the pitch.

A New Era Begins

Atlético Madrid moved from the beloved Vicente Calderón to the Metropolitano on September 16, 2017, in a historic shift for the club. The name "Metropolitano" honours the club's original stadium from 1923-1966, creating a symbolic link between past and present. The inaugural match saw Atlético defeat Málaga 1-0 before 67,700 fans. The transition marked the end of 51 years at the Calderón, where the club had won multiple trophies including the 1996 league and cup double.

Glory on European Nights

The stadium quickly established itself as a fortress for Los Rojiblancos. It witnessed Atlético's La Liga title triumph in 2020-21, their first championship at the new venue, sealed with victory at Real Valladolid on the final day. Numerous Champions League nights have created memorable atmospheres, whilst in 2019, the Metropolitano hosted the Champions League final where Liverpool defeated Tottenham 2-0 - a showcase of the stadium on football's biggest stage.

How to Get Atlético Madrid Tickets

There are three main ways to attend an Atlético Madrid match at the Metropolitano:

1. Official Club Tickets (Best Value)

Purchase directly from atleticodemadrid.com approximately 2-3 weeks before matches. Prices range from €35 (upper tier) to €150+ (premium seats). This is the only guaranteed authentic source and typically offers the best value.

⚠️ Important: Madrid derbies against Real Madrid and Champions League matches sell out extremely quickly. Members (socios) receive priority access and significant discounts. Big matches often sell out within hours of general sale opening.

2. Official Match Packages (All-Inclusive)

Official Atlético Madrid partners offer complete packages including tickets, hotel accommodation, and city experiences. Ideal for international visitors combining a match with exploring Madrid's world-class museums, dining, and nightlife.

• Official travel partners offer packages from €180 including match tickets and accommodation
• Some packages combine matches with stadium tours or tapas experiences in Madrid

Check atleticodemadrid.com for current official package providers.

3. Third-Party Platforms (Sold-Out Matches)

When official tickets sell out, established platforms offer alternatives. These are not official partners:

• LiveFootballTickets - La Liga specialists, from €85
• SeatPick - Comparison platform aggregating sellers

Expect to pay significantly above face value for Madrid derbies and Champions League matches. Always verify seller legitimacy and check reviews.

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Stadium Tours & Museum

The Territory Tour offers an immersive journey through Atlético Madrid's history and the Metropolitano's impressive facilities. As one of Europe's newest stadiums, the tour showcases cutting-edge design and modern amenities.

What You'll See

• Trophy room featuring Atlético Madrid's 11 La Liga titles, 3 UEFA Europa League trophies, and historic European Cup Winners' Cup (1962)
• Players' tunnel where legends like Fernando Torres, Diego Godín, and Antoine Griezmann emerged onto the pitch
• Pitch-side access experiencing the steep stands from a player's perspective - feel the fortress atmosphere
• Press room where Diego Simeone delivers his post-match analysis
• Dugouts where tactical decisions unfold during matches
• Changing rooms where Atlético prepare for big European nights
• Museum exhibits covering the club's history from 1903, including memories from Vicente Calderón
• Panoramic views from the upper tiers showcasing the modern stadium architecture

Practical Details

• Duration: Guided tour, approximately 75-90 minutes
• Schedule: Daily except match days; check atleticodemadrid.com for specific timings
• Price: €24 for adults, €18 for children, reduced rates for seniors
• Languages: Spanish, English, and other languages available
• Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible throughout the modern stadium
• Best times: Weekday mornings (10-11am) for quieter experience, avoid match days

The Territory Tour is perfect for football fans wanting to experience one of Europe's most modern stadiums and learn about Atlético Madrid's passionate fighting spirit.

Booking

• GetYourGuide - Stadium tour experiences
• Viator - Madrid stadium tours

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Quick Tips

• Best value: Official tickets 2-3 weeks before matches
• Atmosphere: Sections 127-135 (Frente Atlético) for intense ultra experience
• Family-friendly: Middle tier lateral sections (200-225)
• Avoid: Street sellers - counterfeits common around the stadium
• Transport: Metro Line 7 to Estadio Metropolitano station most convenient

Best Seats at Metropolitano

For the optimal Metropolitano experience, the middle tier lateral sections 200-225 offer the best balance of view quality, atmosphere, and comfort. These central touchline seats provide excellent tactical perspectives whilst being positioned for superior facilities in one of Europe's most modern stadiums. With the stadium's steep stands creating incredible atmosphere throughout, the middle tier represents the sweet spot. See the detailed tier-by-tier breakdown below.

Lower Tier (Fondo)

The lower tier wraps continuously around the pitch, placing fans incredibly close to the action. The steep rake ensures unobstructed views from every seat. Sections 127-135 behind the south goal house the Frente Atlético ultras, creating the stadium's most intense atmosphere with constant chanting and displays. Perfect for fans who want to feel the passion up close, though the tactical overview is limited from ground level.

Middle Tier (Lateral)

The middle tier offers the best balance of proximity and tactical overview. Seats in sections 200-225 along the touchlines provide excellent central views at mid-range prices (€50-90 for La Liga matches). These sections are popular with season ticket holders and offer a more family-friendly environment whilst still being close enough to feel the atmosphere. The elevated position provides perfect sightlines for watching tactical play unfold.

Upper Tier (Grada Superior)

The upper tier delivers panoramic views perfect for tactical analysis. Despite the height, the steep design keeps you feeling connected to the action - significantly closer than equivalent seats at older stadiums. These are the most affordable seats (€35-60) and ideal for first-time visitors wanting to experience the stadium without premium prices. Best value for budget-conscious fans.

VIP & Hospitality

VIP areas include the Premium seats and Sky Boxes on the west side, offering luxury amenities, padded seats, exclusive lounges, and the best central views. Expect to pay €150+ for premium matches. Away fans are typically allocated sections 400-402 in the upper southeast corner, ensuring separation from home supporters.

Accessibility

The Metropolitano offers excellent accessibility as one of Europe's most modern stadiums. Wheelchair-accessible spaces are available throughout all tiers with dedicated companion seating. The stadium features accessible entrances, lifts to all levels, adapted restrooms, and audio description services for visually impaired fans. Designated drop-off points are available near accessible entrances. Book accessible seating through Atlético Madrid's official channels to ensure appropriate accommodations.

Pro Tips

• Best atmosphere: Sections 127-135 (Frente Atlético) for the full ultra experience with constant chanting and tifo
• Best overall value: Middle tier lateral sections (200-225) balance excellent views with good facilities
• Family sections: Upper tier provides affordable family-friendly viewing with excellent sightlines
• Away fans: Sections 400-402 in the upper southeast corner (limited allocation)
• Photography: Upper tier central sections for panoramic shots of the modern stadium
• Arrive early: Security queues can be long for big matches - 60-90 minutes recommended

Attending a match at the Metropolitano is an electric experience, especially for big matches and European nights.

What to Bring

Atlético Madrid enforces strict security measures at the Metropolitano. Bags larger than A4 size (30cm x 21cm) are prohibited - bring only small handbags, clutches, or transparent bags. Security checks are thorough, particularly for derbies against Real Madrid and Champions League matches, so arrive 60-90 minutes early to clear entrance queues comfortably. Prohibited items include large backpacks, professional cameras with detachable lenses, selfie sticks, flags with poles, flares, smoke devices, and glass containers. Recommended items: match tickets (printed or mobile), ID/passport, phone, small wallet, water bottle (plastic, sealed), layers for evening matches, and a portable charger for your phone.

Pre-Match Atmosphere

The stadium opens 90 minutes before kickoff, and fans often gather at nearby bars in the San Blas neighbourhood or along Avenida de Arcentales. The area around the stadium has developed significantly since opening, with new restaurants and fan zones creating a vibrant pre-match scene. Many supporters arrive early to soak in the building excitement.

Inside the Stadium

The steep stands create one of the most intimidating atmospheres in Europe. Before kickoff, the famous "Himno del Centenario" anthem fills the stadium as 68,000 fans create a sea of red and white. The Frente Atlético ultras in sections 127-135 lead incredible displays with flags, flares (though officially prohibited), and constant chanting throughout the match. The 35-degree rake amplifies the noise, making the Metropolitano genuinely fortress-like.

Food and Facilities

Food options include traditional Madrid tapas, bocadillos, and local beers at numerous concession stands. However, many fans prefer to eat at nearby restaurants before entering. The stadium's modern design includes wide concourses with plenty of food and beverage options, along with excellent facilities throughout.

After the Match

Celebrations often continue in the surrounding streets and at nearby bars. The Metro connection makes it easy to continue to Madrid's city centre for post-match dining and nightlife, extending the match day experience well into the evening.

Where to Stay for Metropolitano

Near the Stadium (San Blas-Canillejas District)

Search hotels near Metropolitano

Exe Madrid Este (1.5 km)

Modern business hotel in the San Blas district, offering excellent value and direct Metro Line 7 access to the stadium (10 minutes). Features contemporary rooms, good breakfast options, and friendly service. The location is perfect for match-focused visits but limited for sightseeing. Ideal if you want proximity to the stadium without the premium prices of central Madrid.

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Hotel Madrid Alameda Aeropuerto (2.0 km)

Comfortable hotel near Barajas Airport and the stadium, perfect for visitors flying in for a match. Easy Metro Line 7 connection to Metropolitano (15 minutes). Features modern amenities, airport shuttle, and good value for money. Best suited for visitors arriving/departing via Madrid airport who want convenient stadium access.

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Meliá Barajas (3.5 km)

Upscale option near the airport with shuttle services. Whilst further from the stadium, it offers superior amenities including spa, fitness centre, and excellent restaurant. Metro Line 8 connects to Line 7 for stadium access (25 minutes total). Choose this if you want comfort and are flying into Madrid.

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City Centre (Better for Sightseeing)

Search hotels in Madrid City Centre

Hotel Pullman Madrid Airport & Feria (Central Madrid, 20 mins via Metro)

Modern hotel near IFEMA convention centre with direct Metro Line 8 access. Transfer to Line 7 at Mar de Cristal for easy stadium access (30 minutes total). Surrounded by restaurants and shopping, offering better dining options than the stadium area. Perfect if combining the match with exploring Madrid.

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NH Collection Madrid Gran Vía (City Centre, 25 mins via Metro)

Prime location on Madrid's iconic Gran Vía, surrounded by world-class museums, tapas bars, and nightlife. Metro Line 7 from Gran Vía or Sol provides direct access to Metropolitano (25 minutes). Choose this for the ultimate Madrid experience - explore the Prado Museum, Retiro Park, and Royal Palace whilst attending the match.

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Our Recommendation

For most visitors, staying in central Madrid (Gran Vía, Sol, or Salamanca districts) offers the best overall experience. The Metropolitano is easily accessible via Metro Line 7 (20-25 minutes from centre), and you'll be positioned to explore Madrid's incredible museums (Prado, Reina Sofía, Thyssen), world-famous tapas bars, beautiful Retiro Park, and vibrant nightlife.

Only stay near the stadium (San Blas-Canillejas) if attending the match is your sole purpose and you prefer quieter, residential areas. The stadium district lacks tourist infrastructure and dining options compared to central Madrid's extraordinary cultural offerings.