Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid, home of Atlético Madrid

Riyadh Air Metropolitano

Madrid, Spain

Capacity
70,692
Opened
2017
Surface
Grass
Home Team
Atlético Madrid

Overview

Riyadh Air Metropolitano, home to Atlético Madrid since 2017, is one of Europe's most modern football stadiums. With a capacity of 70,692, 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, and modern facilities throughout. Located in the San Blas-Canillejas district, the Metropolitano has already hosted major events including the 2019 UEFA Champions League Final. Its innovative design combines tradition with cutting-edge technology, making it a benchmark for modern stadium architecture.

Key Features

  • One of Europe's newest and most modern stadiums, opened in 2017
  • Hosted the 2019 UEFA Champions League Final (Liverpool vs Tottenham)
  • Steep stands with excellent sightlines from all seats
  • Advanced sustainability features including rainwater collection
  • Home to Atlético Madrid, La Liga and Champions League regulars

History

Originally built in 1994 as La Peineta athletics stadium, the venue was transformed into a football-specific stadium between 2011 and 2017. Atlético Madrid moved from the beloved Vicente Calderón to the Metropolitano on September 16, 2017. The name "Metropolitano" honors the club's original stadium from 1923-1966. The stadium has witnessed Atlético's La Liga title triumph in 2020-21 and numerous Champions League nights. In 2019, it hosted the Champions League final where Liverpool defeated Tottenham 2-0.

Seating Guide

The Metropolitano's seating is designed to maximize atmosphere and sightlines. The lower tier (Fondo) wraps continuously around the pitch, placing fans incredibly close to the action. The steep 35-degree 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. The middle tier (Lateral) 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. The upper tier (Grada Superior) delivers panoramic views perfect for tactical analysis. Despite the height, the steep design keeps you feeling connected to the action. These are the most affordable seats (€35-60) and ideal for first-time visitors wanting to experience the stadium. VIP areas include the Premium seats and Sky Boxes on the west side, offering luxury amenities and the best central views. Away fans are typically allocated sections 400-402 in the upper southeast corner.

Match Day Experience

Attending a match at the Metropolitano is an electric experience, especially for big matches and European nights. 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. Inside, the steep stands create one of the most intimidating atmospheres in Europe. Before kickoff, the famous "Himno del Centenario" anthem fills the stadium as 70,000 fans create a sea of red and white. The Frente Atlético ultras lead incredible displays with flags, flares (though officially prohibited), and constant chanting throughout the match. 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. 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.

Getting There

🚇 Metro

Take Metro Line 7 (Orange) to Estadio Metropolitano station, which exits directly at the stadium entrance. The journey from Sol takes about 20 minutes. Alternatively, use Las Rosas station (also Line 7), about a 10-minute walk away.

🚌 Bus

Multiple bus lines serve the stadium area, including lines 28, 48, 140, 153, and E2. Lines 28 and 140 stop directly outside the main entrance on Avenida de Luis Aragonés.

🅿️ Parking

The stadium has over 1,800 parking spaces in underground lots, accessible from Avenida de Arcentales. Expect to pay €15-25 on match days. Arrive at least 90 minutes early as spaces fill quickly. Additional parking available at nearby shopping centers.

🚶 From City Center

The Metropolitano is about 8km (5 miles) from Madrid city centre (Puerta del Sol). Walking takes approximately 1 hour 40 minutes, but the Metro is the recommended option. A taxi from the centre costs approximately €15-20.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Riyadh Air Metropolitano has a capacity of 70,692 spectators, making it the third-largest stadium in Spain after Camp Nou and Santiago Bernabéu.

Take Metro Line 7 (Orange) to Estadio Metropolitano station. The station exit leads directly to the stadium entrance. From Madrid city centre (Sol), the journey takes approximately 20 minutes.

Yes, the Metropolitano offers stadium tours daily except on match days. The "Territory Tour" includes access to the pitch, dugouts, press room, and team areas. Tours must be booked in advance through the official Atlético Madrid website.

The San Blas-Canillejas area has limited hotels, but offers good value options. For more choices, stay in central Madrid (Sol, Gran Vía, or Salamanca districts) which offers easy Metro Line 7 access to the stadium.

Atlético Madrid moved to the Metropolitano on September 16, 2017, leaving the iconic Vicente Calderón stadium after 51 years. The first match was a 1-0 victory over Málaga.

Match tickets range from €35 to €150+ depending on the opponent, seat location, and match importance. Derby matches against Real Madrid and Champions League games command premium prices. Stadium tour tickets cost approximately €18 for adults.

Related Stadiums

Other stadiums in La Liga

Stadium Tour

Price:€18
Duration:75 minutes
Book Tour

Stadium Name History

2024Riyadh Air Metropolitano
2017Wanda Metropolitano

Nearby Hotels

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    1.5 km (0.9 miles)
  • Hotel Madrid Alameda Aeropuerto
    2.0 km (1.2 miles)
  • Meliá Barajas
    3.5 km (2.2 miles)
  • Ibis Madrid Aeropuerto Barajas
    4.0 km (2.5 miles)
  • NH Madrid Barajas Airport
    4.5 km (2.8 miles)