Girona, Spain
Overview
Estadi Montilivi, officially Estadi Municipal de Montilivi, has been Girona FC's home since 1970 and is one of Spanish football's most remarkable venues. With 14,624 capacity, this modest stadium in Catalonia has undergone significant renovations to host top-flight football following Girona's historic rise from lower divisions to La Liga and Champions League football. Located in Girona, a beautiful medieval city in northeastern Catalonia, the stadium sits in the Montilivi neighbourhood featuring distinctive red and white seats reflecting the club colours. The compact design creates an intimate atmosphere where every fan feels remarkably close to the pitch—essential for generating the energy that has helped Girona compete against giants. This intimate feel contrasts sharply with the vast scale of venues like FC Barcelona's Camp Nou.
Montilivi represents one of modern football's most extraordinary stories. Under City Football Group ownership and innovative management, Girona achieved unprecedented success—third place in La Liga 2023-24 and Champions League qualification for a club that spent most of its history in Spain's lower divisions. The transformation from hosting third-tier football to Champions League matches in just over a decade is remarkable. Montilivi is now one of Europe's smallest Champions League venues, creating surreal atmosphere when hosting Barcelona, Real Madrid, and European elite. The stadium embodies possibilities for smaller clubs with smart management, proving that modest venues can still host football's highest level whilst maintaining intimate character and Catalan identity.
Key Features
- ✓Capacity of 14,624 hosting La Liga and Champions League football
- ✓Historic venue opened in 1970, extensively renovated for top-flight football
- ✓Located in beautiful medieval city of Girona in Catalonia
- ✓Home to one of European football's most remarkable recent success stories
- ✓Distinctive red and white seats matching Girona FC's colours
History
Origins and Construction
Estadi Municipal de Montilivi officially opened on 17 June 1970, replacing Girona's previous home, Camp de Vista Alegre. The new stadium was built in the Montilivi neighbourhood on the outskirts of Girona city. Designed as a municipal stadium, it initially featured basic facilities with a capacity of around 10,000. For decades, Montilivi primarily hosted Segunda División B and Segunda División football as Girona struggled for consistency and spent most of their history in Spain's lower divisions.
Early Development
The stadium underwent incremental improvements throughout the 1970s-1990s, including installation of floodlights, modest stand upgrades, and basic modernisation. However, it remained a relatively humble venue reflecting Girona's status as a small Catalan club. The club's fortunes changed dramatically in the 2010s.
La Liga Arrival
In 2017, under new ownership including the City Football Group (owners of Manchester City), Girona achieved promotion to La Liga for the first time in their history. This necessitated significant stadium improvements to meet top-flight standards. Between 2017-2019, Montilivi underwent comprehensive renovation. The project included rebuilding stands, installing new seating, improving facilities, adding corporate hospitality areas, modernising media facilities, and enhancing disabled access. The capacity increased to approximately 14,624, and the stadium was transformed from a basic municipal venue to a proper La Liga stadium, though maintaining its intimate character.
Modern Era
The renovations allowed Montilivi to meet UEFA standards, crucial for Girona's remarkable subsequent success. In the 2023-24 season, Girona achieved an extraordinary third-place La Liga finish, qualifying for the Champions League for the first time. Montilivi, one of Europe's smallest Champions League venues, now hosts matches against clubs like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and European giants. Further improvements continue as the stadium adapts to elite-level football. The transformation from hosting third-tier Spanish football to Champions League matches in just over a decade represents one of modern football's most dramatic stadium evolutions, mirroring the club's remarkable rise.
Tickets & Tours
How to Get Girona FC Tickets
There are three main ways to attend a Girona FC match:
1. Official Club Tickets (Best Value)
Purchase directly from gironafc.cat approximately 3-4 weeks before matches. Prices range from €25 (end sections) to €80 (central premium areas). This is the only guaranteed authentic source and typically offers the best value.
⚠️ Important: Champions League and matches against Barcelona/Real Madrid sell out extremely quickly given the small capacity. Book immediately upon release.
2. Third-Party Platforms (Sold-Out Matches)
When official tickets sell out, established ticket platforms offer alternatives:
- FootballHost - Specialises in La Liga tickets, starting from €40
- SeatPick - Comparison platform aggregating multiple sellers
Expect to pay premium prices above face value for high-profile fixtures. Always verify seller legitimacy before purchasing.
Estadi Montilivi Stadium Tour
Girona FC offers stadium tours on non-match days, showcasing the remarkable transformation from third-tier venue to Champions League stadium.
What You'll See
- Pitch access walking onto the playing surface that hosts Champions League football
- Home and away dressing rooms seeing where players prepare for European elite matches
- Players' tunnel experiencing the walk onto the pitch at one of Europe's smallest Champions League venues
- Press conference room where managers address international media
- Club facilities showcasing the modernization from municipal stadium to top-tier venue
- Trophy displays documenting Girona's remarkable rise from Spain's third division to Champions League
Practical Details
- Duration: Approximately 60 minutes
- Schedule: Available on non-match days (check club website for schedule)
- Price: From €10-12 (adults), reduced rates for children and seniors
- Languages: Catalan and Spanish (English available upon request)
- Booking: Book in advance via gironafc.cat
Booking
- GetYourGuide - Check for Montilivi tour availability
- Viator - Alternative tour booking platform
Note: Tours provide unique insight into one of modern football's most extraordinary success stories.
Ticket Buying Tips
When to Book
- Regular La Liga: Book 3-4 weeks ahead when official tickets released
- Champions League: Extreme demand, book immediately (often sold out to members)
- Barcelona/Real Madrid: Very high demand, book as early as possible
- Members (socios): Get priority access for all matches
Buying Safely
- gironafc.cat is the only guaranteed authentic source
- Third-party platforms may charge significant premiums for Champions League matches
- Avoid street sellers in Girona - counterfeits exist
- Always verify ticket seller legitimacy before purchasing
- Small capacity (14,624) means tickets are more limited than other La Liga stadiums
Best Seats at Estadi Municipal de Montilivi
Estadi Montilivi features a traditional four-stand configuration that has been modernised whilst maintaining intimate character. The stadium comprises Tribuna Principal (Main Stand), Tribuna Preferència (Opposite Stand), Fondo Nord (North End), and Fondo Sud (South End).
Tier Structure
Estadi Montilivi features a single-tier design around the entire stadium. The recent 2017-2019 renovations maintained the continuous single-tier configuration, with each stand rising uninterrupted from pitch level. With a capacity of just 14,624, the single-tier design creates an exceptionally intimate atmosphere where all spectators feel remarkably close to Champions League action. The absence of upper and lower tier divisions maximises the compactness that makes Montilivi unique among European football venues.
Main Stands
The Tribuna Principal (West stand) offers the best facilities and views, housing VIP boxes, press areas, and corporate hospitality sections added during recent renovations. Central sections provide elevated views ideal for following match tactics and flow. These premium seats typically cost €60-90 for La Liga matches and significantly more for Champions League fixtures. The covered roof provides weather protection. Recent renovations have modernised this stand considerably, though it maintains the stadium's overall intimate scale.
The Tribuna Preferència (East stand), opposite the main stand, offers similarly good views at more accessible prices, typically €40-65 for La Liga matches. This stand is popular with season ticket holders and local families. The atmosphere is enthusiastic and supportive, with many long-term Girona supporters who have followed the club's remarkable journey from lower divisions. Central sections provide excellent value with views comparable to the main stand.
The Fondo Nord (North end) and Fondo Sud (South end) house Girona's most passionate supporters. The ultra groups and vocal fans create the stadium's atmosphere, generating constant noise, displaying banners and flags, and leading chanting. The atmosphere has intensified as Girona's success has grown, with these sections now creating noise worthy of Champions League football. The behind-the-goal perspective means overall views are less ideal for following play across the pitch, but the experience is unmatched for atmosphere. Tickets are generally affordable at €35-60 for La Liga matches, deliberately kept accessible despite the club's rise.
Away supporters are typically allocated sections in one of the ends, usually with reduced allocation given the stadium's small size. For major fixtures against Barcelona, Real Madrid, or European giants, the atmosphere throughout Montilivi becomes extraordinary, with the compact stadium creating remarkable intensity.
The stadium's small size means all seats offer relatively close views of the pitch. The recent renovations ensured good sightlines throughout, with minimal obstructions. Mid-level rows (approximately rows 10-20) offer the best combination of proximity and overview. The intimate capacity means even the highest rows feel connected to the action, contributing to Montilivi's reputation for creating an atmosphere that belies its size. The renovation work has balanced modernisation with preserving the intimate character that makes Montilivi special.
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible seating available throughout the stadium, with dedicated companion seats. Accessible sections are located in both Tribuna Principal and Tribuna Preferència. Book accessibility seats directly through Girona FC's official channels. The recent renovations significantly improved disabled access, including lift access to all levels and improved facilities.
Pro Tips
- Best atmosphere: Fondo Nord and Fondo Sud behind the goals house the most passionate supporters and vocal ultras
- Family sections: Tribuna Preferència offers family-friendly atmosphere with enthusiastic but less intense support
- Away fans: Typically allocated corner or end sections with reduced capacity (500-1,000 seats given small stadium size)
- Photography: Central sections of Tribuna Preferència offer excellent photo opportunities of the compact stadium
- Champions League note: For European matches, atmosphere becomes extraordinarily intense throughout the ground despite modest capacity
Match Day Experience
What to Bring
⚠️ Important: Estadi Montilivi enforces standard Spanish football security measures.
Currently Allowed:
- Small bags and handbags (subject to search)
- Mobile phone and wallet
- Sealed plastic water bottles under 500ml
- Tickets (mobile or printed), ID/passport
- Sunglasses, sunscreen for afternoon matches
- Light layers for evening games
Prohibited Items:
- Large backpacks and suitcases
- Professional cameras with detachable lenses
- Selfie sticks, flag poles
- Bottles, cans, glass containers
- Flares, fireworks, smoke devices
- Food from outside the stadium
Match day at Estadi Montilivi offers a unique experience combining Catalan culture, the charm of medieval Girona, and the excitement of a club punching far above its weight. The stadium is located on the western outskirts of Girona, easily accessible from the stunning old town.
Fans typically gather in Girona's beautiful historic centre several hours before kickoff. The medieval old town, with its Roman walls, Gothic cathedral, and colourful houses along the Onyar River, creates a stunning backdrop for pre-match activities. Supporters congregate in bars and cafés around Plaça de la Independència and the Rambla de la Llibertat, enjoying Catalan specialities including "pa amb tomàquet" (bread with tomato), local sausages, and discussing the match. The pre-match atmosphere has become increasingly vibrant as Girona's success has grown, with more visitors combining tourism with football.
Approaching Montilivi, you'll see red and white everywhere - scarves, flags, and club merchandise creating a sea of Girona colours. The stadium sits in a residential area, giving it a neighbourhood feel. For Champions League matches or fixtures against Barcelona and Real Madrid, the scenes are extraordinary for such a small venue, with fans converging from all directions.
Inside Montilivi, the atmosphere reflects the club's remarkable journey. Long-term supporters who remember third-tier football mix with newer fans attracted by Champions League football, creating a unique demographic. The ultra groups in the ends lead passionate displays, with chanting, banners, and constant support. The Catalan anthem "Els Segadors" is sung with pride, and there's strong regional identity. For major matches, the compact stadium creates remarkable noise - opposing players and coaches have commented on how intimidating Montilivi feels despite its modest size.
Concessions offer standard stadium fare including bocadillos, local snacks, soft drinks, and beer. Facilities have been modernised during renovations, with good bathrooms and improved concourses, though the compact nature means these can become crowded during intervals. The club shop sells official merchandise and has become increasingly popular as Girona's profile has grown.
The demographic has evolved with the club's success - traditional local families and long-term supporters now mix with tourists, international football fans, and visitors combining match attendance with exploring beautiful Girona. There's palpable pride in the team's achievements and sense that supporters are witnessing something special and unlikely to be repeated.
Post-match, fans return to Girona's old town, particularly the areas around Plaça de la Independència. Bars and restaurants fill with supporters discussing the match whilst enjoying Girona's excellent culinary scene. The compact, walkable nature of Girona means the post-match experience feels integrated into the city's life. The medieval setting creates a unique post-match atmosphere, very different from larger Spanish cities.
Getting There
🚇 Metro
Girona does not have a metro system - it's a compact Catalan city of around 100,000 people, far smaller than Barcelona or Madrid. The city relies on buses, taxis, walking, and the train station for local transport. This actually makes navigation simpler for visitors - no complex metro maps to decipher. The Girona train station (Estació de Girona) is the main transport hub, with high-speed AVE trains from Barcelona taking just 38 minutes (€12-20 depending on service type), and connections from Madrid via Barcelona. The stadium is easily accessible from the station via city buses or a pleasant 30-minute walk. For those combining match attendance with exploring Barcelona, the close proximity makes day trips very feasible - watch Girona play, then return to Barcelona for evening. The compact nature of Girona means you're never more than 15-20 minutes from anywhere in the city by bus or taxi. Most visitors staying in Girona's beautiful old town find the 2-3km walk to the stadium an enjoyable part of the match day experience, passing through authentic Catalan neighbourhoods. On match days, the city's small size creates a wonderful atmosphere as fans converge from all directions toward the western outskirts where Montilivi sits.
🚌 Bus
Several TMG (Transports Municipals de Girona) city bus routes serve Estadi Montilivi, providing the most practical public transport option given Girona's lack of metro. Route 1 is the primary service for match-goers, running from Girona train station and through the old town centre, stopping near the stadium on Carrer de Montilivi. It operates every 15-20 minutes during daytime hours, with increased frequency to every 10-12 minutes on match days starting 2 hours before kickoff. Journey time is approximately 10-15 minutes from the centre depending on traffic and stops. Route 3 also serves the stadium area, connecting from different parts of the city including residential districts, operating every 20-25 minutes. Route 8 provides additional connections from the train station and northern Girona, running every 15-20 minutes with similar journey times. The special L1 match day service operates exclusively for major fixtures (particularly Champions League and high-profile La Liga matches), providing direct shuttles from Plaça de la Independència (main square in old town) to the stadium, running every 8-10 minutes from 2 hours before kickoff until 60 minutes post-match - this is the most convenient option for tourists. Standard TMG single bus fare is €1.40, or purchase a T-10 card (€9.50) for 10 journeys, offering significant savings if making multiple trips. The T-10 can be shared among groups. Tickets are purchased on board from the driver (exact change helpful) or from tobacco shops (estancos) displaying TMG signs. Bus stops near the stadium are clearly marked with Estadi Montilivi signs on match days. The main stop is on Carrer de Montilivi directly outside the main entrance. On match days, expect buses to be crowded 60-90 minutes before kickoff, particularly for Champions League fixtures - board early if you want seats. Post-match, TMG runs extra services for 60 minutes, though queues can form - consider walking 10 minutes back toward town to catch less crowded buses at earlier stops. For Champions League nights, services continue later than normal hours to accommodate the typically 9:00 PM kickoffs. Buses in Girona are modern, comfortable, and reliable - far easier than navigating Barcelona's complex metro system.
🅿️ Parking
Montilivi has limited dedicated parking facilities directly at the stadium - perhaps 200-300 spaces in a small lot on the south side, accessed via Carrer de Montilivi. These spaces fill extremely quickly (90+ minutes before kickoff for regular La Liga matches, 2+ hours for Champions League or Barcelona/Real Madrid fixtures) and are primarily claimed by season ticket holders who arrive early. Attempting to park here on match day is usually futile unless you arrive mid-afternoon for evening matches. Street parking is available throughout surrounding residential areas (Montilivi neighbourhood), but as with most Spanish stadiums, these streets operate under resident permit zones during weekdays. Even when zones aren't enforced (evenings after 8 PM, weekends), spaces are scarce within 15-minute walk of the stadium. Expect to park 10-20 minutes away and walk if arriving within 2 hours of kickoff. Parking is free on streets outside resident zones, but read signs carefully - fines for violations are around €90-100. Several public car parks exist in Girona city centre, approximately 2-3km from the stadium. The largest are near the train station and around the Devesa Park area. Expect to pay €1.50-2.50 per hour, or approximately €10-15 for 4-6 hours covering pre-match, match, and post-match time. From these central car parks, you can take Route 1 or L1 buses (€1.40) to the stadium, or enjoy the 25-30 minute walk. This park-and-ride approach is what many visiting supporters do, as it allows you to explore Girona's beautiful old town before the match. Arriving by car from Barcelona (100km south) takes approximately 75-90 minutes via AP-7 motorway (toll road, approximately €8-10) or A-2/C-25 free roads (slower but scenic). From the French border (40km north), it's about 40 minutes via AP-7. Once in Girona, follow signs for Centre Ciutat, then Montilivi on match days. Traffic congestion near the stadium builds 60-90 minutes before kickoff and immediately after matches, as 14,000+ people try to leave simultaneously. Roads around the stadium are narrow and local, not designed for major events. Genuinely, for visitors, parking in Girona centre and walking or taking the bus offers the best balance of convenience and flexibility. For match-only visits arriving by car from outside Girona, consider timing - arrive early afternoon, park centrally, explore the stunning old town, eat at a local restaurant, then walk or bus to the match.
🚶 From City Center
Estadi Montilivi is approximately 2-3km from Girona's old town centre (Barri Vell), making it a very pleasant 25-35 minute walk through authentic Catalan residential neighbourhoods - this is highly recommended for the full Girona experience. From Plaça de la Independència (main square), head west on Carrer de Santa Clara, continue onto Carrer de Migdia, then follow signs for Montilivi/Estadi, passing through the Sant Ponç neighbourhood. The route is entirely flat (Girona sits on the plains, not hills), on good pavements, and very safe - Girona has extremely low crime rates. On match days, you'll join streams of supporters in red and white, making navigation effortless. The walk passes local Catalan life - neighbourhood bakeries, bars filling with pre-match crowds, family-owned shops. It's a wonderful way to experience authentic Girona away from tourist areas. From Girona train station (for those arriving from Barcelona or elsewhere), it's approximately 2.5km (30-35 minutes walk) to the stadium. Exit the station, head west on Gran Via de Jaume I, continue onto Carrer de Barcelona, then follow Montilivi signs. The route is straightforward and well-signed on match days. Many supporters arriving by train choose to walk, as it's barely longer than waiting for and taking the bus. For those staying near the Cathedral or along the Onyar River (the colourful houses area - Girona's most photographed spot), the walk is about 2.5-3km (30-40 minutes). This route takes you from the medieval heart through gradually more modern areas, showing Girona's evolution from ancient to contemporary. The walk is entirely manageable even for families with children or older supporters - no steep hills or difficult terrain. Many local Girona fans from surrounding neighbourhoods walk to matches as tradition. The atmosphere builds beautifully as you approach - bars around the stadium fill 90 minutes before kickoff, streets buzz with anticipation. Taxis from Girona centre to Montilivi cost approximately €6-10 depending on exact pickup point and traffic, with journey times 8-12 minutes. After matches, taxis queue on streets near the stadium, though expect 10-15 minute waits for Champions League or major fixtures. Surge pricing is minimal in Girona (unlike major cities) - perhaps 10% increase maximum. Rideshare services (Uber, Cabify) operate in Girona but with less coverage than Barcelona or Madrid - availability is good in the centre but can be limited near the stadium immediately post-match. Expect €8-12 from centre. Pre-booking for post-match pickup is wise, setting pickup points away from the immediate stadium area on quieter streets. However, most visiting supporters walk - it's genuinely pleasant, allows you to experience beautiful Girona, you'll absorb the match atmosphere, and saves money. The 25-35 minute walk back to old town after the match, discussing the game whilst passing through Catalan streets, becomes a cherished part of the experience. For those combining the match with exploring Girona (which almost everyone should - the city is stunning), walking is absolutely the best option.
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Where to Stay for Montilivi Stadium
Near the Stadium (Girona West)
Hotel Ultonia (1.8 km)
Well-established hotel offering comfort between stadium and old town. Modern rooms with good amenities at reasonable prices. The location provides convenient access to Montilivi whilst remaining close to Girona's medieval centre. On-site restaurant serves Catalan cuisine. Friendly service and reliable quality. Popular with match-goers who want proximity without sacrificing city centre access. Good breakfast buffet included.
Nord 1901 Hotel Superior (2.0 km)
Charming boutique hotel with contemporary Catalan design and personalised service. Comfortable rooms featuring modern décor with traditional touches. The hotel offers excellent location for both stadium and old town exploration. Rooftop terrace provides pleasant views of Girona. Slightly higher price point but delivers superior atmosphere and attention to detail. Perfect for those wanting boutique experience.
Hotel Carlemany (2.2 km)
Modern 4-star business hotel offering professional service and contemporary comfort. Well-equipped rooms, fitness centre, and on-site restaurant. The location between station and centre makes it convenient for both match attendance and city exploration. Popular with business travellers midweek and football visitors on weekends. Reliable international standard accommodation. Good value for comfort seekers.
Hotel Ciutat de Girona (2.3 km)
Contemporary hotel near the train station offering modern comfort and convenience. Clean, comfortable rooms with good facilities. The location provides straightforward access to both Montilivi and the old town. Particularly convenient for visitors arriving by train from Barcelona. On-site bar and breakfast available. Good mid-range option for practical travellers.
Meliá Girona (2.5 km)
Upscale hotel offering premium comfort and facilities. Spacious rooms, wellness centre, and refined atmosphere. The hotel features elegant restaurant, extensive breakfast buffet, and professional service. Located near the convention centre but accessible to both stadium and old town. Higher price point but delivers luxury experience. Excellent for special occasions or those wanting superior accommodation.
Old Town Options (Better for Sightseeing)
Search hotels in Girona Old Town
Staying in Girona's stunning Barri Vell (old quarter) places you among medieval streets, Roman walls, and the iconic Onyar River houses with 25-35 minute walk or 10-15 minute bus to Montilivi.
Pros:
- Walking distance to cathedral, Roman walls, and Jewish quarter (El Call)
- Surrounded by excellent Catalan restaurants and atmospheric bars
- Immersive experience in one of Catalonia's most beautiful medieval cities
- Colourful Onyar River houses and charming cobbled streets
Cons:
- 25-35 minute walk to stadium (buses available)
- Generally higher prices than outskirts
- Can be noisier in central areas
- Limited parking (use public car parks)
Our Recommendation
For most visitors, staying in Girona's old town offers significantly better overall value - you'll experience one of Catalonia's most beautiful medieval cities, exceptional Catalan cuisine, and authentic atmosphere whilst Montilivi remains easily accessible by pleasant walk or quick bus ride. Girona is compact and walkable, making central accommodation ideal.
The city offers far more than football - stunning architecture, Game of Thrones filming locations, Roman history, and excellent gastronomy. Many visitors combine match attendance with exploring this underrated Catalan gem, just 40 minutes from Barcelona by train.
Frequently Asked Questions
Estadi Montilivi has a capacity of 14,624 spectators following extensive renovations. This makes it one of La Liga's smallest stadiums and one of the smallest venues to host UEFA Champions League football in the modern era.
Girona achieved a remarkable third-place finish in La Liga during the 2023-24 season, qualifying for the Champions League for the first time. The club's rise from Spain's third tier to European elite football in just over a decade is one of modern football's most extraordinary stories.
The City Football Group, which owns Manchester City, acquired a major stake in Girona FC in 2017. This investment, combined with smart management, has been crucial to the club's remarkable success and transformation from a struggling lower-division side to Champions League participants.
Absolutely! Girona is one of Catalonia's most beautiful cities, featuring a stunning medieval old town, Roman walls, Gothic cathedral, and colourful houses along the Onyar River. It's an excellent destination for combining football with cultural tourism, and is just 40 minutes from Barcelona by train.
Tickets are available through Girona FC's official website and at the stadium box office. For high-profile La Liga matches and especially Champions League fixtures, tickets sell quickly given the small capacity. Booking in advance is strongly recommended.
Despite its small size, Montilivi creates an intense atmosphere, particularly for major matches. The compact stadium amplifies noise, and the ultra groups generate passionate support. For Champions League matches, the atmosphere is extraordinary for such a modest venue.
Yes! Girona is just 40 minutes from Barcelona by train, making it easy to combine both cities. Many visitors stay in Barcelona and travel to Girona for matches, or vice versa. Both cities offer excellent football and cultural experiences.
Girona FC offers stadium tours on non-match days, typically including the pitch, dressing rooms, dugouts, and facilities. Given the club's remarkable recent success, tours have become increasingly popular. Booking in advance through the club's official website is recommended.
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