Bilbao, Spain
Overview
San Mamés, opened in 2013, is the modern home of Athletic Bilbao and one of Spain's most architecturally impressive stadiums. With a capacity of 53,331 spectators, this state-of-the-art venue replaced the historic old San Mamés while preserving the cathedral-like atmosphere that made the original so legendary. Known as "La Catedral" (The Cathedral), the stadium is renowned for the passionate support of Athletic Club fans and its distinctive rectangular bowl design with steep stands on all four sides. Designed by ACXT Architects at a cost of €211 million, the venue seamlessly blends cutting-edge facilities with the traditions that made the original San Mamés one of football's most sacred grounds.
Located in Bilbao's Indautxu district, San Mamés has quickly established itself on the European stage, hosting matches during UEFA Euro 2020 and regularly welcoming Champions League football. Unlike other major Spanish stadiums such as Santiago Bernabéu or Camp Nou, Athletic Bilbao's unique cantera policy of only fielding Basque players makes every match at San Mamés a celebration of regional identity and pride. This singular approach creates an atmosphere unlike any other in world football, where fans share deep cultural bonds with every player on the pitch, transforming each match into a passionate assertion of Basque heritage.
Key Features
- ✓Modern stadium opened in 2013, replacing the historic original
- ✓Distinctive rectangular design with steep stands for incredible atmosphere
- ✓One of 11 host venues for UEFA Euro 2020
- ✓Home to Athletic Bilbao, the only club with an exclusive Basque player policy
- ✓Built on the site of the old San Mamés, preserving football heritage
History
La Catedral's Legacy
The original San Mamés stood from 1913 to 2013, earning the nickname "La Catedral" for its imposing presence and legendary atmosphere. This sacred ground hosted Spain's first-ever international match in 1921 and multiple World Cup matches in 1982. For a century, it witnessed Athletic Bilbao's unique cantera policy - fielding only Basque players - creating deep emotional bonds between stadium, club, and community.
Building the New San Mamés
The new San Mamés opened on September 16, 2013, on a site adjacent to the old stadium, which was gradually demolished as the new venue took shape. Designed by ACXT Architects led by César Azcárate, the modern San Mamés features a distinctive rectangular bowl with steep stands on all four sides, maximizing atmosphere whilst meeting UEFA's highest standards. The €211 million project maintained the "Catedral" spirit in a state-of-the-art facility. The stadium was inaugurated with a 1-0 victory over Celta Vigo before 40,000 fans.
European Stage
The new San Mamés quickly established itself as one of Europe's finest venues. In 2020, it became one of the Euro 2020 host venues, hosting four matches including Spain's group stage games. The stadium has since welcomed Champions League football and continues Athletic's proud tradition of the most intimidating home atmosphere in Spanish football.
Tickets & Tours
How to Get Athletic Bilbao Tickets
There are three main ways to attend an Athletic Bilbao match at San Mamés:
1. Official Club Tickets (Best Value)
Purchase directly from athletic-club.eus approximately 2-3 weeks before matches. Prices range from €30 (upper tier) to €150+ (premium seats). This is the only guaranteed authentic source and typically offers the best value.
⚠️ Important: The Basque derby against Real Sociedad and matches against Real Madrid and Barcelona sell out extremely quickly. Members (socios) receive priority access and significantly discounted prices. Athletic has one of the highest season ticket holder percentages in Europe, so advance booking is essential.
2. Official Match Packages (All-Inclusive)
Official Athletic Bilbao partners offer complete packages including tickets, hotel accommodation in Bilbao, and sometimes pintxos tours. Ideal for international visitors planning a Basque Country trip around a match.
- Official travel partners offer packages from €200 including match tickets and city centre accommodation
- Some packages include pre-match pintxos experiences in the Casco Viejo and Guggenheim Museum visits
Contact the club directly for current official package providers.
3. Third-Party Platforms (Sold-Out Matches)
When official tickets sell out, established ticket platforms offer alternatives. These are not official partners, but are widely used:
- LiveFootballTickets - Specialises in La Liga tickets, from €70
- SeatPick - Comparison platform aggregating multiple sellers
Expect to pay above face value for high-demand matches, particularly the Basque derby. Always verify seller legitimacy.
Stadium Tours & Museum
The San Mamés Tour Experience offers an immersive journey through one of Europe's most modern stadiums whilst celebrating over a century of Athletic Club tradition. Led by knowledgeable guides who understand the unique cantera philosophy, the tour showcases both the €211 million architectural marvel and the deep cultural significance of Athletic Bilbao as the only top-flight club that exclusively fields Basque players.
What You'll See
- Trophy room featuring Athletic Bilbao's 8 La Liga titles, 24 Copa del Rey trophies (Spanish record), and 3 Supercopa de España victories
- Players' tunnel where Athletic legends like Iker Muniain, Iñaki Williams, and historical icons like Telmo Zarra and José Ángel Iribar emerged to the thunderous "Aupa Athletic!" roar
- Pitch-side access to walk on the hallowed turf where the cantera policy creates football's most unique atmosphere
- Home and away changing rooms featuring cutting-edge facilities with the distinctive red and white stripes throughout
- Press room where managers face media after matches
- Presidential Box with panoramic views of the steep-sided rectangular bowl
- Athletic Club Museum documenting the club's journey from 1898 foundation through the cantera tradition to modern European campaigns
- Old San Mamés exhibition with preserved elements and photographs from the legendary original stadium (1913-2013)
- Architectural highlights showcasing the distinctive rectangular design and steep stands that create the cathedral-like atmosphere
The tour provides exceptional insight into why Athletic Bilbao remains one of world football's most distinctive institutions, where regional identity and sporting ambition combine uniquely.
Practical Details
- Duration: Guided tour, approximately 75-90 minutes
- Schedule: Daily except match days and day before matches. Multiple departure times typically 10:00-18:00
- Booking: Reserve through athletic-club.eus or established tour platforms
- Price: Adults approximately €14, children (under 14) €9, under 5s free
- Languages: Basque, Spanish, and English tours available (check schedule for English times)
- Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible throughout
- Photography: Allowed in most areas (flash photography prohibited in certain zones)
Booking
- GetYourGuide - Stadium tour experiences
- Viator - Bilbao stadium tours
Quick Tips
- Best value: Official tickets 2-3 weeks in advance (they sell out quickly)
- Basque derby: Real Sociedad matches are extremely high demand, members-only priority
- Atmosphere: Gol Norte sections (124-127) for passionate Athletic experience
- Avoid: Street sellers - counterfeits exist and Athletic enforces strict controls
- Transport: Metro Line 1 to San Mamés is direct and highly convenient
Best Seats at San Mamés
For the optimal San Mamés experience, the middle tier central side sections (206-208 and 219-221) offer the best balance of view quality, atmosphere, and comfort. These elevated positions provide perfect tactical perspectives whilst maintaining excellent proximity to the pitch, with prices typically ranging from €50-80 for La Liga matches. The stadium's modern rectangular bowl design with steep stands ensures unobstructed views from virtually every seat across all three tiers.
Lower Tier (Gradas Bajas)
The lower tier brings fans incredibly close to the pitch, with sections 101-127 wrapping continuously around the entire stadium. The premium central side sections (106-108 and 119-121) offer excellent touchline views and are highly sought after by season ticket holders, commanding prices of €60-100 for major fixtures. These seats place you pitch-side with exceptional proximity to the players and the intense atmosphere.
The Gol Norte (North Goal, sections 124-127) is where the magic happens - home to Athletic's hardcore supporters who create the cathedral-like atmosphere with constant, rhythmic chanting and the spine-tingling "Aupa Athletic!" roar. For the authentic Athletic experience and non-stop passion, these sections are unbeatable. The Gol Sur (South Goal, sections 101-104) also generates passionate support. Away fans are typically allocated sections in the upper tier corners, keeping them separated from the home ultras.
Middle Tier (Gradas Medias)
The middle tier delivers the sweet spot for most fans, offering elevated views without being too distant from the action. Sections 201-227 mirror the lower tier layout, with central side positions (206-208, 219-221) being most sought-after for their perfect pitch overview and tactical perspectives. These mid-level seats (€45-75) strike an ideal balance between proximity and panoramic view, making them favorites among regular attendees who appreciate both the atmosphere and the ability to read the game.
Upper Tier (Gradas Altas)
The upper tier offers dramatic panoramic views of the entire stadium and pitch. Sections 301-327 provide excellent tactical perspectives perfect for understanding team formations and appreciating the full choreography of the match. These are the stadium's most affordable seats (€30-50 for La Liga matches), making them ideal for budget-conscious fans or families. Despite the height, the steep rake ensures good sightlines even from the back rows, and you'll still feel immersed in the passionate Athletic atmosphere below.
VIP & Hospitality
San Mamés offers premium hospitality experiences through the Athletic Club VIP areas located in the Main Stand (Tribune). The Presidential Box and surrounding VIP sections provide luxury seating with exceptional sightlines, exclusive lounges with gourmet Basque catering, and dedicated parking. Hospitality packages typically range from €200-500 per match and include pre-match dining, half-time refreshments, and post-match access. The Business Seats programme offers season-long corporate packages with premium positioning and networking opportunities. Contact Athletic Club directly for hospitality bookings.
Accessibility
San Mamés was designed with full accessibility as a priority. Wheelchair spaces with companion seating are available throughout all three tiers, offering various viewing angles and price points. The stadium features step-free access via lifts and ramps to all levels, accessible toilets on every floor, and dedicated parking spaces for disabled visitors. Sensory impaired visitors can request audio descriptive commentary services. Book accessible seating directly through the Athletic Club ticket office, where staff can advise on the best positions based on individual needs.
Pro Tips
- Best atmosphere: Gol Norte (sections 124-127) for the authentic Athletic ultras experience with non-stop chanting
- Best views: Middle tier central sections (206-208, 219-221) for perfect balance of proximity and overview
- Family sections: Upper tier sections offer affordable pricing and excellent facilities for families
- Photography: Middle tier side sections provide the best angles for capturing the steep bowl atmosphere
- Early arrival: Come 60-90 minutes early for high-profile matches to enjoy the pre-match atmosphere and secure concourse space
Match Day Experience
Match day at San Mamés is a unique cultural experience that blends Basque tradition with modern football.
What to Bring
⚠️ Important: San Mamés has strict security measures. Plan accordingly.
Currently Allowed:
- Mobile phones and small cameras
- Small bags (maximum 30x30x15cm)
- Banners and flags (no poles)
- Rain jackets and umbrellas (compact only)
- Baby supplies and medical necessities
Prohibited Items:
- Large bags, backpacks, and suitcases
- Professional cameras and recording equipment
- Food and drinks from outside
- Glass containers and cans
- Fireworks, flares, or smoke devices
- Any items that could be used as weapons
Pre-Match Pintxos Tradition
The real action starts hours before kickoff in Bilbao's famous pintxos bars. The streets around San Mamés and throughout the Casco Viejo (Old Town) fill with fans in red and white, hopping from bar to bar sampling pintxos and drinking txakoli (Basque white wine) or kalimotxo. This pre-match ritual is sacred to Athletic fans - expect crowded bars, lively conversation, and growing excitement. The stadium opens 90 minutes before kickoff, but many arrive after their pintxos tour.
Inside the Cathedral
The atmosphere is electric but distinctly different from other Spanish venues. Athletic fans are known for their constant, rhythmic support rather than sporadic chanting. The "Aupa Athletic!" roar before kickoff is spine-tingling, and the crowd maintains impressive noise levels throughout the match. The steep stands create an amphitheater effect, amplifying the sound. With the unique Basque-only player policy, fans feel deeply connected to every player on the pitch.
Food and Facilities
The stadium offers modern concession facilities with traditional Basque snacks including pintxos, bocadillos, and local cider. However, most fans prefer the pre-match pintxos crawl experience. San Mamés features excellent facilities including spacious concourses and numerous restrooms, a significant upgrade from the old stadium.
After the Match
Fans typically return to the city centre or the bars around San Mamés to continue socializing. The Indautxu and Abando neighbourhoods offer numerous options for post-match celebrations, whilst the Casco Viejo provides a more traditional atmosphere for dissecting the match over more pintxos and wine.
Getting There
🚇 Metro
Take Metro Line 1 (orange line) to San Mamés station, which exits directly into the stadium complex via underground connection - the most convenient option for match days. From Moyua in the city centre, the journey takes just 4-5 minutes with trains running every 5 minutes during peak hours and every 8-10 minutes off-peak. The station can become exceptionally crowded 60-90 minutes before kickoff, particularly for derby matches against Real Sociedad, but the large modern station handles crowds efficiently. Metro service typically runs until 23:00 on weekdays and 2:00 on Friday/Saturday nights, with extended hours for late matches. From Casco Viejo (Old Town), the journey takes 8-10 minutes via Moyua. Purchase a rechargeable Barik card (€3 deposit, €0.69 per journey) at any metro station for the best value - single paper tickets cost €1.70. The integrated underground access means you can reach your seat without going outside, perfect for Bilbao's frequent rain.
🚌 Bus
Multiple Bizkaibus and Bilbobus lines serve San Mamés directly, making it accessible from throughout the Bilbao metropolitan area. Key lines include A1 (from Algorta/Getxo), A2 (from Plentzia), A3 (from Leioa), and urban lines 13, 38, and 48 which connect from various Bilbao neighbourhoods. All stop at San Mamés bus station (Termibus), the region's main transport hub located adjacent to the stadium. From the city centre (Plaza Moyúa), line 13 takes approximately 10 minutes. On match days, expect buses to be packed 60+ minutes before kickoff - arriving early is essential for comfortable travel. Standard urban fare is €1.50, whilst longer Bizkaibus routes cost €1.70-2.50 depending on distance. Your Barik card works across all services. Night buses (Gautxori lines) operate from the city centre after late evening matches, typically departing from Gran Vía.
🅿️ Parking
San Mamés features an underground car park with approximately 800 spaces accessed from Alameda Mazarredo, though these fill 90+ minutes before kickoff for most matches and are often pre-reserved by season ticket holders. Match day parking costs around €10-15. Nearby alternatives include: Zubiarte shopping centre car park (5-minute walk, €2-3 per hour, 1,000+ spaces - arrive early), Termibus bus station car park (adjacent to stadium, €12 match day rate), and the Parking San Mamés private facility on Alameda San Mamés (€3 per hour). For high-profile matches (Barcelona, Real Madrid, Real Sociedad derby), these fill 2+ hours before kickoff. Park-and-ride is highly recommended: park at Etxebarri metro station (free parking, 15-minute metro ride on Line 1 to San Mamés) or Ansio station. Street parking throughout central Bilbao uses strict OTA zones (resident permits required) with rigorous enforcement. Given excellent metro access, driving is discouraged unless absolutely necessary.
🚶 From City Center
San Mamés is approximately 2km from Casco Viejo (Old Town). The scenic 20-25 minute walk follows the Nervión riverbank path (Paseo de Uribitarte/Paseo del Campo de Volantín), offering beautiful views of Bilbao's modern architecture including the Guggenheim Museum. The flat, pedestrian-friendly route is popular with fans who enjoy pre-match atmosphere. From Abando Indalecio Prieto train station, it's a straightforward 10-minute walk north along Hurtado de Amézaga. However, Bilbao experiences frequent rain (200+ days annually) - factor weather into walking plans. Taxis from the city centre cost approximately €6-9 (5-7 minute journey), though expect surge pricing beginning 90 minutes before kickoff and immediately post-match when demand spikes dramatically. Uber operates in Bilbao with similar pricing. For post-match taxi access, walk 5-10 minutes toward Plaza Moyúa or the Guggenheim Museum area where taxis congregate more readily than directly outside the stadium gates. The metro remains the most reliable, weather-proof option.
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Where to Stay for San Mamés
Near the Stadium (Indautxu/San Mamés District)
Hotel Meliá Bilbao (0.3 km)
Premium 4-star hotel literally across the street from San Mamés, making it the ultimate choice for match-goers. The sleek contemporary design features spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, modern amenities, and a renowned restaurant serving Basque cuisine. The rooftop terrace offers stunning stadium views. With Metro Line 1 at your doorstep, you can easily explore Bilbao while being steps from the pitch. Popular with football fans and business travellers alike.
Barceló Bilbao Nervión (0.5 km)
Modern 4-star hotel in the Indautxu business district, a short 7-minute walk from San Mamés. Features contemporary rooms with excellent beds, a fitness centre, and on-site restaurant. The hotel is perfectly positioned between the stadium and city centre, with Metro Line 1 access for easy travel. Staff are experienced with match day logistics and can help with pintxos recommendations. Great value for the location and quality.
Hotel Miro (1.2 km)
Stylish boutique hotel near the Guggenheim Museum, offering contemporary design and excellent service. Rooms blend modern comfort with artistic touches reflecting Bilbao's cultural scene. The location provides easy access to both San Mamés (15-minute walk or quick metro ride) and the city's main attractions including the Guggenheim and riverfront. Perfect for visitors wanting to experience Bilbao's cultural side alongside the football.
City Centre & Casco Viejo
Search hotels in Bilbao City Centre
Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao (1.5 km from San Mamés)
Luxury 5-star design hotel directly opposite the Guggenheim Museum, offering spectacular views of Gehry's masterpiece. The cutting-edge design by fashion designer Javier Mariscal features bold interiors, avant-garde dining, and rooftop terrace with panoramic city views. Located in the cultural heart of Bilbao with excellent pintxos bars nearby and Metro Line 1 providing quick stadium access. Perfect for combining match attendance with a luxury city break.
Hotel Carlton (1.8 km from San Mamés)
Historic 4-star hotel in the heart of the Casco Viejo (Old Town), offering classic elegance since 1926. This landmark property features traditional décor, excellent service, and a renowned restaurant. Located among Bilbao's finest pintxos bars and cultural sites, it's perfect for experiencing authentic Basque atmosphere. The Old Town location means you'll enjoy the pre-match pintxos crawl tradition with locals. Metro and tram provide easy stadium access.
Our Recommendation
For the ultimate match day experience, Hotel Meliá Bilbao or Barceló Bilbao Nervión place you within walking distance of San Mamés whilst offering excellent access to the city centre via metro. You can wake up, see the stadium from your window, and be in your seat within minutes.
For visitors wanting to experience Bilbao's rich cultural scene alongside the football, staying in or near the Casco Viejo (Hotel Carlton) or near the Guggenheim (Gran Hotel Domine, Hotel Miro) provides the best overall experience. You'll enjoy world-class pintxos bars, museums, and riverside walks, with Metro Line 1 whisking you to San Mamés in just 5-10 minutes. This approach lets you combine Athletic's passionate football culture with Bilbao's renowned gastronomy and architecture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Match tickets range from €30 to €150+ depending on the opponent and seat location. Matches against Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Real Sociedad (the Basque derby) command premium prices. Stadium tour tickets cost approximately €14 for adults. Advance booking is essential.
Yes, San Mamés offers guided stadium tours on non-match days. The tour includes the changing rooms, players' tunnel, pitch-side, press room, and the Athletic Club Museum. Tours must be booked in advance through the official Athletic Club website and last approximately 75-90 minutes.
The Indautxu and Abando neighbourhoods near the stadium offer numerous hotels with easy stadium access. However, staying in the Casco Viejo (Old Town) or near the Guggenheim provides a better cultural experience with easy metro access to San Mamés. Most of Bilbao is within walking distance.
San Mamés has strict bag policies for security. Small bags and backpacks are allowed but subject to security searches. Arrive 60-75 minutes early for high-demand matches like the Basque derby, as security checks are thorough. Prohibited items include large bags, professional cameras, and any items that could be used as weapons.
The easiest way is via Metro Line 1 to San Mamés station, which is directly connected to the stadium. From Bilbao city centre (Moyua), it's just a 5-minute metro ride. You can also walk in about 20 minutes or take various bus lines.
Athletic Bilbao maintains a unique policy of only fielding players of Basque origin (either born in the Basque Country or with Basque ancestry). This cantera policy makes them one of the most distinctive clubs in world football and adds special significance to every San Mamés match.
The old San Mamés (1913-2013) was gradually demolished between 2013-2016 after the new stadium opened. Part of the old pitch was preserved and incorporated into a new residential and commercial development. A commemorative chapel honoring the stadium's history stands near the site.
San Mamés has a capacity of 53,331 spectators, making it the 8th largest stadium in Spain. The capacity is slightly larger than the old San Mamés which held 39,750.
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