Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

Madrid, Spain

Capacity

83,000

Opened

1947

Surface

Grass

Home Team

Real Madrid CF

Overview

Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to Real Madrid since 1947, is one of the most iconic football venues in the world. With a capacity of 83,000 spectators, this legendary stadium has hosted countless historic moments, including four European Cup finals and the 1982 FIFA World Cup final. The spectacular €900 million renovation was completed in late 2024, transforming it into a cutting-edge, multi-purpose venue with a retractable roof and 360-degree video screen. Located in the heart of Madrid's Chamartín district, the Bernabéu is more than just a stadium—it's a symbol of football excellence and home to 15 European Cup/Champions League titles.

Key Features

✓Home to Real Madrid, the most successful club in European football history
✓Capacity of 83,000 after €900 million renovation completed in 2024
✓Features retractable roof and stunning 360-degree video screen
✓Hosted four European Cup finals and 1982 FIFA World Cup final
✓Real Madrid Museum is one of Spain's most visited museums

History

Inaugurated on December 14, 1947, as Estadio Chamartín, the stadium was renamed Santiago Bernabéu in 1955 in honor of the club's legendary president. Originally with a capacity of 75,000, it has been expanded and renovated multiple times, most notably for the 1982 World Cup and the current 2019-2024 renovation project. The stadium has witnessed some of football's greatest moments, from Alfredo Di Stéfano's dominance in the 1950s to Cristiano Ronaldo's goal-scoring feats in the 2010s. The Bernabéu is the only stadium to have hosted a European Cup/Champions League final in five different decades.

Seating Guide

The Santiago Bernabéu offers diverse seating options across its four tiers, each providing unique perspectives of the action. The lower tier (Primera Grada) brings you closest to the pitch, ideal for experiencing the raw intensity and speed of the game. Sections along the touchline (lateral) offer the best views, while those behind the goals immerse you in the passionate supporter atmosphere. The second tier (Segunda Grada) is considered the premium choice, offering an elevated perspective that captures both the tactical nuances and the excitement. The central sections (400-500 series) are particularly sought after, providing optimal sightlines and a perfect balance between proximity and tactical overview. These seats typically range from €80-150 for La Liga matches. The third tier (Tercera Grada) delivers excellent value, with panoramic views ideal for appreciating team formations and game strategies. While further from the pitch, the steep rake ensures unobstructed views. The fourth tier (Grada Superior) offers the most affordable tickets (€40-60) with bird's-eye views of the entire stadium. For the ultimate experience, the VIP boxes and presidential area (Tribuna) provide luxury amenities and the best central views. Away fans are typically allocated sections in the upper corners. The famous "Ultras Sur" supporters traditionally occupy the south goal end, creating an intense atmosphere.

Match Day Experience

A match day at the Bernabéu is a celebration of footballing royalty. The stadium opens 90 minutes before kickoff, and fans typically gather at nearby tapas bars along Paseo de la Castellana hours earlier. The atmosphere builds as thousands of madridistas in white converge on the stadium, creating a sea of Real Madrid colors. Inside, the modernized facilities showcase the club's 14 European Cups in the trophy room, which many fans visit before matches. The famous "Hala Madrid" anthem echoes through the stands before kickoff, with 81,000 fans creating one of football's most iconic pre-match moments. The renovated stadium features state-of-the-art amenities, including the impressive 360-degree video screen that wraps around the interior. Food options include traditional Spanish tapas, bocadillos, and cerveza at concession stands throughout the stadium. Many fans prefer to eat at nearby restaurants in the Chamartín or Salamanca districts before the match. The stadium's location in upscale Madrid means you're surrounded by excellent dining options. After the match, celebrations often continue on Paseo de la Castellana, where fans discuss the game at outdoor cafés. The nearby Plaza de Castilla and Chamartín areas offer vibrant nightlife for those wanting to extend their Madrid experience.

Getting There

🚇 Metro

Take Metro Line 10 (Dark Blue) to Santiago Bernabéu station, which exits directly at the stadium. Alternatively, use Nuevos Ministerios station (Lines 6, 8, 10) which is a 10-minute walk away.

🚌 Bus

Multiple bus lines serve the stadium area, including lines 14, 27, 40, 43, 120, 147, and 150. The 27 and 147 routes stop directly outside the main entrance.

🅿️ Parking

The stadium has underground parking with over 500 spaces, accessible from Calle Padre Damián. Expect to pay €20-30 on match days. Arrive at least 2 hours early as it fills quickly. Alternative parking available at nearby shopping centers.

🚶 From City Center

Santiago Bernabéu is about 3.5km (2.2 miles) from Madrid's city centre (Puerta del Sol). It's a 40-45 minute walk through the elegant Salamanca district, or a quick 10-minute taxi ride for approximately €10-15.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Santiago Bernabéu Stadium has a capacity of 83,000 spectators after the recent renovation completed in late 2024, making it one of the largest stadiums in Europe.

Take Metro Line 10 (Dark Blue) to Santiago Bernabéu station. The station exit is directly at the stadium entrance. Nuevos Ministerios station (Lines 6, 8, 10) is also nearby, about 10 minutes walk.

Yes, the Bernabéu Tour includes access to the stadium, trophy room (with all 14 European Cups), player tunnel, dugouts, press room, and presidential box. Tours run daily except on match days. The new renovation includes an interactive museum experience and panoramic views from the top tier.

The Chamartín and Salamanca districts offer excellent hotels within walking distance. The Paseo de la Castellana area has many options with easy metro access. Staying in central Madrid (Sol, Gran Vía) is also convenient with direct metro connections.

The major renovation project, which began in 2019, was completed in late 2024. The stadium remained open during renovations, hosting matches with reduced capacity. The new features include a retractable roof, 360-degree video screen, and fully modernized facilities.

Match tickets range from €40 to €300+ depending on the opponent, seat location, and match importance. Stadium tour tickets cost approximately €35 for adults. El Clásico matches (vs Barcelona) and Champions League games command premium prices and sell out quickly.

Related Stadiums

Other stadiums in La Liga

Tickets & Tours

Average Price

€40-300

Buy Tickets - Real Madrid Official Buy Tickets - StubHub Buy Tickets - Viagogo

Stadium Tour

Price:€35

Duration:80 minutes

Book Tour

Stadium Name History

1955Estadio Santiago Bernabéu

1947Estadio Chamartín

Nearby Hotels

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