Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

Madrid is a city that boasts a rich cultural heritage and is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in Europe. One such landmark that attracts thousands of tourists every year is the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, the home of Real Madrid football club. Named after the legendary former president of Real Madrid, the stadium is one of the most modern and impressive sports arenas in the world. Here is your complete travel guide to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

History of Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

The stadium was inaugurated in 1947, replacing the old Campo de Chamartín. Santiago Bernabéu, the club’s president at the time, oversaw the construction of the stadium, which was designed by architects Manuel Muñoz Monasterio and Luis Alemany Soler. The stadium was initially capable of holding 75,000 spectators, but after several renovations, its capacity has been increased to 81,044.

Over the years, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium has hosted some of the most important football matches in history, including the European Cup finals of 1957, 1969, 1980, 2010, and 2019. It has also been the venue for several important cultural events, such as concerts by Michael Jackson, U2, and Beyoncé.

Things to see and do at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

If you are a football fan or simply curious about the history and culture of Real Madrid, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is a must-visit destination. Here are some of the things you can see and do at the stadium:

1. Take a tour of the stadium

One of the best ways to experience Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is to take a guided tour. You will get to see the changing rooms, the players’ tunnel, the press room, and the presidential box, among other areas. You can also visit the club’s trophy room, which houses an impressive collection of cups and medals won by Real Madrid over the years.

2. Visit the Real Madrid Museum

Adjacent to the stadium is the Real Madrid Museum, which houses an extensive collection of memorabilia, including photos, shirts, boots, and other items associated with the club’s history. You can learn about the club’s illustrious past and its legendary players, such as Alfredo Di Stéfano, Ferenc Puskás, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

3. Attend a football match

If you are lucky enough to be in Madrid when Real Madrid is playing a home game, don’t miss the chance to attend a match at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. The atmosphere inside the stadium is electric, and you will get to see some of the world’s best footballers in action. However, be aware that tickets for matches can be hard to come by, so it’s best to book well in advance.

4. Shop for souvenirs

If you want to take home a memento of your visit to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, there are several shops inside the stadium where you can buy Real Madrid merchandise, including shirts, scarves, hats, and keychains.

5. Explore the surrounding area

Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is located in the Chamartín district of Madrid, which is a bustling commercial and residential area. There are several shops, restaurants, and bars in the vicinity, as well as other attractions, such as the Cuatro Torres Business Area, the Museum of Natural Sciences, and the National Music Auditorium.