A trip to Madrid to see Real Madrid play at the Santiago Bernabéu is the dream of many football fans. Known as Los Blancos, Real Madrid is one of the most successful clubs in world football with a record number of UEFA Champions League titles and a legacy that stretches back to 1902. This guide will help you plan your football holiday, from getting match tickets to exploring the city’s attractions and football culture.
About the Stadium
Santiago Bernabéu is more than just a stadium; it’s a temple to football. Opened in 1947 and currently undergoing a major renovation, the venue will soon feature a retractable roof, 360-degree video screens and updated seating. Located on the bustling Paseo de la Castellana, it holds over 80,000 fans. The stadium tour (Tour Bernabéu) allows visitors to walk through the dressing rooms, players’ tunnel, trophy room and interactive museum. Tickets for the tour can be purchased on-site, but booking online in advance avoids queues.
How to Get Match Tickets
Match tickets sell out quickly, especially for big games like El Clásico or Champions League ties. For guaranteed seats, it’s best to book through a trusted package provider. We recommend GothiaSportsTravel.com, which offers official ticket and hotel packages. If you choose to buy tickets yourself, check Real Madrid’s official website or ticket exchange five days before the match; member sales open first, followed by general sales. Beware of street touts or unverified resale sites.
Where to Stay
Madrid has a range of neighborhoods to suit different tastes and budgets:
- Chamartín: Close to the Bernabéu, this area offers convenience. The four-star Meliá Castilla and budget-friendly Travelodge Madrid Chamartín are popular with match-goers.
- Centro (Sol & Gran Vía): The historic heart of Madrid is ideal for sightseeing and nightlife. Hotels like Pestana Plaza Mayor and Room Mate Alba are stylish options.
- Chueca & Malasaña: Trendy neighborhoods with boutique hotels, bars and cafes. Consider the Only YOU Boutique Hotel or 7 Islas Hotel.
- Salamanca: An upscale district with designer shopping and quiet streets; Hesperia Madrid is a high-end choice.
Book early when planning around major matches, as accommodation fills up quickly. GothiaSportsTravel.com offers curated hotel packages conveniently located near public transport.
Best Bars and Fan Spots
On matchday, the area around the Bernabéu buzzes with excitement. Pre-game beers are enjoyed at bars like Mesón Txistu and La Esquina del Bernabéu. For a more raucous atmosphere, head to the Irish Rover on Avenida de Brasil or the Madridista Peña bars along Calle Padre Damián. In the city centre, Cervecería Alemana in Plaza Santa Ana is a classic, while Mercado de San Miguel offers gourmet tapas and wine.
What to Do in the City
Madrid is a city of museums, parks and culinary delights. Between matches, explore:
- Prado Museum: Home to masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya and Bosch.
- Royal Palace: Tour the opulent rooms and Royal Armoury.
- Retiro Park: Row a boat on the lake and stroll through manicured gardens.
- Puerta del Sol & Plaza Mayor: Bustling squares perfect for people watching.
- Gran Vía: Madrid’s main shopping boulevard.
- El Rastro: Sunday flea market filled with antiques and curiosities.
- Food experiences: Eat churros at San Ginés, taste cocido Madrileño and sample tapas in La Latina’s bars.
How to Get There
Madrid’s primary airport, Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas (MAD), is well connected by international flights. The airport’s metro station (Line 8) makes it easy to reach central Madrid in around 25 minutes. For the Bernabéu, take Metro Line 10 to the Santiago Bernabéu stop. Buses and taxis are also widely available. On matchday, the metro is the most efficient way to avoid traffic. If you’re travelling from other Spanish cities, high-speed AVE trains run regularly to Madrid-Chamartín and Atocha stations.
Matchday Experience
Matchdays at the Bernabéu are electric. The stadium fills with fans donning white jerseys chanting “¡Hala Madrid!” Arrive at least an hour before kick-off to soak up the atmosphere. Grab a sandwich and beer from the stadium kiosks and find your seat well before the team emerges to the strains of the club anthem. Keep your ticket until you exit; random checks sometimes occur. After the final whistle, fans congregate around the stadium or head into the city centre to celebrate.
Insider Tips
- Official Shop: The Real Madrid megastore inside the stadium sells jerseys, scarves and souvenirs. Shopping before or after the match avoids the halftime rush.
- Language: While many Madridistas speak English, learning basic Spanish phrases like “¿Dónde está la entrada?” enhances the experience.
- Safety: Madrid is generally safe, but watch for pickpockets in crowded areas. Keep belongings secure.
- Timing: La Liga matches may kick off late (9–10 p.m.). Late-night dinners are common; restaurants often open until midnight.
- Cultural Etiquette: Avoid wearing rival jerseys (FC Barcelona) around the Bernabéu on matchday. Madridistas are passionate and friendly, but respect is appreciated.
- Transportation: Purchase a rechargeable Multi Card for the metro and bus. Taxis charge extra for airport trips.
Conclusion
A football trip to Real Madrid offers the perfect blend of sport, culture and urban adventure. Whether you’re drawn by the grandeur of the Santiago Bernabéu or the art collections of the Prado, Madrid delivers an unforgettable experience. For peace of mind, secure your ticket and accommodation through GothiaSportsTravel.com, pack your white scarf and prepare to join the chorus of “¡Hala Madrid!” as the world’s most celebrated club takes the field.