Santiago Bernabeu Stadium — home of Real Madrid FC

Santiago Bernabéu is the home stadium of one of the most titled football clubs in the world, Real Madrid.

History of the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium

The Santiago Bernabeu stadium opened in 1947 and at that time was called Estadio de Chamartín. In 1955 it was renamed in honor of the club’s president, Santiago Bernabeu, and two years later it became the world’s first illuminated stadium. In 1965, the club’s administration was moved here.

Throughout its history, the arena has hosted the finals of the European Nations Cup, Champions League, Copa Libertadores, Intercontinental Cup, UEFA Cup, and Copa del Rey, as well as matches of the 1982 FIFA World Cup.

Major concerts are constantly held at the San Bernabeu Stadium. Julio Iglesias, Frank Sinatra, U2, Bruce Springsteen, and The Rolling Stones appeared on its stage. Taylor Swift performed here in May 2024.

Reconstruction of the Santiago Bernabeu

The first reconstruction of the stadium to increase its capacity was carried out in 1952. For the 1982 World Cup, a roof was installed here, partially covering three stands with seats from the weather. Also, the lighting at the Santiago Bernabeu was improved and modern scoreboards were installed.

In the 1990s, third tiers were added to the stands behind the goal and the western stands, a retractable roof was built over the eastern stands, and towers were erected at each corner of the stadium for speedy entry and evacuation.

In the 2000s, restaurants and a brand store, which you can visit to shop for merchandise appeared at the Santiago Bernabeu. At the same time, the stadium began to regularly host entertainment events on non-match days.

In 2019, the largest reconstruction in the history of the arena began. Completion of work on the new Santiago Bernabeu stadium, which has already become the most technically advanced in the world, is scheduled for 2024. The project includes:

• Increases capacity to 85,000 seats by adding a new 4,000-seat level. As a result, 10 meters will be added to the stadium’s height.
• Installation of a sliding roof and a retractable slope.
• Installation of a screen that encircles the stands 360 degrees and provides a new football viewing experience.
• The facade is covered with steel plates onto which projections can be made.
• Installation of an innovative retractable field system. When there are no games on the schedule, the lawn is stored at a depth of 25 meters in a room with an irrigation system and ultraviolet lighting. The covering is divided into wide strips, which are raised and lowered using hydraulic lifts. As a result, before the match, the field is folded into a perfectly flat surface in impeccable condition. This know-how will allow various events to be held without damaging the grass.

Where is the Santiago Bernabeu located?

The stadium is located in the Hispanoamerica district north of the city center. Within a radius of three kilometers, there is the National Museum of Natural Sciences, the Joaquin Sorolla House Museum, and the Sweet Space Museum of Contemporary Art.

How to get to the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium

The Santiago Bernabeu Stadium can be reached by two types of public transport:

• On the subway. The station closest to the arena is called Santiago Bernabeu.
• By bus. City routes 14, 27, 40, 43, 120, 126, 147, and 150 stop near the stadium. The nearest stops are Lima-Santiago Bernabéu, Santiago Bernabéu, Rafael Salgado, Castellana – Rafael Salgado, Padre Damián – Rafael Salgado, Sagrados Corazones

Address and opening hours of the Santiago Bernabeu stadium

The arena is located at Av. de Concha Espina, 1, Chamartin, 28036 Madrid. The Santiago Bernabeu is open to visiting every day except December 25 and January 1. From Monday to Saturday, it is open from 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and on Sundays and holidays from 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Anyone can purchase a ticket for a tour of the Santiago Bernabeu stadion and visit the museum, and the rooms under the stands, take a photo with the Champions League Cup, and look at the field from above. Tours can be with or without a guide.

Where to eat near the Santiago Bernabeu

The Santiago Bernabeu Stadium is located near the center of Madrid, surrounded by dense buildings. There are several good places around it to eat while waiting for the match or to celebrate a Real Madrid victory.

• Iztac is a Mexican restaurant headed by Juan Matias. Here you can try authentic South American dishes from all over Mexico and wash it all down with rich cocktails and tequila.
• Kilómetros de Pizza is a trendy pizzeria 9 minutes walk from the stadium. Here they make pizza up to two meters long, ideal for a large company. Jesús Marquina is in charge of the kitchen, a famous chef who specializes in this dish and has received many awards.
• The Irish Rover is another popular spot near the Santiago Bernabeu. This is an Irish pub that has been in business for two decades. Concerts and broadcasts of sporting events are constantly held here. Guests can sit on the terrace at any time of the year.
• Criado Marisquería Restaurante is a seafood restaurant operating in Madrid since 1962. In addition to a variety of sea creatures and fish, meat dishes are also served here.
• Zalacaín Restaurant is another representative of the old establishments, opened in 1973. It is listed in the Michelin Guide and offers guests a gastronomic experience, thought out to the smallest detail. The restaurant boasts one of the best wine lists in the country.

Where to stay near the Santiago Bernabeu stadium

Within walking distance of the Santiago Bernabeu, there are hotels of different categories and hostels that are suitable for a short stay in Madrid.

Five-star hotels

• Hotel Puerta America Madrid. It attracts with the designer interior of the rooms, excellent restaurants, and bars, including on the top floor, which offers stunning views of the city.
• Hyatt Regency Hesperia Madrid. This is a great option, with a bar and three restaurants, including the two Michelin-starred Smoked Room. The gym is open 24 hours a day and offers panoramic views of Madrid.

Four-star hotels

• NYX Hotel Madrid. It has an unusual interior design. There is an Arts Garden, which is an exhibition of works by artists. Interesting exhibits can be found elsewhere in the hotel. An outdoor swimming pool is available on the roof during the warmer months. There is a bar and restaurant for guests.
• H10 Tribeca. Its design is made in an industrial style. Meals are served at the Soho Mediterranean Restaurant and cocktails are served at the hotel lobby bar. Of particular note is the area with bookshelves and comfortable sofas near the bar.

Three-star hotels

• Hotel Luze Castellana. It is located near the Santiago Bernabeu stadion. There is an outdoor pool, a restaurant serving lunch and dinner, a breakfast buffet, and vending machines for snacks and drinks.
• Érase un Hotel. Accepts guests with pets. The color purple is often used in its interior, and posters with motivational phrases hang throughout. The café serves nutritious breakfasts and lunches.

Hostels

• Far Home Bernabeu. There are not only multi-bed rooms, but also rooms for one or two people. All guests can book a free city tour. In the common area, you can have a snack and work, and on the outdoor terrace, you can enjoy the fresh air and the Spanish sun.
• Safestay Madrid Central. Budget hostel near the center of Madrid. It also has rooms for any number of guests. There is a café and a bar on the roof for visitors. In the hostel, they serve breakfast, organize film screenings and DJ sets, and have vending machines with food and drinks, a library, and a games room. There is a beautiful garden open for guests.

Read also: TOP-10 stadiums in Spain

Santiago Bernabeu Stadium on the map

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