Planning a football trip to Spain’s capital in 2025? You’re not alone. Madrid hosts two of the world’s most decorated clubs, a pair of legendary stadiums, and a city brimming with culture. This guide covers everything you need to know for football trips to Madrid: from getting match tickets and choosing seats to itineraries, neighbourhoods, and costs. Whether you’re a lifelong Madridista, a curious Colchonero, or simply seeking a memorable sports holiday, read on for an in‑depth, up‑to‑date overview.

Why Madrid Is One of Europe’s Best Football Cities

Two elite clubs. Unlike other major European cities, Madrid hosts two powerhouse teams: Real Madrid, the record 15‑time Champions League winners, and Atlético Madrid, three‑time Europa League champions and Champions League finalists. Their rivalry, known as El Derbi Madrileño, is considered the second-largest derby in Spain, after El Clásico, and has been fiercely contested since 1906.

Legendary stadiums. Real Madrid’s home, the Santiago Bernabéu, reopened in late 2024 after a €1.347 billion renovation. The revamped stadium features a retractable roof, a 360‑degree video scoreboard, and a pitch that can be stored underground to host concerts and NFL games. Over on the east side of the city, Atlético’s Civitas Metropolitano (formerly Wanda) holds around 70,692 fans, with 96 % of seats covered and some seats just 5.89 m from the pitch. These improvements make both venues modern, comfortable, and spectacular.

Year‑round good weather. Madrid enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine each year, making any weekend a potential football holiday. High season runs from April to June and from September to October, when temperatures are mild and rainfall is low. Off‑season months (January–February) are quieter and cheaper, yet the climate remains moderate. This flexibility is handy when planning match travel around the Madrid football schedule.

Easy flights from Europe & US. The city’s Barajas airport (MAD) is a major hub with direct flights from London (2 hours 20 minutes), Manchester (2 hours 40 minutes), and other UK cities. From the United States, direct flights depart New York (≈7h25), Chicago (≈8h10), Miami (≈8h15), and Los Angeles (≈11h30). Airlines such as American, Delta, United, and Iberia operate these routes. Budget carriers within Europe make weekend trips to Madrid’s football matches affordable.

Real Madrid Football Trip Guide

Santiago Bernabéu — What to Expect in 2025

The renovated Bernabéu is now one of the world’s most advanced stadiums. Highlights include:

• Retractable roof & pitch: The new roof encloses the arena, and the entire playing surface can be lowered into an underground greenhouse, allowing concerts and other events. This also ensures a comfortable match experience at the Bernabéu, regardless of the weather.
  
  
• 360° video scoreboard: A wrap‑around screen runs along the perimeter, giving every fan a clear view of replays.
  
  
• LED facade: 10,000 LED lights illuminate the exterior with dynamic light shows during evening matches.
  
  
• Enhanced hospitality: New restaurants like Puerta 57, Arzábal, Plaza Mahou, and KO by 99, plus a forthcoming sky bar and Starbucks, make pre‑ and post‑match dining part of the entertainment.
  
  

These upgrades, combined with the stadium’s central location in the Chamartín district, create a premium atmosphere for the Real Madrid stadium tour and match days.

How to Get Real Madrid Tickets

Official sources: The club sells tickets via its website and app, but regular seats only become available about ten days before each match. VIP hospitality packages can be purchased further in advance. Members largely hold season tickets; the cheapest season ticket costs around €1,350 and the most expensive about €4,500.

Safe secondary marketplaces: If the official site sells out, platforms like SeatPick list resale tickets for sale. Expect higher prices—SeatPick’s average Real Madrid ticket cost €579 (2024‑25 season average €521). For big matches like El Clásico, average prices can exceed €1,494. Use reputable marketplaces that offer guarantees and avoid shady vendors near the stadium.

Avoiding scams: Real Madrid warns that fake tickets are rampant; only buy from the club or authorised sellers. Please note that digital tickets are non-transferable, and the club may require identification at entry.

When tickets go on sale: For La Liga games, non‑members can usually purchase tickets one day before the match if any remain. Champions League and major domestic games sell out weeks in advance. Set up alerts for the Real Madrid football schedule so you can act quickly.

Where to Sit at the Bernabéu

Best budget seats: The upper tiers behind the goals (Fondos Norte/Sur) offer a good atmosphere and cost around €75 for members or €100 for non-members. You’re further from the pitch but still enjoy the 360° scoreboard.

Best premium seats: The central sections along the sidelines (Lateral Oeste/East) offer the best view of the action. Expect to pay €287–410 for grandstand seats. VIP boxes and hospitality include gourmet meals and lounge access and cost significantly more.

Family‑friendly areas: Seats in the lower corners offer good sightlines and easier exits for children. Look for sections with less rowdiness and away from ultras.

Sections with the most noise: The south end (Grada FANS) is home to Real’s most passionate supporters. If you crave chants and tifo displays, this is the spot for you. Note that standing is common here; not ideal for first‑timers.

Real Madrid Matchday Itinerary

Start your day by exploring Chamartín or the central Sol district. For breakfast, enjoy café con leche and pastries at a local bakery—costs about €3–5. Then:

1. Bernabéu Tour: Before matchday, take the Bernabéu tour. The Classic Tour (€35) includes the museum, panoramic views, and trophy room. Flexible and guided options cost €42 and €54, respectively, while a combined tour plus match ticket starts at €57 (ticket site data).
   
   
2. Lunch & bars: For lunch, book a table at Arzábal (inside the stadium) or head to nearby Calle Padre Damián for tapas. The set lunch menu (menú del día) costs €12–15.
   
   
3. Pre‑match drinks: Fans congregate at bars along Avenida de Concha Espina. Try La Esquina or Irish pubs like O’Neill’s. Arrive at least 90 minutes before kickoff to immerse yourself in the atmosphere fully.
   
   
4. Match & post‑match: Use the Metro (Line 10, Santiago Bernabéu stop) to arrive. After the game, expect crowds; walking to nearby Cuzco or Colombia stations can shorten your journey. Keep an eye on the last train times, especially for late matches.
   
   

Atlético Madrid Football Trip Guide

Civitas Metropolitano Overview

Opened in 2017 and renamed in 2023, the Civitas Metropolitano is a modern and comfortable stadium renowned for its raucous atmosphere. It has a capacity of approximately 70,692, with 96% of seats covered, and was built to maximize comfort rather than size. Stands are arranged to bring fans close to the pitch—some seats are only 5.89 m away. Amenities include 1,000 indoor parking spots, 3,000 outdoor spaces, and family and fan zones on the north and south ends. The stadium hosted the 2019 Champions League final, demonstrating its world‑class credentials.

Atlético Madrid Tickets & Availability

Easier than Real Madrid. Getting Atlético Madrid tickets is generally less competitive. SeatPick lists average ticket prices around €339, with many fixtures starting as low as €25. The 2025‑26 season average is about €208.

When tickets go on sale: Tickets for La Liga games typically go on sale approximately one week before the match. Club members receive priority, so non‑members should buy as soon as they’re released. Major matches (e.g., the derby or Champions League) sell out quickly.

Ticket categories:

• Lateral Oeste/East: Equivalent to sideline seats, offering excellent views and mid‑range prices.
  
  
• Fondo Norte/Sur: Ends behind the goals; passionate fans gather here. The south end, near the ultras, is the loudest.
  
  
• Premium & VIP: Sections like Club Norte or Club Mahou include dining and lounge access and are priced higher.
  
  
• Away section: Visiting supporters are typically placed in the high tiers of the north end.
  
  

Best Places to Sit at the Metropolitano

Fan section: The Fondo Sur is home to Indios (Atlético’s ultras). Expect choreographed chants, flags and a charged atmosphere. This is ideal for experienced travellers who want to immerse themselves.

Comfortable seats: Choose Lateral Oeste or Lateral Este on the middle tiers for comfortable seats and better views at a reasonable price. The stands are designed with greater spacing between rows.

Family‑friendly tiers: The Fondo Norte has a dedicated family zone with more subdued fans. It’s great for children and anyone seeking a quieter experience.

Matchday Itinerary for Atlético Fans

Before heading to the stadium, explore east‑side neighbourhoods like Canillejas and Las Rosas. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

1. Pre‑match food & drinks: Local fans meet at the bars around Avenida de Arcentales and Plaza Llamas. Try traditional bocadillos and cañas (small beers) for around €20–30 per person.
   
   
2. Fan rituals: Atlético supporters often gather in the Fan Zone, located behind the south stand, where live music and food trucks are available.
   
   
3. Arriving: Metro Line 7 (stop: Estadio Metropolitano) brings you directly to the stadium. Plan to arrive one hour before kickoff to navigate security and soak up the atmosphere.
   
   
4. Post‑match: After the game, many fans continue celebrations at bars in the Canillejas area or take the metro back to the city centre. Avoid driving; traffic can be heavy.
   
   

Madrid Derby (El Derbi Madrileño)

The Madrid derby between Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid is steeped in history and cultural contrast. While Real have a larger global fan base and a record 15 Champions League titles, Atlético pride themselves on resilience and a loyal local following. Historically, Real’s success has been intertwined with political power—the Franco regime shifted its support to Los Blancos in the 1950s—whereas Atlético was once the military’s preferred club. The derby is more than a match; it’s a clash of social identities.

In 2025‑26, Real and Atlético meet twice in La Liga. According to the official schedule, the first derby will be at the Metropolitano on 27/28 September (matchday 7) and the return at the Bernabéu on 21/22 March (matchday 29). Tickets for the derby are among the most sought-after; expect them to sell out instantly, with resale prices exceeding €1,000. Plan ahead and budget accordingly.

Best Areas to Stay in Madrid for a Football Trip

Choosing where to stay depends on which stadium you plan to visit and what you want to experience outside football. Here are four recommended neighbourhoods:

Centro (Sol, Gran Vía & Los Austrias)

Madrid’s historic centre puts you within walking distance of Plaza Mayor, the Royal Palace, and the nightlife of the Gran Vía. This area offers a wide range of hotels, hostels, and apartments. It’s well‑connected to both stadiums via the Metro and bus network. Expect mid-range hotels to cost between €80 and €150 per night. Pro tip: avoid staying right on Calle Preciados if you value sleep—this shopping street buzzes late.

Chamartín (near Bernabéu)

This district, located north of the centre, is home to the Bernabéu. Staying here means you can walk to matches and enjoy upscale restaurants along Paseo de la Castellana. Hotels range from business-style chains to luxury options; mid‑range rooms run €80–150 per night, while high‑end hotels exceed €200.

Canillejas/Las Rosas (near Metropolitano)

These eastern neighbourhoods are a short walk from the Metropolitano. They’re quieter than the centre and offer affordable accommodations—look for budget hotels and Airbnb rooms around €30–60 per night. You’ll also find local tapas bars and easy access to the metro downtown.

Malasaña/Chueca (youth & food culture)

If nightlife and gastronomy are part of your weekend in Madrid, consider visitingMalasaña and Chueca. Malasaña, once the heart of the 1980s movida, now hosts trendy restaurants and specialty coffee shops. Neighboring Chueca is Madrid’s LGBTQ+ district, featuring cosmopolitan bars and shops. Accommodations range from boutique hotels to budget hostels.

How to Get Around Madrid

Metro system: Madrid’s metro is efficient, safe, and cheap. A single trip costs €1.50‑2.00, while a 10‑trip ticket costs €12.20. Tourists can purchase unlimited travel cards: €8.40 for one day, €14.20 for two days, and €18.40 for three days. Metro Line 10 serves the Bernabéu (Santiago Bernabéu station), and Line 7 serves the Metropolitano (Estadio Metropolitano station).

Taxi vs Uber: Taxis in Madrid start at €3.80 plus €1.10 per kilometre. Rideshares like Uber and Cabify are similarly priced but sometimes surge in price after matching. Public transport is usually faster on matchdays due to road closures.

Airport transport: The airport metro supplement is €3, making a metro trip to the centre €5. The EMT airport express bus costs €5 and operates 24 hours a day. A taxi from the airport to central Madrid is a flat rate of €30–40.

Stadium directions:

• To the Bernabéu: Take Metro Line 10 to Santiago Bernabéu station. From Puerta del Sol, it’s about 15 minutes. If you’re staying in Chamartín, the stadium is within walking distance.
  
  
• To the Metropolitano: Take Metro Line 7 to Estadio Metropolitano. Allow extra time for security checks. From the centre, the trip takes around 25 minutes.
  
  

Build Your 2–3 Day Madrid Football Weekend

Creating the perfect football itinerary depends on which matches you attend. Use these sample plans as inspiration:

Itinerary 1 – Real Madrid Match (2 Days)

Day 1:

1. Morning: Arrive and check into your hotel in Chamartín. Grab breakfast and explore nearby Castellana Avenue.
   
   
2. Afternoon: Take the Bernabéu stadium tour (Classic or guided). Visit the club museum to see all Real Madrid’s trophies—they’ve won more Champions League titles than any club.
   
   
3. Evening: Have dinner at Plaza Mahou inside the stadium or head to Azca district for modern Spanish cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely evening; matches typically start around 9 p.m.
   
   

Day 2:

1. Late morning: Visit cultural sites like the Prado Museum or Retiro Park. Lunch on tapas in the vibrant La Latina district.
   
   
2. Late afternoon: Head to bars near the Bernabéu for pre‑match drinks. Buy any last‑minute merchandise at the club shop.
   
   
3. Evening: Watch Real Madrid play. After the game, celebrate in the stadium bars or return to the city centre via metro.
   
   

Itinerary 2 – Atlético Madrid Match (2 Days)

Day 1:

1. Morning: Stay in Canillejas or Las Rosas. Explore Parque El Capricho nearby.
   
   
2. Afternoon: Tour the Civitas Metropolitano. While there’s no official museum yet, the club offers behind‑the‑scenes tours and you can take photos on the pitch.
   
   
3. Evening: Eat at local taverns on Calle de Alcalá. Sample bocadillos de calamares and patatas bravas.
   
   

Day 2:

1. Morning: Visit the Royal Palace or stroll through the historic Austrias district.
   
   
2. Afternoon: Join the fan zone near the Metropolitano for live music and activities. Pick up scarves and flags.
   
   
3. Evening: Experience an Atlético match. Afterward, head to bars in Canillejas for celebrations.
   
   

Itinerary 3 – See Both Stadiums (3 Days)

Day 1: Bernabéu tour, city sightseeing, and a Real Madrid match.

Day 2: Rest in the morning; explore Malasaña and Chueca for boutique shopping and cafés. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Metropolitano.

Day 3: Check out the El Rastro flea market (Sunday) or take a day trip to nearby Toledo or Segovia. In the evening, attend an Atlético match if fixtures allow.

Costs of a Football Trip to Madrid

A trip’s cost will vary based on match tickets, accommodation, food and transportation. Use these 2025 estimates to budget:

Match ticket prices

• Real Madrid: La Liga seats start around €75 for members or €100 for non‑members and can rise to €287–410 for premium seats. Resale prices average €579, with marquee games like the derby or El Clásico exceeding €1,000.
  
  
• Atlético Madrid: Tickets start at €25 and average around €339, with many regular matches priced at around €200.
  
  

Accommodation

• Budget: Hostels or basic guesthouses cost €30‑60 per night.
  
  
• Mid‑range: Three‑ and four‑star hotels cost €80‑150 per night.
  
  
• Luxury: Five-star hotels and boutique properties cost € 200 or more.
  
  

Food & transport

• Food: Breakfast at a café costs €3‑5; a lunch menú del día is €12‑15, tapas bar hopping €20‑30, dinner at a mid‑range restaurant €25‑40.
  
  
• Transport: Single metro/bus tickets cost €1.50- € 2.00; a 10-trip ticket is €12.20; unlimited tourist passes cost €8.40 (1 day), €14.20 (2 days), and €18.40 (3 days). Airport transfers cost €5 by metro, €5–€ 6 by bus, and €30–€ 40 by taxi.
  
  

Stadium tours

• Bernabéu tours: Classic €35; flexible schedule €42; guided visit €54; tour + match ticket €57 (ticket site data). Discounts are available for children and seniors.
  
  
• Metropolitano tours: Pricing varies but is typically around €20–25 for adults and €15 for children. Tours are shorter than those at the Bernabéu but include access to dressing rooms and the pitch.
  
  

Final Thoughts

Madrid combines football prestige with cultural richness and affordable travel costs. With two elite teams, world‑class stadiums, and more than 300 sunny days per year, it’s an ideal destination for fans worldwide. Plan ahead for ticket sales, choose seats that suit your budget and atmosphere preferences, and explore the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods. Whether you’re spending a weekend watching Real Madrid lift more trophies or embracing the loyal community at Atlético, this guide equips you to make the most of your Madrid football trip in 2025.