Madrid: The Epicentre of European Football

With world-class museums, magnificent architecture, lively restaurants and bars and much more, Madrid has a lot going for it. Add to that an incredible footballing history and you have a city like no other

The NH Bellboy’s Tips

Real Madrid and Santiago Bernabeu Stadium

For most visiting football fans, Madrid means only one thing: Real Madrid. Established in 1902 and having obtained the royal seal (and incorporated the Spanish crown into its official emblem) in 1920, Real Madrid has developed into the most successful European club of all time. They have won a record number of Spanish league titles and European Cups and in 2000, were named by FIFA as the world's best football club of the XX century. None of this glory has waned in the new century, as many of the world's very best players have called Real's famous Bernabeu stadium home, including Zinedine Zidane, David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo, Roberto Carlos and Luis Figo, bringing with them a new swag of Spanish and European titles.

Situated on wide, tree-lined Paseo de la Castellana, Bernabeu is one of European football's premier stadiums to visit, a prestigious venue that since its inauguration in 1947, has hosted the biggest occasions in the game, including the finals of the Spanish Cup, European Championships, Champions League and World Cup. One of the earliest triumphs of super stadium architecture, this 85,000 seat footballing mecca offers fans an unforgettable experience, with the atmosphere on major occasions being truly electric.

Even if you are unable to catch a game, it is still worth visiting Bernabeu, with guided tours leaving at regular intervals daily. For €19, you can gain access to the dressing rooms, tunnels, coaching areas, press room and various boxes. There is also a fantastic museum here, with interactive displays and informative exhibits. A gift shop with the latest team merchandise ensures plenty of souvenir options, whilst the restaurant, Puerto 57, serves a range of tapas, pinxtos and traditional Spanish dishes, all of which can be enjoyed whilst looking onto the storied pitch.

Atletico Madrid and the Vicente Calderon Stadium

On the other hand, the passion and loyalty that Atlético de Madrid fans feel for their team is something that must be experienced up close, and better yet, at a Derby match! Considered the city’s ‘home team’ and that of the working class, Atlético is Spain’s third most successful team having won 10 titles in La Liga. The team regularly hosts the biggest clubs in La Liga, the Champions League, and the UEFA Cup. Atlético’s new Wanda Metropolitano stadium, inaugurated in 2017 and easily accessible by metro line 7 (Estadio Metropolitano stop), represents the teams growing fan base which can house up to 68,000 spectators. There are many things that make this upgraded and innovative stadium unique: more spacious seating, environmentally friendly installations, and state-of-the-art technology as the first stadium in the world to be 100% LED. Take a guided tour (Wanda Metropolitano Entrance Ticket) that includes access to the pitch, press room, mixed zone, changing rooms, and tunnel that players pass through. With the same ticket, you can also access the ‘Shirts and Legend Titles” exhibition, where you’ll find memorabilia and exclusive objects that will walk you through the team’s 115-year history. Non-guided tours are also available.


For those wanting a truly local football experience, away from the glitz and glamour of Madrid's two internationally renowned clubs, the traditionally working-class favourites of Rayo Vallecano and Getafe CF provide great entertainment and a thrilling atmosphere at their games, played as part of Spain's La Liga.

Aside from football, Madrid has a wealth of culture and history to explore. Museo del Prado, Spain's national art museum, is especially worth a visit, with a huge collection of stunning Spanish art from the likes of Goya and Velazquez. If second-hand treasures are your thing, then El Rastro, a sprawling market that takes place each Sunday in the Embajadores district, is hard to beat. For a taste of Madrid's famed nightlife, then the countless bars and clubs of the Malasaña neighbourhood should not disappoint, whilst Tribunal is a great place to carry the party on through the night.
When it comes to world-class football, exceptional cuisine and thrilling culture, few cities do it quite like Madrid. Experience it first hand as part of an unforgettable football break.


Planning your trip to Madrid? Check out our best city center hotels in Madrid.

Other articles