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אצטדיון סנטיאגו ברנבאו ריאל מדריד — צילום: Americo Toledano / Wikimedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is the home of Real Madrid, one of the most magnificent and advanced sports venues in the entire world, and an absolute must-visit destination for every Israeli football fan who wants to experience European football at the highest level. With the completion of the historic renovation project in 2024-2025 at an estimated cost of more than €2 billion, the stadium underwent a complete transformation and turned from a respected sports facility into a leisure and culture complex from the future. The new Bernabéu includes an impressive retractable roof, a retractable grass pitch that descends underground, 83,186 comfortable seats, giant 360-degree LED screens that wrap around the entire stadium, and thousands of square meters of hospitality, dining, and entertainment areas. This comprehensive guide was written especially for Israeli fans planning to fly to Madrid to experience the new Bernabéu — with all the practical, up-to-date details on tickets, direct flights, recommended hotels, dining options including kosher, and essential tips to help you get the most out of the experience.

About the stadium — the new Bernabéu that's changing the rules of the game

Santiago Bernabéu Stadium first opened on 14 December 1947, when Real Madrid beat Os Belenenses 3-1 in the first Christmas match. Since then, the stadium has undergone several significant renovations and expansions — in 1953, in 1982 ahead of the World Cup in Spain, and in 2001 when the third tier was added. But nothing in the stadium's history comes close to the massive project completed recently, which turned the Bernabéu into one of the most advanced facilities on the face of the earth.

The renovation project, designed by the international architecture firm GMP Architects and the Spanish firm L35, began in 2019 and continued until 2025. The work was carried out partly in parallel with matches, with Real Madrid playing part of the seasons at the nearby Alfredo Di Stéfano stadium. The final result is a stadium that not only glorifies football, but sets an entirely new standard for sports and entertainment venues in the world.

Key numbers and facts

The stadium is located in the very heart of Madrid, on the famous Paseo de la Castellana — one of the most central, elegant, and important avenues in the Spanish capital. The avenue crosses the city from north to south and is lined with impressive office towers, luxury hotels, embassies, and shopping centers. This central location makes getting to the stadium extremely convenient and allows you to combine matchday with a full, rich day of entertainment in this amazing city.

Seating map and ticket categories — the complete guide

The seating system at the new Bernabéu is divided into several categories and tiers, with prices varying significantly according to the exact location in the stadium, the identity of the opponent, the stage of the season, and the overall importance of the match. Understanding the seating structure will help you choose the perfect ticket for you. Here is the complete, up-to-date breakdown of all the categories:

Category 4 — the upper stands (Tier Superior)

The highest seats in the stadium, located mainly behind the two goals on the upper level. Expected price range: €75 to €150 for regular league matches against mid-table teams. Although these are the "farthest" seats from the pitch, in the new Bernabéu the visibility is excellent from every point in the stadium thanks to the updated architectural design, which significantly reduced the distance between the upper tier and the pitch. The acoustics in this area are especially great — the closed shape of the roof creates a "noise bowl" effect that amplifies the atmosphere. Especially recommended for fans visiting for the first time who want to experience the match and the atmosphere on a reasonable budget without compromising on the experience.

Category 3 — upper side stand (Tier Superior Lateral)

Seats in the upper tier but along the sides of the pitch, giving a better viewing angle than Category 4. Expected price range: €100 to €200 for regular league matches. From here you get an excellent view of both halves of the pitch, and you can follow the players' tactics and movement in the best possible way. This is a popular option among fans who understand football and want a tactical perspective.

Category 2 — Lower Tier

Seats in the lower tier of the stadium, relatively close to the pitch and offering a sense of intimacy with the match. Expected price range: €150 to €250 for league matches. This is the most popular category among tourists and fans from abroad — close enough to the pitch to see the players' facial expressions, hear the manager's shouts, but still with a wide enough perspective to see the whole pitch and understand the match. Seats along the halfway line (Lateral Central) are the most expensive in this category and can reach €300 and up.

Category 1 — front-row seats (Primera Fila)

The seats closest to the green pitch, in rows 1-10 of the lower tier. Expected price range: €200 to €350 for league matches. From here you're right in the middle of the action — you hear the ball being kicked, see the sweat on the players' faces, feel the vibration of the crowd around you. An unforgettable experience that every football fan owes themselves at least once in a lifetime. Note that from the very lowest rows, the perspective on the far side of the pitch is limited — but the feeling makes up for everything.

VIP and hospitality — luxury Hospitality packages

The new Bernabéu offers a range of hospitality and VIP experiences at a level that doesn't exist at any other stadium in Europe. Price range: €300 to €410 and significantly more — depending on the type of package, the match, and the season. The main options include:

Important tips for buying tickets

How to get there from Israel — flights, transport, and logistics

Madrid is one of the most accessible and popular destinations from Israel, with excellent direct flight connections and a convenient flight duration that makes a Thursday-to-Saturday trip or an extended weekend a realistic and practical option. Here's everything you need to know about getting from Ben Gurion Airport to your seat in the stadium:

Direct flights from Israel

Two major airlines operate direct flights from Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) to Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (code: MAD):

From the airport to the stadium — all the options

Madrid-Barajas Airport is the largest airport in Spain and is located about 20 km northeast of the city center and the stadium. Options for getting there from the airport:

Public transport to the stadium on matchday

The Bernabéu is located in central Madrid and is very accessible by public transport. Here are the options:

Important tip from experience: On matchdays, arrive in the stadium area at least an hour and a half to two hours before kickoff. The Santiago Bernabéu metro station gets very crowded and sometimes the police close it temporarily due to overcrowding — in that case, get off at the next station (Cuzco) and continue on foot for 10 minutes. Finding parking in the area is a nightmare — forget about a car.

Hotels near the stadium — where to sleep

One of the biggest and most notable advantages of the Bernabéu is its central location within the city — unlike many stadiums in Europe that are located in the suburbs. There are dozens of high-quality hotels in a wide price range within walking distance of the stadium. Here are our detailed recommendations:

Canopy by Hilton Madrid Castellana — our recommended choice

A stylish, modern boutique hotel from the international Hilton chain, located an easy 10-minute walk from the stadium along the Castellana. The hotel offers contemporary design inspired by Madrid's culture, a stunning rooftop bar with a panoramic view of Madrid's skyline, an excellent, rich breakfast, a well-equipped gym, and friendly, professional service. Price range: €120 to €180 per night for a standard room. Excellent value for money and maximum convenience for those coming mainly for the match.

NH Collection Madrid Paseo del Prado — Spanish classic

A respected 4-star hotel from the Spanish NH chain, with a convenient central location near Paseo de la Castellana. Spacious, clean rooms, excellent service in an authentic Spanish style, very accessible by public transport to all of Madrid's points of interest, including of course the stadium. Price range: €95 to €150 per night. A great option for those who want to combine a comprehensive tour of Madrid (the Prado Museum, the Royal Palace, Retiro Park) with watching the match.

NYX Hotel Madrid by Leonardo — a young, vibrant option

A hotel with a young, vibrant, modern atmosphere, located in the charming Chamberí neighborhood — one of the most authentic and beautiful neighborhoods in Madrid, a 15-minute walk from the stadium. An indoor bar and restaurant with a DJ on weekend evenings, unique artistic design with works by local artists in every corner, and colorful, inviting rooms. Price range: €100 to €160 per night. Especially suited for young couples and groups of friends looking for a complete experience beyond the match.

More options for every budget

Important tip: On big matchnights (El Clásico, Champions League), hotel prices rise by 30-50% and even more. Book as early as possible — at least a month in advance, and preferably two. A flexible cancellation policy is worth the small premium.

Food at the stadium and nearby — the culinary guide

The Bernabéu's massive renovation didn't just upgrade the sporting experience — the food and drink experience also underwent a real revolution. Madrid in general is a culinary paradise, and the stadium area doesn't disappoint. Here is the complete, detailed guide to all the food options:

Inside the stadium — Bernabéu Market

The stadium's new dining and food area is an attraction in its own right that draws visitors even on days without matches. Bernabéu Market It is an impressive food hall, designed to an international standard, covering an area of 3,000 sq m, operating every day of the year. In the food market you'll find a rich variety of options:

Prices inside the stadium: beer €5-7, a sandwich or light dish €6-10, a full meal with a drink €15-25. On matchdays expect long lines at halftime — it's highly recommended to eat a full meal before arriving or to arrive early (two hours before) to eat calmly.

Arzábal — fine dining on another level

The restaurant Arzábal is the stadium's new flagship restaurant, offering a very high-level dining experience with a direct, stunning view of the green pitch. The menu combines modern Spanish cuisine with seasonal, local ingredients. Worth visiting even if you didn't come for a match — the food and atmosphere are worth the visit on their own. Main courses: €20-40, tasting menu: €55-80. Advance reservations required, especially on weekends and matchdays.

Restaurants nearby — Paseo de la Castellana and the neighborhood

The magnificent avenue where the stadium is located, and the nearby Chamartín neighborhood, are full of excellent restaurants and great bars:

Kosher food in Madrid — important information for those who keep kosher

For Israeli fans who keep kosher — it's very important to know that the kosher options in Madrid are limited but definitely exist with advance planning. Here is the up-to-date, detailed information:

Practical tips for Israeli fans

Madrid is a friendly, safe, and accessible destination for Israelis, but there are a few important, specific things worth knowing to get the most out of the trip:

Visa, entry, and documents

Personal safety

Madrid is a very safe city for tourists, including Israelis. Spain in general is consistently considered one of the safest countries in Europe for travelers. That said, as in any big city:

Language and communication

The official language is Spanish (Castilian). The level of English in Madrid is moderate — in big hotels, tourist restaurants, and shopping centers there's no problem communicating in English, but in local neighborhoods, small bars, and public transport it's worth knowing a few basic phrases:

The Google Translate app works great with Spanish, including real-time camera translation — it's worth downloading the Spanish language pack offline before your flight so it also works without internet.

Money and payments

Weather and recommended clothing

Historic moments at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

The Bernabéu isn't just a football stadium — it's a temple of sport with a rich, wonderful history spanning almost 80 years. Every stone, every seat, every corner of this stadium is steeped in unforgettable moments that shaped world football. Here are the greatest moments that happened here:

Four Champions League finals — history on the pitch

The stadium had the great honor of hosting 4 European Cup and Champions League finals over the years:

Legends who were born and became eternal at the Bernabéu

The retractable pitch — an innovation that's changing the rules of the game

One of the most impressive and unique engineering innovations in the renovation is the retractable pitch. The natural grass, weighing thousands of tons, sits on a giant hydraulic platform that allows the entire grass surface to be lowered underground within just under 5 hours. In the underground storage facility, the grass is maintained in perfect conditions — artificial light that simulates sunlight, a temperature of 18-22°C, and controlled humidity. This technology allows the stadium to host huge concerts (Taylor Swift, Beyoncé), NFL games, tennis tournaments, fashion events, and more — all without harming the grass at all. This technology is unique to the Bernabéu and has no equivalent in any other stadium in the world.

The 2030 World Cup — the future

The stadium has been officially selected as one of the main venues that will host the 2030 World Cup, which will be jointly organized by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco (with opening matches in Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay). The Bernabéu is expected to host group stage matches, knockout stages, and perhaps even the final itself — which will make it the stage for yet another huge historic moment in world football.

FAQ — FAQ

How much do tickets cost for a Real Madrid match at the Bernabéu?

Prices vary significantly depending on the match, location, and season. For regular league matches against mid-table teams: from €75 for the upper stands (Category 4) up to €410 and above for VIP packages. Big, prestigious matches like El Clásico against Barcelona or Champions League knockout stages can cost 3-5 times more than the regular price. At TikTik you can find tickets for every match without exception, including ones sold out on the official website, with full guarantee and Hebrew-language customer service.

Can you tour the stadium even without a match?

Absolutely yes! The Bernabéu Tour is open to the public almost every day of the year, including on matchdays (up to a few hours before kickoff). The upgraded tour includes the new interactive museum with AR and VR technologies, the players' dressing room, the tunnel through which they go out to the pitch, the stadium itself from special viewpoints, and the Bernabéu Market. Price: about €25-35 for adults, €18-25 for children. Highly recommended to book in advance on the official website to avoid lines.

What's the best spot in the stadium to watch from?

The answer depends on your budget and personal preferences. For the most electric, wild atmosphere — Fondo Sur (the stand behind the south goal), where the Grada Fans sit — passionate Real Madrid ultras who don't stop singing for 90 minutes. For the best, most comprehensive view of the match — Lower Tier along the halfway line (Lateral), but also the highest price. For excellent value for the experience — Category 3 on the side (Superior Lateral) — you see everything, hear everything, and don't break the bank.

What's the fastest way to get from the airport to the stadium?

The fastest way is an official taxi (€30 fixed price, 25-40 minutes depending on traffic). The most economical way is the metro — Line 8 from Terminal 4 of the airport to Nuevos Ministerios, a short transfer to Line 10 to Santiago Bernabéu station. About 50 minutes door to door, only €5 including the airport zone surcharge.

Is there kosher food inside the Bernabéu stadium?

Unfortunately, there's no dedicated certified kosher food option inside the stadium itself. Our warm recommendation: eat a full, filling kosher meal before arriving at the stadium, bring packaged kosher snacks from home or a supermarket, and at the stadium make do with fruit, soft drinks in a sealed bottle, and beer (most Spanish beers are kosher). The Madrid Chabad community can help arrange kosher food in advance — get in touch while you're still in Israel.

What's the weather like at the stadium in the winter months?

Madrid in winter is relatively cold and dry — 5-12°C during the day, and in the evening at the stadium the temperature can drop to 2-5°C. The new Bernabéu's retractable roof provides excellent protection from rain and wind, but the stadium isn't air conditioned or heated. Dress in layers (3-4 layers), bring a warm winter coat, gloves, a scarf, and even a wool hat. A thermos with a hot drink can save your evening.

Is the area around the Bernabéu safe at night after a match?

Absolutely yes. The area around the Bernabéu is an upscale business district and high-end residential neighborhood — very safe even in the late night hours. After matches there's a heavy, organized police presence on all the nearby streets and at the metro stations. Practical advice: wait 20-30 minutes after the final whistle before leaving the stadium — this significantly reduces the congestion at the metro station and on the roads, and makes the return to your hotel more comfortable and pleasant.

Want to experience the new Bernabéu for yourself?

Book tickets for Real Madrid through TikTik — a wide selection of tickets for every match, including sold-out ones! Hebrew-language service, full guarantee, and competitive prices.

Book tickets for Real Madrid now

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Written by Yehuda MizrahiLast updated: September 2026

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