My Personal Matchday Tips at the Bernabéu
Matchday is probably the moment you’ve been looking forward to for months, or perhaps even years. That’s exactly why you want to make the most of it. I’ve now attended more than ten Real Madrid home matches and, over the years, I’ve discovered what can make a matchday in and around the Santiago Bernabéu that little bit more enjoyable, easier and more comfortable.
Below, I’m sharing the tips I personally use on every trip to Madrid.
Public Transport to the Santiago Bernabéu
The Santiago Bernabéu is extremely easy to reach by metro. Get off at Santiago Bernabéu metro station and you’ll find yourself almost directly in front of the stadium’s main entrance.
After the match, the metro can get extremely busy. If you’re not in a hurry, stay around the stadium for another hour, grab a drink to celebrate the win and then make your way back to your hotel. It’s much more comfortable and gives you some extra time to enjoy the experience.
Food and Drinks at the Santiago Bernabéu
You are allowed to bring food and drinks into the stadium when attending a Real Madrid match. I recommend buying something beforehand from one of the stalls or supermarkets around the Santiago Bernabéu.
Keep in mind that the cap must be removed from any bottle before entering the stadium. Food and drinks inside the stadium are considerably more expensive, and the queues during half-time can also be quite long.
Buy an Official Match Scarf
For me, a match scarf is a must-have at every game I attend. The scarf features the date and opponent, giving you a great souvenir to remember your visit.
Around the Bernabéu, scarves usually cost around €10. At some stalls, you can get two for €15. They also make for a great photo inside the stadium.
Store Your Luggage Near the Santiago Bernabéu
Travelling directly to the airport after the match? In that case, carrying a suitcase or backpack to the stadium isn’t ideal. I regularly use Bounce, where you can easily store your luggage just a few minutes’ walk from the Santiago Bernabéu.
Prices are usually around €5 per item, and it saves you a lot of hassle.
Watch the Real Madrid Team Bus Arrive
The Real Madrid team bus arrives at the Santiago Bernabéu approximately 90 minutes before kick-off. The bus drives along Concha Espina towards Plaza de los Sagrados Corazones and the stadium.
Want to see the players arrive up close? Then this is definitely the time to find a good spot.
Enjoy the Atmosphere Around the Santiago Bernabéu
One of my favourite moments of matchday is the period before kick-off. Especially when the weather is nice, there’s nothing better than having a drink in the streets around the Bernabéu while more and more supporters arrive.
You’ll find restaurants and cafés on all sides of the stadium where you can grab a beer and soak up the unique atmosphere before the match.
Visit the Stalls Around the Santiago Bernabéu
You’ll find stalls selling Real Madrid merchandise on almost every street around the Santiago Bernabéu. From shirts and scarves to flags, caps and other souvenirs, there’s plenty to choose from.
Even if you don’t want to buy anything, it’s worth taking a walk past the stalls and experiencing the lively atmosphere.
Finding a Toilet Around the Santiago Bernabéu
With all the excitement before the match, there’s a good chance you’ll need to find a toilet at some point. I often use the toilets at one of the restaurants around the stadium.
There are also regularly portable toilets on Calle Santo Domingo de Silos, next to Burger King.
Enter the Santiago Bernabéu Early
The Santiago Bernabéu usually opens around 90 minutes before kick-off. In my experience, security moves supporters inside quickly, so queues are generally manageable.
I always enter the stadium well in advance. This gives you plenty of time to find your seat, take some photos and soak up the unique atmosphere before the players step onto the pitch.
For me, that makes the entire matchday experience even more special.
