Usually, we will try and watch a football match when we visit a new city. Sadly, like on this occasion in Bilbao, it doesn’t always work out. However, we took the advice of a few of our followers, and the hotel receptionist and booked an Athletic Club Stadium tour.
Where is Athletic Club’s Stadium?
Getting to the stadium
When in or near Bilbao you have multiple options on how to get to the stadium:
Metro – San Mamés is the station you exit for the stadium, which is a short walk away. (We took this option and it was very straightforward.)
Walk – Bilbao is not a big city, you would be able to walk from Casco Viejo (old town) in about 30-45 minutes.
Bus – Lines 62 and 28 pass the stadium (just make sure you’re going the right way).
Car – Parking seems to be ample around the stadium on non event days.
Stadium Tour Prices and Opening Hours
Opening hours vary depending on the season and other events taking place in the stadium. Keep an eye on their website for up to date hours and prices.
We paid 37.50 euro for two adults and one child, this included museum, stadium tour and an audio guide.
What to expect on the stadium tour?
The tour is split into two parts, the museum section followed by the stadium section.
Museum Tour
We checked in at reception and collected our tickets. With COVID restrictions audio guides are available to download via your phone, with headphones for sale for a few euros. If you’re stuck, they will provide you with a handheld guide, so don’t worry if you’re not the most technical!
First up were the red lights leading the way to the museum…
WOW! This is how we would describe the museum. We learned tons about the club from its humble origins, recruitment structure, and links to the community. It is set out brilliantly, and is far from the usual somewhat boring and white museum like atmosphere.
The audio guide was brilliant, it was supplemented well with information boards all over the museum and over 600 videos to watch.
We spent about 90 mins in the museum, but honestly, we could have spent a lot longer.
Stadium tour
Once finished in the museum section, it’s time to visit the stadium!
This was our first proper view of the inside of San Mamés. Here the audio guide told us about the development of the new stadium and some facts such as, the seats in the stadium are as close to the pitch as allowed by regulations, and that the pitch is actually 9ft below ground level.
The audio guide took us behind the goal and into the green zone. It was here Daddy, Megan and Doggy got interviewed by the waiting press (Mummy) in the huge press room.
Next up was the home changing room. Megan chose to have her photo taken in front of number eight, her age! As it was a self guided tour, we were able to spend as much or as little time in each section. There was no crowding and plenty of opportunity for photos. From here we then got ourselves ready to run down the tunnel where the players enter the pitch from on match day. This is always Megan’s favourite part!
We couldn’t pass up the opportunity for a quick sit down in the dugouts. It’s amazing to think some very famous footballers have sat in those same seats.
The tour then led us back inside again and up into the VIP areas and the Presidential box, for the best view in the house!
At this point the stadium tour ended and we made our way outside via the mandatory visit to the club shop. The stadium section of the tour lasted about an hour, but as mentioned before, we never felt any pressure to move on, and could have spent longer if we wanted.
Don’t fancy a stadium tour?
Top Tip: If you’re tight on time, or budget, but would still like to see inside the ground, there is a way!! Beside the stadium shop is a sports bar, inside and upstairs is a bar area where you can take a seat with views inside the stadium. However, we have to say you will miss a fantastic tour!
Would we recommend?
Yes. We have done many stadium tours and the Athletic Club Stadium tour is one of the best we have done. It kept us all interested, there was something for everyone. From in depth information for the football fans and history buffs, to interactive games for the kids! We can’t recommend this tour enough.
Hopefully you enjoyed our post on ‘Athletic Club Stadium Tour’ and add it to your list of places to visit when visiting the wonderful city of Bilbao.
Thanks
The Lewis Family.
