The Bernabéu: A Stadium Reimagined

Real Madrid’s Bernabéu Stadium (officially rebranded from “Santiago Bernabéu Stadium”) has undergone one of the most ambitious stadium renovations in sports history. The €1.3+ billion project, completed in late 2024, has transformed a legendary but aging venue into a futuristic multipurpose complex. The stadium now features a retractable roof, a retractable pitch (stored in a six-layer underground chamber called the Hypogeum), a 360-degree LED panoramic screen, a stainless-steel louvered façade, and a rooftop skywalk with panoramic city views.

With a capacity of approximately 83,000, it remains one of the largest stadiums in Europe. But what sets the new Bernabéu apart is its versatility: the retractable pitch system allows the venue to convert from a soccer field to a concert hall, NFL field, or event space in roughly 20 hours. This engineering marvel is now central to Real Madrid’s strategy of hosting year-round events — and a major draw for sports tourists.

Real Madrid Matchday

La Liga runs from August through May, with Real Madrid typically playing home fixtures on weekends and occasionally midweek. Champions League nights are among the most electric sporting experiences in the world. Spanish match scheduling is confirmed only 2-3 weeks ahead, so flexibility in travel plans is key.

Insider Tip

The Bernabéu Tour is one of the best stadium experiences in world soccer. The rooftop skywalk alone is worth the visit for the views. On non-matchdays, the stadium’s restaurants and entertainment spaces are open. Book tour tickets online in advance to guarantee entry.
The Camp Nou Experience Tour

Real Madrid Femení

Real Madrid’s women’s team competes in the Liga F, Spain’s top women’s soccer league. They play home matches at the Alfredo Di Stéfano Stadium at Real Madrid’s Ciudad Deportiva (Sports City) training complex in Valdebebas. Tickets are affordable and the atmosphere is growing rapidly as the women’s game expands in Spain. A great option for families or fans looking for an additional soccer experience.

Atlético de Madrid

Atlético de Madrid, the city’s passionate “other” club, plays at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium (formerly Civitas Metropolitano, originally Wanda Metropolitano). Opened in 2017 with a capacity of approximately 70,000, the Metropolitano is a modern, atmospheric venue that hosted the 2019 Champions League Final. Atlético’s fans are famously intense, and the matchday experience here is raw, loud, and authentic.

Tickets are generally easier to obtain and less expensive than Real Madrid fixtures, though dynamic pricing still applies — expect €80–300+ for most La Liga games depending on the opponent and seat location. The Madrid derby — when Atlético host Real — is one of the most fiercely contested fixtures in European soccer and one of the ultimate bucket-list experiences for any fan (and priced accordingly).

Atlético de Madrid Femení

Atlético’s women’s team also competes in Liga F and has a dedicated following. Home matches are played at the Centro Deportivo Wanda Alcorcón. Like the men’s team, the women’s side carries Atlético’s trademark grit and passion. Affordable tickets make it easy to add to a Madrid sports itinerary.

Rayo Vallecano

For a truly local experience, Rayo Vallecano plays in the working-class Vallecas neighborhood at the Campo de Fútbol de Vallecas (capacity ~14,000). Known for one of the most politically outspoken and passionate fan bases in Spain, a Rayo match is as much a cultural experience as a sporting one. Tickets are cheap and the atmosphere is electric.

Getafe CF

Getafe is a suburban Madrid club that has played in two Copa del Rey Finals. The origins of the club date to 1923, though costs and the Guerra Civil (Civil War) led to the end of the original club, and the club was launched again in 1946 and finally relaunched in current state in the 1980s, rising from the third division to second division and finally to the top division in La Liga. They play at Estadio Coliseum, with capacity for 16,500.

Madrid CFF

Founded in 2010 as an independent Spanish women’s football team, the club rose rapidly in stature and has played at the top level of Spanish women’s football since 2017. They play at Estadio Fernando Torres in Fuenlabrada.

NFL in Madrid

In a landmark development for sports tourism, the NFL has signed a multi-year agreement to play regular-season games at the Bernabéu. The inaugural game in November 2025 — the Miami Dolphins vs. the Washington Commanders — drew more than 78,000 fans and was widely hailed as a success. The NFL confirmed in February 2026 that it will return for at least one regular-season game annually, making Madrid one of just a handful of regular international NFL destinations alongside London, Munich, and now Paris.

For American sports fans, this is a unique opportunity: a real NFL game in one of the world’s most spectacular stadiums, in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. The game will be in all (the 2025 game was in November), and team matchups are announced several months in advance. Demand is extremely high, so early ticket acquisition is essential.

Selling Point for American Travelers

An NFL game in Madrid is a once-in-a-lifetime crossover experience: tailgating culture meets Spanish nightlife, the Bernabéu’s tech-forward atmosphere, and a full weekend of activities in one of Europe’s greatest cities. Package this as a long weekend with a few extra days for sightseeing and dining, and include football and fútbol.

Formula 1: The Madrid Grand Prix

After a 45-year absence, Formula 1 is returning to Madrid in 2026. The Spanish Grand Prix will be held at the brand-new Madring circuit, built around the IFEMA Madrid exhibition center in the Campo de las Naciones area. This is not a retrofit — it’s a purpose-designed 5.47km semi-permanent circuit featuring 22 corners, a mix of street and non-street sections, and projected daily capacity of over 110,000 fans. Madrid has secured a 10-year contract to host the race from 2026 through 2035.

Key Selling Point

Madrid will be the only European capital city to host an F1 Grand Prix. The combination of world-class racing, proximity to the airport, and Madrid’s nightlife and culinary scene makes this an exceptional package for motorsport clients. Early hospitality bookings are strongly recommended for the inaugural year.

Tennis: Mutua Madrid Open

The Mutua Madrid Open is one of the most prestigious clay-court events on both the ATP and WTA tours. Now expanded to a two-week format, the 2026 edition runs from April 20 to May 3 at the Caja Mágica (Magic Box), a striking modern venue designed by French architect Dominique Perrault. The complex features three courts with retractable roofs, allowing play in all weather conditions.

Golf: Open de España

The Open de España (Spanish Open) is one of the most historic golf tournaments in Europe — the third-oldest national open on the continent, dating back to 1912. The 2026 edition will be held October 8–11 at the Club de Campo Villa de Madrid, a prestigious sporting club founded in 1929. The tournament is part of the DP World Tour (formerly European Tour) and has hosted legends including Jack Nicklaus, Severiano Ballesteros, Nick Faldo, and Jon Rahm.

The Negro (Black) course, designed by the revered Spanish architect Javier Arana, is the primary competition venue. At 6,970 yards (par 71), it’s an undulating, tree-lined layout with small greens that rewards accuracy and a hot putter. The 2026 edition also serves as part of The Open Qualifying Series, giving it added prestige. For golf-loving clients visiting in October, this is a world-class event in a beautiful setting with views of the Madrid skyline.

Golf for Visitors

Beyond the tournament, the Madrid region offers excellent golf for visiting players. Club de Campo itself has two 18-hole courses (the Negro and the Seve Ballesteros-designed Amarillo). Other notable courses within easy reach include Real Sociedad Hípica Española Club de Campo, La Moraleja, and Centro Nacional de Golf. Green fees at public and semi-private courses typically range from €50–150.

Basketball

Madrid is one of Europe’s great basketball cities. Real Madrid Baloncesto is one of the most decorated clubs in European basketball history, with multiple EuroLeague titles and dozens of Spanish league championships. They play home games at the Movistar Arena (formerly WiZink Center), a 17,000-seat indoor arena in the popular Salamanca neighborhood.

The Spanish ACB league runs from October through June, with EuroLeague games interspersed throughout the season. Basketball games are easy to attend, affordable compared to soccer, and deliver a fast-paced, high-energy atmosphere. For American travelers who follow the NBA, European basketball offers a fantastic cultural comparison — and the quality of play in the EuroLeague is the best outside the NBA.

2026 Madrid Sports Calendar at a Glance

Where to Stay

Madrid’s neighborhoods each have a distinct personality. The right base depends on your priorities — proximity to a specific venue, central access, or neighborhood atmosphere.

Salamanca — Best for Luxury & the Bernabéu

Madrid’s most upscale neighborhood, home to designer boutiques, fine dining, and some of the city’s best hotels. Walking distance to the Bernabéu. Top picks include the Rosewood Villa Magna, Hotel Wellington, and the Bless Hotel Madrid. Also close to Retiro Park and the Golden Triangle of Art museums.

Chamberí / Alonso Martínez — Best All-Rounder

A residential neighborhood with excellent restaurants, cocktail bars, and a local feel. Central to everything and well-connected by Metro. A good balance of authenticity and convenience, with a range of mid-to-upper-range hotels.

Sol / Gran Vía — Best for First-Time Visitors

The beating heart of Madrid. Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and the Royal Palace are all within walking distance. Busy and touristy but unbeatable for access. Hotels range from affordable chains to the landmark Four Seasons Madrid (opened 2020) on Canalejas.

La Latina / Lavapiés/Chueca/Malasaña — Best for Nightlife & Tapas

Madrid’s most atmospheric neighborhoods for food and nightlife. La Latina’s Cava Baja is one of the greatest tapas streets in Spain. Lavapiés is multicultural and buzzing. Accommodation here tends to be boutique or apartment-style. Malasaña and Chueca are both particularly well-known for nightlife, with Chueca having decades-long fame as a hub for LGBTQ+ visitors and locals.

Near IFEMA — Best for F1 Weekend

For the Grand Prix, staying near the IFEMA exhibition center (Barajas area) puts clients right at the circuit. The NH Collection Madrid Eurobuilding and Hilton Madrid Airport are solid options. The trade-off is less neighborhood charm, but direct Metro access to central Madrid.

Approximate Hotel Pricing

Booking note

Prices surge during the F1 Grand Prix (September), the Mutua Madrid Open (late April–early May), and the NFL game weekend (fall). The Champions League final, if hosted in Madrid again, causes extreme demand. Book early for all major events.

Eating & Drinking

Madrid’s food culture is legendary, defined by late dining (locals often eat dinner, especially when dining out, at 9 or 10pm or even later) world-class tapas, exceptional meat and seafood, and a nightlife scene that doesn’t quit until sunrise.

Tapas Essentials

Tapas in Madrid is a way of life. The tradition of “ir de cañas” — hopping from bar to bar for a small beer and a tapa — is common. Key streets and neighborhoods for tapas:

Pre-Match Dining Near the Bernabéu

The Bernabéu now has its own dining and entertainment complex, including Plaza Mahou — the first brewery inside a European soccer stadium. The surrounding Chamartín and Salamanca neighborhoods offer excellent options ranging from casual pintxos bars to upscale steakhouses. For a true pre-match atmosphere, the bars along Paseo de la Castellana fill up with fans hours before kick-off.

Fine Dining

Madrid punches well above its weight for fine dining. DiverXO (three Michelin stars, run by the flamboyant Dabiz Muñoz) is one of the world’s most unique dining experiences. Desde 1911, Gaytán, Smoked Room, Ramon Fréixa Atalier, Paco Roncero and Chispa Bistró are some of the 30+ Michelin-starred restaurants in Madrid. For a more traditional luxury experience, Botín — certified by Guinness as the world’s oldest restaurant (est. 1725) — serves legendary roast suckling pig and lamb in a wood-fired oven.

Mercados (Food Markets)

Madrid’s renovated food markets are a highlight. Mercado de San Miguel is the most famous, but Mercado de San Antón (Chueca) and Mercado de Antón Martín (Lavapiés) offer more local, less touristy experiences with excellent food stalls, bars, and terraces.

Drinking Culture

Madrid’s nightlife is legendary — the city truly comes alive after midnight. Vermouth (“vermut”) culture is booming, especially Sunday lunchtime aperitifs. Gin-tonics (yes, that’s what they call them) are the cocktail of choice, served in balloon glasses. Craft beer has arrived with spots like Fábrica Maravillas. The cocktail scene in Malasaña and Chueca is world-class, and for a classic experience, the rooftop bars along Gran Vía offer stunning views.

Beyond the Stadium: Sightseeing Highlights

Even the most dedicated sports fan will want to explore Madrid’s extraordinary cultural offerings. The city’s art, architecture, and parks are world-class.

Must-See Attractions

Flamenco

No first-timer’s visit to Madrid is complete without experiencing flamenco. Corral de la Morería (est. 1956) is considered the world’s most prestigious flamenco venue and now holds a Michelin star for its dining. Cardamomo and Casa Patas are also excellent. Expect to spend €35–80 for a show with a drink, more with dinner.

Day Trips

Toledo (30 minutes by train) is a stunning medieval city perched above the Tagus (Tajo) River — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an easy half-day or full-day trip. Segovia (30 minutes by high-speed train) offers a Roman aqueduct, an Alcázar castle, and famous roast suckling pig. For wine lovers, the Ribera del Duero and Rueda wine regions are within a couple of hours’ drive.

Practical Information

Getting There

Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD) is one of Europe’s busiest airports with extensive international connections, including numerous direct flights from the U.S. (New York, Miami, Chicago, Boston, Washington, Atlanta, Dallas, Los Angeles, and more via Iberia, American, United, and Delta). The airport is well-connected to the city center: Metro Line 8 runs directly to Nuevos Ministerios (~25 minutes, €5 including airport supplement). Express Bus (Exprés Aeropuerto) runs 24/7 to Atocha and Cibeles (€5). Taxis use a flat rate of €33 to central Madrid.Getting Around

Getting Around

Madrid’s Metro system is excellent — one of the largest in Europe with 13 lines. A 10-trip Multi card costs €12.20. Taxis are plentiful and affordable (white cars with a red diagonal stripe). Ride-hailing apps Cabify and Bolt both operate in Madrid. The city center is very walkable, and the warm climate makes exploring on foot a pleasure for most of the year.

Best Time to Visit

Language

Spanish (Castellano) is the primary language. English is increasingly spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas, though less universally than in some other European capitals. A few phrases go a long way: “Hola,” “Por favor,” “Gracias,” and “La cuenta, por favor” (the check, please) will earn you goodwill.

Currency & Tipping

Spain uses the Euro (€). Cards are accepted almost everywhere. Tipping is not expected but appreciated: rounding up or leaving 5–10% at sit-down restaurants is sufficient. At bars, small change is fine. Hotel porters typically receive €1–2 per bag.

Safety

Madrid is generally very safe. Petty theft (pickpocketing) occurs in crowded tourist areas like Sol, Gran Vía, Retiro Park, and on public transport. Standard precautions apply: keep valuables secure, be alert in crowds, and avoid leaving bags unattended. Areas around stadiums on matchday can be busy and chaotic — arrive early and follow crowd management instructions.

Key Phone Numbers

Quick Reference Card

¡Buen viaje! Have a great trip.