Estádio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica

The Estádio da Luz, home ground of Benfica Lisbonne, is one of European football's most recognizable venues. Opened in 2003, it holds more than 65,000 spectators and is immediately identifiable by its large red arches and a roof designed to let in natural light. Known as "A Catedral", it has hosted some of the game's greatest names, from Cristiano Ronaldo to Messi, as well as Eusébio, the club's greatest player, whose statue stands at the entrance.

The stadium has hosted the finals of Euro 2004 and the Champions League (2014, 2020), cementing its place on the European stage.

Whether you follow Benfica or not, a stadium tour is worth your time. Guided or self-guided, visitors walk through the dressing rooms, the players' tunnel, the press room and the panoramic stands, before moving on to the Cosme Damião museum, which covers over a century of the club's history. The more adventurous can try the Slide in Stadium, a steep descent from the upper tiers down to the pitch side.

No account of the Luz is complete without mentioning the eagle "Vitória", the club's symbol, which flies over the pitch before every home match. This ritual has become one of the most anticipated moments of matchday for Benfiquistas.

The stadium is located on Avenida Eusébio da Silva Ferreira and is straightforward to reach by metro (blue line, Colégio Militar/Luz station) or by bus. The large Colombo shopping centre is directly opposite. A practical stop on any visit to Lisbon.