San Mamés

In Bilbao, football is lived like a religion, and its temple is San Mamés Barria. Nicknamed "La Cathédrale", this 53,000-seat stadium, inaugurated in 2013, replaced the historic century-old ground without losing its identity. Built on the banks of the Nervión, a stone's throw from the Guggenheim museum, it fits seamlessly into modern Bilbao, a symbol of a city that is both deeply rooted and forward-looking.

Its spectacular architecture, featuring a semi-transparent façade and LED lighting effects, earned it the title of best sports building in the world at the World Architecture Festival in 2015, and stadium of the year at the World Football Summit in 2017. On match nights, the arena comes alive: chants, tifos, red and white passion… the atmosphere is considered one of the most electric in Europe.

This is where the Lions of Athletic Club roar — a club founded in 1898, renowned for its philosophy: to train and field only players from the Basque Country. This strong identity fuels an unbreakable bond between the club, the city, and its supporters.

The Tour & Museoa, one of the most comprehensive in Spain, invites visitors behind the scenes of the Rojiblancos: first-team dressing rooms, players' tunnel, pitchside, press room, mixed zone… Over a 90-minute tour, visitors also explore the Athletic Club Museum, an interactive space tracing more than 125 years of history, iconic objects, and trophies.

San Mamés is also a destination in its own right: fine dining restaurants such as San Mamés Jatetxea, bars and a panoramic tavern open to the public, VIP spaces, and cultural or sporting events throughout the year. The stadium regularly hosts major events: European rugby finals, international concerts, and the 2025 Europa League final.

Easily accessible by metro (San Mamés station), tram, or on foot from the city centre, it is one of the must-see stops on any visit to Bilbao.