Germany as a country is the ultimate destination for travellers of all kinds. If you are a fan of good music, great beer, and stunning architecture, Germany should be on your bucket list. But there is another reason to add to that list, and that is the upcoming UEFA Euro 2024. The UEFA Euro 2024 is barely two weeks away, and fans are excited to witness one of football’s biggest tournaments. If you are also planning your trip to Germany to watch the tournament, you might be sure to know all about the top stadiums and arenas that would be hosting the matches.
Here are the most iconic German stadiums every football fan needs to visit.
The Olympiastadion in Berlin holds a rich history of hosting various events. Initially constructed for the 1936 Summer Olympics, its legacy was further etched with notable footballing moments like the infamous Zidane headbutt in 2006. During the 1974 World Cup, it hosted three group-stage matches, serving as the venue for all three of Chile's games. Renovated in 2006 for the World Cup, it accommodated six matches, including the final where Italy defeated France on penalties. Additionally, it hosted a match during the 2011 Women's World Cup and the 2015 Champions League final, where Barcelona emerged victorious against Juventus. During EURO 2024, the Olympiastadion Berlin will be the venue for six matches, among which are three knockout matches.
The Rhein-Energie Stadion, set to host five matches during EURO 2024, including the thrilling last 16 clash on June 30th, holds a prestigious place in football history. This iconic venue witnessed Joe Cole's unforgettable volley against Sweden during the 2006 World Cup. Home to Bundesliga giants FC Köln, the stadium underwent renovations in 1975 and 2004. Notably, it hosted the 2020 Europa League final, where Sevilla triumphed 3-2 over Inter, securing their sixth UEFA Cup/Europa League title. Additionally, the stadium hosts the Women's Cup final annually and has welcomed numerous memorable musical performances over the years.
The Düsseldorf Arena in Düsseldorf boasts a notable claim to fame: hosting the 2011 Eurovision Song Contest. While it may be more renowned for this cultural event than its sporting fixtures, the arena officially bears the name Merkur Spiel-Arena. However, during Euro 2024, it will be referred to as the Düsseldorf Arena for sponsorship purposes. Built upon the historic grounds of the Rheinstadion, which played a significant role in the 1974 World Cup and the 1988 European Championships, this venue has seen diverse events. From concerts to boxing matches and even American football games, the Düsseldorf Arena has welcomed various forms of entertainment. Notably, it once served as the home stadium for the Rhein Fire of NFL Europe, further adding to its rich history. The stadium will host five games at Euro 2024, including one of the quarter-finals.
Hamburg, Germany's second-largest city, holds the distinction of being the northernmost venue for Euro 2024. Its charm extends beyond football, drawing travellers with promises of legendary nightlife along the iconic Reeperbahn. The stadium itself is an ode to modern design, ranking among the coolest in northern Europe. Steeped in football history, Volksparkstadion Hamburg played a pivotal role in the 2006 FIFA World Cup, hosting two crucial Italy matches en route to their triumph in Germany nearly two decades ago. The stadium's significance grew as it became the focal point of the 2010 UEFA Europa League final, witnessing Atletico Madrid's thrilling 2-1 victory over Fulham.
As Euro 2024 descends upon Hamburg, Volksparkstadion will serve as the backdrop for five exhilarating matches, including a Group D clash between Poland and the Netherlands and one of the quarter-final showdowns.
Signal Iduna Park, home to Borussia Dortmund, is renowned for its electrifying atmosphere, with Dortmund fans often hailed as the best in creating a fervent ambience. A notable highlight is the transformation of the terrace into the iconic "Yellow Wall" by over 24,000 enthusiastic supporters, adorning the stands with black and yellow flags and banners. Former coach Jürgen Klopp bid an emotional farewell to this passionate crowd before departing for Liverpool in 2015.
Since its establishment in 1974, Signal Iduna Park has transcended its role as a mere sports venue to become a symbol of community and identity in Dortmund. This iconic stadium, with an official capacity of 62,000, will play host to six matches at UEFA EURO 2024, further solidifying its status as a hub of footballing passion.
The Allianz Arena stands proudly as the epitome of innovation and iconography among the stadiums chosen to host UEFA EURO 2024. Opened to the world in 2005, it has swiftly risen to eminence, blending modern architectural marvels with the pinnacle of footballing prowess. Its exterior, adorned with inflated ETFE plastic panels, serves as a distinctive feature highlighting Munich's technological prowess and FC Bayern's strong presence.
With the ability to illuminate in a kaleidoscope of colours, the Allianz Arena is a radiant beacon of both creativity and excellence. This year, as UEFA EURO 2024 graces its halls, the stadium will welcome crowds with an official capacity of 66,000, setting the stage for six exciting matches, including a riveting semi-final clash in July. In every aspect, the Allianz Arena embodies the fusion of tradition and innovation, a fitting host for one of football's most prestigious tournaments.