Euro 2024 Venues: A Detailed Guide To The Cities and Stadiums in Germany

The 2024 European Championship kicks off in just a few days, starting on June 15th.

This event marks the first time Germany has hosted an international men’s tournament since the 2006 World Cup.

Read More: EURO 2024 Group D – Preview, Analysis, Strengths And Weaknesses

Euro 2024 Venues: A Detailed Guide To The Cities and Stadiums in Germany

To set the stage, we’ve put together a guide showcasing the 10 stadiums and cities that will be utilized this summer.

Stadium: Olympiastadion (Berlin)

Hertha BSC calls Olympiastadion home, situated in Berlin’s iconic Olympic Park with a capacity of 74,475.

Renowned for its perpetually chilly atmosphere due to its exposed position, often likened to a wind tunnel. The stadium’s distinctive blue running track divides opinions but can enhance the viewing experience. Despite Hertha’s occupancy, the venue often sees empty seats, prompting discussions among fans about relocating. Nonetheless, on significant occasions, such as Turkey’s recent victory over Germany, the stadium erupts with deafening cheers, showcasing its capacity for electric atmospheres.

Beyond the football grounds, Berlin stands as a unique entity within Germany, embodying a blend of modernity and alternative culture. It serves as a melting pot of diverse influences, drawing people from all walks of life, including those in exile. The city offers a spectrum of experiences, from avant-garde art scenes to historical landmarks, catering to varying interests. One cannot overlook Berlin’s culinary scene, with the doner kebab, rumoured to have originated in West Berlin, standing out as a local delicacy, epitomizing the city’s eclectic charm.

No. of Matches To Be Played Here: Three group games, one round-of-16 game, a quarter-final and the final.

Stadium: Red Bull Arena (Leipzig)

RB Leipzig calls the Red Bull Arena home, with a seating capacity of 41,500 spectators.

In Germany, the stadium’s reputation is intertwined with the controversial image of RB Leipzig. The club’s perceived challenge to traditional football culture has led to widespread antipathy, resulting in resentful journeys to the Red Bull Arena, with some fan groups even boycotting matches altogether.

Architecturally, the Red Bull Arena is a fusion of modern design within the framework of the old Soviet-era Zentralstadion, connected by elevated walkways. While the venue itself is adequate, Bundesliga matches often suffer from the shadow cast by Leipzig’s polarizing presence, dampening the overall atmosphere, despite the occasional scent of Red Bull in the air.

Leipzig itself presents a dichotomy, featuring both concrete, brutalist areas and striking, baroque architectural beauty in its city center. Rich in history and adorned with flourishes, Leipzig is also significant for its role in pivotal events such as the demonstrations against the German Democratic Republic in 1989, which played a part in the fall of the Berlin Wall. Exploring the city’s surrounding regions, including sites like the Augustusplatz and the Mende Fountain, offers a glimpse into its storied past.

For gastronomic delights, Leipzig gose stands out—a warm, malty, and slightly sour beer that adds to the city’s distinct flavor.

No. of Matches To Be Played Here: Three group games and a round-of-16 clash.

Stadium: Allianz Arena (Munich)

Bayern Munich plays at the Allianz Arena, which has a capacity of 75,000.

The stadium’s reputation in Germany is characterized as corporate but capable of generating an electric atmosphere, especially during major events like Champions League matches. While the Allianz Arena embodies the typical new-build experience, with both its advantages and drawbacks, it may remind English fans of Wembley Stadium. Situated to the north of the city in a contained area, it lacks the seamless approach many older stadiums offer, making it more convenient to spend pre-game hours exploring Munich.

Munich itself is stunningly beautiful, especially in the summer, evoking the charm of a Renaissance painting. The city is undergoing significant reconstruction, particularly around the main station, which is set to be a major convenience for visitors once completed. However, the south of Germany, including Munich, is known for being the most expensive area in the country, so visitors should be prepared for higher costs.

Munich exudes a unique regality unmatched by other German cities, with a distinct atmosphere reflective of Bavaria’s almost separate identity. Many locals identify more as Bavarian than German, particularly those hailing from Munich, adding to the city’s unique cultural vibe.

For a taste of local cuisine, Weisswurst is a must-try. This traditional white sausage is typically served with bread and mustard, famously featured during Harry Kane’s unveiling montage.

No. of Matches To Be Played Here: Four group games, one round-of-16 match and a semi-final.

Stadium: MHPArena (Stuttgart)

VfB Stuttgart plays at the MHPArena, which has a capacity of 60,449 spectators.

Currently, one side of the MHPArena is undergoing renovation, with a significant section of the main stand being rebuilt for an upcoming tournament. Despite this, the stadium is renowned for the Cannstatter Kurve, home to VfB’s Ultras and one of Germany’s loudest terraces. While UEFA’s strict regulations on pyrotechnics might temper some of the Kurve’s vibrancy, the MHPArena remains an excellent venue for football.

Stuttgart, located in the southern part of Germany, offers a striking contrast to the northern cities, reflecting the country’s regional diversity. Expect warm weather in the summer, so pack accordingly. The city boasts a white-stone aesthetic reminiscent of southern Europe, paired with a Mediterranean-style atmosphere, perfect for enjoying pre-match afternoons in its numerous cocktail bars and restaurants.

The surrounding Swabian region is picturesque, with many rural areas resembling scenes from a fairytale. For a memorable day trip, consider visiting Hohenzollern Castle, a stunning sight that’s well worth the journey.

Culinary delights in Stuttgart include Käsespätzle, a dish of noodles, cheese, and onions that is more delicious than it might sound.

No. of Matches To Be Played Here: Four group games and one quarter-final.

Stadium: Volksparkstadion (Hamburg)

Hamburger SV calls the Volksparkstadion home, accommodating up to 57,000 fans.

Despite Hamburger SV’s recent decline, the Volksparkstadion maintains a reputation for its imposing presence and vibrant atmosphere. Situated on the outskirts of town, the stadium offers ample seating, ensuring spectators a decent view of the action. Accessible by a short 15-minute train ride from the city center, fans can enjoy a scenic walk through the park, passing by food stalls, music, and landmarks such as the statue of Uwe Seeler’s foot, commemorating the club’s legendary record goalscorer.

Away from the football pitch, Hamburg stands as the largest city in the north, shaped by its industrial roots and prominent docks. The city exudes wealth and decadence, epitomized by landmarks like the Elbphilharmonie, a grand concert hall set to host tournament events. Visitors can spend their days exploring the city center around the Alster, indulging in shopping, dining, and cultural experiences, while the nights come alive in the vibrant St Pauli district, known for its lively nightlife scene. For a breathtaking view of the city, brave souls can ascend St Michael’s Church tower and take in the panoramic vista.

Culinary delights in Hamburg include Fischbrötchen, a local favorite featuring fish—usually North Sea herring, cod, or salmon—served on bread with horseradish and onion, best enjoyed by the harbor.

No. of Matches To Be Played Here: Four group games and one quarter-final.

Stadium: Signal Iduna Park (Dortmund)

Borussia Dortmund calls Signal Iduna Park home, boasting an impressive capacity of 82,000 spectators.

Signal Iduna Park is hailed as a temple of football in Germany, renowned as the largest stadium in the country and often considered one of the best. Despite its immense size, the stadium maintains a certain rugged charm, distinguishing itself from more modern constructions. The iconic “Die Gelbe Wand” (The Yellow Wall), the massive single-tier south stand, won’t be occupied by its ultras during the tournament, but the stadium’s design, with sloping roofs that trap noise, ensures a formidable atmosphere, particularly for important matches like the semi-finals.

Dortmund itself is characterized by its hardworking and hard-partying ethos, lacking the delicate charm of other cities but making up for it with its vibrant energy. Unlike many German stadiums, Signal Iduna Park is centrally located, easily reachable from the main station, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s lively nightlife scene.

Visitors to Dortmund should make time for the German Football Museum, where they can explore artifacts such as Sepp Herberger’s wedding ring and the penalty spot from Andreas Brehme’s winning goal at Italia ’90, offering a fascinating insight into football history.

A culinary highlight of Dortmund is the Currywurst, a local favorite, or the Taxiteller—a plate featuring currywurst, fries, mayonnaise, gyros, and tzatziki—a hearty dish sure to satisfy any appetite.

No. of Matches To Be Played Here: Four group games, one round-of-16 tie and a semi-final.

Stadium: Merkur-Spiel Arena (Dusseldorf)

Fortuna Düsseldorf calls the Merkur-Spiel Arena home, with a seating capacity of 54,600 spectators.

The stadium’s reputation reflects the club’s recent struggles to attract sufficient fans, despite its capacity and historical significance. Once a heavyweight in the 1970s, Fortuna Düsseldorf experienced a significant decline, plummeting to the fourth tier of German football two decades ago. Despite spending only three seasons in the Bundesliga over the past decade, the club’s average attendance has been considerably lower than the stadium’s capacity. However, the Merkur-Spiel Arena has become the site of an intriguing pilot scheme—”Fortuna for All”—aiming to make all home tickets free to purchase within five years. The success of this initiative was evident in a game in October, where over 50,000 fans attended, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Beyond football, Düsseldorf presents itself as a cool, fashionable, and affluent city, with a significant green presence. The city’s rapid post-war reconstruction has led to modern architecture, often criticized for its angles and aesthetic. Notably, Düsseldorf boasts the largest Japanese population in Europe, contributing to its diverse culinary scene. The Altstadt (Old Town) serves as a focal point for supporters and visitors alike, renowned for its vibrant nightlife, earning the nickname “longest bar in the world” due to its abundance of pubs, clubs, and restaurants.

One of the city’s culinary specialties is Altbier, a foamy, dark beer brewed in some of the local bars, adding to the city’s distinctive charm.

No. of Matches To Be Played Here: Three group games, one in the round of 16 and a quarter-final.

Stadium: RheinEnergie Stadion (Cologne)

FC Köln plays their home matches at the RheinEnergie Stadion, accommodating up to 50,000 spectators.

The stadium, built for the 2006 World Cup, holds a revered status in Germany, drawing plenty of tourists during the Bundesliga season. Its four distinct stands contribute to its traditional, almost English feel, making it a favorite among football enthusiasts. The atmosphere exudes a regional specificity and warmth, epitomizing the charm of Cologne—a sentiment often echoed by visitors. The presence of iconic elements such as Hennes the Billy Goat, the singing of Mer Stonn zo Dir, and FC Kolle before games adds to the stadium’s allure, ensuring an unforgettable experience for fans.

Beyond football, Cologne is hailed by many as Germany’s premier city, lauded for its culinary delights, quality of life, and welcoming locals. Arriving by train offers a spectacular introduction to the city, with the famous cathedral dominating the skyline, especially breathtaking when illuminated at night. The city’s nightlife scene, nestled within the heart of narrow streets, offers something for everyone, regardless of age or preference.

One of Cologne’s culinary highlights is Himmel und Erde, a dish featuring mashed potatoes mixed with stewed apples, served alongside blood sausage, accompanied by Kolsch—a local beer served in small glasses and trays. Caution is advised, as Kolsch tends to be stronger than it appears. For a truly magical experience, waking up early enough to witness the sunrise over the Rhine River is a must, offering a glimpse of Cologne’s natural beauty.

No. of Matches To Be Played Here: Four group games and one round-of-16 clash.

Stadium: Veltins-Arena (Gelsenkirchen)

Schalke plays their home matches at the Veltins-Arena, which has a capacity of 62,271 spectators.

Despite recent struggles on the field, with two relegations in the past three seasons, the Veltins-Arena maintains a reputation for its impressive facilities. The stadium features a retractable roof, which, when closed, creates an electrifying atmosphere, amplifying the noise and intensity of matches. With excellent sight lines from all sides, the Veltins-Arena promises to be a valuable asset for the tournament. Accessing the stadium is convenient, thanks to a tram service directly from the main station.

Gelsenkirchen, often underestimated, is an industrial town located in the Ruhr Valley, historically significant as a driving force behind Germany’s post-war recovery. Despite its no-nonsense demeanor, the city has made efforts to preserve its rich history, with ongoing restoration projects. While Gelsenkirchen may not be a typical tourist destination, attractions such as the restored collieries and the awe-inspiring Halde Rheinelbe offer unique glimpses into the city’s heritage. Visitors are encouraged to approach Gelsenkirchen with an open mind, appreciating its authenticity and resilience.

For culinary delights, Gelsenkirchen shares a delicacy with Dortmund: the taxiteller—a hearty plate featuring currywurst, fries, mayonnaise, gyros, and tzatziki.

No. of Matches To Be Played Here: Three group games and a round-of-16 tie.

Stadium: Deutsche Bank Park (Frankfurt)

Eintracht Frankfurt calls the Deutsche Bank Park home, boasting a capacity of 51,500 spectators.

The stadium is renowned for its swift goal music, ‘Leichte Kavallerie’, which resonates through the Waldstadion moments after the ball hits the opponent’s net—a unique feature in the Bundesliga. Set within a park-like environment, the Deutsche Bank Park is instantly recognizable by its distinctive pendulum scoreboard suspended above the center circle. The area surrounding the stadium buzzes with activity before matches, offering ample space for pre-game festivities. Inside, Eintracht Frankfurt’s matches are characterized by a ferocious atmosphere, with the tall, steep tiers effectively containing the noise and intensity under the stadium roof.

Away from football, Frankfurt is Germany’s financial hub, a fact that sometimes overshadows its cultural offerings. While it may not be as historically touristy as other cities, Frankfurt boasts a vibrant music and art scene, fueled in part by its financial prosperity. Exploring the city reveals hidden gems in its cultural landscape, showcasing Frankfurt’s depth beyond its business façade.

Culinary delights in Frankfurt include sausage and green sauce, accompanied by schnitzel on occasion. The green sauce, a diced medley of seven different herbs, is a local specialty sold by the packet, adding a unique flavor to traditional dishes.

No. of Matches To Be Played Here: Four group games and one in the round of 16.