Europe is a hotbed for sports, particularly football, and its massive stadiums are more than just venues—they’re cultural landmarks where fans unite to cheer for their teams. From historic grounds to modern architectural wonders, Europe’s largest stadiums showcase the continent’s passion for sport.
In this article, we dive into the top 10 biggest stadiums in Europe, detailing their construction timelines, costs, resident teams, and recent developments. Whether you’re a football fan or just curious about these colossal arenas, read on for an in-depth look at Europe’s grandest stages.
1. Camp Nou – Barcelona, Spain (Capacity: 99,354, Expected 105,000 by 2025)
Camp Nou, the largest stadium in Europe, sits proudly in Barcelona. Home to FC Barcelona, this iconic venue is undergoing a major overhaul to boost its capacity and modernise its facilities. Fans flock here to watch world-class football, with legends like Lionel Messi and Andrés Iniesta having graced its pitch.
Construction details: Construction began in 1954 and finished in 1957, designed by architects Francesc Mitjans and Josep Soteras. The original cost was around 288 million pesetas, equivalent to about €100 million today. The ongoing “Espai Barça” renovation, started in 2022, costs an estimated €1.5 billion, adding a new roof and upgraded seating.
Teams and events: FC Barcelona plays its home matches here, and the Spain national team occasionally uses the stadium. Camp Nou has hosted two UEFA Champions League finals (1989, 1999), five matches during the 1982 FIFA World Cup, and the 1992 Summer Olympics football final. It’s a global football pilgrimage site.
Recent updates: The renovation, set to finish in 2025, will increase capacity to 105,000, making it Europe’s undisputed largest stadium. New features include advanced technology and enhanced fan experiences, ensuring Camp Nou remains a footballing beacon.
2. Wembley Stadium – London, England (Capacity: 90,000)
Wembley Stadium, England’s footballing heart, stands tall in London. Its iconic 133-metre arch makes it instantly recognisable. Replacing the original Wembley, famous for the 1966 World Cup, this modern arena hosts football, rugby, and concerts.
Construction details: Construction started in 2003 and ended in 2007, with Foster + Partners leading the design. The project cost £798 million, reflecting its cutting-edge facilities and massive scale.
Teams and events: The England national football team calls Wembley home. It hosts the FA Cup final, EFL Cup final, and major concerts by artists like Taylor Swift. Wembley was a key venue for UEFA Euro 2020 and hosted the 2024 Champions League final.
Recent updates: Wembley remains a top-tier venue, set to host the UEFA Euro 2028 finals. Its versatility and modern design keep it at the forefront of European stadiums.
3. Croke Park – Dublin, Ireland (Capacity: 82,300)
Croke Park in Dublin is a unique entry, primarily known for Gaelic games but also a versatile venue for other sports and events. It’s a cultural cornerstone for Ireland, steeped in history.
Construction details: Built between 1880 and 1884, Croke Park underwent major renovations in 2004, costing €260 million. These upgrades modernised the stadium while preserving its heritage.
Teams and events: The Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) uses Croke Park for hurling and Gaelic football, hosting the All-Ireland Championships. It also accommodates rugby, football, and concerts by acts like U2. The stadium occasionally hosts international rugby matches.
Recent updates: Croke Park continues to host major GAA events and is set to play a role in UEFA Euro 2028, highlighting its multi-sport capabilities.
4. Signal Iduna Park – Dortmund, Germany (Capacity: 81,365)
Signal Iduna Park, also known as Westfalenstadion, is a footballing fortress in Dortmund. Its “Yellow Wall” of passionate Borussia Dortmund fans creates one of Europe’s most electric atmospheres.
Construction details: Construction ran from 1971 to 1974, costing around €32 million in today’s terms. Expansions in the 2000s enhanced its facilities, keeping it a top UEFA Category 4 venue.
Teams and events: Borussia Dortmund plays here, thrilling fans in the Bundesliga and UEFA Champions League. The stadium hosted matches during the 2006 FIFA World Cup, including a semi-final, and regularly stages high-profile European fixtures.
Recent updates: Signal Iduna Park remains a fan favourite, known for its intense atmosphere. It hosted matches during UEFA Euro 2024, cementing its status as a premier venue.
5. Estadio Santiago Bernabéu – Madrid, Spain (Capacity: 81,044)
The Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid is a footballing cathedral, home to Real Madrid. Recent renovations have transformed it into a futuristic venue with a retractable roof and pitch.
Construction details: Completed in 1947, the original build cost about €1.7 million. A major renovation, finished in 2023, cost over €1 billion, adding state-of-the-art features like a 360-degree video screen.
Teams and events: Real Madrid, one of the world’s most successful clubs, plays here. The stadium has hosted four Champions League finals, the 1982 FIFA World Cup final, and concerts by global stars. The Spain national team also uses it occasionally.
Recent updates: The revamped Bernabéu, with its sleek design, reopened in 2023. Its capacity is expected to reach 85,000, making it a top contender among Europe’s elite stadiums.
6. Luzhniki Stadium – Moscow, Russia (Capacity: 81,000)
Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow is Russia’s premier sports venue. Renovated for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, it’s a modern arena with a storied past.
Construction details: Completed in 1956, the original build cost was low by today’s standards. A 2013–2017 renovation cost €350 million, upgrading it for the World Cup.
Teams and events: The Russia national football team plays here, alongside occasional club matches. Luzhniki hosted the 2018 World Cup final and the 2008 Champions League final. It’s also used for athletics and concerts.
Recent updates: Post-2018, Luzhniki remains a top venue, hosting international friendlies and major events despite Russia’s limited role in UEFA competitions.
7. Stade de France – Saint-Denis, France (Capacity: 80,698)
Stade de France, just outside Paris, is France’s national stadium. Built for the 1998 FIFA World Cup, it’s a multi-purpose venue hosting football, rugby, and major events.
Construction details: Construction spanned 1995 to 1998, costing €290 million. Its flexible design allows it to adapt for various sports and concerts.
Teams and events: The France national football and rugby teams play here. It hosted the 1998 World Cup final, UEFA Euro 2016, and the 2024 Paris Olympics closing ceremony. It’s also a popular concert venue.
Recent updates: Stade de France remains a key venue, hosting Rugby World Cup matches in 2023 and preparing for future international events.
8. San Siro – Milan, Italy (Capacity: 75,725)
San Siro, officially Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, is a legendary stadium in Milan. Shared by rivals AC Milan and Inter Milan, it’s a footballing icon with a rich history.
Construction details: Built between 1925 and 1926, the original cost was modest for its time. Renovations in 1990 for the FIFA World Cup and later upgrades cost around €70 million, modernising the venue.
Teams and events: AC Milan and Inter Milan both play here, creating fierce derby matches. San Siro hosted the 1990 World Cup and multiple Champions League finals. It also hosts concerts by artists like Beyoncé.
Recent updates: Plans to replace San Siro with a new stadium are underway, but fans remain attached to this historic ground. It hosted UEFA Euro 2020 matches, keeping it relevant.
9. Allianz Arena – Munich, Germany (Capacity: 75,024)
Allianz Arena in Munich is a modern marvel, known for its glowing exterior that changes colours. It’s a symbol of German footballing excellence.
Construction details: Built from 2002 to 2005, it cost €340 million. Its innovative design, by Herzog & de Meuron, includes a unique LED facade.
Teams and events: FC Bayern Munich plays here, dominating the Bundesliga. The stadium hosted the 2012 Champions League final and 2006 World Cup matches. It’s also a concert venue for major acts.
Recent updates: Allianz Arena hosted UEFA Euro 2024 matches, showcasing its world-class facilities and vibrant atmosphere.
10. Old Trafford – Manchester, England (Capacity: 74,879)
Old Trafford, dubbed the “Theatre of Dreams,” is Manchester United’s historic home. It’s one of England’s most iconic stadiums, steeped in footballing legacy.
Construction details: Completed in 1910, the original cost was minimal. Expansions and upgrades, particularly in the 1990s and 2000s, cost around £200 million, maintaining its elite status.
Teams and events: Manchester United plays here, drawing massive crowds for Premier League and Champions League matches. It hosted Euro 1996 games and serves as a backup for England’s national team.
Recent updates: Plans for further renovations are in discussion to modernise Old Trafford while preserving its heritage. It remains a must-visit for football fans.
