The most famous football stadiums in the world to visit before you die [ranked]

Are you searching for the ultimate bucket list of football stadiums to visit before it's too late?

Our comprehensive guide to the best stadiums to visit in the world is your passport to experiencing the most iconic and awe-inspiring football temples across the globe.

From the historic football grounds of the United Kingdom to the electrifying arenas of South America, we've curated a list that takes you through the very heart of the world's football culture.

Each stadium we've highlighted is full of football heritage, fascinating architecture, and atmospheres that will blow your mind.

So, lace up your travelling boots and get ready to embark on a journey to the world's most iconic football stadiums to visit before you turn 50.

Here is your definitive guide to the best football stadiums to visit in the world:

50. Rajko Mitić Stadium

Rajko Mitić Stadium, affectionately known as Marakana, is the heart of Serbian football and the home of Red Star Belgrade. Its rich history and the fervent atmosphere created by its fans make it a legendary venue in Eastern European football.

• City, Country: Belgrade, Serbia
• Clubs: Red Star Belgrade
• Capacity: 53,000

49. Ibrox Stadium

Ibrox Stadium is a bastion of Scottish football history and the proud home of Rangers FC. Known for its unique architecture and intense atmosphere, it's a place where football heritage and passionate support merge.

• City, Country: Glasgow, Scotland
• Clubs: Rangers FC
• Capacity: 50,817

48. Elland Road

Elland Road, with its storied history and passionate fan base, is the home of Leeds United. The stadium has witnessed the highs and lows of the club, making it a pilgrimage site for Leeds supporters.

• City, Country: Leeds, England
• Clubs: Leeds United
• Capacity: 37,890

47. Türk Telekom Stadium

The Türk Telekom Stadium, home to Galatasaray, is known for its electrifying atmosphere, often described as 'hell' by visiting teams. Its state-of-the-art facilities and passionate fans make it one of Turkey's premier football venues.

• City, Country: Istanbul, Turkey
• Clubs: Galatasaray
• Capacity: 52,280

46. Mestalla Stadium

Mestalla Stadium is one of Spain's oldest and most historic football grounds, home to Valencia CF. Its steep stands and close proximity to the pitch create an intimidating atmosphere for opponents.

• City, Country: Valencia, Spain
• Clubs: Valencia CF
• Capacity: 49,500

45. La Bombonera

La Bombonera, officially known as Estadio Alberto J. Armando, is the iconic home of Boca Juniors. Its vertical stands and unique acoustics generate one of the most intense atmospheres in world football.

• City, Country: Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Clubs: Boca Juniors
• Capacity: 54,000

44. San Paolo Stadium

San Paolo Stadium, with its deep footballing heritage, is the home of SSC Napoli. It offers fans a glimpse into the passionate world of Italian football, set against the backdrop of Naples' rich cultural landscape. On matchday, the centre of Naples turns into a hotbed for celebrations, with fans gathering around a mural of the great Maradona in the Spanish quarters, win, draw or lose.

• City, Country: Naples, Italy
• Clubs: SSC Napoli
• Capacity: 54,726

43. Estádio do Dragão

The Estádio do Dragão is a modern icon of Portuguese football, home to FC Porto. Its architecture and the passionate support of its fans make it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Primeira Liga football atmospheres.

• City, Country: Porto, Portugal
• Clubs: FC Porto
• Capacity: 50,033

42. St. James' Park

Home of Newcastle United, St. James' Park is the most iconic stadium in the North East of England, which is home to one of the best atmospheres in the Premier League.

• City, Country: Newcastle, United Kingdom
• Clubs: Newcastle United F.C
• Capacity: 52,000
  

41. Vodafone Park

Vodafone Park in Istanbul is a cauldron of noise and passion, home to Beşiktaş JK. Its location by the Bosporus and state-of-the-art facilities offer fans a unique blend of history and modern football culture.

• City, Country: Istanbul, Turkey
• Clubs: Beşiktaş JK
• Capacity: 41,188

40. Parc des Princes

Parc des Princes, with its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, is the fortress of Paris Saint-Germain, one of Europe's elite clubs. Its intimate setting and passionate fans make it a jewel in French football.

• City, Country: Paris, France
• Clubs: Paris Saint-Germain
• Capacity: 47,929

39. Wanda Metropolitano

The Wanda Metropolitano, home to Atlético Madrid, is a modern marvel of football architecture, known for its sustainable design and incredible fan experience. It represents the forward-thinking approach of Spanish football.

• City, Country: Madrid, Spain
• Clubs: Atlético Madrid
• Capacity: 68,456

38. Perth Stadium (Optus Stadium)

Based in Perth, Western Australia, the newly built Perth Stadium is one of the most impressive modern stadiums in the world. With a walkway built from the city of Perth, this breathtaking stadium is a must-visit.

• City, Country: Perth, Australia
• Clubs: Australia National Team (on occasions)
• Capacity: 60,000

37. Eden Park

Eden Park in Auckland, primarily known for rugby, also hosts football matches, offering fans a unique sporting experience in New Zealand. Its historical significance and modern amenities make it a key sports venue in Oceania.

• City, Country: Auckland, New Zealand
• Clubs: New Zealand national football team (occasional matches)
• Capacity: 50,000

36. ANZ Stadium

ANZ Stadium in Sydney is a centrepiece of Australian sports, hosting significant events including football matches. Its versatility and modern facilities make it an iconic venue in Oceania.

• City, Country: Sydney, Australia
• Clubs: Australia national football team (occasional matches)
• Capacity: 83,500

35. Gelora Bung Karno Stadium

The Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta is a historic venue in Indonesian football, known for its electrifying atmosphere. It serves as a cultural and sporting landmark, hosting national and international events.

• City, Country: Jakarta, Indonesia
• Clubs: Indonesia national football team
• Capacity: 77,193

34. Salt Lake Stadium

Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata is one of the largest stadiums in the world by capacity, known for its passionate fans and vibrant atmosphere during football matches. It's a central hub for football in India, hosting both domestic and international fixtures.

• City, Country: Kolkata, India
• Clubs: ATK Mohun Bagan, East Bengal FC
• Capacity: 85,000

33. National Stadium (Bird's Nest)

The Bird's Nest in Beijing, an architectural marvel from the 2008 Olympics, has also hosted significant football matches. Its iconic design and multifunctionality make it a landmark in Chinese sports culture.

• City, Country: Beijing, China
• Clubs: China national football team (occasional matches)
• Capacity: 80,000

32. Yokohama International Stadium

Yokohama International Stadium, the site of the 2002 FIFA World Cup Final, is an essential visit for fans, representing the pinnacle of football in Japan. Its modern facilities and historical significance make it a beloved venue.

• City, Country: Yokohama, Japan
• Clubs: Yokohama F. Marinos
• Capacity: 72,327

31. Stade Moulay Abdellah

The Stade Moulay Abdellah in Rabat is a hub for Moroccan sports, regularly hosting football matches, including those of the Morocco national team. It's known for its vibrant atmosphere and role in promoting football in the region.

• City, Country: Rabat, Morocco
• Clubs: Morocco national football team
• Capacity: 52,000

30. Cairo International Stadium

Cairo International Stadium is a key venue in Egyptian football, hosting the national team's matches and major events. Its historical significance and the passionate support of the fans offer a deep dive into Egyptian football culture.

• City, Country: Cairo, Egypt
• Clubs: Egypt national football team
• Capacity: 74,100

29. Soccer City (FNB Stadium)

Soccer City, famously known as the FNB Stadium, is iconic for hosting the 2010 FIFA World Cup Final in Johannesburg. Its design, inspired by African pottery, and electrifying atmosphere make it a landmark in world football.

• City, Country: Johannesburg, South Africa
• Clubs: Kaizer Chiefs, South Africa national football team
• Capacity: 94,736

28. Estadio Rommel Fernández

Named after the legendary Panamanian footballer, the Estadio Rommel Fernández in Panama City is a focal point for football in the country, hosting national team matches. It's a testament to the growth of football in Panama.

• City, Country: Panama City, Panama
• Clubs: Panama national football team
• Capacity: 32,000

27. Estadio Cuscatlán

Estadio Cuscatlán in San Salvador is the largest stadium in Central America, known for its vibrant atmosphere during El Salvador national team and Alianza FC matches. Its passionate fans make it a fortress for the home side.

• City, Country: San Salvador, El Salvador
• Clubs: Alianza FC, El Salvador national football team
• Capacity: 53,400

26. Estadio Nacional de Costa Rica

As the home of Costa Rican football, the Estadio Nacional de Costa Rica in San José is a modern stadium known for its eco-friendly design. It hosts the national team's matches and is a symbol of pride and progress in Central American football.

• City, Country: San José, Costa Rica
• Clubs: Costa Rica national football team
• Capacity: 35,175

25. Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Mercedes-Benz Stadium stands as an architectural marvel in Atlanta, known for hosting Atlanta United matches. Its retractable roof and immersive fan experience set a new standard for sporting venues in the US.

• City, Country: Atlanta, USA
• Clubs: Atlanta United FC
• Capacity: 71,000

24. Banc of California Stadium

Opened in 2018, Banc of California Stadium is a modern gem in Los Angeles, offering an electrifying atmosphere for LAFC matches. Its state-of-the-art design and fan-centric experience represent the future of soccer stadiums in the USA.

• City, Country: Los Angeles, USA
• Clubs: Los Angeles FC
• Capacity: 22,000

23. BMO Field

BMO Field is the beating heart of Canadian soccer in Toronto, home to Toronto FC and a proud host to Canadian national team matches. Its intimate atmosphere and passionate fans provide an authentic football experience in North America.

• City, Country: Toronto, Canada
• Clubs: Toronto FC, Canada national football team
• Capacity: 30,000

22. Rose Bowl

The Rose Bowl, with its rich history and beautiful setting, played host to the 1994 FIFA World Cup Final. Its significance in American soccer history and picturesque location in Pasadena make it a must-visit for sports fans.

• City, Country: Pasadena, USA
• Clubs: Occasionally hosts US national team matches
• Capacity: 88,525

21. Azteca Stadium

The Azteca Stadium is not only monumental in its capacity but also in its historical significance, having hosted two World Cup finals. It's a symbol of Mexican football where fans can experience the fervour of both Club América and the Mexico national team.

• City, Country: Mexico City, Mexico
• Clubs: Club América, Mexico national football team
• Capacity: 87,523

20. Estadio Nacional

The Estadio Nacional stands as a multipurpose stadium in Chile, reflecting the country's rich sporting culture. It's a historic site that has played host to a range of significant sporting events, offering fans a glimpse into Chilean football heritage.

• City, Country: Santiago, Chile
• Clubs: Chile national football team
• Capacity: 48,665

19. Estadio Mineirão

A key venue in Brazilian football, the Estadio Mineirão has witnessed countless memorable matches and is known for its passionate fans. It serves as a home for Cruzeiro and occasionally the Brazil national team, offering a vibrant matchday atmosphere.

• City, Country: Belo Horizonte, Brazil
• Clubs: Cruzeiro
• Capacity: 62,547

18. Estadio Centenario

Declared a FIFA World Heritage Site, the Estadio Centenario is a monument to football history, having hosted the first World Cup in 1930. Its significance to Uruguayan and world football makes it a sacred site for fans.

• City, Country: Montevideo, Uruguay
• Clubs: Uruguay national football team
• Capacity: 60,235

17. Estadio Monumental

Home to River Plate, the Estadio Monumental is famed for its imposing structure and the fervent atmosphere created by its fans. It's a symbol of Argentinian football passion and history, hosting numerous crucial matches and concerts.

• City, Country: Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Clubs: River Plate
• Capacity: 70,074

16. Maracanã

The Maracanã, iconic for hosting two FIFA World Cup Finals, is a cathedral of Brazilian football, encapsulating the country's passion for the game. Its historical significance and vibrant atmosphere make it a legendary venue in the football world.

• City, Country: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
• Clubs: Flamengo, Fluminense
• Capacity: 78,838

15. Stadio Olimpico

As the home of AS Roma and Lazio, the Stadio Olimpico is a crucible of Italian football rivalry and history. The stadium is renowned for its intense atmosphere, especially during the Derby della Capitale.

• City, Country: Rome, Italy
• Clubs: AS Roma, Lazio
• Capacity: 70,634

14. Olympiastadion

The Olympiastadion in Berlin is filled with historical significance, having been renovated for the 2006 World Cup while retaining its monumental structure. Home of Bundesliga side Hertha BSC serves as a multi-use stadium that offers fans a unique blend of sporting history and modern facilities.

• City, Country: Berlin, Germany
• Clubs: Hertha BSC
• Capacity: 74,475

13. Amsterdam Arena (Johan Cruyff Arena)

The Johan Cruyff Arena is a testament to Dutch football innovation and the legacy of one of the game's greatest icons. It's a hub of excitement on match days, embodying Ajax Amsterdam's rich history and dedication to attractive, attacking football.

• City, Country: Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Clubs: Ajax Amsterdam
• Capacity: 54,990

12. Estádio da Luz

Known as the "Stadium of Light," Estádio da Luz is the majestic home of SL Benfica, one of Portugal's most storied clubs. The stadium's modern design and passionate supporters create a vibrant atmosphere for witnessing the prowess of Portuguese football.

• City, Country: Lisbon, Portugal
• Clubs: SL Benfica
• Capacity: 64,642

11. Stade de France

The Stade de France stands as a symbol of French pride, having hosted numerous historic matches, including the 1998 World Cup Final. Its architectural grandeur and the atmosphere during national games make it a beacon of French football and rugby.

• City, Country: Saint-Denis, France
• Clubs: France national football and rugby teams
• Capacity: 81,338

Now, entering the top 10:

10. Signal Iduna Park

Signal Iduna Park, home to Borussia Dortmund, is famed for the "Yellow Wall," the largest terrace for standing spectators in European football. The stadium's electrifying atmosphere and fan loyalty showcase the best of German football culture.

• City, Country: Dortmund, Germany
• Clubs: Borussia Dortmund
• Capacity: 81,365

9. San Siro

Also known as the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, the San Siro is steeped in football lore, shared by AC Milan and Inter Milan. This historic venue offers fans the chance to witness the intense rivalry and shared heritage of two of Italy's greatest clubs.

• City, Country: Milan, Italy
• Clubs: AC Milan, Inter Milan
• Capacity: 75,923

8. Allianz Arena

Recognisable by its illuminating façade, the Allianz Arena is a masterpiece of modern stadium design and the fortress of FC Bayern Munich. Its unique exterior lighting and passionate fanbase create an unforgettable matchday atmosphere.

• City, Country: Munich, Germany
• Clubs: FC Bayern Munich
• Capacity: 75,000

7. Santiago Bernabéu

The Santiago Bernabéu is a temple of football, offering fans the chance to witness Real Madrid's star-studded squad in action. Its historic significance and commitment to football excellence make it a pilgrimage site for enthusiasts of the sport.

• City, Country: Madrid, Spain
• Clubs: Real Madrid
• Capacity: 81,044

6. Camp Nou

Camp Nou is not just the largest stadium in Europe but a symbol of FC Barcelona's "more than a club" mantra, hosting some of football's most legendary moments. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere that embody the spirit of Catalan football.

• City, Country: Barcelona, Spain
• Clubs: FC Barcelona
• Capacity: 99,354

5. Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

The new Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has become the new jewel of London football. Overtaking the capacity of their rivals Arsenals' lesser-visited Arsenal's Emirates Stadium, the Tottenham Stadium is home to one of the most seamless football fan experiences, with breweries, Michelin star restaurants and even a Formula 1 race track underneath the stadium.

City, Country: London, England

• Clubs: Arsenal FC
• Capacity: 62,850

4. Celtic Park

Celtic Park, known as "Paradise" by fans, is the heart and soul of Celtic Football Club, renowned for its incredible atmosphere, particularly on European nights. The stadium's deep-rooted history and connection with its supporters make it a must-visit for those looking to experience true Scottish football culture.

• City, Country: Glasgow, Scotland
• Clubs: Celtic FC
• Capacity: 60,832

3. Anfield

Anfield is synonymous with passionate fans and the famous "You'll Never Walk Alone" anthem, making it a pilgrimage site for Liverpool FC supporters and football enthusiasts alike. The stadium's rich history and atmosphere provide an unparalleled matchday experience.

• City, Country: Liverpool, England
• Clubs: Liverpool FC
• Capacity: 53,394

2. Old Trafford

Known as the "Theatre of Dreams," Old Trafford is steeped in history and prestige as the home of Manchester United, one of the world's most famous football clubs. A visit offers fans the chance to walk in the footsteps of football legends and experience the electric atmosphere of a United home game.

• City, Country: Manchester, England
• Clubs: Manchester United
• Capacity: 74,140

1. Wembley Stadium

Wembley Stadium is not just a football ground; it's an emblem of English football history, hosting major fixtures including the FA Cup Final. Its iconic arch and state-of-the-art facilities make it a landmark in the sport's landscape.

• City, Country: London, England
• Clubs: England national football team
• Capacity: 90,000

You may have started your journey by Googling the "Best Stadiums to Visit in the World", and you ended up with a list full of ideas for your footballing pilgrimage.

The stadiums listed in our guide are not just venues for sporting events; they are sanctuaries where the spirit of football is worshipped, and unforgettable memories are made.

Whether you're standing in the shadow of Wembley's iconic arch or echoing chants in the electrifying atmosphere of Maracanã, each stadium offers a unique glimpse into the heart of its city's passion for football.

So, as you tick off each stadium from your bucket list, remember that you're not just a spectator; you're part of the global football family, united by love for the game.

Visit these legendary stadiums and etch your own stories into the annals of football history.

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