Valencia, Spain
Mestalla
La Liga
Planning a trip to watch Valencia play at home starts with deciding whether you want match tickets only or a complete package with hotel and travel arrangements. Several travel agencies and ticket companies offer various options for Valencia matches. While some focus solely on match tickets, others provide full packages including accommodation and transport. Keep in mind that ticket availability varies depending on the opponent and competition. For high-profile matches against teams like Real Madrid or Barcelona, it's advisable to book well in advance.
When comparing different Valencia match packages, look beyond just the price tag. Some packages include premium seating at the Mestalla, while others offer basic seats but might come with stadium tours or club museum visits. Hotel locations vary significantly - some are in the heart of the old town, others closer to the stadium. Transport arrangements also differ between providers. Some include airport transfers, while others leave you to arrange your own way around. The key is finding the package that best matches your preferences and requirements.
While club membership offers one route to tickets, working with authorized resellers provides a more straightforward option for most visitors. Match tickets are typically released several weeks before each game. The Mestalla has various seating sections, from the animated stands behind the goals to the more comfortable central areas. Some providers offer VIP options that include access to exclusive areas. High-demand matches, especially against rival clubs or in European competitions, tend to sell out quickly.
The Mestalla, Spain's oldest football stadium still in use, is famous for its incredibly steep stands that create an intense atmosphere. The best time to arrive is about two hours before kick-off to soak in the pre-match atmosphere around the stadium. Local fans gather at the bars along Avenida de Suecia and Avenida de Aragón. The stadium sits in a bustling urban area with plenty of restaurants and cafes. Remember to bring your camera - the view from the upper tiers is spectacular, offering a panorama of both the match and the city.
Getting to Mestalla is straightforward using Valencia's efficient public transport system. The stadium is served by several bus lines and is within walking distance of multiple metro stations, with Aragón being the closest. If you're staying in the city center, it's roughly a 20-minute walk to the ground. Taxis are readily available, and ride-sharing services operate throughout the city. After matches, the metro runs additional services to handle the crowd surge. Walking back to the city center is popular among fans, allowing you to join the post-match discussions.
Choosing between a package trip and individual tickets depends on your travel style. Package trips handle all the logistics but offer less flexibility. They're ideal if you want everything arranged for you and prefer traveling with other fans. Individual tickets give you the freedom to choose your own accommodation and travel arrangements, potentially saving money if you're comfortable planning these aspects yourself. Some providers offer semi-packages where you can mix and match components like match tickets with hotel stays.
Valencia's fiercest rivalry is with local neighbors Villarreal, in what's known as the Derby de la Comunitat. The matches against Barcelona and Real Madrid in La Liga are always highly anticipated. The rivalry with Levante, the other major club from Valencia, is particularly intense when they meet, though these games are less frequent as Levante often plays in the second division. These matches typically have the highest ticket demand of the season.
Valencia's rich history includes multiple league titles and European trophies. English players have left their mark at the club, with Gary Neville having a stint as manager, while his brother Phil also played for the team. The club has hosted several English stars over the years, though most of their legendary players have been Spanish, like David Villa and David Silva. The club's golden period in the early 2000s saw them reach consecutive Champions League finals and win La Liga twice.
Valencia offers much more than just football. The City of Arts and Sciences is a must-visit architectural marvel. The historic city center, with its Gothic cathedral and Central Market, provides excellent sightseeing opportunities. The city's beach area offers great restaurants and Mediterranean views. Don't miss trying authentic paella, which originated in Valencia. The Turia Gardens, a converted riverbed running through the city, is perfect for walking or cycling. These activities make Valencia ideal for extending your football trip into a longer city break.