The Mercedes-Benz Arena in Stuttgart, a name synonymous with German football and automotive excellence, has been the proud home of VfB Stuttgart since 1933. More than just a stadium, it’s a landmark steeped in history, having witnessed pivotal moments in football history and undergone remarkable transformations over the decades. From its initial incarnation as the Adolf-Hitler-Kampfbahn to its modern status as a state-of-the-art football arena, this Stuttgart stadium has continuously evolved to meet the demands of both sport and its passionate fans.
A Stadium Forged in History: From Neckarstadion to Mercedes-Benz Arena
Originally constructed between 1929 and 1933, the stadium opened its gates as the Adolf-Hitler-Kampfbahn on July 26, 1933, hosting the German Gymnastics Championships. Initially accommodating around 35,000 spectators, its capacity quickly expanded to over 70,000 with the addition of wooden stands just two years later. However, safety concerns led to the closure of these stands in 1938.
Following World War II, the stadium’s name underwent several changes, reflecting the shifting political landscape. It was briefly known as Century Stadium before officially becoming Neckarstadion in 1949, named after the nearby Neckar River. This era saw significant expansion, boosting capacity to nearly 100,000, solidifying its place as a major German sporting venue.
The Neckarstadion achieved international recognition by hosting the prestigious European Cup final in 1959, where Real Madrid triumphed over Stade de Reims. It again hosted a major European final in 1962, the Cup Winner’s Cup final replay where Atlético Madrid defeated Fiorentina.
In preparation for the 1974 World Cup, the stadium underwent extensive renovations in the early 1970s. This included rebuilding the main stand and adding a roof to the opposite side, reducing capacity to 70,500. During the 1974 World Cup, Neckarstadion played host to four matches, including a second-round group phase game between Poland and Sweden.
The stadium’s European pedigree was further cemented in 1988 when it hosted its second European Cup final, a tense affair where PSV Eindhoven defeated Benfica on penalties. Just a month later, it served as a venue for the 1988 European Championships, hosting a group stage match and the semi-final clash between the Soviet Union and Italy.
Further redevelopment in 1993 modernized the stadium, converting terraces into seating and constructing a comprehensive roof covering the entire arena. This renovation also brought about a name change to Gottlieb-Daimler-Stadion, reflecting sponsorship from the renowned car manufacturer Daimler-Benz.
Ahead of the 2006 World Cup hosted by Germany, Gottlieb-Daimler-Stadium was once again modernized. This renovation focused on reconstructing the upper tiers, enhancing the fan experience for the global tournament. The stadium hosted six World Cup matches in 2006, including a round of 16 match and the third-place play-off game.
A pivotal transformation occurred in 2008 when the city of Stuttgart decided to convert the Gottlieb-Daimler-Stadium into a dedicated football stadium. The athletics track was removed, the pitch lowered, and new stands were constructed closer to the field at the ends, with existing stands extended towards the pitch. Completed in mid-2011, this transformation increased capacity to its current figure and ushered in the stadium’s current name: Mercedes-Benz Arena.
Neckarstadion in the 1950s, showcasing its earlier structure and open terraces.
Neckarstadion in the 1980s, reflecting further development and increased seating.
Navigating to the Mercedes-Benz Arena: Directions and Transport
Located northeast of Stuttgart, on the east bank of the Neckar River, the Mercedes-Benz Arena is conveniently situated approximately 4.5 kilometers from Stuttgart city center and the main rail station. Its address is Mercedesstraße 87, 70372 Stuttgart (Bad Cannstatt).
By Car: For those driving, follow signs with the stadium symbol from the motorways surrounding Stuttgart. The B10 and B14 will guide you directly to the arena.
Public Transport: Stuttgart boasts an excellent public transport network.
- S-Bahn: From Stuttgart main rail station (Hauptbahnhof), take S-Bahn line S1 towards Kirchheim and disembark at Neckarpark station. The stadium is a short 5-minute walk from there.
- Stadtbahn: On matchdays, Stadtbahn line U11 provides direct service from the main rail station to NeckarPark station, specifically for stadium access.
- Walking from Bad Cannstatt Station: Bad Cannstatt station, served by various S-Bahn and train lines, is a walkable 30 minutes from the Mercedes-Benz Arena. This offers a scenic route for those who prefer to walk.
Amenities and Accommodation Near Mercedes-Benz Arena
Nestled between the Neckar River and railway lines, the Mercedes-Benz Arena is part of a larger sports and event complex. While the immediate vicinity features some light industry and warehouses, options for dining and accommodation are readily available.
Adjacent to the stadium, within the same building complex as the Hilton Hotel, you’ll find a few restaurants and bars. However, the nearby Bad Cannstatt district provides a wider array of dining and entertainment choices.
For accommodation, the Hilton Garden Inn NeckarPark, situated directly across from the stadium, is the closest option, though it tends to be in a higher price range. A more budget-friendly alternative is Hotel Discovery, located just across the Neckar River.
Other hotels within walking distance near Bad Cannstatt rail station, offering the added benefit of proximity to more restaurants and bars, include:
- Attimo Hotel Stuttgart
- Motel One Stuttgart Bad Cannstatt
- Hotel Geissler
For a comprehensive list of hotels near Mercedes-Benz Arena, you can check Booking.com’s dedicated page. To explore options in Stuttgart city center, visit Booking.com’s Stuttgart city center page.
Securing VfB Stuttgart Tickets
Tickets for VfB Stuttgart home games can be purchased online via the official VfB Stuttgart ticket shop or in person at the Fan-Center located at the Mercedes-Benz Arena.
While VfB Stuttgart boasts strong attendance figures in the Bundesliga, sell-outs are not frequent, occurring in approximately one-third of home matches. Generally, tickets are readily available if purchased in advance.
Ticket prices vary depending on seating location and match profile. Prices range from €25.00 for seats in the curve sections to €55.00 for central seats in the main stand. Standing area tickets are priced at €14.50. Prices may increase for high-profile or derby matches.
A detailed seating plan is available on the official VfB Stuttgart ticket website.
Mercedes-Benz Arena Stadium Tours: Explore Behind the Scenes
VfB Stuttgart offers various guided stadium tours, with the “Fan-Tour” being the most popular option. This 90-minute tour provides exclusive access to areas typically off-limits to the public, including:
- Dressing Room: Step into the inner sanctum where VfB Stuttgart players prepare for matches.
- Players Tunnel: Walk the path players take onto the pitch.
- Dugouts: Experience the view from the team benches.
- VIP Facilities: Explore the premium hospitality areas of the stadium.
- Press Areas: Discover where media coverage happens on matchdays.
Tours are conducted multiple times daily. For the most up-to-date schedule and to make bookings, please visit the official VfB Stuttgart website. Advance booking is required.
The Fan-Tour is priced at €11.00. For further inquiries, you can contact [email protected].
Mercedes-Benz Arena Photo Gallery
Photo credits: stadiumguide.com
