The Stuttgart Mercedes-Benz Arena stands as a beacon for football fans and sports enthusiasts alike. Home to the esteemed VfB Stuttgart, this iconic stadium, deeply rooted in Stuttgart’s sporting history, has evolved into a modern marvel. Located in the heart of Stuttgart, Germany, the Mercedes-Benz Arena is more than just a venue for Bundesliga matches; it’s a symbol of the city’s passion for football and a testament to German engineering. This guide delves into the rich history, modern amenities, and essential visitor information for the Stuttgart Mercedes Benz Arena, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next visit.
A Stadium with a Storied Past: History of Mercedes-Benz Arena
The Mercedes-Benz Arena’s history stretches back to 1933, initially opening its doors as the Adolf-Hitler-Kampfbahn. This early iteration of the stadium accommodated around 35,000 spectators and was inaugurated with the German Gymnastics Championships. Just a few years later, driven by growing enthusiasm for sports, temporary wooden stands were erected, briefly expanding the capacity to over 70,000.
Following World War II, the stadium underwent a renaming phase, first becoming Century Stadium and then, in 1949, Neckarstadion. This period also marked significant expansions, pushing the capacity close to an impressive 100,000, reflecting the surging popularity of football in post-war Germany. Neckarstadion became a prominent venue for major European football events. In 1959, it hosted the prestigious European Cup final where Real Madrid triumphed over Stade de Reims. Adding to its European pedigree, the stadium also witnessed Atlético Madrid’s Cup Winner’s Cup final victory against Fiorentina in 1962.
The early 1970s brought extensive renovations in preparation for the 1974 FIFA World Cup. These upgrades included reconstructing the main stand and adding a roof to the opposite side, resulting in a reduced but modernized capacity of 70,500. The 1974 World Cup saw Neckarstadion host four significant matches, including a second-round group stage game between Poland and Sweden.
In 1988, Neckarstadion once again took center stage in European football, hosting another European Cup final, this time witnessing PSV Eindhoven’s victory over Benfica. The same year, the stadium was also a venue for the 1988 European Championships, hosting a group stage match and a semi-final clash.
Further redevelopment in 1993 modernized the stadium significantly. Terraces were converted into seated areas, and a comprehensive roof structure was installed, covering the entire stadium. This transformation coincided with a name change to Gottlieb-Daimler-Stadion, reflecting the sponsorship from Daimler-Benz, the renowned automotive manufacturer headquartered in Stuttgart.
To meet the standards for the 2006 FIFA World Cup, Gottlieb-Daimler-Stadium underwent another significant renovation, primarily focusing on the upper tiers. During the 2006 World Cup, the stadium hosted six matches, including a round of 16 game and the third-place play-off, cementing its status as a premier international football venue.
A pivotal transformation occurred in 2008 when the city of Stuttgart decided to convert the stadium into a dedicated football arena, removing the athletics track. This ambitious project involved lowering the pitch, constructing new stands at the ends, and extending existing stands closer to the field. Completed in mid-2011, this final renovation brought about the current configuration and the name Mercedes-Benz Arena, solidifying the stadium as a modern, football-centric venue with a capacity of 60,441, including over 11,000 standing places.
Getting to Stuttgart Mercedes Benz Arena: Directions and Transport
Located northeast of Stuttgart, on the east bank of the Neckar River, the Mercedes-Benz Arena is conveniently accessible, approximately 4.5 kilometers from Stuttgart city center and the main rail station.
For those driving, follow signs marked with the stadium symbol from the motorways around Stuttgart, which will guide you via the B10 and B14 to the arena.
Public transportation offers a seamless route to the stadium. From Stuttgart main rail station (Hauptbahnhof), take S-Bahn line S1 towards Kirchheim and alight at Neckarpark station. From there, it’s a short 5-minute walk to the Mercedes-Benz Arena. On matchdays, Stadtbahn line U11 also provides direct service from the main rail station to NeckarPark station.
Alternatively, a pleasant 30-minute walk from Bad Cannstatt station will bring you to the stadium. Bad Cannstatt station is well-served by S-Bahn and other train lines, offering another accessible option.
The stadium address for navigation purposes is Mercedesstraße 87, 70372 Stuttgart (Bad Cannstatt).
Beyond the Game: Amenities Around Mercedes-Benz Arena
The Mercedes-Benz Arena is nestled between the Neckar River and railway lines, surrounded by sports facilities, light industry, and warehouses. While the immediate vicinity might seem industrial, there are amenities available.
Within the building complex connected to the stadium, which also houses the Hilton Hotel, you’ll find a few dining and drinking options. However, for a wider range of entertainment, nearby Bad Cannstatt offers numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes.
For accommodation, the Hilton Garden Inn NeckarPark is ideally situated directly across from the stadium, albeit at a higher price point. Hotel Discovery, located just across the Neckar River, presents a more budget-friendly alternative. Other hotels within walking distance near Bad Cannstatt rail station, such as Attimo Hotel Stuttgart, Motel One, and Hotel Geissler, provide convenient access to both the stadium and the dining and entertainment options in Bad Cannstatt.
Matchday at Mercedes-Benz Arena: Tickets and Seating
Experiencing a VfB Stuttgart match at the Mercedes-Benz Arena is a highlight for any football fan. Tickets can be purchased online through the official VfB Stuttgart website or in person at the Fan-Center at the Mercedes-Benz Arena.
VfB Stuttgart boasts some of the highest attendances in the Bundesliga, yet tickets are generally available for most matches if purchased in advance. Ticket prices range from approximately €25.00 for seats in the curves to €55.00 for prime central seats in the main stand. Standing places are available for around €14.50. Prices may increase for high-profile games.
A detailed seating plan is available on the VfB Stuttgart ticketing website to help you choose your preferred location within the stadium.
Explore Behind the Scenes: Mercedes-Benz Arena Stadium Tours
To truly appreciate the Mercedes-Benz Arena, consider taking a stadium tour. VfB Stuttgart offers various guided tours, with the “Fan-Tour” being the most popular. This 90-minute tour provides exclusive access to areas such as the dressing rooms, players’ tunnel, dugouts, VIP areas, and press rooms.
Tours are conducted multiple times daily, but schedules vary, and bookings are required. Check the official VfB Stuttgart website for the current schedule and to book your tour. The Fan-Tour is priced at €11.00. For further information or inquiries, contact [email protected].
Useful Information and Resources
For further information and planning your visit to Stuttgart Mercedes Benz Arena, these websites are valuable resources:
- VFB.de – Official website of VfB Stuttgart.
- Stuttgart-tourist.de – Official tourist website for the Stuttgart region.
- VVS.de – Stuttgart public transport information.
The Stuttgart Mercedes-Benz Arena is more than just a football stadium; it’s a landmark of Stuttgart, steeped in history and equipped for the modern fan experience. Whether you’re a die-hard VfB Stuttgart supporter or a visiting football enthusiast, a trip to this arena promises an unforgettable experience.
