The Allianz Arena is Bayern Munich's home and one of the most recognisable stadiums in the world thanks to its inflatable ETFE façade that lights up red, white or blue depending on the home team. Opened in 2005, it is a regular Champions League venue and a host of Euro 2024, with 75,000 seats in Bundesliga configuration.
History and architecture
Designed by Herzog & de Meuron — the same practice behind Beijing's National Stadium — the Allianz Arena opened on 30 May 2005 with a farewell match between Bayern and the German national team. Its skin of 2,874 ETFE cushions changes colour: red for Bayern, white for the national team and blue for TSV 1860 (who played there until 2017). Capacity was expanded to 75,000 in 2012.
Iconic moments
It hosted the 2006 World Cup (including the opening match, Germany vs Costa Rica), the 2012 Champions League final (where Bayern lost to Chelsea at home) and the 2025 Champions League final. At Euro 2024 it staged six matches including semifinals. Beyond football, the NFL played a regular-season game here in 2022.
Getting there and matchday tips
Easiest access is U-Bahn line U6, Fröttmaning station, then a 15-minute walk. Multi-storey car parks fit 9,800 cars but fill quickly. Avoid driving for big games: A9 traffic is heavy. Arrive 60 minutes early — Germans are punctual and gates close just before kickoff.
Where to sit and what to eat
Bayern's stands are famous for how close they sit to the pitch. Südkurve (south end) holds the red ultras with non-stop chanting. Business Class hospitality includes pre- and post-match lounges with Bavarian catering. Concourse food: giant pretzels, weisswurst and bratwurst, Weißbier and Paulaner on draught.
