Bayer Leverkusen

Bayer Leverkusen's transformation under Xabi Alonso, from perennial nearly-men to unbeaten Bundesliga champions in 2023/24, has made BayArena one of the most exciting grounds to visit in German football. The stadium holds 30,210 and fills up regularly, with the Nordkurve generating a fierce atmosphere that belies the club's reputation as a corporate-backed outfit.

The BayArena sits in the small city of Leverkusen, between Cologne and Düsseldorf. That helps visitors: you can stay in either Cologne (20 min by S-Bahn) or Düsseldorf (30 min) and commute to the match, giving you access to far better nightlife, dining, and accommodation. Leverkusen Mitte station is a short walk from the ground.

Ticket availability has tightened since the title-winning season. For marquee fixtures (Bayern, Dortmund, European nights), book 3 to 4 weeks out. For mid-table Bundesliga games, 1 to 2 weeks is usually fine. Standing tickets offer the best value and atmosphere.