Malšovická Aréna

Introduction

Malšovická Aréna, the new heart of sports and culture in Hradec Králové, Czechia, stands as a symbol of modern architectural excellence and a bridge to the city’s storied football past. Opened in September 2023 on the historic grounds of the former Všesportovní stadion, the arena has rapidly become a magnet for fans, concertgoers, and travelers seeking both contemporary experiences and a taste of local tradition (cs.wikipedia.org; fchk.cz).

With its iconic “lízátka” (lollipop-shaped) floodlights preserved from the original stadium, Malšovická Aréna offers a unique setting for domestic and international football, major concerts, and diverse community events. Its central location in the Malšovice district makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Hradec Králové’s historical gems, such as the White Tower and the Museum of Eastern Bohemia (malsovickaarena.cz; kudyznudy.cz). This guide delivers all essential information about visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, amenities, and nearby attractions.

Historical Origins and Development

Všesportovní Stadion to Malšovická Aréna

The original Všesportovní stadion, built in 1970, served as the sporting and cultural core of Hradec Králové for over five decades, famously marked by its four “lízátka” floodlight pylons (cs.wikipedia.org). By the 2010s, the stadium no longer met modern safety and league standards, especially after FC Hradec Králové’s promotion to the Czech First League in 2020/21 (fchk.cz). The need for a new, compliant stadium became urgent, leading to the approval of Malšovická Aréna’s construction in March 2021 (construsoftbimawards.com).

Planning, Design, and Construction

A consortium led by Strabag, Geosan Group, and D&D Elektromont built the arena, with Tomáš Vymetálek Architects and ARCHaPLAN handling the design. The project overcame supply chain disruptions and rising material costs, completing the main structure by summer 2023 at a total cost of 763 million CZK (kudyznudy.cz). The arena opened with a full house for FC Hradec Králové’s victory over Dynamo České Budějovice on August 5, 2023 (en.wikipedia.org).

Architecture and Features

Stadium Structure and Capacity

Malšovická Aréna is an all-seater stadium with a capacity of 9,300, one of the Czech Republic’s largest football venues. All seats are covered, and the stadium includes 500 VIP seats and 210 skybox seats (construsoftbimawards.com). The stands are organized as follows:

• North, East, South: Connected by curved corner stands, featuring reinforced concrete and galvanized steel roofing.
• West Stand: A three-story structure housing VIP, media, and hospitality facilities.
• Façade: Clad in semi-transparent expanded metal mesh for a modern look and cost savings.

Heritage and Multifunctionality

The meticulously restored “lízátka” floodlight towers (54.5m tall, 45 tons each) were repositioned at stadium corners, preserving the site’s legacy (cs.wikipedia.org). The arena is designed for versatility, accommodating football matches, concerts (up to 25,000 attendees), conferences, and community events. Facilities include seven multipurpose halls, a 600-meter running track, illuminated tunnels, and accommodation rooms (meatspace.cz).

Visiting Hours and Ticketing

Visiting Hours

• Event Days: The arena opens 1–2 hours before events; hours may be extended for special occasions.
• Guided Tours: Offered on selected dates, typically twice monthly. Schedule and booking information are available on the official FC Hradec Králové website.

Ticket Purchasing

• Football & Concerts: Tickets are available online via the FC Hradec Králové website or authorized sellers such as tickets.nfctron.com.
• Stadium Tours: Adult tickets are 150 CZK, with discounts for students, seniors, and persons with disabilities. Children under three are free (FC Hradec Králové).
• Box Office: Open during events and tour days; advance booking is recommended for popular fixtures.

Accessibility and Visitor Services

• Barrier-Free Access: The arena is fully accessible, with dedicated wheelchair seating, elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms.

• Visitor Amenities:

  • Food and beverage outlets serving Czech and international fare.
  • VIP lounge (350 guests), conference room, and premium catering (meatspace.cz).
  • Fan shop with FC Hradec Králové merchandise, open during events and tours.
  • Modern restrooms, first aid stations, and information points.

• Transport & Parking:

  • City buses and trolleybuses stop nearby; the main train station is 3 km away.
  • On-site and surrounding parking, with designated spaces for disabled visitors.
  • Secure bike racks available (malsovickaarena.cz).

Major Events and Sporting Highlights

• Football: Home to FC Hradec Králové and host of Czech national team fixtures, including the city’s first-ever senior national match in March 2025 (salonkyhk.cz).
• Cycling: Venue for the annual Decathlon Cyklomaraton, drawing hundreds of participants (cyklomaratontour.cz).
• Concerts: Hosted the 2025 Chinaski anniversary show and regularly features large-scale music events (tickets.nfctron.com).
• Community Activities: Charity runs, sports festivals, and public gatherings.

Nearby Historical Attractions

Enhance your arena visit by exploring Hradec Králové’s rich heritage:

• White Tower: A 16th-century Renaissance bell tower with panoramic city views.
• Museum of Eastern Bohemia: Showcasing regional history and architecture.
• Old Town Square: Lined with medieval buildings and vibrant cafés.
• Elbe River Promenades: Ideal for relaxing walks or bike rides.
  These sites are all within easy reach thanks to the arena’s central location (kudyznudy.cz).

Practical Visitor Tips

• Arrive Early: Enjoy pre-event activities and avoid congestion.
• Weather: All seats are covered, but dress for the season.
• Security: Bag checks and metal detectors in place; review prohibited items in advance.
• Language: Czech is primary, but English is widely spoken during international events; signage is bilingual.
• Accommodation: Book early for major events — options range from boutique hotels to guesthouses.
• Stay Updated: Download the Audiala app or check official websites for real-time updates and special offers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Malšovická Aréna’s visiting hours?
A: The arena is open during scheduled events and for guided tours. Check the official website for up-to-date times.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Online via the official FC Hradec Králové site, authorized vendors, or at the stadium box office on event days.

Q: Is the arena accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, with barrier-free access, dedicated seating, and accessible facilities.

Q: Are guided stadium tours available?
A: Yes, typically twice monthly. Book in advance online.

Q: What attractions are near the arena?
A: The White Tower, Museum of Eastern Bohemia, Old Town Square, and Elbe River are all nearby.