Stadio Friuli

Stadio Friuli (Bluenergy Stadium): Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Udine Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: The Legacy of Stadio Friuli in Udine

Stadio Friuli—today officially known as Bluenergy Stadium—stands as both a sporting and cultural landmark in Udine, Italy. Since its inauguration in 1976, in the wake of the Friuli earthquake, the stadium has symbolized resilience, innovation, and community pride for the Friuli Venezia Giulia region. Conceived as a modern home for Udinese Calcio by Mayor Angelo Candolini, the stadium has evolved from its original multi-purpose design into one of Italy’s most advanced, sustainable, and fan-friendly venues. Its proximity to Udine’s historic sites and its multifaceted role in the community make it a must-visit destination for sports fans, architecture enthusiasts, and cultural explorers alike (Friuli Oggi; StadiumDB).

History and Origins
Architectural Evolution
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility
Getting There: Transportation and Parking
Stadium Facilities and Matchday Experience
Nearby Attractions in Udine
Naming Rights and Commercial Development
Sporting and Cultural Significance
Technological and Sustainability Innovations
FAQs
Plan Your Visit
Summary and Tips

History and Origins

The site of today’s Bluenergy Stadium was acquired by the Municipality of Udine in the early 1970s to replace the aging Stadio Moretti. Construction began in 1971, led by architects Giuliano Parmegiani and Lorenzo Giacomuzzi Moore. The stadium opened in 1976, just after the devastating Friuli earthquake, as a tribute to the region’s resilience and with a vision of providing a modern home for Udinese Calcio (Friuli Oggi; Cult of Calcio).

Architectural Evolution

Original Design

The original Stadio Friuli featured a distinctive elliptical concrete arch spanning 200 meters, inspired by St. Louis’s Gateway Arch. The stadium’s terraced layout blended with the surrounding environment, and its 59-meter-tall red-and-white floodlights became iconic for visibility and design. Designed as a multi-sport venue, it included a running track, offices, gyms, and multipurpose rooms (StadiumDB; CalcioDeal).

Expansions and Upgrades

During the 1980s and 1990s, the stadium was expanded to complete the oval stands and accommodate major events, including the 1990 FIFA World Cup. Notable upgrades included a large jumbotron, enhanced press facilities, and new seating. For the World Cup, Udine redirected some government renovation funds to Trieste, demonstrating fiscal responsibility (Friuli Oggi; Cult of Calcio).

21st Century Redevelopment

By the early 2000s, modernization was necessary. Udinese Calcio secured a 99-year lease in 2012 and full ownership soon after—making it only the second Serie A club to own its stadium after Juventus. A €50 million redevelopment (2013–2016) transformed Friuli into a modern, all-seater stadium with a reduced capacity of approximately 25,144. Key changes included:

Removal of the athletics track for improved sightlines
Reconstruction of three sides while preserving the iconic main stand and arch
Expanded covered seating, commercial and leisure facilities (gyms, restaurants, cinema, wellness centers), and the Udinese Calcio Museum
Advanced safety, accessibility, and comfort features (CalcioDeal; Accidentally Wes Anderson)

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility

Visiting Hours

Guided Tours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (closed on match days and holidays; check the official website for updates)
Ticket Office & Club Shop: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM on matchdays and selected weekdays

Tickets

Matches: Purchase online via the official Udinese Calcio website, Ticketone, or at the stadium box office
Prices: Serie A matches range from €40–€85; special events (e.g., 2025 UEFA Super Cup) may be higher (Live Football Tickets)
Discounts: Available for children, seniors, and groups

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible entrances, ramps, elevators, reserved seating, and accessible restrooms
Dedicated parking for disabled visitors

Getting There: Transportation and Parking

By Car: Exit A-23 motorway at “Udine Stadio Friuli.” Paid on-site parking is available; arrive early on matchdays (Santos Football Planet)
By Bus: Bus 9 connects Udine’s central railway station to the stadium (20-minute ride)
By Taxi: About 15 minutes from Udine city center
By Air: Nearest airports are Trieste (TRS, 30 min by car), Venice Marco Polo (VCE, 1 hr), and Treviso (TSF)

Stadium Facilities and Matchday Experience

Seating: Covered stands, modern ergonomic seats, clear sightlines
Hospitality: Premium suites, VIP lounges, and club-level amenities (SportsRender)
Food & Drink: Stadium kiosks offer snacks and beverages; more dining options in Udine’s city center
Merchandise: Club shop at the stadium and in the city center; online shopping available
Accessibility: Contact the ticket office for special needs arrangements

The stadium is renowned for its passionate “Bianconeri” supporters, providing a vibrant and energetic atmosphere (SportsRender).

Nearby Attractions in Udine

Extend your visit with these cultural landmarks:

Udine Castle: Offers panoramic city views and houses local museums
Piazza della Libertà: Renowned for its Renaissance architecture
Loggia del Lionello: A striking example of Venetian Gothic design
Local Dining: Try Ristorante Ancona Due, famous for football memorabilia (Santos Football Planet)

Naming Rights and Commercial Development

2016–2023: Dacia Arena, through sponsorship by automotive company Dacia
2023–present: Bluenergy Stadium, following new sponsorship by Bluenergy Group
The name “Stadio Friuli” remains for non-football events (Friuli Oggi; CalcioDeal)

Sporting and Cultural Significance

Football and Rugby

Home to Udinese Calcio since 1976, a fortress for Serie A action
Hosted three matches in the 1990 FIFA World Cup, 2019 UEFA U21 European Championship final, and set to host the 2025 UEFA Super Cup (Accidentally Wes Anderson)
Venue for Italian national football and rugby matches

Major Events and Concerts

Hosted world-famous artists: Pink Floyd, Bruce Springsteen, Madonna, Metallica
In 1992, Pope John Paul II led a mass attended by 30,000 people (Accidentally Wes Anderson)

Technological and Sustainability Innovations

Early adopter of “Hawk-Eye” goal-line technology
Modern surveillance systems and barrier-free spectator experience
Hybrid SISGrass pitch (natural and synthetic blend)
Italy’s first photovoltaic roof for solar energy production
“Stadio 2.0” project: ongoing commercial and multifunctional development (CalcioDeal)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for Stadio Friuli?
A: Guided tours are generally offered Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, excluding match days and holidays. Always check the official website for updates.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Purchase online at the official Udinese Calcio website, Ticketone, or at the stadium’s box office.

Q: Is the stadium accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, accessible entrances, seating, restrooms, and parking are available.

Q: What is the best way to reach Stadio Friuli?
A: Bus 9 from Udine’s central railway station is recommended. By car, use the A-23 “Udine Stadio Friuli” exit.

Q: Are there guided tours or behind-the-scenes experiences?
A: Guided tours are available but must be booked in advance; availability may vary.

Q: What historical sites can I visit nearby?
A: Udine Castle, Piazza della Libertà, Loggia del Lionello, and several museums are all close to the stadium.

Plan Your Visit

Purchase tickets early, especially for high-profile matches and events
Use public transportation for convenience on matchdays
Explore Udine’s city center for dining and sightseeing before or after your stadium visit
Check for special tour packages and “Stadium Experience” offers (Turismo FVG)

Download the Audiala app for live updates, ticket availability, and exclusive content. Stay connected with Udinese Calcio and the city’s latest events.

Summary and Visitor Tips

Stadio Friuli (Bluenergy Stadium) is not only a state-of-the-art football venue but also a symbol of Udine’s heritage, resilience, and ambition. Its comprehensive redevelopment and commitment to sustainability have made it a leader among Italian stadiums. Visitors enjoy a seamless blend of sport, culture, and community—whether attending a thrilling Serie A match, exploring behind the scenes, or discovering Udine’s historic gems nearby.

For current information, always refer to the official Udinese Calcio website and related resources. Plan your trip, immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere, and experience the best of Udine at Stadio Friuli.