Maribor football team celebrating victory in the 2012 Slovenian Cup final

Stožice Stadium

Stožice Stadium Ljubljana, Slovenia: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Information

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Stožice Stadium is a landmark of modern architecture and vibrant culture in Ljubljana, Slovenia. As the country’s largest football venue and a versatile event space, it brings together sports fans, concert-goers, and travelers from around the world. Located in the Bežigrad district, Stožice is more than just a stadium—it’s the centerpiece of the expansive Stožice Sports Park, which includes a multi-purpose arena, shopping center, and landscaped parkland. Since its opening in 2010, the stadium has played a pivotal role in Ljubljana’s urban life, hosting NK Olimpija Ljubljana matches, Slovenian national team games, international concerts, and diverse cultural events.

This guide provides all the essential details for visitors: opening hours, ticketing, architectural highlights, event schedules, accessibility, transport, and practical tips to ensure a memorable experience at Stožice Stadium. For the latest information and event updates, always consult the official Stožice Stadium website and Ljubljana tourism resources like Visit Ljubljana.

Prime Minister playing charity football match in Ljubljana Stožice Stadium

Zoran Janković playing football at Stožice stadium in 2010

Introduction
History and Significance
Architectural Highlights
Structural Innovation and Park Integration
Cultural and Social Importance
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Tours
Getting There and Accessibility
Stadium Facilities and Layout
Matchday and Event Experience
Nearby Attractions
Practical Travel Tips
FAQs
Summary and Key Points
References

History and Significance

Stožice Stadium stands on a former gravel pit in the Bežigrad district, cleverly transformed into a dynamic urban complex. Since its inauguration in 2010, the stadium has hosted major football matches, including Slovenian league games, national team fixtures, and high-profile derbies. Notably, Stožice was a venue for the 2021 UEFA European Under-21 Championship final. The stadium’s 16,038-seat capacity makes it the largest in Slovenia, and its role as the home of NK Olimpija Ljubljana and frequent host for the national team reflects its central place in Slovenian sports and community spirit.

Beyond football, Stožice Stadium and the adjacent arena are important cultural venues, drawing international artists and large audiences for concerts and public events, and contributing to the city’s vibrant calendar (Culture.si; Slovenia.info).

Architectural Highlights

The stadium’s innovative design is the work of Sadar+Vuga, a renowned Slovenian architectural firm. Winning a competition in 1997, they envisioned the stadium as a sunken structure, largely embedded in the landscape with only the roof visible from the surrounding park. This “crater”-shaped roof, made of reinforced concrete, steel, and glass, creates a modern yet contextually sensitive landmark. The stadium and arena are unified by an artificial parkland, blending urban and natural elements (Designboom; Architectuul).

Key features include:

Sunken Design: Reduces visual impact and enhances acoustics.
Panoramic Views: Offers vistas of Ljubljana’s skyline and the Alps.
Adaptable Spaces: Stadium and arena convert seamlessly between sports, concerts, and cultural events.
Sustainable Integration: The stadium is topped by a green park, serving as a bridge between the urban core and the Sava River landscape (Culture.si).

Structural Innovation and Park Integration

The 182,600 m² site comprises the stadium, arena, shopping center, and over 122,000 m² of parkland. Much of the development, including the shopping center and parking, is sunk 12 meters below ground, preserving the horizontal landscape and minimizing the visual footprint. The park above is not just decorative—it offers jogging tracks, playgrounds, and year-round recreational opportunities (Architectuul; Culture.si).

Structural highlights:

Materials: Reinforced concrete and prefabricated steel elements.
Arena Capacity: 12,480 for sports; up to 14,480 for concerts.
Lighting: 124 individually controlled reflectors for tailored event illumination (Sport Ljubljana).

Stožice Stadium is at the heart of Ljubljana’s urban and cultural life. Its hybrid program—sports, concerts, recreation—attracts a diverse audience, from football fans to families and culture lovers. The venue has hosted global stars such as José Carreras, Leonard Cohen, Sting, Michael Bublé, Andrea Bocelli, and Rammstein, and remains a sought-after location for international competitions and performances (Sport Ljubljana).

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Tours

Visiting Hours

General Access: The park is open daily from early morning until late evening.
Event Days: Stadium gates typically open 1–2 hours before the scheduled event.
Guided Tours: Available on select days and by prior arrangement. Confirm availability on the official website.

Tickets

Tickets for sports and cultural events are sold online via the official website, at the box office, and through authorized platforms.
Advance booking is recommended for major events and concerts.
Ticket prices vary depending on event and seating category (Ticket Purchase Platform).

Guided Tours

Tours provide behind-the-scenes access to VIP areas, player facilities, and architectural highlights.
Book in advance through the stadium’s website or visitor center.

Getting There and Accessibility

Location

Address: Vojkova cesta 100, 1000 Ljubljana.
District: Bežigrad, 3–4 km from Ljubljana’s city center (Stadium Guide).

Public Transport

Bus: Lines 1, 6, 13, and 20 connect the city center to the stadium (Ljubljana Public Transport).
Bicycle: BicikeLJ bike-sharing stations nearby.
Walking: 30–45 minute walk from city center or main railway station.

Driving and Parking

Underground Parking: Over 1,200 spaces; use entrances 1, 2, or 5 (Football Tripper).
Satnav: Vojkova cesta 100, 1000 Ljubljana.
Airport Access: 27 km from Ljubljana Airport; taxi ride takes 20–25 minutes.

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: 49–97 reserved spaces, ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms (Visit Ljubljana).
Facilities: Fully accessible for visitors with disabilities, including blind and partially sighted guests.

Stadium Facilities and Layout

Seating and Capacity

Football Matches: 16,038 seats, including 558 VIP and 97 disabled-access seats (Wikipedia).
Concerts: Capacity exceeds 20,000.
Seating Arrangement: Continuous single tier, divided into North, East, South, and West sections for optimal views (Football Tripper).

Amenities

Restrooms: Modern, accessible throughout the stadium.
Concessions: Food and drink stalls inside; more dining options in the city center (Stadium Guide).
Merchandise: No permanent shop—plan to purchase in advance or in town.

Matchday Experience

Atmosphere: The sunken bowl and close seating ensure a lively, immersive experience.
Away Fans: Designated blocks 27–29, South Stand, entrance D for international matches.
Record Attendance: 16,432 during a UEFA Euro 2024 qualifier.

Tours

Regular public tours are rare; check the official website for special opportunities (Football Tripper).

Nearby Attractions

Ljubljana Castle: Historic hilltop fortress with panoramic views.
BTC City: Shopping and entertainment district.
Slovenian Railway Museum: For history and technology enthusiasts.
Crystal Palace: Slovenia’s tallest building.
Sava River Promenade: Scenic walks and cycling routes.
Local Neighborhoods: Explore Stožice, Ježica, and Tomačevo (Trek Zone).

Practical Travel Tips

Book Early: Secure tickets for popular events in advance.
Public Transport: Use buses or Ljubljana Card for easy access.
Accommodation: Austria Trend Hotel is nearby; city center offers more options (Football Tripper).
Dining: Enjoy Ljubljana’s diverse cuisine in the city center.
Dress for Weather: The stadium is covered, but park areas are open.
Arrive Early: Allow time for security checks and to enjoy amenities.
Safety: Ljubljana is clean and safe; stadium is well maintained (HikersBay).
Healthcare: Travel insurance is recommended; basic first aid available onsite.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the Stožice Stadium visiting hours?
A: The park is open daily; stadium access is event-based or via arranged tours. Check the official website for details.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Purchase online, at the box office, or through authorized platforms. Early booking is advised for major events.

Q: Is the stadium accessible for disabled visitors?
A: Yes, with reserved seating, accessible facilities, and full compliance.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Available by prior arrangement or on select dates—see the official website.

Q: What public transport serves the stadium?
A: Buses 1, 6, 13, and 20 connect the city center and the stadium.

Summary and Key Points

Stožice Stadium is a showcase of Slovenia’s architectural innovation and cultural dynamism. Set within the larger Stožice Sports Park, it offers thrilling sports matches, world-class concerts, and year-round leisure. The stadium’s thoughtful design, accessibility features, and integration with Ljubljana’s urban and natural landscapes ensure a welcoming experience for all. Plan ahead, use public transport, and explore the city’s nearby attractions for a well-rounded visit. For the most current information, consult the official Stožice Stadium website and Slovenia.info.