What Garaje San Mamés and San Mamés Stadium are
Bilbao’s industrial heritage and modern development meet at Garaje San Mamés and the stadium next door. Also known as Garaje Indautxu, Garaje San Mamés is an architectural landmark associated with the city’s shift into the automobile era. It combines garage, workshop, and residential spaces.
Just steps away, San Mamés Stadium—“La Catedral”—is a major football and events venue and the home of Athletic Club Bilbao. Completed in 2014, it has a capacity of 53,000 and plays a central role in Bilbao’s social and sporting life. Its architecture, accessibility, and integration with public transport reflect the city’s focus on sustainable, accessible urban spaces (IDOM).
History and architecture
Designed by José María Sainz de Aguirre and built between 1941 and 1955, Garaje San Mamés is a rationalist example of Bilbao’s mid-20th-century urban transformation. It is recognized as a landmark of the Basque Country’s modernist infrastructure and has been protected as a Bien de Interés Cultural (BIC) since 2011 (DOCOMOMO Ibérico).
The building also has art deco influences, particularly in its curved entrance, which makes it a feature of the cityscape (Deia). Its rehabilitation is planned as a mixed-use development with 84 residences and 47 tourist apartments, preserving its historical and architectural values (Cadena SER).
San Mamés Stadium was designed by Studio IDOM. Its dynamic white façade, roof, and acoustics shape the matchday experience; the stadium is also a sustainable, LEED-certified structure (IDOM; BilbaoStadium.com). Its connection to public transport is part of Bilbao’s green urban planning.
What to see and the area’s significance
At Garaje San Mamés, the façade, curved entrance, architectural lines, and concrete features reflect the building’s modernist and art deco character. The garage often appears in exhibitions about Bilbao’s motorization history. Its proximity to the stadium also offers photographic opportunities, especially on matchdays, when the area is most vibrant.
The garage and stadium both contribute to the district’s identity: one is rooted in industry, the other in Basque sporting passion (Bilbao Turismo). Garaje San Mamés’ adaptive reuse is part of Bilbao’s approach to integrating historic buildings into modern urban life. The district’s renewal preserves collective memory while supporting community growth and economic vitality (Cadena SER; Deia). The planned mixed-use development is intended to foster a vibrant, diverse community.
Future enhancements at San Mamés include expanded e-ticketing and interactive services, accessibility upgrades intended to meet UEFA’s highest standards, and continued improvements to transport links, green spaces, and university facilities (MAS Context).
Practical visiting information
Garaje San Mamés
- Location Alameda Urquijo, 75.
- Viewing hours The exterior can be viewed at any time. The building has operated primarily as a parking facility, but interior access is limited during rehabilitation.
- Tickets Exterior viewing is free. Occasional guided tours are organized by local cultural groups; if offered, they may require a ticket and advance booking.
- Parking Parking at Garaje Indautxu is subject to space and rehabilitation work.
- Accessibility The surrounding area is wheelchair accessible, but interior access is limited during redevelopment.
For current information about tours and public access, consult the Official Bilbao Tourism Website or contact local heritage groups.
San Mamés Stadium
- Guided tours Usually available daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Check the Athletic Club Website for current schedules.
- Matchdays Gates open 2 hours before kick-off. Tickets range from €25 to €90, depending on the match and seating.
- Tickets Buy online through the Athletic Club Website or at the stadium box office. Advance booking is strongly recommended.
- Accessibility The stadium has multiple accessible entrances, designated wheelchair areas, fourteen accessible toilets, clear signage, and level access throughout.
- Transport and parking Nearby metro and tram stations are fully accessible. City buses and the airport are equipped for wheelchair users (Accessiball). Accessible parking spaces are limited; contact the Disability Access Officer in advance for assistance.
Getting there
- Metro San Mamés station, served by Lines 1 and 2, is the nearest stop.
- Bus Multiple city bus lines serve Alameda Urquijo; buses also serve the area around the stadium.
- Tram Trams serve the area.
- Car Parking is available at Garaje Indautxu, subject to space and rehabilitation work.
- Train Bilbao-Abando station is a 30-minute walk or a short metro ride away.
Further information
- DOCOMOMO Ibérico – Garaje San Mamés
- San Mamés Stadium Tours
- Accessiball – San Mamés Stadium Accessibility
- Athletic Club Official Tickets
- LaLigaExpert San Mamés Stadium Guide
- Lower Block
- Athletic Club Official
Tips
- Book tickets in advance for tours and matches, especially for big games.
- Arrive early to enjoy stadium amenities and avoid crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the district and stadium.
- Prepare for rain: Bilbao has a mild but wet climate.
- Use public transport for convenience and sustainability.
- Consult official resources and plan ahead. The guide also recommends mobile tools such as the Audiala app for real-time updates, tickets, and insider tips.
Nearby places
- San Mamés Stadium Next to the garage, it is home to Athletic Club Bilbao and offers guided tours and an electric matchday atmosphere (Lower Block).
- Guggenheim Museum Bilbao A contemporary art museum nearby.
- Bilbao Fine Arts Museum Displays Basque and international art.
- Casco Viejo (Old Town) Bilbao’s historic heart, with local cuisine and boutiques.
- University District An area with students, cafés, and cultural venues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I visit inside Garaje San Mamés?
Interior access is limited during its ongoing rehabilitation. The exterior can be viewed at any time.
Do I need tickets to see Garaje San Mamés?
No tickets are required to view the exterior. Guided tours, if available, may require booking.
What are San Mamés Stadium visiting hours?
Guided tours usually run from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. On matchdays, gates open 2 hours before kick-off.
Is San Mamés Stadium accessible?
Yes. It has accessible entrances, wheelchair areas, accessible toilets, clear signage, and level access. Nearby metro and tram stations are fully accessible.
How do I get to the area?
San Mamés metro station is served by Lines 1 and 2. Buses and trams also serve the area.
