Gijon : El Molinón Stadium Guided Tour

Stepping into El Molinón, Spain’s oldest football stadium, is a chance to connect with a cornerstone of Spanish football heritage. For just $21 per person, you can spend about an hour exploring its hidden corners alongside a passionate guide—available in English or Spanish. This tour offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the club’s long-standing tradition and the vibrant football culture of Asturias, making it a compelling experience whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply curious about local sports history.

What truly makes this experience stand out is the chance to visit restricted areas that are normally off-limits during matchdays—think the dressing rooms, VIP zones, and players’ tunnel—and to feel what it’s like to be a part of the action. Plus, the guide’s storytelling helps bring the club’s history and the stadium’s atmosphere alive. A second highlight is the opportunity to explore the club’s museum, where memorabilia and historic displays deepen your understanding of Sporting de Gijón’s legacy.

However, keep in mind that at just around an hour, this tour is relatively brief, so if you’re craving a more extensive sports experience, or if you’re visiting during match days when the stadium is bustling, it might be worth planning your visit accordingly. That said, it’s perfect for those who want a focused, authentic peek into local football culture without a hefty price tag.

This tour suits football enthusiasts of all ages, curious travelers interested in local history, and even those just wanting a unique cultural experience. If you’re looking for a meaningful, local-friendly activity in Gijón that offers insight beyond the usual tourist spots, this guided walk around El Molinón will not disappoint.

Key Points

• Historic Venue: Visit Spain’s oldest football stadium, steeped in tradition.
• Exclusive Access: Explore restricted areas like the dressing rooms, VIP zones, and players’ tunnel.
• Informed Guides: Learn club history and culture from passionate, knowledgeable guides.
• Authentic Experience: Walk through the areas typically off-limits to the public.
• Family Friendly & Flexible: Suitable for all ages and available in both English and Spanish.
• Affordable: At $21, this tour offers excellent value for a behind-the-scenes football experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into El Molinón: The Heart of Sporting Gijón

Few stadiums in Spain can boast of being the oldest, and El Molinón’s history dates back over a century. This tour allows you to walk through a venue that has seen countless matches, celebrations, and even some turbulent times. It’s more than just a football ground—it’s a symbol of community pride and local identity in Gijón.

From the start at Puerta 0, the meeting point is straightforward, and we recommend arriving at least 10 minutes early to settle in and get ready for the experience. The guide will lead you through the corridors and into areas usually reserved for players and officials. Walking into the press conference room, you’ll get a feel for the buzz of pre- or post-match interviews, almost as if you’re front and center. It’s a great way to visualize the inner workings of a football club, especially for those unfamiliar with sports culture.

Next, you’ll visit the mixed zone—where journalists interview players—and the VIP areas, which reveal the more luxurious side of football hospitality. Moving into the changing rooms, you can imagine the preparations of players before stepping onto the pitch. The highlight for many is crossing the historic tunnel and stepping onto the field—here, you can picture the roar of the crowd as players run onto the pitch, and you might even feel like part of the team for a moment.

After soaking in the atmosphere on the pitchside, you’ll head into the museum, where photographs, memorabilia, and historic displays tell the story of Sporting Gijón’s journey through decades. Wrapping up the tour, the shop offers kits and souvenirs, perfect for starting your own sporting adventure or gifting a piece of Gijón’s football history.

The guided commentary enhances each step, with the guide sharing stories and answering questions, making the experience both educational and fun. Reviewers highlight Laura’s engaging and informative style, which helps bring the stadium’s history to life, making the visit enjoyable whether you’re a football fanatic or a casual visitor.

What Makes This Tour a Great Choice?

Compared to other local excursions, this tour’s greatest asset is its personalized access. Many travelers love the chance to see the player’s tunnel and dressing rooms, typically off-limits, which adds a layer of authenticity not found in standard stadium visits. The cost-effectiveness—just $21—offers solid value, especially considering the guided nature and restricted access.

The hour-long format means the experience is compact but comprehensive. It’s perfect for fitting into a busy day exploring Gijón or Asturias overall. Plus, the flexibility of choosing between English and Spanish makes it accessible to a broad audience.

Two reviewers have positively highlighted the experience, with one mentioning, “Muy recomendable, la guía, Laura muy buena,” underscoring the importance of a good guide and engaging narration.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Book in advance to secure your preferred time slot, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• Arrive at least 10 minutes early at Puerta 0 for a smooth start.
• Check the weather—since parts of the tour involve outdoor areas, dress accordingly.
• If you’re a football fan, consider visiting during a matchweek for added excitement, but note that the tour is available on non-match days when the stadium is quieter.
• The tour lasts about one hour, so plan your day accordingly. It fits well into a broader tour of Gijón or Asturias.
• Remember that the tour is led by a specialized guide, adding a personal touch and local insights—so ask questions!

Final Thoughts

This guided tour of El Molinón offers an engaging, authentic peek into Spain’s oldest football stadium, making it ideal for fans, history buffs, or curious travelers. The restricted access to areas like the dressing rooms and tunnel heightens the sense of being part of the game, even if just for an hour. Plus, with a reasonable price point and knowledgeable guides, it’s a smart choice for those wanting a meaningful, local experience in Gijón.

If you’re after a slice of football history combined with a behind-the-scenes visit, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s well-suited for families, sports lovers, and culture seekers alike, offering a memorable, fun, and authentic encounter that’s rare to find elsewhere. Just keep in mind that it’s a short tour, so if you want a deeper dive into sports or local history, look for complementary experiences.

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FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately one hour, making it a short but rich experience.

In what languages is the tour available?
Guides speak English and Spanish, and you can request your preferred language when booking.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at Puerta 0 of El Molinón stadium. Arrive at least 10 minutes early to check in.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the experience is family-friendly, especially for those interested in football and sports culture.

Are the restricted areas accessible during non-match days?
Yes, the tour offers access to areas normally off-limits, which are usually closed to the public on non-match days.

Is it a guided tour or self-guided?
It is a guided tour led by an expert, with engaging commentary throughout.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided tour of the stadium, access to restricted areas, and the expert guide in your chosen language.

Is this experience suitable for non-football fans?
Absolutely. The tour offers a cultural and historical perspective on the club and stadium, making it interesting even for those less familiar with football.

This guide should help you decide whether a stroll through El Molinón is a good fit for your Gijón itinerary. It combines history, local pride, and a behind-the-scenes view of Spain’s football tradition—all accessible at an affordable price.

You can check availability for your dates here: