Barcelona, Spain
RCDE Stadium
La Liga
Planning a trip to see Espanyol play is straightforward with several travel agencies and ticket companies offering different options. You can choose between buying match tickets separately or opting for complete packages that include hotel stays and flights. While membership with the club is required for direct ticket purchases, booking through travel partners ensures your spot at the game. Some packages include extras like stadium tours or pre-match events, so it's worth checking what's included before booking. Having your accommodation near the stadium can make the matchday experience more convenient.
Different companies offer various Espanyol match experiences, from basic ticket-only options to comprehensive weekend packages. Each provider has their unique benefits - some focus on premium seating locations, while others might include special experiences or better hotel options. The packages vary in what they include, so comparing the full content of each offer helps you find the best match for your needs. Remember to check the hotel's location and what's included in the price, as some packages offer additional perks like breakfast or airport transfers.
Match tickets for Espanyol games are available through several providers, with options for different sections of the stadium. The best seats are typically in the main stand, offering excellent views of the action. For big matches against rivals like Barcelona, tickets tend to be in higher demand. Some providers offer ticket delivery to your hotel, while others use digital tickets or collection points near the stadium. Authorized sellers provide various seating categories, from basic seats to VIP experiences with access to premium areas.
The RCDE Stadium, Espanyol's modern home since 2009, holds around 40,000 spectators and creates an impressive atmosphere on matchdays. The best way to experience the local fan culture is to arrive early and join the pre-match activities around the stadium. Local fans traditionally gather in the surrounding bars and restaurants before kickoff. The stadium's design ensures good visibility from all sections, though the most passionate supporters typically gather in the south stand. Match programs are available outside the stadium, and the club shop is worth visiting for official merchandise.
Getting to RCDE Stadium is straightforward using Barcelona's efficient public transport system. The nearest metro station is Cornellà Centre (L5), about a 10-minute walk from the stadium. Buses also run regularly on matchdays, with several lines stopping near the ground. If you're taking a taxi, make sure to keep the return journey in mind as they can be harder to find after the match. Some travel packages include transport to and from the stadium, which can be particularly useful for evening games.
Deciding between a package trip and individual tickets depends on your travel style. Package trips handle all the logistics, combining match tickets with accommodation and sometimes flights. They're ideal if you want everything organized in one booking. Individual tickets offer more flexibility with your travel arrangements but require you to sort out your own accommodation and transport. Package trips often work out more convenient, especially for big matches where finding separate accommodation can be challenging.
The Barcelona derby against Barcelona is Espanyol's biggest rivalry, representing different social and cultural identities within the city. These matches in La Liga are always intense affairs. Other notable rivalries include matches against Valencia and Atletico Madrid, though these lack the intensity of the local derby. The atmosphere during these games is particularly electric, making them especially popular with visiting fans.
Espanyol has a rich history dating back to 1900, making it one of Spain's oldest clubs. They've produced several English players over the years, with Steve Archibald being one of the most notable British imports in the 1980s. The club has maintained strong ties with English football, both through player transfers and friendly matches. Their playing style has traditionally focused on technical skill and tactical discipline, characteristics that have remained consistent throughout their history.
Barcelona offers endless attractions beyond football. The iconic Sagrada Familia and Park Güell showcase Gaudi's unique architecture, while the Gothic Quarter provides a maze of historic streets to explore. Las Ramblas, the city's famous boulevard, is perfect for people-watching and dining. The beach is accessible year-round, and the city's food scene, from tapas bars to fine dining restaurants, is world-renowned. Many visitors combine match attendance with city sightseeing for a complete Barcelona experience.