Gijon : El Molinón Stadium Guided Tour

Travelers looking to connect with the local football culture in Spain will find this guided tour of El Molinón Stadium both engaging and surprisingly intimate. While it’s primarily pitched as a football experience, it offers much more than just a stadium visit — it’s a glimpse into the heart of Gijón’s sporting identity. The tour’s highlight is the chance to step into restricted areas, usually off-limits during matchdays, giving visitors a sense of what it feels like to be part of a team’s inner circle.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are the expert guidance that enriches the experience and the authentic access to areas like the dugout and players’ tunnel. One possible drawback might be the short duration — at just about 1 hour — which leaves some visitors wishing for a deeper dive into the club’s stories. This tour is especially suited for football fans, history buffs, or anyone curious about local culture, offering a lively blend of sport and tradition.

Key Points

• Historic Venue: El Molinón is Spain’s oldest stadium, full of character and stories.
• Behind-the-Scenes Access: You get to explore areas normally off-limits, like the dressing rooms and players’ tunnel.
• Expert Guides: A knowledgeable guide helps bring the experience to life with insights and stories.
• Cultural Connection: It’s a great way to understand Gijón’s sporting identity and local passion.
• Flexible Language Options: Tours are available in both English and Spanish.
• Value for Money: At $21, it’s a fair price for a behind-the-scenes football adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Walk Through Gijón’s Heart

We loved the way this tour turns a simple stadium visit into a lively, personalized story. The highlight for many is the chance to step into areas normally restricted — from the press conference room to the VIP zones, and especially the players’ tunnel. It’s a rare look into what goes on behind the scenes during match days, and it’s all made accessible through a guided experience that feels both informative and fun.

The history of El Molinón is woven into the experience, giving visitors a sense of the club’s significance in Gijón and Spain. The stadium, built in the 1910s, is not just a sports venue but a symbol of local pride. Our guide explained how the club and stadium are woven into the fabric of the city — a point reinforced by reviews that praise the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge, like the comment: “Muy recomendable, la guía, Laura muy buena.”

The tour starts at Puerta 0 (Gate 0), which is easy to find and convenient, especially if you arrive a little early — something we recommend to get the most out of your hour. From there, the journey takes you through the press conference room, where you can imagine the pressure and excitement of match day interviews, to the mixed zones where players speak to journalists.

The real thrill comes when you enter the dressing rooms and walk down the players’ tunnel, feeling the anticipation and energy before stepping onto the pitch. Sitting in the dugout offers a view that most fans only dream of. It’s a surprisingly personal touch that makes the experience memorable. The stadium’s pitch view is a highlight, and many leave with a newfound appreciation for the sport — whether they’re hardcore football fans or merely curious travelers.

After the on-field experience, the tour continues into the museum, where you’ll find memorabilia, photographs, and stories that capture the club’s evolution over the years. It’s a space that feels both nostalgic and proud. Finally, visitors have the opportunity to stop at the shop to buy a kit or souvenir, sealing the experience and creating a tangible memory of the visit.

Pricing and Value

At $21 per person, this tour offers excellent value. It’s a relatively short experience, but the access to normally restricted areas compensates for the brevity. For football fans or those with a casual interest in the sport’s local culture, this is a great way to deepen their appreciation. The smaller group size often enhances the interaction, making the guide’s insights more personal.

The tour’s flexibility with language — available in English and Spanish — is another plus, accommodating international visitors without sacrificing quality. The option to reserve and pay later adds a layer of convenience, especially if your plans are still fluid.

What’s Not to Love?

If you’re expecting an in-depth, long-form stadium tour, this may feel a bit brief. The hour-long schedule means you’ll want to focus on the highlights, and you might find yourself wishing for more time in certain areas. Also, since the tour is not during a match, you won’t get to see the stadium in full game-day action, but that’s a minor point given the access you do get.

Practical Tips

• Arrive at least 10 minutes early at Puerta 0 for smooth entry.
• Check availability before booking, as starting times can vary.
• Consider combining this tour with other Gijón experiences like city walks or visits to local museums, especially if you’re staying for several days.
• If you’re traveling with children or non-football fans, emphasize the behind-the-scenes access — it can be surprisingly engaging even without deep football knowledge.

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Is It Worth It?

Absolutely, especially if you want a glimpse into the local football culture and the storied history of one of Spain’s most venerable stadiums. Most reviews highlight the guide’s quality, with one traveler stating, “Muy recomendable, la guía, Laura muy buena.” The authenticity, combined with the chance to stand on the pitch and in the dressing rooms, makes it a memorable, worthwhile addition to your Gijón itinerary.

Who Should Consider This?

This tour best suits football enthusiasts, sports history buffs, and travelers eager for local cultural insights. It’s also ideal for families wanting an interactive experience or visitors who enjoy discovering hidden stories behind iconic landmarks. If a short, engaging, behind-the-scenes look at a historic stadium sounds appealing, this guided tour is a solid choice.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s interactive nature and short duration make it generally suitable for children, especially if they’re interested in football. Just check with the provider if you have very young kids.

Are the tours available in English or Spanish?
Yes, tours are offered in both languages, and you can request your preferred language when booking.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, so plan to arrive a bit early and be mindful of the schedule.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and finishes at Puerta 0 of the El Molinón stadium, with clear instructions to arrive at least 10 minutes early.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this experience good value for the price?
Yes, especially considering the exclusive access and expert guidance. For $21, you get a behind-the-scenes look at Spain’s oldest stadium and a memorable engagement with local football culture.

What’s included in the tour?
The guided tour covers normally restricted areas like dressing rooms, tunnels, VIP sections, and the museum, led by a knowledgeable guide.

Is there an opportunity to buy souvenirs?
Yes, the tour ends at the stadium shop, where you can purchase kits or memorabilia.

Are there any special tips for visitors?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking around the stadium and arrive early. Check the schedule beforehand and consider combining with other local tours for a fuller experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
The authentic behind-the-scenes access, the history of the stadium, and the friendly guidance make this tour a special peek into Gijón’s football soul.

To sum it up, the Gijón: El Molinón Stadium Guided Tour offers an authentic, engaging look into one of Spain’s oldest football venues. It’s a fantastic pick for those wanting to experience local sports culture firsthand without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or simply curious about Gijón’s history, this tour combines accessibility, history, and local pride into a compact, memorable package.

You can check availability for your dates here: