Ultimate Guide to Attending the Europa League Final: Costs, Travel, and Tips

Introduction

The Europa League Final is one of the most anticipated events in European football, and this year, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have made it to the grand stage. The final will be held at the San Mames stadium in Bilbao, Spain, on 21 May 2025. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the costs, travel options, and tips for fans planning to attend the match.

Ticket Information

Ticket Allocation: Each finalist club receives 15,000 tickets out of the total 49,600 available.
Ticket Prices:
- Fans First Scheme: Starting at €40 (£34).
- General Public: Ranging from €65 to €240 (£55-£204).
- Hospitality Packages: €1,290 to €1,490 (£1,096-£1,266) per person.

Travel Costs from Manchester

Flights:
- One-Way: £668 to £1,004.
- Return: £1,352 (cheapest option with one night in Bilbao).
Coach Journey: Over £200, taking approximately 32 hours.

Travel Costs from London

Flights:
- Return: Just under £1,300 (matchday travel).
- Early Departure: As cheap as £678.
Coach Journey: Over £180, taking more than 25 hours.

Alternative Travel Options

Train: Approximately £200 one way from London.
- Route: London St Pancras → Paris Nord → Paris Montparnasse → Hendaye → San Sebastian → Bilbao.
Ferry: Brittany Ferries from Portsmouth to Bilbao, one-way fare £201 (no cabins available).

Accommodation

City Centre Hotels: £850 to £13,345.
Cheaper Alternatives: Towns like Bakio, Bermeo, and Mundaka, about a 35-minute drive away.

Getting to the Stadium

Public Transport: Underground, train, tram, or bus.
Walking: Recommended for a unique experience and sightseeing.

Expert Advice

Travel expert Simon Calder suggests exploring alternative routes, such as flying to Biarritz and taking a train to Bilbao, to save costs and enjoy the Basque region.

Conclusion

Attending the Europa League Final in Bilbao is an exciting but potentially costly endeavor. Planning ahead and considering all travel and accommodation options can help fans make the most of this unforgettable experience.