Estadio Centenario - University Olympic Stadium (Pumas, UNAM)
1968 Summer Olympics venue in Mexico
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Estadio Centenario

4.5
·21k reviews·Montevideo, Uruguay

Birthplace of the FIFA World Cup and a FIFA Historical Monument, this iconic stadium breathes football history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration.

CrowdLow
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Estadio Centenario - University Olympic Stadium (Pumas, UNAM)
1968 Summer Olympics venue in Mexico

Estadio Centenario

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Birthplace of the FIFA World Cup and a FIFA Historical Monument, this iconic stadium breathes football history.

4.5
(21k reviews)

"A masterpiece football stadium that is still standing for almost 100 years."

Vertical photo
TIP

⚽ Take a Guided Tour

Highly recommended for history buffs! Learn fascinating stories and see exclusive areas.

📸 Capture the History

Bring your camera! The architecture and memorabilia are incredibly photogenic.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Pitch

The Historic Pitch

Main Field

Stand where legends once played! This is the hallowed ground of the first-ever World Cup final.

Football Museum

Football Museum

Inside the Stadium

Explore decades of football memorabilia, photos, and trophies that tell the story of Uruguayan and world football.

Centenary Monument

Centenary Monument

Exterior

Admire the iconic architecture that commemorates Uruguay's first constitution and the birth of the World Cup.

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Planning Your Visit

Immerse Yourself in Football History

Estadio Centenario is a FIFA Historical Monument, the site of the inaugural 1930 World Cup. Plan your visit to soak in nearly a century of football heritage. Consider booking a tour to get behind-the-scenes access and learn about its iconic past.

Check Event Schedules

Beyond football matches, the stadium hosts concerts and other events. Check the official schedule before your visit to ensure you can access the areas you wish to see and to potentially catch a live performance. Tickets are often available online or at the stadium box office.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration.
Crowd
Low
When
During a Match
Why
Experience the electric atmosphere.
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

¿Primera cita y primer beso en el Centenario? 😮‍💨 que bonito es verlos demostrándose amor en nuestra #KissCam 🥰 Gracias por acompañarnos en las dinámicas que creamos especialmente para ustedes 👏🏻 estén pendientes que muy pronto tendremos más actividades para todos ustedes a lo largo de este 2023 💚 #TodosAlCentenario
@estadio.centenario
31.4K likes • 800.3K views

⚽ Take a Guided Tour

Highly recommended for history buffs! Learn fascinating stories and see exclusive areas. Reddit

📸 Capture the History

Bring your camera! The architecture and memorabilia are incredibly photogenic. TikTok

En el estadio Centenario... todos queremos ser Arleth 😍💃🏻 #TodosAlCentenario @Estadio Centenario #tabasco #villahermosa
@lasfotosdemiguel
29.7K likes • 384.2K views
¡Todos quieren Ver a los Famosos en la #TwinsCam del Centenario! 😍🟢🙌🏼 #todosalcentenario
@estadio.centenario
21.3K likes • 594.8K views

🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance

For popular matches or events, secure your tickets early online or at the box office. TikTok

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the stadium and museum. Reddit

Se hizo canon 😮‍💨 #ArlethTime en el Centenario 💃🏼 🙌🏼 Te esperamoas del 7 al 12 de mayo 🎟️ Boletos disponibles en taquilla del estadio 🕜 Lunes a sábados de 10:00 am a 6:00 pm 📲 o en línea a través de @deboleto.mx #TodosAlCentenario
@estadio.centenario
17.8K likes • 252.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

⚽ Take a Guided Tour

Highly recommended for history buffs! Learn fascinating stories and see exclusive areas. Reddit

📸 Capture the History

Bring your camera! The architecture and memorabilia are incredibly photogenic. TikTok

🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance

For popular matches or events, secure your tickets early online or at the box office. TikTok

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the stadium and museum. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(21k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Estadio Centenario as a must-see for football fans, marveling at its historical significance as the site of the first World Cup and its well-preserved state after nearly a century. The museum is a highlight, offering a deep dive into football history. While some note it's not as modern as other stadiums, its charm and authenticity are widely appreciated.

"A masterpice football stadium that is still standing for almost 100 years.
The stadium was built around between 1929 and 1930 to host the inaugural 1930 Fifa World Cup, as well as to commemorate the centenary of Uruguay's first constitution. It is listed by FIFA as one of the football world's classic stadiums.On 18 July 1983, it was declared by FIFA as the first Historical Monument of World Football, to this day the only building to achieve this recognition worldwide.
We came in to warch the most important match between fierly rivalry Argentina 🇦🇷 and 🇺🇾 Uruguay ⚽️⚽️."

Ricardo Moreno

"Great experience, the museum was full of old photos and memorabilia through the decades. Stadium is impressive considering it was built for the 1930 first world cup"

Shaun Rose

"Historic stadium where the first Soccer World Cup was held. Facilities are working and the place is clean and efficient. I had a very good experience with the best of concerts ever!"

Francis Sanchez

What People Like

Historic football significance
Rich museum exhibits
Authentic atmosphere

What People Dislike

Less modern facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Estadio Centenario is easily accessible by public transport. Several bus routes stop nearby, and a taxi or ride-sharing service is also a convenient option. The journey from downtown typically takes around 15-20 minutes. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available at the stadium, though it can fill up quickly on match days or during major events. Arriving early is advised if you plan to drive. TikTok

Depending on your starting point in Montevideo, walking might be an option, but it's a significant distance from the city center. It's generally more practical to use public transport or a taxi. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, Estadio Centenario offers tours that allow you to explore the stadium, museum, and pitch. It's a fantastic way to learn about its rich history. Reddit

Opening hours can vary depending on events and match schedules. The museum and general access hours are typically Monday to Saturday, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date information. TikTok

Tickets for matches and events can be purchased at the stadium's box office during operating hours, or online through authorized ticketing platforms like @deboleto.mx. TikTok

Ticket prices vary significantly between general admission for matches, special events, and guided tours. It's best to check the official ticketing channels for specific pricing for your desired visit. Reddit

🎫 🏟️ Onsite Experience

Inside Estadio Centenario, you can explore the historic football pitch, the extensive museum filled with memorabilia, and various iconic architectural elements of the stadium itself. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a must-see for any football enthusiast, being the site of the first World Cup. The history and atmosphere are unparalleled. Reddit

During guided tours, you can often get close to the pitch and sometimes even walk on it, depending on stadium conditions and event schedules. Reddit

Yes, the stadium frequently hosts concerts, cultural events, and special fan activities like 'KissCam' and 'TwinsCam' during football matches. TikTok+1

The atmosphere during a match, especially a rivalry game like Argentina vs. Uruguay, is incredibly intense and passionate. It's a truly electric experience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, typically there are concessions available inside the stadium selling snacks, drinks, and some food items, especially during events and matches. TikTok

Concessions usually offer standard stadium fare like hot dogs, popcorn, sodas, and beer. For more diverse dining, explore restaurants in the surrounding neighborhoods. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The main pitch, the museum exhibits, the iconic exterior architecture, and the grandstands offer fantastic photo opportunities. Capture the historical significance! TikTok

Photography is generally allowed in the museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits. TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted at stadiums and historical monuments due to safety and security regulations. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

⚽ Die-Hard Football Fans

Estadio Centenario is your pilgrimage site. As the birthplace of the FIFA World Cup and a FIFA Historical Monument, it's steeped in football lore. Don't miss the museum for an in-depth look at the sport's history, and definitely consider a guided tour to walk the hallowed grounds. Reddit Experiencing a live match here, especially a rivalry game, is an unforgettable immersion into Uruguayan passion. Reddit

📸 History & Architecture Enthusiasts

The stadium's architecture is a significant piece of early 20th-century design, reflecting a grand era. Its status as a historical monument makes it a fascinating subject for photography. Capture the iconic tower, the sweeping stands, and the details of the museum's exhibits. TikTok The blend of historical significance and functional design offers a unique visual experience.

🎶 Concert & Event Goers

Estadio Centenario is a premier venue for major concerts and cultural events in Montevideo. If you're visiting during a time when a concert is scheduled, it's a fantastic opportunity to see a world-class performance in a historic setting. Check event listings well in advance, as popular shows sell out quickly. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Monument of World Football

Estadio Centenario isn't just a stadium; it's a living testament to football history. Inaugurated in 1930 for the first-ever FIFA World Cup, it holds the distinction of being the only building worldwide declared a Historical Monument of World Football by FIFA. Its construction was a monumental effort, completed in just under a year to commemorate Uruguay's centenary of independence. The stadium's iconic architecture, with its distinctive tower, reflects the era's grandeur and has witnessed countless historic matches, including the final where Uruguay lifted the inaugural World Cup trophy. Reddit

Visiting Estadio Centenario offers a unique opportunity to connect with the sport's origins. The museum inside is a treasure trove of memorabilia, showcasing the evolution of football through photographs, artifacts, and stories of legendary players. For football aficionados, standing on the hallowed turf or exploring the stands provides a profound sense of connection to the sport's rich legacy. Reddit

Beyond its footballing significance, the stadium also serves as a vibrant venue for concerts and other cultural events, demonstrating its continued relevance in Montevideo's social fabric. The energy during a major match or concert is palpable, making it a dynamic destination. TikTok+1

Experiencing the Stadium Today

Today, Estadio Centenario remains the primary home ground for the Uruguayan national football team and is a popular venue for domestic league matches and international tournaments. Its capacity, while adjusted over the years, still allows for an intimate yet powerful atmosphere during games. Visitors can often purchase tickets for matches, offering a chance to experience the passionate Uruguayan football culture firsthand. Reddit

For those interested in a deeper dive, guided tours are highly recommended. These tours provide access to areas not usually seen by the public, such as the locker rooms, the press box, and even the pitch itself. Knowledgeable guides share anecdotes and historical facts, bringing the stadium's storied past to life. Reddit

Beyond tours and matches, the stadium occasionally hosts special events and fan engagement activities, like the 'KissCam' or 'TwinsCam' seen in TikTok videos, adding a fun, modern twist to its historic setting. TikTok+1 These events highlight the stadium's role as a community hub and a place for shared experiences.

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