Top News

From every corner of the globe come the greatest sporting arenas ever built – here’s your ultimate must-visit list for any football enthusiast.

Are you ready to explore a century’s worth of the finest stadiums around the world?

At FourFourTwo, we’ve spent countless hours debating which grounds deserve a place among the best on Earth – whether in the office, at local pubs, or while chatting with fellow supporters in the stands. This extensive project began eight years ago, long before some of these venues even existed. Initially, we ranked numbers 100 to 5 ourselves, then handed the reins to our Twitter followers to decide the final top four, giving fans the ultimate say.

Our evaluation was based on five key aspects: history, atmosphere, capacity, design and surroundings, and that elusive but unmistakable ‘wow factor’. Essentially, we asked – how much would any football lover dream of visiting this place?

THE BUCKET LIST – Download the complete PDF of our world stadium rankings.

We’ve even compiled a handy PDF checklist so you can start planning your own global pilgrimage to the most iconic football venues.

While you may not agree with every selection or their order, we’re confident you’ll find plenty to admire and be inspired by. We all discovered new destinations to add to our wish lists – pending approval from our partners and wallets, of course.

What we’ve created is the definitive guide for where to lose yourself for 90 minutes (plus stoppage time, and maybe penalties) anywhere on Earth. From legendary footballing cathedrals to breathtakingly beautiful arenas, these are the world’s greatest stadiums.

📍 Luton, England 🏠

1905 🏟

10,356

Luton Town have been searching for a new home since 1955, yet their affection for Kenilworth Road endures. The Oak Stand’s unusual entrance famously guides away fans across the back gardens of nearby houses. Although the executive boxes along one touchline were removed after the club’s promotion to the Premier League, the stadium remains a charming patchwork of converted terraces and oddly positioned seating. It’s full of character – and will surely be missed when the club finally relocates. – RD

📍 Marina Bay, Singapore 🏠

2007 🏟

27,000

Built as a steel platform floating on Singapore’s Marina Bay, The Float was initially designed as a temporary structure but is now set to become permanent. Although it hasn’t hosted many major football matches, it remains exceptional – with 27,000 spectators sitting along the waterfront. Hosting the Singapore National Day Parade and other events, this open-air venue is unique in its setting. Thankfully, protective netting ensures footballs don’t end up in the bay!

📍 Manchester, England 🏠

2004 🏟

55,000

While fans still fondly recall Maine Road, few Manchester City supporters can complain about the Etihad Stadium. Originally built for the 2002 Commonwealth Games and later adapted for football, it features stylish spiral entryways reminiscent of the San Siro and sleek steel architecture. The stadium increased City’s matchday income and once ranked as the Premier League’s third-largest ground after adding 7,000 seats to the South Stand. Most importantly, it’s at the centre of a major urban redevelopment project. – NM

📍 Lofoten, Norway 🏠

2000 🏟

500

The Henningsvaer Stadion is breathtaking – carved into rock and surrounded by the Norwegian Sea just metres from the pitch. Located in the scenic Lofoten Islands, it’s easily one of the most picturesque places to play football in the world. Despite lacking stands and hosting only amateur games, the views alone make it unforgettable – it’s hard to keep your eyes on the ball in such surroundings. – RD

📍 Sydney, Australia 🏠

1996 🏟

82,500

Stadium Australia was constructed for the 2000 Sydney Olympics, officially opening in 1999 with a string of major events. With a capacity of 110,000, it quickly broke records in rugby league and rugby union attendance. The pride of hosting what IOC President Juan Antonio Samaranch called “the best Olympics ever” cemented its status as one of the world’s great sporting venues. – JD

📍 Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 🏠

1982 🏟

68,752

Completed in 1987 at a cost of US$510 million (£330 million), King Fahd International Stadium is instantly recognisable for its tent-like roof – spanning 47,000 square metres and supported by 24 massive pylons. It hosted the 1989 FIFA World Youth Championship final and the 2014 AFC Champions League second leg, in which Western Sydney Wanderers clinched the title amid fiery controversy. Don’t be surprised if it stages a World Cup final in the near future. – SM

📍 Brasilia, Brazil 🏠

1974 🏟

72,788

Originally named after Governor Hélio Prates da Silveira, the stadium was renamed in honour of Brazilian legend Garrincha following his death in 1983. Reconstructed entirely, its most striking feature is the ring of 288 pillars supporting the circular roof. Costing $900 million to renovate, it ranks as the third-most expensive football stadium globally and hosted seven matches during the 2014 FIFA World Cup, along with fixtures from the 2016 Olympics. – RD

📍 Millwall, England 🏠

1993 🏟

20,146

The Den, Millwall’s home, was the first of the new all-seater stadiums built after the Taylor Report – and the closest to central London. The famous “Millwall Roar” remains as loud as ever, particularly when rivals like West Ham or Leeds visit. Unlike many modern grounds, its open corners amplify the sound, creating a fierce atmosphere. It even featured as Harchester United’s fictional home in the TV series Dream Team. – RD

📍 Cape Town, South Africa 🏠

2007 🏟

57,367

Previously known as Green Point Stadium, Cape Town’s beautiful arena was built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, hosting eight matches – from Portugal’s 7-0 demolition of North Korea to England’s goalless draw with Algeria. Located near the V&A Waterfront and framed by Table Mountain, it’s a stunning venue. However, maintaining profitability post-tournament has been a challenge; even a four-year negotiation to host Western Province rugby fell through. – GM

📍 Harrison, United States 🏠

2010 🏟

25,000

Red Bull Arena marked a turning point for Major League Soccer. Built for $200 million and opened in 2010, it gave the New York Red Bulls a true football-specific home after years of sharing unsuitable venues. Although located in New Jersey rather than New York City, it has become a vibrant hub for fans, especially during Hudson River Derby clashes with New York City FC. – KH

Current page: The 100 Best Stadiums in the World: 100–91

Next Page: The 100 Best Stadiums in the World: 90–81