Supporters of Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United eager to attend the Europa League final in Bilbao on 21 May are grappling with steep travel and accommodation costs. With the final set to be staged at the 49,000-seat San Mamés Stadium, fans are facing a financial challenge that could see them spending thousands for the privilege of witnessing their team in action.
Each club has been allocated 15,000 tickets, with an additional 11,000 made available to the general public. Official ticket prices begin at €40 (£34), the same as last year, but general admission tickets have become more expensive, with top-tier Category 1 tickets rising to €240 (£203) from €150 the previous year. That jump in ticket price is just the start of the potential costs for fans planning to make the trip.
Travel and accommodation prices have skyrocketed in the wake of the semi-final results. Direct flights to Bilbao are now priced at around £1,300, while many hotels are either sold out or listing prices upwards of £1,300 for the night of the final. Second-hand ticket resale sites have seen prices starting from £950, despite Uefa rules prohibiting ticket resale.
In response to these soaring costs, fans are seeking more creative and cost-effective alternatives. Manchester United have already announced an official 24-hour return trip to Bilbao priced at £899, available through a lottery system for ticket holders. Tottenham Hotspur are expected to release their official travel package soon.
Independent travelers are exploring a wide array of budget-conscious routes. These include flying to nearby cities like Barcelona or Madrid and completing the journey overland by train, bus, or rental car. A 48-hour ferry trip from Portsmouth to Bilbao is also gaining attention, offering a return fare of just under £400.
Many fans are also considering road trips through France or Spain, with camper vans becoming an increasingly attractive option. This not only reduces accommodation expenses but also transforms the journey into a road holiday. For those willing to invest time rather than money, the experience can be both affordable and memorable.
Rail travel is another viable choice. While slower than air travel, it allows flexibility and the possibility to explore other parts of Europe en route. Those flying into major Spanish hubs can take advantage of Spain’s extensive train network to reach Bilbao, often at a fraction of the cost of a direct flight.
However, some routes may not be worth the risk. Multi-stop flights with layovers in third countries may appear cheaper on paper but can be problematic. Missed connections or delays could leave fans stranded far from Bilbao with little time to rebook alternatives.
Despite the frustrations over inflated prices, the desire to be present for this all-English final remains strong. The passion of fans is undeterred, and many are determined to find inventive ways to support their team without breaking the bank. The journey may be longer and more complicated, but for thousands of dedicated supporters, it will be worth it to witness a potential slice of footballing history in the Basque Countr
