About the Johan Cruijff ArenA | Amsterdam's Iconic Stadium

Quick Information

ADDRESS

Johan Cruijff Boulevard 1, 1101 AX Amsterdam, Netherlands

RECOMMENDED DURATION

2 hours

Timings

09:30–17:30

VISITORS PER YEAR

100000

TICKETS

From $32.29

NUMBER OF ENTRANCES

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD

30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - SKIP THE LINE

30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

Plan your visit

Did you know?

Both Dutch and international artists have had concerts in the stadium, including Coldplay, Celine Dion, Madonna, Michael Jackson, AC/DC, One Direction, The Rolling Stones, and Beyoncé.

The Johan Cruyff ArenA was inaugurated by Queen Beatrix as she revealed the world’s largest painting, D Zee, which was 262 ft × 413 ft.

The Ajax Museum inside the Johan Cruyff ArenA exhibits 120 years of the history of Ajax.

Johan Cruijff ArenA tours

Johan Cruijff ArenA Stadium Tour

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

Flexible duration

‌

Check availability

Combo (Save 19%): Johan Cruijff ArenA Stadium Tour + 1-Hour Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Free cancellation

Audio guide

‌

Check availability

Johan Cruijff ArenA Stadium VIP Tour with a Drink and Scarf

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

2 hr.

‌

Check availability

Combo (Save 5%): Heineken Experience Tickets + Johan Cruijff ArenA Classic Tour

Audio guide

‌

Check availability

Why is the Johan Cruijff ArenA a must-visit attraction?

Mural of a football player with number 14 at Johan Cruijff ArenA, Amsterdam.

Immerse in football atmosphere: Step into the heart of Dutch football where AFC Ajax plays its home matches, and feel the electrifying atmosphere even on non-match days.
Explore exclusive player areas: Get a real peek into match-day preparations in the players' sacred spaces in the Home & Away Dressing Rooms. Or visit the Press Room and imagine sitting at the manager's podium, just like post-match interviews take place.
Discover footballing legacy: The ArenA provides a deep dive into the legacy of Johan Cruijff and the "Total Football" philosophy.
Admire trophies: Culminate your visit with a stop at the Ajax Gallery of Fame, where you can admire the club's extensive trophy collection.
Journey through history & innovation: It's a journey through modern stadium innovation and rich sporting history.

What to see at the Johan Cruijff ArenA?

Players' Tunnel & Pitch

Walk the path of champions and feel the rush of excitement as you emerge from the players' tunnel. This is your chance to stand pitch-side and get a close-up view of the hallowed turf, just as the Ajax stars do on match days.

Visitors touring the Johan Cruijff ArenA locker room in Amsterdam.

Home & Away Dressing Rooms

Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the intimate spaces where players prepare for a match. You'll get to peek inside the locker rooms used by both the home and visiting teams, offering a unique glimpse into the pre-game atmosphere.

Press room at Johan Cruijff ArenA with Ajax branding, part of the Classic Tour experience.

Press Room & Mixed Zone

Take a seat at the official manager's podium and feel like a real press conference is about to begin. Explore the media-dedicated areas where journalists and players interact after a game, bringing you closer to the post-match action.

Visitors admire football memorabilia at Johan Cruijff ArenA Classic Tour.

Ajax Gallery of Fame

Conclude your tour with a visit to the on-site museum. Here, you can admire the club's impressive collection of trophies, historic jerseys, and significant memorabilia, which beautifully chronicles the rich and storied history of AFC Ajax.

Brief history of Johan Cruijff ArenA

Visitors on a VIP tour at Johan Cruijff ArenA, Amsterdam, viewing football memorabilia.

The Johan Cruijff ArenA, originally the Amsterdam ArenA, officially opened in 1996. It was designed as a multi-functional stadium with a retractable roof, a groundbreaking feature for its time, making it suitable for both football matches and large-scale concerts. It quickly became the home of AFC Ajax, one of Europe's most successful football clubs. In 2018, the stadium was officially renamed Johan Cruijff ArenA in honor of the legendary Dutch footballer Johan Cruijff, who passed away in 2016. This renaming cemented his legacy within the very heart of Dutch football. The ArenA has hosted numerous significant events, including UEFA Champions League finals and major international concerts.

Who built Johan Cruijff ArenA?

The Johan Cruijff ArenA was designed by a team of architects from Rob Schuurman and Frank Wilsen of Stubbins Associates. The stadium's design was notably innovative for its retractable roof and multi-purpose functionality. Their vision created a venue that could adapt from a football arena to a concert hall, setting a new standard for modern stadium construction in the 1990s.

Architecture of Johan Cruijff ArenA

Johan Cruijff Arena exterior in Amsterdam, Netherlands, showcasing stadium architecture.

The Johan Cruijff ArenA is a prime example of modern stadium architecture, completed in 1996. Its most defining architectural feature is its retractable roof, which allows the stadium to be open-air or fully enclosed depending on the weather or event. This enables it to host football matches for AFC Ajax and major concerts alike. The stadium features a large, bowl-shaped seating area designed to maximize views and atmosphere. Its construction uses steel and concrete, creating a robust and functional structure that combines aesthetic appeal with cutting-edge engineering for its time.

Frequently Asked Questions about Johan Cruijff ArenA

What types of tickets are available for the Johan Cruijff ArenA tour?

Ticket types include the Classic Tour, a VIP Tour for a premium experience with added benefits like a guided tour and merch, or combo tickets.

Are there self-guided tour options for the Johan Cruijff ArenA?

Yes, a self-guided (Classic) tour option is available where you can explore at your own pace, with guides stationed at key points to answer questions.

Do I need to book my Johan Cruijff ArenA tour tickets in advance?

Yes, advance booking is highly recommended, especially during peak season or on weekends, to guarantee your spot and skip the cash desk lines, as tours can sell out.

How long does a typical Johan Cruijff ArenA tour last?

A typical tour of the Johan Cruijff ArenA lasts between 60 to 75 mins on average.

What parts of the Johan Cruijff ArenA can I see on a tour?

On a tour, you can expect to see the Players' Tunnel, the Pitch, the Home & Away Dressing Rooms, the Press Room, the Mixed Zone, and the Ajax Gallery of Fame.

Are tours available on match days or during events?

Tours are not available during major concerts and events. However, tours are available on match days, but with a few important differences from the standard tour. To participate, you must have a valid match ticket for that day. This "Matchday" experience allows you to visit the stadium before kick-off, but it's important to note that access to the dressing rooms is not included.

Is there an Ajax shop at the stadium?

Yes, there is an Ajax Fanshop located by Entrance E where you can purchase scarves, jerseys, and stadium-branded gear. Tour ticket holders even get a 10% discount.