St. Jakob-Park (Basel) - Sports Tourist

St. Jakob-Park (often affectionately called Joggeli) is the largest football stadium in Switzerland, located in Basel. It is a modern, UEFA Category Four-rated venue that serves as the imposing and electric home ground for FC Basel, one of the most successful clubs in Swiss football history. More than just a stadium, St. Jakob-Park is a multi-purpose complex that integrates a shopping center (St. Jakkob-Markt), apartments, and parking, making it a functional hub for the local community and a primary destination for major national and international sporting events.

History and Design

The current St. Jakob-Park was built on the site of the former St. Jakob Stadium, and officially opened in 2001. It was designed by the renowned Swiss architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron, who are famous for their innovative stadium designs, including the Allianz Arena in Munich and the Beijing National Stadium (“Bird’s Nest”).

Key features of the design include:

Modular Structure: The stadium was initially designed with a capacity for just over 30,000 spectators. However, it was built with a modular, scalable design, allowing it to easily expand its capacity to over 42,500 for the 2008 UEFA European Championship. After the tournament, the capacity was reduced back to its current football configuration.
Integrated Complex: Uniquely, the stadium complex houses the St. Jakob-Markt shopping center and a retirement home directly beneath the stands, funding a portion of the construction costs and ensuring year-round activity.
Spectator Experience: The seating bowl is designed to keep spectators close to the pitch, creating an intense, atmospheric experience typical of great European football venues.

Major Events Hosted

St. Jakob-Park has a rich history of hosting major European football events, cementing its status as the national stadium for Swiss international matches and European finals.

UEFA Euro 2008: The stadium served as a key venue for the championship, hosting six matches, including the opening match between Switzerland and the Czech Republic, and two quarter-final matches.
UEFA Cup/Europa League Finals: It hosted the prestigious 2016 UEFA Europa League Final between Liverpool and Sevilla.
UEFA Euro 2025: The stadium was the proud host of the tournament’s Final, alongside several other crucial matches during the women’s championship.
Swiss National Team Matches: St. Jakob-Park is the preferred location for high-profile matches played by the Switzerland national football team.
Concerts: It has hosted massive concerts, with artists like Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, and AC/DC having performed here.

Key Information

Official Name: St. Jakob-Park (often referred to as Joggeli)
Location: Basel, Switzerland
Opened: 2001
Capacity: 38,512 (Football)
Primary Tenant: FC Basel (Fussball Club Basel 1893)
Address: Birsstrasse 300, 4052 Basel, Switzerland

Contents

Getting to St. Jakob-Park

The stadium is located in the St. Alban district in the south of Basel, making it highly accessible via the city’s excellent public transport system.

By Air: The closest airport is EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg (BSL/MLH/EAP). From the airport, take Bus 50 to Basel SBB train station, and then switch to a tram or train to the stadium.
By Public Transport (Tram/Train): Public transport is the most recommended way to get to the stadium.
- Tram: Take Tram Line 14 directly to the St. Jakob stop, which is immediately adjacent to the stadium entrance.
- Train: The Basel St. Jakob railway station is right next to the stadium and is served by local S-Bahn trains, providing a fast connection from Basel SBB (main train station).
By Foot: St. Jakob-Park is not within walking distance of the central Basel SBB station or the city centre, though it is a pleasant walk from certain southern districts.
Parking: On match days, parking is extremely limited and heavily congested. Public transport is strongly encouraged. Designated parking areas are available for purchase in advance for major events.

Tickets & Tours at St. Jakob-Park

Tickets

Tickets for FC Basel matches can be purchased directly through the club’s official ticketing channels.

FC Basel Matches: Due to the club’s popularity, high-profile league games and especially European matches often sell out quickly. Tickets can be purchased via the official FC Basel website. Season tickets and memberships offer the best chance to secure seats.
Swiss National Team Matches: Tickets for the Swiss national team games held here are sold through the Swiss Football Association (SFV) official website.
Concerts and Other Events: Tickets for non-football events are sold through the respective promoter or major Swiss ticketing agencies like Ticketcorner.

Tours

Guided tours of St. Jakob-Park are available, offering a look behind the scenes, including the press conference room, the mixed zone, the players’ locker rooms, and the pitchside.

Booking: Tour schedules and booking information are managed through the official FC Basel website and should be booked in advance.

Where to Stay Near St. Jakob-Park

The most flexible options for visitors combine convenience with access to Basel’s attractions.

Central Basel (City Centre/Old Town): Staying near the main Basel SBB train station or the city center provides excellent access to dining, shopping, and nightlife. From here, the Tram Line 14 offers a direct and fast connection to the stadium.
- Examples: Look for the Hotel Euler for a classic, central stay, or modern options like the ibis Styles Basel City which is very close to the SBB station for maximum convenience and easy stadium access.
Near the Stadium (St. Alban): Hotels closer to the stadium offer shorter commutes on game day but fewer dining and attraction options in the immediate vicinity.
- Example: The Aparthotel Adagio Basel City is a popular choice in the extended St. Alban area, offering apartment-style rooms which are ideal for longer stays or groups, and provides great access to the St. Jakob area.
Booking Tips:
- Plan Ahead: Book accommodation well in advance, especially when major European matches or large-scale concerts are scheduled.
- Basel Card: Many Basel hotels provide guests with a free Basel Card, offering free use of public transport (including to the stadium) and discounts on attractions.
- Use Reputable Sites: Use well-known and trustworthy booking websites like TripAdvisor to find and compare accommodation options.