I’ve been living in Valencia for almost three years now, and as a die-hard Valencia CF fan, besides attending matches at Mestalla stadium, I’ve discovered many second homes for fans throughout this city. Today I want to share some of my regular spots, hoping to help those new to Valencia or anyone wanting to experience the matchday atmosphere.
What is a Second Home
A second home refers to places where you can watch matches with fellow fans when you can’t get tickets or can’t make it to Mestalla for various reasons. In Valencia, there are quite a few such places, each with its own character. My personal favorites are several bars in the Ruzafa district, where the atmosphere is truly amazing, especially during derby matches.
Recommended Viewing Locations Comparison
Based on my firsthand experience, here’s a breakdown of several popular spots:
| Venue Name | District | Features | Average Cost |
|---|
| Bar Deportivo El Gol | Ruzafa | Traditional fan bar | €15-20 |
| Café del Duende | Carmen | Young crowd gathering | €10-15 |
| Sports Café Mestalla | Benimaclet | Close to stadium | €20-25 |
| La Fontana | Ciutat Vella | Family-friendly | €12-18 |
My Match Viewing Experience
Last weekend’s Valencia vs Real Madrid match, I went to Bar Deportivo El Gol in Ruzafa. Honestly, the atmosphere that day reminded me of my first time at Mestalla. The bar was packed with fans in jerseys, everyone singing team chants together, drinking beer, and when we scored, the entire place erupted. Although we lost again in the end, this collective viewing experience was truly unforgettable.
Important Note: For important matches, I recommend arriving at least an hour early, otherwise it’s hard to find a good spot. Also, most bars require you to order at least one drink, which is basic etiquette as noted in this Spain away challenge Valencia pre-match analysis and viewing guide.
Practical Tips
For those wanting to experience the second home atmosphere during Valencia away at Atletico matches, I have a few suggestions: First, wear your team jersey to blend into the atmosphere more easily; second, respect local fan culture and don’t wear opposing team jerseys in Valencia’s home bars; lastly, stay safe, especially on derby nights when emotions run high.
Ultimately, the second home isn’t just a place to watch football, it’s a window to meet new friends and experience the city’s football culture. Even though Valencia’s performance hasn’t been ideal in recent years, fan passion has never waned. Next time you’re in Valencia, why not experience a matchday - I believe you’ll fall in love with this atmosphere.
