The Blue Experience: Manchester City Match Day Experience

Experience the Blue Magic: An In-Depth Look at the Manchester City Match Day Package

If you’re a football fan heading to Manchester, the Blue Experience offers a chance to see the 2023/24 EPL Champions in action with a touch of luxury. While we haven’t personally attended, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a well-rounded package that combines the thrill of matchday football with a few extra perks, making it ideal for those who want more than just a ticket.

What we love about this experience? First, the comfortable premium padded seats at the side of the pitch (blocks 209/210/222 or similar on level 2) promise a great view without feeling cramped. Second, lounge access provides a relaxed space to unwind before kickoff, with contactless bars and food options adding to the convenience. Lastly, the included activity vouchers—covering stadium tours, football museum visits, Uber rides, and sightseeing tours—offer a taste of Manchester beyond the stadium itself.

However, it’s worth noting some potential drawbacks. Several reviewers mentioned issues with voucher management and limited activity availability, especially on match days. For instance, stadium tours don’t run on game days, and some vouchers were hard to redeem or only available on certain days. These hiccups could impact your plans if you’re expecting a seamless, all-in-one experience.

This package seems best suited for football fans who value good seats and a lively atmosphere, but are okay with a bit of logistical planning and flexibility. If you’re looking for an all-inclusive, perfectly smooth experience, you might want to prepare for some minor hurdles.

Key Points

• Prime Seating: Premium, padded seats on the long side, level 2, offering a fantastic view of the pitch.
• Lounge Access: Pre-match relaxation space with cashless bars and food options, available 2 hours before kickoff.
• Vouchers & Extras: Includes tickets for stadium tours, football museum visits, Uber rides, and sightseeing tours—though some may require planning.
• Ticketing & Entry: E-tickets provided 3-5 days in advance, with a strong recommendation to arrive early to avoid queues.
• Real Experiences: Some reviews highlight issues with voucher usability and activity scheduling, so flexibility is key.
• Family Friendly: Children and families are welcome, with seats allocated together, but no wheelchair access is available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Experience Includes: A Closer Look

Premium Match Ticket & Seating

The core of the experience is the official Manchester City FC premium match ticket. Located in block 209/210/222 or similar on level 2, these seats are positioned along the long side of the pitch, offering unobstructed views of the action. Reviewers note that the seats are padded, giving extra comfort during what can be a long, exciting match. Being situated in the home supporters’ area means you’ll be immersed in the atmosphere, but it’s important to remember that opposition supporters are not permitted in this section, and those supporting rival teams risk ejection.

Lounge Access & Food

The stadium lounge is a highlight for many. Access begins two hours before kick-off, giving you a quiet space to gather with friends or fellow fans. Although some reviewers found it helpful to know where the lounge is beforehand, it generally offers a relaxed setting with contactless bars and food available to purchase, making the wait more enjoyable and less hurried.

Match Program & Vouchers

A match program is included, perfect for those who appreciate a souvenir or want to learn more about the teams. The ticket package also supplies a set of vouchers for activities around Manchester:

• Etihad Stadium Tour, though only on non-match days (which might limit its availability).
• National Football Museum, subject to venue schedule and traffic restrictions due to events like St Patrick’s Day.
• Uber Rides Voucher (£20) per person, though some reviewers mentioned issues with redeeming these, especially if only one voucher could be used per trip.
• Sightseeing Manchester Bus Tour, dependent on operator schedules and availability.

Reviewers noted that these extras add value, but some experienced difficulties with voucher codes or timing. For example, the stadium tour is not available on match days, and codes sometimes didn’t work immediately, prompting exchanges with customer service.

More Great Tours Nearby

Ticket Delivery & Entry Logistics

E-tickets are sent 3-5 days before the game, which is handy for planning ahead. To avoid delays, arriving early is highly recommended, especially since entry procedures can involve queues. The experience provider advises arriving well before kickoff to ensure smooth entry and avoid last-minute stress.

The Experience on Match Day

When the day arrives, you’ll arrive at the stadium to find your premium seat ready and waiting. The atmosphere in the home supporters’ area is electric, especially if Manchester City is having a good run. The padded seats offer comfort during what can be a long, pulsating game, particularly if the rivalry heats up.

Before kickoff, the lounge becomes your sanctuary—a place to relax, grab a drink, and soak in the pre-match buzz. The contactless food and beverage options mean you can enjoy a drink or quick bite without missing a moment of the buildup.

As the match kicks off, you’ll be able to follow the action closely from your prime vantage point, with the added benefit of a match program that can be handy for noting key moments or player stats.

Afterward, the included vouchers for activities like the stadium tour or the football museum are a great way to extend your time in Manchester, although their availability may be limited on match days. Some reviewers noted that tours don’t run on game days, so planning these in advance is essential.

The Value Proposition

At $163 per person, this experience offers a solid value considering the prime seating, lounge access, and extra vouchers. The seat quality and location alone make it worthwhile for fans eager to see the game in comfort. The additional vouchers for city activities are a bonus, especially if you plan ahead and coordinate timings.

However, the mixed reports about voucher usability suggest that some planning and patience are needed. If you’re flexible and prepared for possible hiccups, the experience can be very rewarding. The overall vibe and access to a top-tier stadium make it a memorable outing for football fans and travelers alike.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This package is ideal for dedicated Manchester City supporters who want to watch the game from comfortable, well-located seats. It’s also suitable for families or groups wanting a complete match day experience that includes lounge access and extra activities.

If you’re someone who values premium seating and a lively stadium atmosphere, this will likely meet your expectations. But if you prefer a hassle-free experience with minimal planning, you may want to consider other options or prepare for some logistical adjustments.

Final Thoughts

The Blue Experience offers a blend of luxury, authentic football atmosphere, and city exploration that appeals to those wanting more than just a match ticket. Its prime seats and lounge access make it a comfortable way to enjoy a game, while the city vouchers add a fun exploration element.

On the downside, some reviewers have encountered issues with voucher redemption and activity scheduling, so patience and planning are advised. Still, for true fans who want an immersive matchday in Manchester, this package provides a solid, memorable outing.

Overall, it’s a good value for the quality of seats and added perks, especially if you’re keen to experience Manchester’s football culture alongside a bit of sightseeing.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children and families are welcome, with seats allocated together.

Are the seats wheelchair accessible?
No, the seats are not wheelchair accessible.

When will I receive my tickets?
E-tickets are sent 3-5 days before the match day, so plan accordingly.

Can I visit the stadium outside match days?
Yes, the Etihad Stadium Tour is available on non-match days, but not during game days.

What about food and drinks during the match?
Food and drinks are available to purchase at contactless bars but are not included in the price.

Are opposition supporters allowed in the stadium?
No, opposition supporters are not permitted in the home supporters’ areas, and supporters supporting rival teams may be refused entry.

What if I want to cancel?
There are no refunds if you decide to cancel, so be sure of your plans before purchasing.

Can I book activities like the football museum or sightseeing tour?
Yes, vouchers are included but check availability and schedule ahead, as some activities may be limited on match days.

Does the package include a stadium tour?
Yes, but only on non-match days, subject to availability.

What should I do if I encounter issues with vouchers?
Contact customer support or the experience provider, as some reviewers experienced trouble but managed to redeem their vouchers with assistance.

This Manchester City match day experience strikes a balance between comfort, excitement, and city exploration, making it a compelling choice for fans ready to enjoy football in style. Just a bit of planning goes a long way to ensure it all runs smoothly.

You can check availability for your dates here: