Amsterdam: Johan Cruijff ArenA VIP Tour

When it comes to football stadiums, few places evoke as much passion and history as the Johan Cruijff ArenA in Amsterdam. This VIP tour promises a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the home of Ajax, one of Europe’s most beloved clubs, and offers an experience that goes beyond just walking around a stadium. From exclusive access to legendary areas to a relaxing drink in a skybox, this tour has a lot to offer, especially for dedicated fans and curious travelers alike.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the opportunity to explore exclusive areas like the dressing room and boardroom, places normally off-limits to the public. Second, the stunning views from a skybox paired with a complimentary drink create a unique VIP feeling. Third, with knowledgeable guides sharing engaging stories and insights, you get a true sense of the club’s culture and history. On the flip side, the cost of around $73 per person might seem steep for some, especially since a match ticket isn’t included. But for football fans, the value of access and insider stories makes this tour well worth considering.

Whether you’re a die-hard Ajax supporter, a football enthusiast, or someone who simply loves stadium architecture and stories, this experience suits those looking for an authentic, well-rounded glimpse into the world of professional football in the Netherlands.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: Walk into areas normally reserved for players and management.
• Stunning Views: Enjoy a drink in a skybox overlooking the pitch.
• Engaging Guides: Learn fascinating facts from passionate, knowledgeable hosts.
• Great Value: Includes a stadium scarf and discounts at the fan shop and snack bars.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• No Match Ticket: You experience the stadium but won’t see a live game unless you buy a ticket separately.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Johan Cruijff ArenA VIP Tour

What’s Included and the Overall Cost

At $73 per person, the VIP tour offers a good balance between affordability and exclusivity. For sports lovers, it’s an opportunity to get behind the scenes of Amsterdam’s largest stadium, without the hefty price tag of attending a match. The tour includes a guide, a unique Johan Cruijff ArenA scarf, one soft drink, and access to several exclusive areas. Plus, you receive a 10% discount at the stadium’s fan shop and on typical Dutch snacks at Febo Boulevard, which can add to the overall value.

While alcohol isn’t included, the soft drink served in the skybox is a nice touch, giving you a moment to relax and soak in the views. Keep in mind, no match tickets are part of this experience, so if you want to catch a game, you’ll need to arrange that separately.

How the Tour Unfolds

Your journey begins at the Main Entrance E of the stadium, conveniently reachable via metro lines 50 or 54 at Bijlmer ArenA station. The tour lasts approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, and a small group ensures personalized attention, as many reviews highlight guides like Tim, Theo, Peter, and Archie for their passion and humor.

The tour is designed to showcase the stadium’s most compelling areas. First up is the dressing room, where Ajax’s players prepare before matches. Here, you’ll get a feel for the buzz and pressure players experience—a standout moment for many fans. The guides often share fun anecdotes, making the experience lively and memorable.

Next, you’ll be led to the boardroom, a clandestine space where club decisions are made. This area is typically off-limits, so stepping inside offers a rare peek into the club’s strategic side. The guides here often tell stories about the club’s history and its legendary players, adding depth to your visit.

The pinnacle of the tour is the skybox, where you’re invited to sit and enjoy a soft drink while taking in sweeping views of the pitch. Many reviewers note how special it feels to sit in such a high vantage point and soak up the stadium’s atmosphere, even without a live game on. The experience of being a VIP—complete with a drink and a panoramic view—is something that stands out as genuinely memorable.

The Authentic Feel

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides make this tour. Names like Rob, Peter, Tim, and Theo appear repeatedly as passionate, humorous, and deeply knowledgeable. One reviewer, Tim, described the guide as “very kind and very informative,” emphasizing how the stories and banter helped bring the venue to life. Another reviewer praised Peter for his “very informative and funny” approach, making every stop engaging.

Many guests appreciated the opportunity to take photos and explore areas at their own pace, thanks to the guides’ friendly and laid-back style. The fact that the tour is tailored to football fans and even casual visitors interested in stadium architecture makes it accessible and fun.

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Accessibility and Practicalities

The meeting point is straightforward to find, situated at the main entrance, but some reviews mention that the stadium’s layout can be a little confusing initially. The tour is not suitable for large bags or backpacks, so pack light. Since it’s in English and Dutch, language support is good, and you’re welcome to keep your booking flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalties.

The tour ends back at the starting point, making logistics simple. The entire experience is designed to be immersive without being overly long or exhausting, perfect for a mid-day activity or a brief break from city sightseeing.

The Experience from Reviews

Authentic insights from previous visitors reveal the tour’s strengths. Many mention the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, with one describing the guide as “a pure gentleman.” The skybox experience is consistently highlighted as a real treat, with guests feeling like true VIPs. The scarf, a thoughtful souvenir, is appreciated as a memento of the visit.

Some reviewers noted small frustrations, like the closed shop post-tour or the difficulty locating the meeting point, but these don’t detract significantly from the overall positive experience. The passion for Ajax and football shines through, making this a must-do for supporters.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This VIP tour is best suited for football fans eager for exclusive access, those interested in stadium architecture, or travelers who want a behind-the-scenes look at one of the Netherlands’ most iconic sports venues. It’s also a good choice for families seeking an engaging, educational activity, especially given the friendly guides and special moments like sitting in the skybox.

Not ideal if you’re looking for a match experience or a tour that includes tickets to a game. Also, if you’re traveling with large bags or need accessibility accommodations, plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Johan Cruijff ArenA VIP Tour offers a genuinely authentic peek into Amsterdam’s football culture. From the moment you step into the dressing room to the views from the skybox, you’re treated as a VIP, gaining insights and access most fans only dream of. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the relaxed atmosphere and exclusive areas, make for a memorable visit.

It’s a fantastic value for those who want a meaningful stadium experience without the price tag of a match ticket. Whether you’re a die-hard Ajax supporter, a stadium enthusiast, or someone curious about football’s inner workings, this tour provides a well-rounded, fun, and informative journey that will leave you with plenty to talk about.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s a family-friendly experience, especially since guides are friendly and engaging. Just check if your kids are comfortable with walking and exploring stadium areas.

Can I buy a match ticket through this tour?
No, this experience does not include a match ticket. You’ll need to purchase tickets separately if you want to see a game live.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking through different stadium areas. No specific dress code is required.

How long does the tour last?
The tour generally lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours, making it a perfect short activity or complement to other sightseeing.

Are there any age restrictions?
There are no explicit age restrictions noted, but the experience is most enjoyable for older children and adults interested in football.

Is it accessible for people with mobility issues?
While specific details aren’t provided, the tour’s focus on key areas suggests some mobility considerations might apply. Contact the provider directly for detailed accessibility info.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is offered in both English and Dutch, accommodating a variety of visitors.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

Is alcohol available during the tour?
No. Only soft drinks are included, and alcoholic beverages are not part of the experience.

To sum it up, the Johan Cruijff ArenA VIP Tour is a rewarding experience for anyone wanting to go beyond the usual stadium visit. The combination of exclusive access, passionate guides, and stunning views makes it an ideal choice for football fans craving a deeper connection to Ajax’s legendary home. It offers excellent value considering the behind-the-scenes insights and VIP touches, making it a memorable highlight of any Amsterdam trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: