Matchday Germany
Stadion An der Alten Försterei

Matchday Guide

Union Matchday Guide

Experience one of Germany's most distinctive football clubs in the unique surroundings of the Stadion An der Alten Försterei.

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Overview

Built together.

1. FC Union Berlin is deeply rooted in the eastern Berlin district of Köpenick. The club is known for community, independence and a football culture shaped by generations of committed supporters.

Home matches take place at the Stadion An der Alten Försterei, one of Germany's most distinctive football grounds. Its forest setting, standing terraces and close relationship with the supporters make every matchday feel personal and intense.

Tickets

Tickets can be difficult to secure.

The compact capacity and strong local support mean that demand is consistently high. Official ticket channels and the club's authorised resale platform are the safest options.

Limited Availability

  • Occasional official resale tickets
  • Selected cup fixtures
  • Late ticket releases

High Demand

  • Most league home matches
  • Weekend fixtures
  • European matches

Very High Demand

  • Hertha BSC
  • Bayern München
  • Borussia Dortmund
  • European nights

Ticket Advice

  • Official Union Berlin ticket shop
  • Authorised resale platform
  • Official hospitality options

Avoid unofficial sellers. Availability can change close to matchday, so checking the official resale platform regularly can be worthwhile.

Stadium

Stadion An der Alten Försterei

Hidden among the trees in Köpenick, the stadium feels very different from Germany's large modern arenas. Most supporters stand, the terraces are close to the pitch and the forest setting creates a unique sense of place.

Parts of the stadium were rebuilt with significant help from Union supporters. That history remains central to the identity of the ground and the club.

Waldseite

The emotional heart of Union Berlin and home to some of the club's most vocal supporters.

Standing Terraces

Most of the stadium consists of standing areas, creating an intense and traditional football atmosphere.

Main Stand

The principal seated area with strong views, modern facilities and greater comfort.

Stadion An der Alten Försterei

Getting There

Travel to Köpenick.

From Berlin Hauptbahnhof, take the S-Bahn towards Köpenick. The journey usually takes around 35–45 minutes, depending on the connection.

From Berlin Brandenburg Airport, regional trains and S-Bahn services provide connections towards Köpenick. Allow approximately 30–45 minutes.

From Köpenick station, supporters usually continue on foot or use local tram services. Follow local signs and the crowd on matchday.

Parking near the stadium is limited. Public transport is strongly recommended.

Before The Match

Arrive early and explore Köpenick.

Arriving 90–120 minutes before kick-off gives you time to explore the stadium surroundings, walk through the forest and experience the gathering atmosphere around the ground.

Köpenick Old Town

The historic centre of Köpenick, with its riverside setting, town hall and local restaurants, is a good place to spend time before or after the match.

Matchday Culture

Community is not a slogan here.

Union's identity is closely connected to its supporters. Songs, scarves and traditions build steadily before kick-off, while the compact terraces keep the crowd close to the action.

Built By Supporters

Supporters helped rebuild parts of the stadium through their own labour.

Standing Culture

The extensive terraces create a traditional and intense matchday environment.

Christmas Singing

One of Germany's most distinctive football traditions.

Union Tradition

Christmas singing at the Alte Försterei.

The club's Christmas singing tradition has become one of the best-known supporter events in German football. Thousands gather at the stadium to sing together in a celebration that reaches far beyond football.

Inside The Stadium

Close to the pitch. Surrounded by noise.

The compact layout means supporters are always close to the action. Flags, scarves and songs fill the terraces, while the forest around the stadium reinforces the feeling that this is a world of its own.

Food & Drink

Beer 0.5l€6.00
Bratwurst€4.00
Soft Drink 0.5l€4.00

Catering prices surveyed August 2026. Add €2 cup deposit, refunded on return. The most expensive beer of the eleven clubs here.

Matchday Budget

Cheapest way in: standing €14, the cheapest in this guide. Travel in Berlin zones ABC is included in the ticket.

A seat: €33 to €48 — the top seat here costs less than the entry price at several other clubs.

Food and drink: beer €6.00, bratwurst €4.00, plus €2 cup deposit. Around €14 for a drink and something to eat.

Prices, capacities and transport details on this page were last checked on . Confirm anything that matters with the club before you travel.

After The Match

Stay in Köpenick.

After the final whistle, many supporters remain around the stadium before returning towards Köpenick station. The compact transport links can become crowded, so waiting briefly may make the journey easier.

Köpenick's old town and riverside areas provide a quieter alternative to returning immediately to central Berlin.

Recommended Experiences

Discover eastern Berlin.

  • Stadion An der Alten Försterei tour
  • Union museum
  • Köpenick Old Town
  • River Spree
  • Christmas singing tradition