Arena Castelão: Fortaleza's Football Fortress
Experience the passion of Brazilian football at Arena Castelão, a historic stadium and vibrant event venue in Fortaleza, Ceará.
Arena Castelão, originally named Estádio Governador Plácido Aderaldo Castelo, opened its doors on November 11, 1973. The stadium was named after the state governor Plácido Castelo, who initiated its construction. However, it soon became known as Castelão, after the area where it is located. Over the years, the stadium has undergone significant expansions and renovations, including a major redevelopment for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, solidifying its place as a premier sporting venue. With a seating capacity of over 60,000, Arena Castelão is the home ground for Ceará Sporting Club and Fortaleza Esporte Clube. During game days, the stadium comes alive with passionate fans dressed in their team colors, creating an electrifying atmosphere. Beyond football, Arena Castelão hosts a variety of events, including concerts and cultural festivals, making it a versatile entertainment hub. The stadium boasts modern facilities, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience for all visitors. Visitors can also take guided tours of Arena Castelão, exploring its facilities and learning about its history. The stadium complex includes a cinema, Cine Clube Arena Castelão, offering free screenings related to sports and culture. With its rich history, modern amenities, and vibrant atmosphere, Arena Castelão is a must-visit destination for sports fans and tourists in Fortaleza.
Local tips
- Arrive early to soak in the pre-game atmosphere and avoid potential traffic delays.
- Try local snacks from vendors outside the stadium for an authentic taste of Fortaleza.
- Check the event schedule in advance to secure tickets for popular matches or concerts.
- Consider using public transportation, as parking can be limited.
- Dress comfortably and be prepared for warm weather, especially for daytime events.
A brief summary to Arena Castelão
- Av. Alberto Craveiro, 2901 - Castelão, Fortaleza, Mata Galinha, Ceará, 60861-211, BR
- +558598976-4126
- Visit website
Getting There
-
Public Transport
To reach Arena Castelão via public transport, start from central Fortaleza, such as Praça do Ferreira, and locate the nearest bus stop. Look for buses heading towards 'Castelão' or 'Av. Alberto Craveiro'. Bus line 500 ('Circular') is a recommended option. The journey typically takes 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. A single bus fare within Fortaleza typically costs around R$4.
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
For a direct route to Arena Castelão, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available throughout Fortaleza. Simply enter 'Arena Castelão' or the address 'Av. Alberto Craveiro, 2901' as your destination. The ride from central Fortaleza usually takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The estimated cost for a taxi from Fortaleza Airport to the stadium is between R$40-R$50. From the city center, a taxi ride may cost around R$35-R$40.
-
Metro and Bus
You can take the metro from 'Centro' on Line 1 (Red Line) towards 'Vila das Flores'. Get off at the 'Parangaba' station. Transfer to Line 2 (Blue Line) towards 'Luzanir' and get off at the 'Jardim União' station. From there, you can take a local bus or taxi to Arena Castelão, which is about a 15-minute drive away. The metro fare is approximately R$3.60.
