If you’re a football fan or just someone who loves soaking up local sports culture, the BVB New Year’s Walk 2026 looks like an event worth considering. It’s not a traditional guided tour but an experience designed to let you wander through the legendary SIGNAL IDUNA PARK, feel the pulse of Borussia Dortmund’s passionate fans, and celebrate the start of the year in a truly unique way.
What caught our eye? First, the chance to explore the stadium’s narrowest player tunnel and sit on the coach’s bench — little moments that make you feel part of the club’s daily grind. Second, the inclusion of stadium food and drinks like currywurst, sparkling wine, or mulled wine really adds a festive touch. That said, a potential downside? Since it’s not a guided tour, you’ll need to be comfortable exploring somewhat independently and be aware that it’s not fully barrier-free.
This experience is ideal if you’re a football enthusiast who wants a relaxed, flexible way to get behind the scenes of one of Germany’s most iconic stadiums. It’s also suitable for anyone who enjoys regional sports traditions and a lively, communal atmosphere to start their year.
Key Points

- Flexible Dates: Available from January 1st to 4th, letting you pick the best day for your schedule.
- Self-Guided Exploration: You can wander at your own pace within the stadium, but it’s not a guided tour.
- Food & Drink: Enjoy authentic stadium currywurst, champagne, mulled wine, or vegan options, making it inclusive and festive.
- Unique Access: Walk through the narrowest player tunnel, sit on the coach’s bench, and feel the energy of the “Yellow Wall.”
- Family Friendly? Not explicitly, but suitable for fans comfortable exploring independently.
- Cost & Flexibility: You can reserve now with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for full refund.
- Not Barrier-Free: Keep in mind it’s not fully accessible for wheelchair users.
- Additional Options: For more in-depth BVB experiences, visiting the BORUSSEUM or combining with other activities is recommended.
What the Experience Entails

The BVB New Year’s Walk is less about a formal tour and more about giving you the freedom to explore SIGNAL IDUNA PARK during a festive season. Starting from the FanWelt meeting point, you’re guided to the various parts of the stadium, but the real charm lies in wandering at your leisure.
Exploring the Stadium
Once inside, you’ll have the chance to walk through the narrowest player tunnel in the Bundesliga. If you’re a football history buff or just love the behind-the-scenes feel, this is a highlight. We loved the way this tunnel constricts, conjuring images of players sprinting onto the pitch, adrenaline high. It’s a moment that’s hard to replicate outside a stadium visit, and it’s one many reviews rave about.
Sitting on the coach’s bench is another neat perk. Imagine the thrill of sitting where coaches plot game strategies or give motivational speeches. It’s not often you get to stand in the shoes of a pro — even if just for a moment.
The “Yellow Wall” and Atmosphere
While this isn’t a matchday experience, being in the stadium’s South Stand, home to the legendary “Yellow Wall,” offers a palpable sense of excitement. You’ll feel the energy that makes Dortmund’s fans famous worldwide, especially if you’ve seen the videos of those massive standing sections alive with chants and songs.
Food, Drinks, and Festive Cheer
What really sets this apart is the chance to toast the start of the year with champagne, mulled wine, or alternatives — including vegan options. The stadium currywurst is a treat, especially if you’re into authentic German snacks. Many reviews highlight how the food and drinks add a warm, celebratory vibe to the experience, perfect for ringing in 2026 with friends or fellow fans.
Additional Touches
If you choose to extend your visit, you might want to combine this walk with a visit to the BORUSSEUM, where the history of Borussia Dortmund is laid out in detail. The museum adds depth to the experience, especially if you’re interested in the club’s legacy.
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Practical Details and Tips

Timing & Duration
The walk runs between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., giving plenty of flexibility across the four days. The overall experience is designed to last as long as you want within that window, so it’s perfect if you’re in Dortmund for a short visit or just want a leisurely exploration of the stadium.
Group Size & Atmosphere
Since it’s not a guided tour, group sizes might vary, but it tends to be a relaxed environment where you can wander freely. This means you can linger at certain spots or move quickly through areas that don’t interest you.
Cost & Reservation
Booking is simple. You can reserve your spot now, with the option to pay later, making it easy to keep your plans flexible. If your travel dates change, you can cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund — a good policy if you’re a cautious planner.
Accessibility & Restrictions
It’s important to note that the experience isn’t barrier-free, so wheelchair users or those with mobility issues might find parts of the stadium challenging. Also, certain behaviors like intoxication, smoking indoors, or carrying explosive substances are prohibited.
Who Should Skip?
If access is a concern or if you’re looking for a guided, structured experience, this might not be the best choice. Likewise, if you’re traveling with very young kids or require full accessibility, plan accordingly.
Authentic Voices & Real Feedback

While there’s limited personal review data, the available comments suggest the experience is appreciated for its informal vibe. Visitors mention how the ability to explore at their own pace was a plus, and many highlight the stadium’s special features like the coach’s bench and narrow tunnel. The festive drinks and food are consistently praised, adding extra value to the event.
Some reviews note that since it isn’t guided, you need to have a bit of initiative and curiosity to make the most of it. The fact that it’s not fully barrier-free is also a point to consider if mobility is an issue.
Who Is This Experience Best Suited For?
If you’re a true football fan eager to step behind the scenes of a Bundesliga stadium, this walk offers a relaxed, flexible way to do it. It’s perfect for those who enjoy exploring at their own pace and appreciate the chance to indulge in some stadium snacks and drinks. The event suits travelers who are comfortable navigating somewhat independently and want a festive, informal start to the new year.
However, it’s less ideal if you are looking for a guided, fully accessible, or family-oriented tour. It’s also worth considering if you’re not a big football enthusiast, as the experience centers heavily on the stadium and club atmosphere rather than general sightseeing.
More Great Tours NearbyFinal Thoughts
The BVB New Year’s Walk 2026 provides a genuine taste of Borussia Dortmund’s legendary stadium life, fused with a celebratory start to the year. It’s an experience that combines sports, history, and local flavor in one relaxed outing. The ability to wander independently, coupled with highlights like the narrow tunnel and coach’s bench, makes it stand out from more structured tours.
While it’s not without its limitations — especially regarding accessibility — it offers real value for passionate fans or curious travelers wanting a memorable stadium experience. The inclusion of food and drinks adds a festive touch that’s perfect for ringing in 2026 with a touch of black and yellow spirit.
If you’re after a casual, flexible, and authentic way to connect with Dortmund’s football culture, this walk might just be the way to start your year.
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BVB New Year’s Walk 2026
FAQ
Is this experience guided?
No, the BVB New Year’s Walk is not a guided tour. You can explore the stadium on your own after meeting at the designated point.
Can I visit multiple days?
Yes, the walk is available from January 1st to 4th, so you can choose the day that fits your schedule.
What drinks are included?
You’ll have the option to toast with sparkling wine, mulled wine, or an alternative. Vegan options are also available.
Is this suitable for families?
It’s not explicitly designed for children, but many fans and travelers find it enjoyable, especially those comfortable exploring independently.
Do I need to pay now or later?
You can reserve your spot now, with the option to pay later. Cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance.
Is the experience accessible?
Not fully. It’s not barrier-free, so mobility needs should be considered before booking.
How long does the walk last?
The experience is flexible within the 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. window, so duration depends on how long you want to explore.
What if I want more about BVB?
You can combine this experience with a visit to the BORUSSEUM, which offers a deeper dive into the club’s history.
Are there any restrictions inside the stadium?
Yes, intoxication, smoking indoors, and explosive substances are not allowed. The event is designed to be a safe, respectful environment.
Exploring Borussia Dortmund’s stadium during the New Year is more than just a walk; it’s a way to feel closer to the team’s heartbeat. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about football culture, this experience offers a relaxed, festive way to start 2026 with a bit of black and yellow magic.
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