Bursa Metropolitan Municipality Stadium is a 43,361-capacity football arena located in the Osmangazi district; opened in 2015, the stadium hosts Bursaspor with its crocodile-shaped roof design.
Timsah Arena, officially named Bursa Metropolitan Municipality Stadium (and Atatürk Sports Complex Matlı Stadium due to a sponsorship agreement), opened in 2015. It is Bursaspor's home ground. With a capacity of 43,361, it was designed according to UEFA 2016 criteria; it is a structure built on 6 floors and 8 blocks. It takes its name from its steel construction roof, which resembles a crocodile's back when viewed from the outside. This resemblance is not equally clear to everyone; some comments even say, "they couldn't make it look like a crocodile."
On match days, its true story unfolds. Visitors talk about the atmosphere in the stands, especially during the chants called "cendere." Some describe it as more than just an ordinary sports facility, but a spiritual place for fans. There are complaints about seat width. Some say that the legroom and side space are narrow, so it's worth paying attention to the stand area when buying tickets. As of 2026, renovation work is ongoing around the stadium for new social areas and seating points.
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Guide's Note
The vast majority of recent visitors to the stadium have left satisfied with its general appearance and structural quality. A common impression reflected in comments is that the stadium is aesthetically successful and expectations are high for match days.
However, it is difficult to make a broad assessment due to the small number of comments. According to existing feedback, while the stadium is physically appreciated, areas for improvement are noticeable regarding landscaping and commercial opportunities.
- Surrounding emptiness: It is stated that the number of businesses around the stadium is insufficient, and options for spending time before and after matches are limited.
- Bursastore shop: It is emphasized that the official store inside the stadium is small and needs a larger area.
About the Stadium
Timsah Arena opened in 2015 and Bursaspor plays its matches here. Its official name is Bursa Metropolitan Municipality Stadium, but it is also referred to as Atatürk Sports Complex Matlı Stadium due to a sponsorship agreement. The 43,361-capacity structure was built in accordance with UEFA's 2016 stadium criteria. It consists of a total of 6 floors, including 3 above-ground floors, 2 basement floors, and 1 platform floor, and 8 blocks.
How to Get There?
For those using the metro, Paşaçiftliği station is the closest point, a 9-minute walk to the stadium. Those preferring the bus can get off at lines 2C, 771, B39, B5, and E13; Dikkaldırım station is another option. The Bursaspor and Hat Cd. stops are a 6-7 minute and 4-minute walk, respectively. Public transport is more practical than private vehicles on match days due to heavy traffic.
When to Visit?
The true experience of this place happens during Bursaspor's home matches. When the stands are full during derby and important league matches, the 'cendere' chant, often mentioned by visitors, reaches its most intense form. It is also possible to visit on an ordinary day and see the stadium from the outside. But to feel the atmosphere inside, a match day is essential.
Things to Pay Attention To
Some visitors complain about seat comfort; they say that the legroom and side space are narrow, and the seats feel cramped 'like a minibus'. Paying attention to the stand and row selection when buying tickets is important, especially for tall spectators. As of 2026, renovation and landscaping work is ongoing around the stadium, so there may be temporary changes at some entry points.
Photo Spots
The most striking aspect of the stadium from the outside is its green steel construction roof, which resembles a crocodile's back. Taking photos from this angle in daylight is popular. Inside, the general view of the full stands, especially shots taken from the upper levels, are among the best points to capture the match atmosphere.
Other Places Nearby
The stadium is located in the Osmangazi district, near the Acemler Transfer Center. Through this transfer center, bus connections are provided to other parts of the city, including districts like Orhaneli and Büyükorhan. Once the social area arrangements around the stadium are completed, the area seems likely to become usable for walking and seating even on non-match days.
FAQ
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