YAYLA Arena

In the heart of the sporting life of Krefeld stands the Yayla Arena—a multipurpose complex that serves as the home ice for the legendary Krefeld Pinguine ice hockey club. Opened in 2004, this venue is rightly considered one of the most modern and atmospheric ice arenas that Germany has to offer winter sports enthusiasts.

Yayla Arena. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

This is more than just a stadium; it is a high-tech space capable of accommodating over 8,000 spectators. Until 2018, the arena was known as KönigPALAST, but a change in sponsorship brought it a new name while maintaining its status as the region's premier hub for entertainment and sports. Thanks to its architecture and thoughtful layout, every visitor here feels like a part of a grand event.

In addition to thrilling hockey matches, Yayla Arena regularly transforms into a venue for large-scale concerts, exhibitions, and cultural events. Its versatility and high level of service are confirmed by excellent guest reviews, noting the comfort of the stands and its convenient location near the city center.

To check the event schedule, purchase tickets, or get more information, you can use the official communication channels. It is recommended to check for updates before your visit, especially on the days of major matches or concerts.

Below are the primary contact details for Yayla Arena to help you plan your trip:

The main draw for visitors here is, without a doubt, ice hockey. Attending a match by the local Krefeld Pinguine team puts you right at the epicenter of passionate fan support. The atmosphere in the stands during DEL2 league games is electrifying: loud chants, waving flags, and the sincere emotions of the fans make every visit an unforgettable sporting celebration.

Outside of the hockey season, Yayla Arena hosts spectacular shows and musical concerts. Modern acoustics and a flexible space allow for a wide range of events—from performances by popular artists to spectacular exhibitions. It is an excellent place to see a major event in a cozy, almost intimate setting compared to the giant stadiums found in capital cities.

Besides watching the main program, guests can stroll through the spacious foyers, visit the fan shop to pick up souvenirs with "Pinguine" branding, or grab a bite at the food stalls offering traditional German snacks. The well-designed infrastructure ensures comfort throughout the evening, allowing you to fully focus on the experience.

The modern Yayla Arena is located at Westparkstraße 111, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. If you prefer public transport, trams and buses run regularly from central Krefeld to the Westpark stop. The ride takes just a few minutes, followed by a short walk from the stop directly to the main entrance.

For those traveling by car, the route follows the A57 or A44 autobahns. Follow the signs to the sports complex; there is ample parking available right next to the arena. The drive from nearby Düsseldorf usually takes no more than 20–30 minutes, making the arena a great option for evening leisure.

If you enjoy walking, the stroll from the city center to the stadium takes about 20–30 minutes. You can also use taxi services or ride-sharing apps to comfortably reach the venue directly from your hotel or the train station.

The history of this sports facility began in 2004, when it opened its doors under the name KönigPALAST. The arena received its original name in honor of its sponsor, a well-known brewery from Duisburg. Since its opening, the complex has become more than just a stadium—it is the true heart of ice battles in Krefeld.

The main "host" of the venue is the famous Krefeld Pinguine hockey club. The team has an impressive history, dating back to 1936 under the name Krefelder EV. Over the decades, the club has twice been crowned national champion (in 1952 and 2003), and the new arena has become a fitting base for continuing their sporting traditions in Germany.

The current name, "Yayla Arena," was established in 2018 following a change in title sponsorship. Despite the new signage, the spirit of professional sports and the continuity of generations of fans have remained unchanged. Today, this place is rightfully considered a symbol of the region's sporting glory.

Over the years, the arena has witnessed not only hockey triumphs but also performances by global music stars and prestigious international tournaments. It has evolved from an ambitious architectural project into one of the most recognizable and visited sites in the northern part of the city.

When planning a visit to Yayla Arena, you should consider the type of event. If your goal is to attend a hockey match, set aside approximately 2.5–3 hours in your schedule. This is enough time to comfortably go through security, find your seats, enjoy the game over three periods, and explore the arena during intermissions.

For those planning to attend a concert or another entertainment show, your stay may increase to 4 hours. Given the stadium's convenient location, many visitors prefer to arrive early to stop by the fan shop and soak up the pre-match atmosphere with the local fans.

The opening hours of Yayla Arena depend directly on the calendar of scheduled events. The arena opens its doors to visitors only on the days of matches, concerts, or other events. Generally, entry to the premises begins 1–2 hours before the official start of the event, allowing guests to avoid queues and comfortably take their seats.

On weekdays when no public events are taking place, the ticket offices and administrative offices may operate on a separate schedule. Before planning your visit, we strongly recommend checking the current schedule on the arena's official website so you don't miss the chance to attend a game or show that interests you.

A visit to Yayla Arena can be easily combined with exploring other interesting sites. The area surrounding the stadium offers diverse attractions, from historic industrial buildings to modern recreational zones, allowing you to create a full day's itinerary.

A walk around the neighborhood will help you better feel the city's atmosphere and see how harmoniously sports, history, and culture blend together. Below is a list of nearby sites that may interest the curious traveler: