Benevento Playbook: Your Unrivalled Experience Watching the Giallorossi

Perched on a hill in the heart of the Campania region, the stunning town of Benevento can trace its roots as far back as 300 BC.

Originally called Maleventum (bad wind or bad event in Latin), the Romans flipped the name to Benevento, meaning good wind or good event.

As far as Benevento Calcio is concerned, their history has been more bad than good. That said, things are on the up.

Before the end of the 2025-26 campaign they were able to celebrate promotion back to Serie B after winning Serie C Group C at a canter, finishing 12 points ahead of second-placed Catania.

In recent years they have been the epitome of a yo-yo club, existing down in the lower reaches, but promotion to the second tier for the first time in 2016 was followed by a jump to the big time the following year, an incredible two-season journey from Serie C to Serie A.

Their stay in the top flight was brief and they dropped down after a year. And in 2020 they hit the top once more, but again stayed for just a season. Then they plummeted.

But, at least for 2026-27, they will be plying their trade in Serie B. Benevento were the highest scorers of the 60 teams in the third tier in 2025-26 – bagging 74 goals – and while stepping back up is difficult, there is plenty to look forward to about their return.

The Stadio Ciro Vigorito, Benevento’s home since 1979, is one one of the more impressive arenas in Italy relative to the club’s size and history. You can always expect a good atmosphere.

Here is all you need to know.

Where To Stay

Benevento is a fairly small town and anywhere you stay means you will still be close to the heart of it. There are many hotels near Via Arco di Traiano, the main artery that leads to the magnificent Arco di Traiano monument. AirBnb is also an option

Where To Eat

Benevento is famous for its cucina povera, which translates to ‘simple food’. Dishes such as Mugniatiello (lamb offal rolls with lard, garlic and parsley) and Cardone (local soup) are the things to try in this part of the country.

Your first port of call should be Trattoria Il Cinghiale on Via Annunziata, where you can sample Cardone and other local favourites. Another restaurant that shouldn’t be missed is Osteria Sapori di Corte on Vico I Trescene, where cuts of salumi from local Samnite farms, a tradition of the region, melt in the mouth along with pieces of local Caciocavallo Silano cheese.

A fantastic breakfast option is Bar Sirena. Situated at the junction of Via Port’Aurea and Via Traiano, there’s nothing better than having your morning cappuccino and a cornetto with a view of the majestic Arc Traiano.

Where To Drink

Of course there’s an Irish bar, there usually is. Craven Road should be one of your stops before making your way down to the Vigorito.

Il Colibri Gastropub on Via Torretta has a wide selection of beers from around the world, local salumi, sandwiches, pizzas and everything in between.

And check out Gnostro on Viale Antonio Mellusi, a bar that doubles up as a coffee shop.

Don’t Forget

Tickets – Tickets for Benevento games are available through the club’s official authoriser – TicketOne – and can be bought in the days leading up to games. 

When picking up tickets at the stadium or at the office, remember ID. Kick-off times can be moved at short notice, so bear that in mind when arranging a trip far in advance.

Merchandise – All of Benevento’s shirts and other official items can be bought on the club’s website. Their store is on Via Del Pomerio 43, in the heart of the city.

Did You Know?

Benevento broke records in their inaugural season in Serie A by having the worst start of any side from Europe’s top five leagues. In 2017-18 they lost their opening 14 games, breaking Manchester United’s record from 1930. They stopped the rot in style though, drawing with AC Milan thanks to a 95th-minute leveller from goalkeeper Alberto Brignoli.

Getting There

The most straightforward way to get to Benevento from the UK is to land in Naples and make your way by car or by train (there are regular services). By rail takes a couple of hours from Naples. You can also get to Benevento from Salerno but that requires changes.

Need Another Football Fix?

Napoli is of course the main draw in Campania but if you’re after something a little more off the beaten path, Avellino is nearby, as is Juve Stabia and Salernitana. Casertana are in in Serie C.