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Are you a sports fan planning a trip to Paris? Look no further! Paris is not only known for its rich history, art, and cuisine, but also for its love of sports. From soccer to horse racing, the City of Lights has something for every sports enthusiast. In this article, we will guide you through the best places to visit in Paris for sports fans.
First on our list is the newly refurbished Hippodrome de Longchamp. Located in the Bois de Boulogne, this horse racing track is the epicenter of Parisian horse racing. With a free shuttle bus on race days, it’s easy to access from the Porte Maillot RER or metro station, or you can take bus 244. If you’re a fan of soccer, then a visit to the Parc des Princes is a must. Home to Paris Saint-Germain Football Club, this stadium is one of the largest in France with seating for 48,000 spectators.
But that’s not all! Paris also has many courts for tennis, basketball, and volleyball, both public and private, in spectacular and unusual places. For example, the Tennis de l’Atlantique is located above the railway lines at the Gare Montparnasse, while the Tennis Club de Saint-Louis is tucked away within the Hôpital Saint-Louis in the 10th arrondissement. So, whether you’re a fan of team sports or individual sports, Paris has something for everyone. Let’s dive into the best places to visit for sports fans in Paris!
Sports in Paris
Are you a sports fan visiting Paris? You’re in luck because the city of love offers a wide range of sports activities to indulge in. From football to tennis, cycling to horse racing, Paris has something for every sports enthusiast. Let’s dive into some of the best sports activities that you can enjoy in the city.
Football
Football, or soccer as it’s known in the US, is one of the most popular sports in France. Paris Saint-Germain, also known as PSG, is the city’s most well-known football team. The team plays its home matches at the iconic Parc des Princes stadium, located in the heart of the city. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 47,000 and is a must-visit for any football fan.
Tennis
Tennis is another popular sport in Paris, and the city is home to one of the world’s most prestigious tennis tournaments – the French Open. The tournament is held annually at the Roland Garros stadium, which has been the venue for the tournament since 1928. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 15,000 and is a must-visit for any tennis fan.
Rugby
Rugby is a popular sport in France, and Paris is home to one of the country’s most successful rugby teams – Racing 92. The team plays its home matches at the Paris La Defense Arena, which has a seating capacity of over 32,000. The stadium is a must-visit for any rugby fan.
Soccer
Soccer is another popular sport in Paris, and the city has several soccer teams apart from PSG. The Stade de France is the national stadium of France and is located just outside Paris. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 80,000 and has hosted several major soccer tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup and the UEFA European Championship.
Horse Racing
Horse racing is a popular sport in France, and Paris is home to some of the country’s most famous horse racing tracks. The Longchamp Racecourse is one of the most famous and has been the venue for several major horse racing events, including the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. The Hippodrome de Vincennes is another popular horse racing track and is located in the eastern part of the city.
Cycling
Cycling is a popular sport in France, and Paris is home to several cycling routes that offer stunning views of the city. The Bois de Boulogne and Bois de Vincennes are two of the most popular cycling routes in the city.
Golf
Golf is a popular sport in Paris, and the city has several golf courses that offer a unique golfing experience. The Golf de Paris is one of the most famous golf courses in the city and is located just outside Paris.
Paris is a city that offers something for everyone, including sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re a football fan, a tennis lover, or a horse racing enthusiast, Paris has something to offer. So, pack your bags, grab your sports gear, and get ready for an unforgettable sports experience in the city of love!
Best Places to Visit in Paris for Sports Fans
If you’re a sports fan, Paris is the place to be! The city offers a wide range of sporting events and venues that will satisfy even the most avid sports enthusiasts. From football to rugby, tennis to horse racing, Paris has it all. In this section, we will explore some of the best sports venues in Paris that you can visit and enjoy.
Parc des Princes
Located in the heart of Paris, Parc des Princes is one of the most iconic sporting venues in the city. It is the home of Paris Saint-Germain, one of the most successful football clubs in France. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 47,000 and is known for its electric atmosphere during matches.
If you’re a football fan, you can’t miss the opportunity to watch a game at Parc des Princes. The stadium offers a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else. You can feel the passion and excitement of the fans as they cheer on their team.
| Name | Parc des Princes |
|---|---|
| Location | 24 Rue du Commandant Guilbaud, 75016 Paris, France |
| Capacity | 47,929 |
| Tenants | Paris Saint-Germain F.C. |
Stade de France
Stade de France is the national stadium of France and one of the largest sporting venues in Europe. It was built for the 1998 FIFA World Cup and has since hosted numerous international sporting events, including the UEFA Champions League final and the Rugby World Cup.
The stadium has a seating capacity of over 80,000 and is known for its impressive architecture and state-of-the-art facilities. If you’re a sports fan, you can’t miss the opportunity to visit Stade de France and witness some of the biggest sporting events in the world.
| Name | Stade de France |
|---|---|
| Location | ZAC du Cornillon Nord, 93200 Saint-Denis, France |
| Capacity | 80,698 |
| Tenants | French national football and rugby teams |
Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or just looking for some entertainment, Paris has something to offer. These two venues are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to sporting events in the city. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable experience in the City of Light!
Sports Tours in Paris
If you’re a sports fan, Paris has plenty to offer beyond just watching games. One way to see the city and get some exercise at the same time is to take a bike tour. There are many companies offering guided tours that take you through some of the most beautiful and historic parts of Paris.
Bike Tour
A bike tour is a great way to see the city while getting some exercise. You can choose from a variety of tours that take you through different parts of Paris. Some of the most popular tours include:
- Paris Day Bike Tour: This tour takes you through the heart of Paris, including the Champs-Elysées, the Louvre, and Notre Dame.
- Paris Night Bike Tour: This tour takes you through the city’s illuminated streets and landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower and the Seine River.
- Versailles Bike Tour: This tour takes you outside of Paris to the beautiful Palace of Versailles, where you can explore the gardens and grounds.
Each tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who will provide interesting commentary about the sights you’re seeing. Most tours last around three hours and are suitable for all fitness levels.
Here is a table with information about some of the top bike tour companies in Paris:
| Company Name | Tour Options | Price | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fat Tire Tours | Day, Night, Versailles | €35-€89 | 3-8 hours |
| Blue Fox Travel | Day, Night | €35-€39 | 3 hours |
| Paris Bike Tour | Day, Night, Versailles | €35-€85 | 3-9 hours |
No matter which tour you choose, you’re sure to have a great time exploring Paris on two wheels. So why not get out and see the city in a unique and exciting way?
Exercise in Paris
Are you a sports enthusiast looking for ways to stay active while exploring the City of Lights? Paris has plenty of options for you to break a sweat and get your heart pumping. From scenic bike rides to outdoor yoga classes, here are some of the best places to exercise in Paris.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
Located in the northeast of Paris, the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is a great spot for a morning jog or a leisurely walk. With its hilly terrain and stunning views of the city, this park offers a challenging workout while also providing a picturesque backdrop. You can also try out the outdoor fitness equipment or join a group fitness class.
| Information | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is located in the 19th arrondissement of Paris, France. |
| Opening hours | The park is open every day of the year, but the opening hours vary depending on the season. Generally, it opens between 7:00 and 7:30 am and closes at dusk between 5:30 and 10:00 pm. |
| Activities | Parc des Buttes-Chaumont offers a variety of activities such as walking, jogging, and picnicking. The park also features several attractions, including a man-made lake, a suspension bridge, and a waterfall. Visitors can also enjoy a game of pétanque, table tennis, or volleyball. For children, there are playgrounds, a puppet theater, and pony rides available. Additionally, the park hosts various cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year. |
Seine Riverbanks
The Seine Riverbanks offer a unique way to explore the city while getting some exercise. Take a stroll or jog along the river while taking in the iconic Parisian landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral. You can also rent a bike or join a guided bike tour for a more active experience.
| Information | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | The Seine Riverbanks are located in the heart of Paris, France, running along both the left and right banks of the Seine River. |
| Opening hours | The Seine Riverbanks are open to the public 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, specific attractions, such as restaurants and bars, may have their own opening hours. |
| Activities | The Seine Riverbanks offer a variety of activities such as walking, jogging, and cycling. Visitors can also take a boat tour or rent a boat to explore the river. The riverbanks are also home to several attractions, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Musée d’Orsay. Visitors can also enjoy a meal or a drink at one of the many restaurants and bars that line the riverbanks. Additionally, the riverbanks host various cultural events and festivals throughout the year. |
Jardin du Luxembourg
The Jardin du Luxembourg is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. With its lush gardens and serene atmosphere, this park provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Join a yoga class or try out the outdoor fitness equipment for a relaxing yet invigorating workout.
| Information | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Jardin du Luxembourg is located in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, France. |
| Opening hours | The garden is open every day of the year, but the opening hours vary depending on the season. Generally, it opens between 7:30 and 8:15 am and closes at dusk between 4:45 and 9:45 pm. |
| Activities | Jardin du Luxembourg is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, offering a variety of activities such as walking, jogging, and picnicking. The garden also features a number of attractions, including the Medici Fountain, the Luxembourg Palace, and the Orangerie. Visitors can also enjoy a game of tennis or chess, or rent a remote control boat to sail on the pond. For children, there are playgrounds, puppet shows, and pony rides available. Additionally, the garden hosts various cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year. |
Bois de Vincennes
If you’re looking for a more challenging workout, head to the Bois de Vincennes on the eastern edge of Paris. This sprawling park offers a variety of activities such as running, cycling, and horseback riding. You can also try out the treetop adventure course or rent a rowboat for a unique and exciting workout.
| Information | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Bois de Vincennes is located in the east of Paris, on the edge of the 12th arrondissement. |
| Opening hours | Bois de Vincennes is open all year round. The opening hours vary depending on the season and the specific activity or attraction within the park. |
| Activities | Bois de Vincennes is a large park with a variety of activities, including walking, jogging, cycling, rowing, and horseback riding. The park also has several attractions, such as the Château de Vincennes, the Parc Floral de Paris, and the Aquarium Tropical de la Porte Dorée. There are also playgrounds, picnic areas, and a zoo called the Parc Zoologique de Paris. In addition, the park hosts various events throughout the year, such as concerts, festivals, and sporting events. |
Whether you’re a fitness fanatic or just looking to stay active while on vacation, Paris has something for everyone. So grab your workout gear and explore the city in a whole new way!
What Are the Best Places to Watch Sports in Paris?
Paris is a sports lover’s paradise, with plenty of options for catching a game or match. Some of the best places to watch sports in Paris include:
| Place | Information |
|---|---|
| Parc des Princes | Home to Paris Saint-Germain, this stadium is a must-visit for football fans. |
| Stade de France | This national stadium hosts major sporting events, including football and rugby matches. |
| Roland Garros | The site of the French Open, this tennis complex is a must-visit for tennis fans. |
| Hippodrome de Longchamp | This horse racing track hosts some of the biggest races in France, including the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. |
FAQs
Are you a sports fan planning a trip to Paris? Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you plan your trip.
How do I buy tickets for sporting events in Paris?
Tickets for sporting events in Paris can be purchased online, at the stadium or arena, or through a ticket reseller. It’s important to buy tickets in advance, especially for popular events, as they can sell out quickly. You can also book a VIP package for a more exclusive experience.
What other sports-related activities can I do in Paris?
Paris has plenty of sports-related activities to keep you busy, even if you’re not interested in watching a game or match. Some options include:
Running or cycling through one of Paris’s many parks, such as the Bois de Boulogne or the Jardin des Tuileries.
Taking a guided tour of a sports venue, such as the Stade de France or the Roland Garros Museum.
Playing a game of pétanque (a popular French lawn game) in one of Paris’s many parks or squares.
Renting a bike and exploring Paris’s many bike paths and routes.
What should I wear to a sporting event in Paris?
What you wear to a sporting event in Paris will depend on the event and the venue. For football matches, it’s common to wear the team’s colors or a scarf. For tennis matches, dress code is usually smart casual. It’s always a good idea to check the venue’s website for dress code guidelines before attending.
Top Sports Destinations in Paris
Are you a sports enthusiast looking for the perfect vacation spot? Look no further than Paris! With its rich sporting history and diverse range of activities, Paris offers something for every sports fan. From football to tennis, cycling to rugby, Paris has it all. Here are some of the best places to visit in Paris for sports fans.
Parc des Princes
If you’re a football fan, you won’t want to miss Parc des Princes. Home to the Paris Saint-Germain Football Club, this stadium has been a fixture in the city since 1973. With a capacity of over 47,000, it’s the perfect place to catch a match and experience the excitement of live football.
| Information | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Parc des Princes is located in the 16th arrondissement of Paris, France. |
| Capacity | The stadium has a seating capacity of 47,929 spectators. |
| Home Team | Paris Saint-Germain Football Club is the main tenant of Parc des Princes. |
| Notable Matches | Parc des Princes hosted matches during the 1938 and 1998 FIFA World Cups, as well as the UEFA Euro 1984 tournament. The stadium also hosted the 2015 World Women’s Handball Championship and the 2017 World Men’s Handball Championship. Notable football matches include the 1983 European Cup Winners’ Cup Final between Aberdeen and Real Madrid, and the 2019-20 UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second leg match between Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund. |
Roland Garros
Tennis fans won’t want to miss Roland Garros, home to the French Open. Held annually in May and June, this tournament is one of the most prestigious events in the tennis world. With its iconic red clay courts and stunning surroundings, Roland Garros is a must-visit destination for any tennis fan.
| Information | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Roland Garros is located in the 16th arrondissement of Paris, France, near the Bois de Boulogne. |
| Courts | The complex has 20 courts, including three main show courts: Court Philippe-Chatrier, Court Suzanne-Lenglen, and Court Simonne-Mathieu. |
| Capacity | The total seating capacity of the complex is approximately 38,000. Court Philippe-Chatrier has a seating capacity of 15,225, Court Suzanne-Lenglen has a seating capacity of 10,068, and Court Simonne-Mathieu has a seating capacity of 5,000. |
| Surface | The courts are made of clay, specifically red brick dust on top of a layer of limestone. |
| Notable Matches | Roland Garros is the host of the French Open, one of the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments. Notable matches include Rafael Nadal’s 13 French Open singles titles, Chris Evert’s seven French Open singles titles, and Bjorn Borg’s six French Open singles titles. Other notable matches include the 1999 French Open Men’s Singles Final between Andre Agassi and Andrei Medvedev, and the 2015 French Open Men’s Singles Final between Novak Djokovic and Stan Wawrinka. |
Vélodrome de Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines
Cycling fans won’t want to miss the Vélodrome de Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines. This state-of-the-art facility is home to the French national cycling team and has hosted numerous international events. With its indoor track and stunning design, it’s a must-visit destination for any cycling enthusiast.
| Information | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | The Vélodrome National de Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines is located in Montigny-le-Bretonneux, 25 kilometers from Paris, France. |
| Capacity | The velodrome can hold up to 6,000 spectators. |
| Surface | The surface of the velodrome is made of Siberian spruce and is 250 meters long. |
| Notable Events | The velodrome hosted the 2015 UCI Track Cycling World Championships, the 2016 UEC European Track Championships, and will host the cycling venue in the 2024 Summer Olympics. It also hosted the World Track Championships in 2022. |
Stade de France
Rugby fans won’t want to miss the Stade de France. This iconic stadium has hosted numerous international rugby matches, as well as other sporting events. With its state-of-the-art facilities and stunning design, it’s a must-visit destination for any rugby fan.
| Information | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | The Stade de France is located in Saint-Denis, in the north of Paris, France. |
| Capacity | The stadium has a seating capacity of 80,698, making it the seventh largest stadium in Europe. |
| Home Team | The French national football and rugby union teams are the main tenants of the Stade de France. |
| Notable Matches | The Stade de France hosted the 1998 FIFA World Cup Final, the UEFA Euro 2016 Final, and the 2007 Rugby World Cup Final. It has also hosted numerous other international football and rugby matches, as well as concerts and other events. |
Before You Go
With its rich sporting history and diverse range of activities, Paris is the perfect vacation spot for any sports fan. Whether you’re a football fan, tennis enthusiast, cycling fanatic, or rugby lover, Paris has something to offer. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Paris today and experience the excitement of live sports in one of the world’s most beautiful cities!
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