Stade de France
Stade de France Stadium - Travel Guide & Stadium Information
- Rugby Union stadium in Saint-Denis, France with 80,698 capacity - complete travel and matchday guide
- Professional playing surface with modern facilities
- Transport: Nearest train station, tube line, and bus routes with walking times
- Parking: Official stadium parking £10-20, street parking options nearby
- Away fans: Dedicated section, entrance gates, and capacity allocation information
Key Facts
Stade de France Essential Details
Stade de France Stadium Basic Details
Stadium Capacity
80,698 spectators
Year Opened
1998
Address & Location
Saint-Denis, France
Technical Specifications
Pitch Type
Grass
Stadium Type
Single-Sport Venue
Primary Sport
Rugby Union
Venue Classification
Stadium
Location & Maps
About Stade de France
About Stade de France Stadium
Stade de France stands as France's national stadium and architectural masterpiece, located in Saint-Denis, northern Paris. Opened in 1998 for the FIFA World Cup, this iconic venue with its distinctive elliptical design and partial roof has become synonymous with French sporting excellence. Home to the French national rugby and football teams, the stadium's 80,698 capacity makes it the largest in France and among Europe's most prestigious sporting venues. The stadium's design features a revolutionary retractable lower tier that can accommodate both rectangular football/rugby pitches and athletics tracks. Its striking exterior, clad in glass and steel, creates a beacon visible across Paris' skyline. Beyond sport, Stade de France has hosted major concerts and cultural events, cementing its status as a true multi-purpose venue. For Six Nations rugby, the stadium transforms into a cauldron of French passion, with the famous "La Marseillaise" reverberating around the stands. The venue's excellent transport links via RER B and D lines, combined with comprehensive facilities and accessibility features, ensure it remains at the forefront of European stadium design and fan experience.
Stade de France Photos & Media
Featured Image
Stade de France - Hero Image
Source: Google Earth Studio
Photo Gallery
Stade de France - Gallery Image 1
Source: Google Earth Studio
Stade de France - Gallery Image 2
Source: Google Earth Studio
Stade de France - Gallery Image 3
Source: Google Earth Studio
Stade de France - Gallery Image 4
Source: Google Earth Studio
Stade de France - Gallery Image 5
Source: Google Earth Studio
Stade de France - Gallery Image 6
Source: Google Earth Studio
Stade de France - Gallery Image 7
Source: Google Earth Studio
Stade de France - Gallery Image 8
Source: Google Earth Studio
Visiting Stade de France
🏛️Stadium History
Built specifically for the 1998 FIFA World Cup at a cost of €290 million, Stade de France was designed by architects Michel Macary, Aymeric Zublena, Michel Regembal, and Claude Costantini. The stadium's innovative design features a movable lower tier allowing conversion between rectangular and athletics configurations. Since opening, it has hosted the 1998 World Cup Final, Euro 2016 Final, Champions League Finals, and serves as the annual venue for the Top 14 and European rugby finals.
⚡Matchday Atmosphere
Six Nations matches at Stade de France deliver unparalleled atmosphere as 80,000 French supporters create a wall of sound. The pre-match rendition of "La Marseillaise" with tricolor flags waving throughout the stands is genuinely spine-tingling. French rugby fans are known for their passionate but respectful support, creating an intimidating yet welcoming environment for visiting supporters.
🎯Stadium Tours
Public tours available daily except event days, offering behind-the-scenes access to dressing rooms, players' tunnel, VIP areas, and museum. Tours last approximately 90 minutes and provide insight into the stadium's architectural innovation and sporting heritage. Advanced booking recommended, especially during Six Nations period.
🏛️Stadium Museum
The Stade de France Museum chronicles French sporting history with interactive exhibits, memorabilia from 1998 World Cup victory, and displays covering rugby, football, athletics, and major concerts held at the venue.
Getting to Stade de France
Getting to the Stadium
RER B Line (Direct Service)
RER B provides the most convenient access to Stade de France with direct service to La Plaine-Stade de France station, just 3 minutes walk from the stadium. Services run every 3-5 minutes during events, with journey times of 15 minutes from central Paris (Châtelet-Les Halles) and 35 minutes from Charles de Gaulle Airport. Enhanced services operate on match days with extended hours until 2:00 AM. All RER B trains are fully wheelchair accessible with step-free access to platforms. During Six Nations matches, expect significant crowds - allow extra travel time and consider alternative routes for return journeys.
RER D Line (Alternative Route)
RER D serves Stade de France-Saint-Denis station, 5-minute walk from stadium via pedestrian bridge. Less crowded alternative to RER B with connections from Gare du Nord (8 minutes), Châtelet-Les Halles (12 minutes), and Gare de Lyon (20 minutes). Services run every 6-8 minutes with enhanced match day frequency. Particularly useful for travelers arriving from eastern Paris or connecting from mainline rail services at Gare de Lyon.
Metro Line 13 Connection
Metro Line 13 to Saint-Denis-Porte de Paris, then 15-minute walk or connecting bus 153/253 to stadium. Journey time 25-35 minutes from central Paris locations including Opéra, République, and Montparnasse. More economical option but requires additional transport to stadium. Recommended for budget-conscious travelers or those staying in western Paris areas.
Direct Bus Services
Multiple bus routes serve stadium area: 153 (from Saint-Lazare), 253 (cross-Paris connections), and 302 (local Saint-Denis). Special match day shuttles operate from major transport hubs including Gare du Nord and République. Journey times vary 30-60 minutes depending on traffic and origin point. Enhanced services with additional capacity during Six Nations fixtures.
Driving and Parking
Access via A1 autoroute (Sortie 2 Saint-Denis) or A86 rocade (Sortie Saint-Denis) with clear signposting to stadium. Located 10km north of central Paris with multiple approach routes. Official stadium parking (€25) requires advance booking through stadium website. Alternative parking at nearby shopping centers and park-and-ride facilities. Heavy traffic expected on event days with road closures around stadium from 3 hours before kickoff. Consider public transport for stress-free journey.
Hotels Near Stade de France
Where to Stay
Hotel Villa Saxe Eiffel
Accommodation Type & Location
Luxury accommodation - 30 minutes via RER B from central Paris
Pricing
Rates from £- per night
Description
Elegant 5-star boutique hotel near Eiffel Tower offering luxury accommodation with refined French décor, premium amenities, and exceptional service. Spacious rooms feature marble bathrooms, Egyptian cotton linens, and city views. Easy RER B access to stadium. Perfect for combining Six Nations rugby with Paris sightseeing. Concierge can arrange stadium transfers and restaurant reservations. Price range: €400-800 per night.
Hotel des Arts Montmartre
Accommodation Type & Location
Luxury accommodation - 25 minutes via metro and RER
Pricing
Rates from £- per night
Description
Charming 4-star hotel in artistic Montmartre district with character rooms featuring period furnishings, traditional French breakfast, and artistic décor. Located near Sacré-Cœur with direct metro connections to stadium via RER B. Ideal for cultural exploration between matches. Rooms vary in size and view, some with Parisian balconies. Price range: €200-400 per night.
B&B Hotel Paris Saint-Denis Pleyel
Accommodation Type & Location
Mid-range accommodation - 10 minutes via metro to stadium
Pricing
Rates from £- per night
Description
Modern 3-star budget-friendly hotel with comfortable air-conditioned rooms, free WiFi, and excellent transport links. Purpose-built property offering efficient accommodation perfect for match weekends. All rooms feature en-suite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and work desks. 24-hour reception and breakfast service available. Closest hotel option to stadium with easy metro access. Price range: €80-150 per night.
Hôtel Campanile Saint-Denis Centre
Accommodation Type & Location
Mid-range accommodation - 15 minutes walk or short bus ride
Pricing
Rates from £- per night
Description
Reliable 3-star chain hotel in Saint-Denis center offering consistent quality with restaurant, bar, and meeting facilities. Traditional hotel amenities including 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, and tour booking services. Good value pricing for Paris area with easy stadium access on foot or via local transport. Family rooms available. Price range: €90-180 per night.
Premiere Classe Saint-Denis Centre
Accommodation Type & Location
Budget accommodation - 20 minutes walk or bus to stadium
Pricing
Rates from £- per night
Description
Budget accommodation offering essential amenities including private bathrooms, free WiFi, and economical rates. Perfect base for rugby fans focused on match experience rather than luxury accommodation. Clean, comfortable rooms with basic furnishings. Limited service but good transport connections to stadium and central Paris. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Price range: €50-90 per night.
Dining at Stade de France
Restaurants
Pubs & Bars
Stade de France Accessibility
Accessibility
Wheelchair Seating Areas
Over 400 wheelchair spaces distributed across all stadium levels with dedicated companion seating. Spaces located on raised platforms ensuring unobstructed views with weather protection. Advance booking essential through official channels (minimum 48 hours). Accessible parking available with pre-booking. Dedicated accessible entrances with step-free access via lifts to all levels. Stadium provides transfer assistance if required.
Accessible Toilet Facilities
Comprehensive accessible toilet facilities located adjacent to all wheelchair seating areas across stadium levels. Clean, well-maintained facilities with appropriate space, grab rails, and emergency call systems. Baby changing facilities available in accessible toilets. Adult changing facilities provided on Level 2. All facilities regularly cleaned and monitored during events.
Stadium Access and Navigation
Multiple dedicated accessible entrances with clear signage and trained staff assistance. Accessible lifts to all stadium levels with audio announcements in French and English. Wide corridors and doorways throughout concourses. Accessible concession stands with lowered counters. Clear tactile guidance paths for visually impaired visitors. Accessible parking with direct covered access to stadium.
Audio and Visual Assistance
Audio description services available for visually impaired spectators with advance booking. Commentary provided in French with English translation available. Stadium announcements enhanced for hearing-impaired visitors with visual displays. Hearing induction loops at ticket offices, concessions, and information points. Guide dogs welcomed with advance notification and designated relief areas provided.
Stade de France FAQs
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What is the capacity of Stade de France?
CapacityStade de France has a capacity of 80,698 spectators for rugby matches, making it the largest stadium in France and one of the largest in Europe. The venue features state-of-the-art facilities with excellent sightlines from all seats.
Where exactly is Stade de France located?
LocationStade de France is located at 93200 Saint-Denis, northern Paris, France. The stadium sits in the heart of the La Plaine Saint-Denis district, approximately 10 kilometers north of central Paris with excellent transport connections.
What is the best way to reach Stade de France?
TransportRER B Line to La Plaine-Stade de France station (3-minute walk) is the most convenient option. Alternatively, take RER D to Stade de France-Saint-Denis (5-minute walk). Both lines connect to central Paris and operate enhanced services on match days with extended hours.
When was Stade de France built and why?
HistoryStade de France was built for the 1998 FIFA World Cup and officially opened in January 1998. Construction cost €290 million and the innovative design allows conversion between rectangular football/rugby configuration and athletics track setup via movable lower tier.
Does Stade de France have weather protection?
FacilitiesYes, Stade de France features partial roof coverage protecting most seating areas while maintaining open-air atmosphere for the playing field. The distinctive design provides weather protection without compromising the outdoor stadium experience.
How do I buy tickets for Six Nations matches?
AccessSix Nations tickets are sold through official FFR (French Rugby Federation) channels, typically released 3-4 months before fixtures. International supporters can purchase through official tour operators or secondary markets, though prices vary significantly based on opponent and seating location.
What food and drink options are available?
FacilitiesExtensive food and beverage options throughout stadium concourses including French cuisine, international fast food, beer, wine, and soft drinks. VIP areas feature upscale dining with table service. Alcohol sales cease 15 minutes before final whistle as per French regulations.
What are the security and bag restrictions?
AccessStrict security screening operates at all entrances. Bags larger than A4 size prohibited. No glass containers, alcohol, or professional cameras allowed. Arrive early to allow time for security checks. Food and non-alcoholic drinks in plastic containers permitted.
Is parking available at the stadium?
TransportOfficial stadium parking available but limited and requires advance booking (€25). Alternative parking at nearby shopping centers or park-and-ride facilities. Public transport strongly recommended due to traffic congestion and road closures on match days.
Can I visit the stadium on non-match days?
FacilitiesPublic stadium tours available daily except event days, lasting approximately 90 minutes. Tours include dressing rooms, tunnel, VIP areas, and museum. Advanced booking recommended online or by phone. Tours provide excellent insight into stadium architecture and French sporting heritage.
What should I expect for weather and clothing?
FacilitiesParis weather can be unpredictable during Six Nations season (February-March). Bring waterproof clothing and layers as stadium has partial roof coverage. Temperature typically ranges 5-15°C. Scarf and hat recommended for evening matches. Check weather forecast before traveling.
What else can I do in the Saint-Denis area?
LocationSaint-Denis features historic basilica (burial site of French kings), vibrant local markets, and multicultural dining options. Central Paris easily accessible via RER for sightseeing. Consider combining rugby visit with Paris tourist attractions - Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Champs-Élysées all within 30-45 minutes by public transport.
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