Behind the scenes at the Roland-Garros Stadium

Discover the legendary Roland-Garros stadium in Paris through an engaging guided tour that offers exclusive behind-the-scenes access. Priced at $22.42 per person and lasting approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, this tour is designed for tennis fans and curious visitors alike. It departs from 1 Av. Gordon Bennett, with the tour including entrance tickets and a knowledgeable conferral guide. While the tour does not include transfer or food and drinks, it provides a compelling glimpse into the world of professional tennis, from the presidential stand to the clay court.

This experience is highly popular, often booked 65 days in advance, and is perfect for those keen to see the inner workings of one of tennis’s most famous venues. The small group size—capped at 30 travelers—ensures a more personalized and detailed exploration. The tour has earned an impressive 4.5/5 rating from over 150 reviews, with many visitors praising the expert guides and the exclusive access to areas normally off-limits to the public.

Key Points

• Exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Roland-Garros, including press rooms, locker rooms, and the players’ corridor.
• Tour lasts 1 hour 30 minutes, providing a thorough look at the stadium’s most iconic spots.
• Guided by knowledgeable guides who share interesting stories about tennis legends like Nadal, Federer, and Graf.
• Includes entrance tickets, but no transfers or food are provided.
• The tour departs from 1 Av. Gordon Bennett and begins early, so arriving 15 minutes early is recommended.
• Suitable for most travelers, with some accessibility considerations due to the venue’s activity and space limitations.

Behind the Scenes at Roland-Garros: An Exclusive Look at the Historic Stadium

The Behind the scenes at Roland-Garros tour invites visitors to step into the world of world-renowned tennis from a fresh perspective. The 1 hour 30 minutes guided experience covers many of the stadium’s most famous areas, giving an authentic sense of what goes into hosting the French Open. Starting at the main entrance on Avenue Gordon Bennett, the tour leads participants through press rooms, changing rooms, and the presidential stand, where officials oversee the matches.

Visitors get the chance to visit areas typically closed to the public, such as the players’ corridor leading directly to the clay court. Although access to some spaces might be limited due to ongoing events, the expert guide ensures an informative and lively narration, sharing stories about tennis legends like Björn Borg, Chris Evert, Steffi Graf, and Rafael Nadal. The tour culminates with a look at the majestic Philippe-Chatrier court, renowned for its architecture and technological innovations.

Tour Starts at the Iconic Avenue Gordon Bennett in Paris

This stadium tour begins at 1 Av. Gordon Bennett, a convenient location close to public transportation options. It is open to most travelers, provided they arrive 15 minutes early. The meeting point is straightforward to find, and the mobile ticket system streamlines check-in. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for interaction and personalized attention from the conferral guide.

The duration of 90 minutes is well-paced, balancing comprehensive access with enough time to absorb the stories and sights. It’s a guided experience that caters to those wanting to learn about the history and culture of this famous tennis arena, with the opportunity to explore beyond the usual tourist areas.

Access to Exclusive Areas Like Press Rooms and Locker Rooms

One of the main highlights of this tour is the access to areas normally reserved for players and officials. Visitors step into the press rooms, where interviews with tennis stars are conducted, and can glimpse the changing rooms where athletes prepare for their matches. The locker rooms are particularly noteworthy, with some visitors even stepping onto the clay court—an unofficial but memorable moment during the tour.

The locker rooms offer a behind-the-scenes look at the players’ environment, adding a sense of intimacy and excitement. Many guides share stories about legendary players and memorable matches, making the experience lively and educational.

The Majestic Philippe-Chatrier Court and Architectural Highlights

The Philippe-Chatrier court is the centerpiece of the tour, celebrated not only for its size and reputation but also for its modern design. Visitors are presented with insights into the technological and architectural features that make this court a model of innovation. Despite ongoing events sometimes limiting access to certain areas, the guide’s commentary helps paint a vivid picture of the court’s importance.

You also get a close-up view of the stadium’s structure and learn how it has evolved over the years to host international tennis tournaments. The new features and improvements showcase the stadium’s commitment to blending tradition and modernity.

Stories of Tennis Legends and Historic Moments

Throughout the tour, the guide shares anecdotes about famous players and historic matches. From the Four Musketeers to contemporary champions like Rafael Nadal, the stories bring the stadium’s rich history alive. Many visitors appreciate hearing inside stories about players’ routines and memorable victories, which enrich the overall experience.

The guide’s storytelling is often highlighted as a key strength, with some reviews mentioning that the guide’s knowledge and humor make the tour especially engaging. This tour is particularly enjoyable for tennis enthusiasts who want to deepen their understanding of the sport’s history.

The Tour’s Practical Aspects and Accessibility

The tour is designed with accessibility in mind, although the venue’s active nature and space limitations could mean some areas are temporarily inaccessible during busy days or events. As it is a walking tour, visitors should wear comfortable footwear.

The meeting point is close to public transportation, making it easy to access in central Paris. The ticketing process is smooth, with mobile tickets available for convenience. It’s advisable to arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a prompt start, as latecomers cannot be accommodated.

The Experience for Non-Tennis Fans and Families

While primarily aimed at tennis fans, the tour’s storytelling and stadium sights appeal to a broader audience. Many reviews mention that even family members who are not avid tennis followers find the stadium’s atmosphere and historic memorabilia fascinating. The trophies, player statues, and stadium grounds make for a memorable visit even for casual spectators.

Some visitors note that family-friendly groups, including children, enjoy walking out onto the courts and imagining themselves as professional players. The guides’ engaging narration helps make the experience suitable for all ages.

Valuing the Tour’s Price and Overall Worth

At $22.42 per person, the tour offers excellent value considering the exclusive access and expert guidance. The guided tour entrance tickets are included, and the small group size enhances the experience. The duration allows for a comprehensive exploration without feeling rushed.

While the tour does not include food or drinks, the stadium shop is open from 09:30 to 18:30, offering souvenirs and memorabilia. This makes it easy to extend the visit or purchase mementos after the tour.

Potential Drawbacks and Important Tips

The main limitation is that some spaces may be unavailable during peak activity or ongoing events, which can limit access to certain areas like courts or press rooms. Visitors should arrive early to maximize their experience and manage expectations regarding access during busy days.

One review mentions a guide mishap where part of the group was left behind, highlighting the importance of timely arrival and paying attention during the check-in process. Overall, most reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and engaging storytelling.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for tennis fans, sports enthusiasts, and history buffs interested in sports venues. It appeals to visitors seeking a personalized, behind-the-scenes look at Roland-Garros. The cost and duration make it manageable for most travelers, and the limited group size ensures a more intimate experience.

It’s especially suitable for those who want to learn more about tennis legends and see the stadium’s iconic spots up close. Families and non-tennis fans will also appreciate the stadium’s atmosphere and the stories shared by the guides.

Behind the Scenes at Roland-Garros: A Standout Experience for Tennis Lovers

The behind-the-scenes tour offers an authentic glimpse into the world of professional tennis at one of the sport’s most famous venues. The access to press rooms, locker rooms, and player corridors creates a unique opportunity to see the stadium’s inner workings.

The narrative from guides enriches the visit, sharing stories about famous players and historic moments that have shaped Roland-Garros. While some spaces may be temporarily restricted, the overall experience remains thorough and engaging, especially for fans with a passion for the game.

The value for the price and the personalized nature of the tour make it a worthwhile addition to any Paris itinerary. It’s a memorable experience that combines history, architecture, and sport in a way that truly captures the spirit of Roland-Garros.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

What is included in the price?
The ticket includes guided tour entrance tickets and a conferral guide. Food, drinks, and transfers are not included.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at 1 Av. Gordon Bennett in Paris, near public transportation.

Can I access the clay court?
Visitors can step onto the clay surface, although this is not officially permitted. The guide typically does not object if guests do so carefully.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and children often enjoy the stadium sights and stories.

What happens if I am late?
Late arrivals are not accepted, and no refunds are available for missed start times.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
Some spaces may be inaccessible during busy periods; comfortable footwear is recommended for walking.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
The stadium shop is open from 09:30 to 18:30 before or after the tour for souvenirs and memorabilia.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Most reviews mention guides speaking multiple languages, including English and French.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour’s start time. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.

This behind-the-scenes tour at Roland-Garros offers a compelling mix of history, architecture, and sporting legends. It’s a fantastic experience for tennis fans and anyone curious about the inner workings of one of the sport’s most iconic venues.