Paris: Stade de France Behind the Scenes Tour

Key Points

• Affordable and concise: This $19, 1.5-hour tour offers a deep look at Stade de France’s iconic spaces.
• Exclusive behind-the-scenes access: Walk through locker rooms, private boxes, and the tunnel used by players.
• Rich history and stories: The guide shares insights about the stadium’s role in major events like the 1998 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2016.
• Visit the Stade de France Museum: End your experience exploring archives, autographed guitars, jerseys, and more.
• Accessibility: The tour accommodates disabled visitors and is suitable for strollers.
• Best for football fans and curious visitors: The experience appeals to those interested in sports and stadium architecture alike.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover France’s Largest Stadium with a 90-Minute Behind-the-Scenes Tour

The Stade de France Behind the Scenes Tour offers an exciting peek into the largest football stadium in France, known for hosting the FIFA World Cup 1998 finals and the UEFA Euro 2016. For just $19 per person, visitors gain access to exclusive areas that are normally off-limits during events. The 1.5-hour guided tour operates in English or French, led by knowledgeable guides who provide engaging stories about the stadium’s history and architecture.

This tour is particularly well-suited for football fans, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes life of a major sporting venue. While the tour is fairly short, it packs in enough highlights—including VIP areas and the stadium museum—to make it a worthwhile visit, especially considering its accessible price point.

Key Points

• Accessible price point and duration make this a practical option for a wide audience.
• Private areas like locker rooms, VIP boxes, and the players’ tunnel are open for exploration.
• The Stade de France Museum showcases autographed jerseys, guitars, and archival items.
• The tour guides deliver stories about the stadium’s historic moments, including the 1998 FIFA World Cup final.
• The tour departs from the Stade de France entrance near Gate H, with easy public transport options.
• The experience is wheelchair accessible and suitable for strollers, making it family-friendly.

Starting at the Heart of Ile-de-France: Where and How to Join

The tour begins at Door H, inside the Stade de France store, near the museum. Visitors must present their voucher to the tour guide before starting. The meeting point is convenient, located close to the Stade de France entrance, with public transport options like Metro Line 13 at Saint Denis Porte de Paris or RER B at La Plaine Stade de France.

Participants are advised to arrive 15 minutes early to allow for security checks, as the stadium may require bag inspections. The tour inside involves walking approximately 1.2 km, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Inside the Stadium: The Locker Rooms and Private Boxes

One of the tour’s most sought-after features is access to the players’ locker rooms and private boxes. Visitors walk through the same tunnel players use to access the pitch, an experience that brings you directly into the realm of football legends.

Even when the pitch is unavailable, such as during the winter when grass is covered, the tour still offers impressive views of the stadium’s interior spaces. The dressing rooms and VIP areas are detailed with stories of major matches, including the 1998 FIFA World Cup final where Zidane and Ronaldo played.

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Walk the Players’ Tunnel and Feel the Atmosphere

A highlight of the experience is walking down the players’ tunnel, offering a sense of the pressure and excitement that athletes feel before a major match. The guide explains the architecture and design choices that make Stade de France unique, such as its large capacity of 80,000 spectators and multi-purpose design for concerts and events.

This walk provides a thrilling perspective, especially for those who have watched the stadium hosting concerts by Madonna, AC/DC, or the Rolling Stones. The tour vividly captures the dual sporting and entertainment roles of the stadium.

Visiting the Stade de France Museum: A Treasure Trove of Memorabilia

The tour concludes at the Stade de France Museum, which is included free of charge. It features a wide array of displays, including autographed jerseys, guitars, and archival footage that document the stadium’s legendary moments.

Visitors can see models of the stadium, learn about its architecture, and explore items related to famous events. Although some visitors note that the pitch may be covered during concerts, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the stadium’s history and cultural significance.

Tour Logistics and Accessibility Features

The Stade de France Behind the Scenes Tour is designed to be accessible to all visitors, including those with disabilities. The tour does not include transfers, so visitors should plan accordingly. Large bags and pets are not allowed, but strollers are permitted.

The tour duration is exactly 90 minutes, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour start times vary, so checking availability is recommended. The language options include English and French, and guides are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling.

What the Experience Feels Like: Reviews and Notable Highlights

The reviews reflect high satisfaction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 3585 reviews. Many praise the expert guides, with comments about fun facts, backstage stories, and the interactive nature of the experience.

Guests appreciate the opportunity to walk in the players’ shoes, see dressing rooms, and stand in the tunnel. The museum also receives positive mentions, with many finding it well-curated and interesting. Some note that due to events like concerts, the grass may not be visible, but this does not detract significantly from the experience.

Comparing This Tour to Other Stadium Experiences

This Stade de France Tour is praised for its affordable price and comprehensive behind-the-scenes access. It offers a more sports-focused experience than some other options, like the Roland Garros or PSG stadium tours, but with the added bonus of a museum that showcases legendary memorabilia.

Compared to other stadium tours, this experience is noted for friendly guides, good value, and accessible logistics. However, some reviews mention crowded groups during peak times or limited visibility of the pitch during preparations for events.

Final Thoughts on the Stade de France Behind the Scenes Tour

For football fans, sports enthusiasts, or anyone curious about stadium architecture, this tour offers a compact yet engaging look into one of France’s most iconic venues. The $19 price point makes it an excellent value for a rich, insider experience.

While the duration is short, the access to exclusive areas and the museum create a memorable snapshot of the stadium’s history and atmosphere. It’s especially suitable for families with children, given its wheelchair accessibility and stroller-friendly design.

If you’re interested in major sporting events, enjoy concerts, or simply want to explore a world-class stadium, this tour provides an authentic and informative perspective on Stade de France.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is stroller-friendly, making it accessible for families with young children. The guide’s engaging storytelling also works well for kids.

What areas do I get to see during the tour?
Visitors explore locker rooms, private boxes, the players’ tunnel, and walk through the same tunnel players use. The museum is also included at the end.

Can I visit the stadium pitch?
During the winter, the grass is covered, so the pitch may not be visible. The tour still covers the interior spaces and player areas.

How do I find the meeting point?
The tour departs from Door H, inside the Stade de France store near the museum. Arrive 15 minutes early for security checks.

Is the tour accessible for disabled visitors?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for those with limited mobility.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Are there any items I can buy during the tour?
The tour does not include shopping options; however, the official shop near the entrance is available for purchasing souvenirs before or after your visit.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll walk approximately 1.2 km during the tour.

Are pets allowed?
Only seeing-eye dogs are permitted; pets are not allowed inside the stadium.

How long is the tour?
The official duration is 90 minutes, providing a thorough yet manageable exploration of Stade de France.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby