Behind the scenes at the Roland-Garros Stadium

Thinking about exploring one of the most iconic tennis venues in the world? This guided tour of Roland-Garros in Paris offers just that — a chance to go behind the scenes of the legendary stadium where champions like Nadal and Graf have made history. We’ve looked into the experience, and while we haven’t done it ourselves, the reviews and details paint a pretty compelling picture.

What we love about this tour is its detailed access to areas usually closed to the public, like press rooms, changing rooms, and the corridor leading to the famous clay court. Plus, the stories shared by guides about tennis giants make it feel like you’re walking through history. On the flip side, a potential snag is that some areas might be inaccessible during busy times, and the tour can’t guarantee photo opportunities inside the stadium when events are happening.

This experience is really best suited for tennis enthusiasts or anyone curious about what happens behind the scenes at a major sporting event. If you’re visiting Paris and want a memorable, sport-themed activity, this could be a highlight. For those less into tennis, the appeal might be more niche, but the stadium’s architecture and stories still hold interest.

Key Points

• Incredible access: Get into locker rooms, press areas, and the corridors players walk through.
• Rich stories: Guides share fascinating anecdotes about tennis legends from past and present.
• Impressive architecture: See the new Philippe-Chatrier court and learn about its cutting-edge design.
• Affordable price: Just over $22 per person for an engaging 1.5-hour experience.
• Limited availability: Tour size is capped at 30, making for a more intimate visit.
• Booking in advance: Most travelers plan about 65 days ahead, indicating strong popularity.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

The itinerary is fairly straightforward but packed with memorable sights. Starting from the main stadium, you’ll be led through the press rooms, where media interviews and coverage happen during tournaments. We loved the way guides explain what each space is used for, making it easy to picture the bustling atmosphere during a match.

Next, the changing rooms are worth the visit — these are where players gear up before stepping onto the court. Some reviews mention that it’s especially exciting for tennis fans to see the locker rooms, particularly because you get an idea of the scale and the environment top players experience. A few reviewers highlighted how they felt like VIPs walking where Nadal or Federer might have prepared.

One unique highlight is walking down the player’s corridor to the clay court. This is where the real magic happens — the path players take to enter the arena. A few reviews mention that, although not officially permitted, guides might allow visitors to step onto the clay surface briefly, which adds a fun, surreal element to the tour. Just keep in mind that during busy times, access to certain areas might be restricted.

The Philippe-Chatrier Court itself is a highlight. You’ll learn about the latest architectural and technological features that make it one of the most advanced tennis venues in the world. The guides often share stories about the court’s renovations and how it now combines classic charm with modern flair.

The Tour Experience: Pros and Cons

The guides really make or break this experience. Many reviews rave about knowledgeable, engaging guides who tell stories about tennis legends like Björn Borg, Chris Evert, Steffi Graf, and Rafael Nadal. One review specifically praised the guide for being “exceptional,” noting that their storytelling made the tour even more memorable. Having someone who’s enthusiastic and well-informed definitely enhances the visit.

The value for money is impressive. For around $22, you get an hour and a half of exclusive access and insider tales, which most sports fans would find worth the price. The tour includes your guided entrance tickets, so there are no hidden costs to worry about, though food, drinks, and transportation aren’t included.

A couple of reviews mentioned minor hiccups like late start times or confusion about group divisions (A and B groups), but overall, most travelers found the booking process straightforward. The tour’s maximum size of 30 people helps keep the experience personal and engaging rather than crowded.

One significant consideration is that the tour is subject to stadium activity. During match days or events, access might be limited, or certain areas might be closed. If you’re visiting during a major tournament, you might find some spaces inaccessible, which can be a letdown if you’re eager for a complete behind-the-scenes peek.

The Accessibility and Practical Details

The meeting point is conveniently located at 1 Av. Gordon Bennett in Paris, near public transportation, making it easy to reach. The tour duration is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, which is just enough time to soak in the stadium’s atmosphere without feeling rushed. Arriving 15 minutes early is recommended because latecomers won’t be accommodated, and no refunds are offered for missed start times.

Booking in advance is advisable, as most travelers tend to plan about 65 days ahead — a sign of its popularity. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind that some areas may be inaccessible on certain days, depending on the schedule and events. The tour is considered suitable for most people, but if you have mobility concerns, it’s worth checking with the provider directly.

Inside the Stadium: What the Reviews Reveal

Many reviews emphasize how much they appreciated the stories and anecdotes shared by guides. One reviewer called it “a fascinating tour,” highlighting the chance to see the stadium, statues, trophies, and learn about tennis’s history in France. Others enjoyed the experience of walking through the player’s journey from locker rooms to the court, which is not something you can do as a regular visitor.

Several reviews mentioned that the tour offered a great mix of history, architecture, and personal stories, making it more engaging than just wandering around on your own. For tennis fans, stepping onto the clay surface (even briefly) was described as “surreal,” adding a big highlight to the experience.

Conversely, some reviewers noted that during busy times, certain sections might be off-limits or that the overall experience could be affected by ongoing events or renovations. Still, most agreed that the guided storytelling and access to key areas made this a worthwhile activity.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re a tennis lover or a sports history buff, this behind-the-scenes tour at Roland-Garros offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of one of the sport’s most revered venues. It’s a chance to explore areas normally closed to the public, hear tales of legendary players, and imagine what it’s like to compete at this level. The value for the price is solid, and most reviews highlight the knowledge and charisma of guides as key highlights.

However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed, family-friendly outing, or if your trip coincides with major events where access might be limited, you might want to weigh those factors. The tour’s timing and booking well in advance are crucial for securing a spot, especially during peak seasons.

This tour is well-suited for dedicated tennis fans eager to see the stately grounds up close and enjoy stories about the game’s biggest stars. It’s a lively, informative, and memorable experience that will resonate long after you leave Paris.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, giving you enough time to see the key areas and hear stories without feeling rushed.

Is the ticket included in the price?
Yes, your guided tour entrance tickets are included in the price, but food, drinks, and transfers are not.

Can I take photos inside the stadium?
During busy times or events, access to some areas might be restricted, and photography might not be allowed in all spaces. Some reviews mention that photos were not permitted during certain parts.

Are the areas accessible?
Most travelers can participate, but some spaces may be inaccessible on the day of your visit, especially if the stadium is hosting an event.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking through various stadium areas. Check the weather forecast, as parts of the tour are outdoors.

Can children join this tour?
The reviews don’t specify age restrictions, so most likely, it’s suitable for older children and teenagers interested in tennis or sports.

How do I book the tour?
You can book online through platforms like Viator. It’s best to reserve well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Is the tour guided in multiple languages?
While the reviews highlight guides speaking English, the tour’s availability in other languages isn’t specified. It’s advisable to check when booking if you prefer a specific language.

What happens if I’m late?
Late arrivals won’t be accommodated, and no refunds are provided. Arrive 15 minutes early at the meeting point.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the tour. Closer cancellations will not be refunded.

If you’re a fan of tennis or simply curious about what makes Roland-Garros so special, this behind-the-scenes look offers a memorable and insightful experience. Just plan ahead, arrive on time, and enjoy walking through the history and heart of French tennis.