Paris: Roland-Garros Stadium Guided Backstage Tour

If you’re a tennis enthusiast or simply someone eager to see one of Paris’s most iconic sports venues, the Roland-Garros backstage tour offers a fascinating peek behind the curtains of this legendary stadium. Priced at just $22 per person and lasting about 1.5 hours, this tour packs a lot into a short time, allowing you to walk where champions like Rafael Nadal and Steffi Graf have competed, and learn stories that bring the tournament to life.

We love how this experience combines stunning stadium views with insider access—like walking down the corridor players use and seeing the retractable roof of Philippe Chatrier Court up close. Plus, the knowledgeable guides are a real highlight, making the history and secrets of the French Open both accessible and engaging. However, a consideration to keep in mind is that, due to ongoing activities, some areas might be inaccessible during your visit. This tour is best suited for those who appreciate tennis, architecture, or unique sports history experiences, and it does a good job of catering to a broad range of visitors eager to explore this world-famous venue.

Key Points

• Affordable yet comprehensive: A 1.5-hour guided tour at just $22 offers excellent value for tennis fans or curious visitors.
• Behind-the-scenes access: Walk in the footsteps of tennis legends and explore exclusive areas like the players’ corridor and the presidential tribune.
• Iconic sites: Admire the Philippe Chatrier court and its retractable roof, with views that blend the stadium’s grandeur and Parisian cityscape.
• Rich stories: Learn about French Open winners, from Rafael Nadal to Steffi Graf, along with tales of the historic Four Musketeers of French tennis.
• Flexible and accessible: The tour includes a live guide in multiple languages, with wheelchair accessibility and easy booking options.
• Some limitations: Certain areas, like locker rooms, may be off-limits during renovations or busy event days, which can be a bit disappointing for those expecting to see everything.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and How to Find It

The tour kicks off at the Avenue Gordon Bennett, inside the Grande Boutique near Gate 36. It’s a straightforward meeting spot, but if you’re relying on GPS or maps, double-check the address to avoid confusion—some reviews mention initial hiccups with directions. Once you arrive, you’ll check in with your guide and get ready to step behind the scenes of this world-renowned venue.

What’s Included

For $22, you get a guided tour led by a knowledgeable host, plus access to the stadium’s important areas. The tour provides an excellent overview of the stadium’s history, architecture, and the stories of players who’ve made it famous. If you enjoy tennis or sports architecture, you’ll find this balance of information and access quite fulfilling.

Exploring the Stadium and Courts

Most visitors rave about the chance to see Court Philippe Chatrier up close, especially the retractable roof—a modern architectural marvel that’s often a highlight. The guide will explain its design and how it allows matches to go on regardless of weather, which is pretty impressive considering the venue’s historic charm.

You’ll also enjoy unobstructed views of the clay courts and the cityscape beyond. Many reviews mention that the view from certain vantage points is memorable—imagine standing where champions have played, with the Paris skyline as your backdrop.

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Walking in the Footsteps of Champions

A big part of the appeal is walking through player corridors and visiting exclusive areas like the presidential tribune. These are spaces most spectators don’t get to see, and they lend a real sense of intimacy and exclusivity to the tour. Several reviews, like Mustafa’s, highlight how “we saw everything” and “got to see everything there,” emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the experience.

Stories and Anecdotes

The guides are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, sharing stories about tennis legends—including Rafael Nadal’s 14 French Open wins, and the legendary Four Musketeers. Some guests mention that their guides even conducted mock interviews or showed media rooms, making the experience more interactive and fun—Nutan from Denmark called it “awesome,” and others appreciated the anecdotes that brought the history alive.

Limited Access and Possible Drawbacks

While the tour covers many important areas, some reviews note that certain spaces, like locker rooms, are often closed—especially during renovations or busy tournament periods. Julia from the UK mentioned that she didn’t get to see the locker room, which can be a letdown if your expectation was full access. Also, the main court itself isn’t always open for walking or seating, so don’t expect to sit in the stadium or experience the match-day atmosphere.

Tour Length and Group Size

The 1.5-hour duration strikes a good balance—enough time to soak in the sights and stories without feeling rushed. Groups tend to be manageable, and the live guides in multiple languages make it easy to follow along. Several reviews praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, with Amir and Matt singled out for their engaging storytelling.

Value for Money

At $22, this tour offers great value—you get insider access, a knowledgeable guide, and a glimpse into a world that’s usually off-limits to the general public. Many reviewers, like Helen from the UK, felt it was “well worth it,” especially given the chance to see Nadal’s tribute plaque or the media areas.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Book in advance: Tours can fill up, especially in peak season, and booking online guarantees your spot.
• Arrive on time: Directions are straightforward, but some have found the meeting point tricky, so plan ahead.
• Visit the stadium shop: Open from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM, it’s a good spot for souvenirs before or after.
• Check accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, but some areas may be unavailable during certain days.
• Expect some areas to be off-limits: Think of this as a taste of the stadium’s highlights, not a full stadium tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for tennis fans, sports buffs, or anyone interested in stadium architecture and history. It’s especially appealing if you’re visiting Paris and want a compact, engaging behind-the-scenes look at Roland-Garros without breaking the bank. It also suits travelers who appreciate guided tours with stories, anecdotes, and insider tidbits.

If you’re expecting a giant museum or full access to all areas, you might find some disappointments, but for most, the mix of views, stories, and exclusive spaces makes it worthwhile. It’s a must-do for anyone curious about what goes on behind the famous red clay courts.

The Sum Up

The Roland-Garros backstage tour offers a genuine, accessible way to explore one of tennis’s most celebrated venues. With friendly guides, stunning views, and a chance to stand where legends have played, it’s a solid choice for sports lovers and curious travelers alike. The cost is reasonable, especially considering the exclusive access and stories you’ll gather, making it a worthwhile addition to any Paris itinerary.

While it doesn’t guarantee access to absolutely everything—like locker rooms or the main court during match days—the overall experience is engaging, informative, and fun. If you’re after an authentic peek into tennis history and stadium architecture, this tour hits the mark. It’s best suited for those who enjoy stories as much as sights, and who want a memorable souvenir of their time in Paris.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
While primarily aimed at tennis enthusiasts and adult travelers, the tour is accessible for all ages, especially given its manageable length and engaging guides. However, younger children might not find the history as captivating and should be supervised.

How long does the tour last?
The guided tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Are there multiple languages available?
Yes, the tour is offered in French, English, and Spanish, providing options for international visitors.

Can I visit the stadium shop during the tour?
The stadium shop can be visited before or after the tour; it’s open from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, though some areas might be restricted during certain days or renovations.

What if I need to cancel my booking?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This backstage peek at Roland-Garros is a treat for tennis fans and curious travelers alike, giving you a memorable glimpse into the world of French tennis legends and the stadium’s impressive architecture. Whether you’re in town for a quick visit or a dedicated tennis pilgrimage, it’s an experience worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: