Paris: Stade de France Behind the Scenes Tour

Visiting the Stade de France offers a chance to step into the heart of France’s most iconic sports and concert arena. This 90-minute tour isn’t just about looking at a massive structure; it’s an opportunity to see what makes this stadium special—its architecture, history, and the legendary moments that have taken place there.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the insider access to private areas like the locker rooms and VIP boxes, the stunning views from spectator seats, and the fascinating stories about past events and stars. Plus, the museum at the end enriches the visit with memorabilia and archival treasures.

One thing to keep in mind is the pitch isn’t visible during winter or certain event days due to preparations, which might disappoint some visitors expecting a full view of the grass. This tour suits football fans, history buffs, or anyone looking for a unique behind-the-scenes peek at a stadium that’s hosted World Cup finals and major concerts alike.

This experience made our article of Our 14 Favorite Paris Tours & Experiences.

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Key Points

Affordable Value: The tour costs only $18, offering a lot for a small price.
Exclusive Access: Walk in areas normally off-limits, like locker rooms and private boxes.
Historical Significance: Learn about the stadium’s role in major sporting and music events.
Expert Guides: Guides like Tyrelle and Amir are highly praised for their knowledge and humor.
Family Friendly: Strollers are allowed, and the tour is engaging for kids and adults.
Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Accessibility: The site is wheelchair accessible.
Location & Transport: Easily reachable via several metro and RER stations.
Limited Visibility of Pitch: During winter, the grass might be covered for events, affecting the view.

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Discovering the Stade de France Experience

Walking into the Stade de France for this behind-the-scenes tour feels like stepping into a hub of sporting history and musical memories. As France’s largest stadium, seating over 80,000 spectators, it’s a monument to major international events. Think the 1998 FIFA World Cup final, where Zidane and Ronaldo made history, or the 2016 UEFA Euro Cup.

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What the Tour Covers

The tour begins at the official shop’s entrance, at Gate H, where your guide greets you and passes out the fascinating insight into what awaits. The first thing you’ll probably want to do? Sit in a spectator’s seat and take in the view—the vast field and the rows of seats stretching into the skyline. Many visitors mention how impressive the views are, even from back in the stands, giving you a real sense of what it’s like to be a fan on match day.

From here, your guide will lead you behind the scenes—inside the locker rooms, private boxes, and the players’ tunnel. Sharing stories about the stadium’s architecture and the legendary events that have unfolded there, guides like Tyrelle and Amir keep the narrative lively, detailed, and full of fun facts. Amir, in particular, was noted for his engaging storytelling, making the visit memorable for both football enthusiasts and curious onlookers.

Exploring the Facilities

One of the highlights is the chance to walk through the same tunnel players use to access the pitch. Although during winter the grass might be covered for concerts or repairs—some reviews mention the pitch being hidden—the experience of being in those corridors and seeing the dressing rooms is what makes this tour worthwhile. Several visitors commented that even when the grass was covered, the dressing rooms, presidential suites, and media areas left a strong impression.

The Museum

The tour concludes at the Stade de France Museum, which houses a treasure trove of memorabilia, including autographed guitars from performers like Madonna and ACDC, historic jerseys, and archival footage. For football fans, seeing the artifacts linked to the 1998 World Cup final or Cristiano Ronaldo lifting his first major trophy offers an emotional touchpoint. The museum is well-curated, and many reviews emphasize how it complements the tour’s behind-the-scenes insights.

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Inside the Guides’ Expertise

The guides are evidently a key part of the experience. Reviewers praise guides like Tyrelle and Sam for their deep knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to keep the group engaged. Tyrelle, especially, is highlighted for his lively narration and humor. Amir was lauded for his interactiveness, especially with children, ensuring that even younger visitors stay entertained and informed.

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What We Love About the Guides

Their passion and storytelling ability make the visit informative and fun.
They share behind-the-scenes stories you won’t find in guidebooks.
They manage the group smoothly, ensuring everyone gets a good look and understanding.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts roughly 90 minutes, covering around 1.2 km of walking. It’s accessible for strollers and wheelchair users, making it suitable for most visitors. The meeting point is straightforward—just present your voucher at the Stade de France shop’s entrance near the museum, at Gate H.

The tour is available in French and English, with guides happy to translate or explain details, as evidenced by a reviewer who appreciated the bilingual tour. The activity is also flexible—you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a complete refund, which is good news if your plans are uncertain.

Transport & Logistics

Getting there is easy: Saint Denis Porte de Paris (line 13), La Plaine Stade de France (RER B), and Saint Denis La Plaine (RER D) are nearby stations. The tour ends at the same location, so no need to worry about complicated logistics.

Price & Value

At $18 per person, this tour offers impressive value. For that ticket, you gain access to exclusive areas, a knowledgeable guide, and the museum—activities that would cost much more if booked separately. Many reviews reflect on how the experience exceeds expectations for its price, especially noting the quality of guides and the behind-the-scenes access.

What’s Not Included

Keep in mind that personal expenses and transfers aren’t covered, so plan accordingly. Also, if a concert or event is scheduled, the pitch might be covered or viewings restricted, which could impact certain aspects of the tour.

Authentic Experiences: What Visitors Are Saying

Reviewers consistently mention the expertise and friendliness of guides as a highlight. Georgiadis called their guide Nina “great,” and others praised guides like Sam and Tyrelle for their depth of knowledge and storytelling flair.

Many visitors appreciated that even when the grass wasn’t visible due to preparations, they still enjoyed the dressing rooms, tunnels, and memorabilia. One reviewer noted that their guide went above and beyond by translating the tour in French and then English, showing a commitment to making the experience accessible.

Special Touches

The chance to follow in the footsteps of football legends like Zidane, Ronaldo, and Cristiano Ronaldo’s first trophy lift adds a significant emotional component.
Visitors also liked the photo opportunities around the stadium, making it a fun, shareable experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This stadium tour truly offers solid value, especially for football fans and sports history enthusiasts. The exclusive access to behind-the-scenes areas combined with the engaging storytelling makes it more than just a sightseeing stop—it’s a chance to connect with the stadium’s legacy firsthand.

Families and groups looking for an educational, fun outing will find guides like Amir and Tyrelle friendly and engaging. Those interested in concerts and events at Stade de France will enjoy the stories about legendary performances, from The Rolling Stones to Madonna.

While the pitch visibility might be limited during winter, the overall experience remains strong, thanks to the dressing rooms, tunnel walks, and the museum’s treasures. It’s a perfect addition to a trip to Paris for anyone wanting a deeper understanding of the stadium’s significance beyond just snapping photos.

In Summary

This tour is a fantastic value for money, especially given the exclusive access and expert guides. It’s suited for football fans, history buffs, and curious travelers alike, offering a rare glimpse behind the scenes of one of France’s most iconic venues.

The organization is efficient and accessible, making it a stress-free experience, while the stories and memorabilia make it memorable. Whether you’re visiting Paris for a few days or celebrating a football obsession, this tour adds a special layer of insight and fun.

FAQ

Is the Stade de France tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is family-friendly, and many reviews mention guides engaging well with kids, especially through interactive storytelling.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll walk around about 1.2 km. Strollers are permitted, making it manageable for families.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexible planning options.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is offered in French and English, with guides capable of translating and explaining in both languages.

Will I see the pitch?
During winter or event days, the pitch may be covered or not visible due to preparations for concerts or matches.

Where do I meet the guide?
At the Stade de France shop’s entrance, near the museum, at Gate H—simply present your voucher there.

Is the tour accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible and suitable for visitors with mobility needs.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 90 minutes, covering key areas like locker rooms, private boxes, and the tunnel.

Is the museum included?
Yes, entry to the Stade de France Museum is included and offers memorabilia from historic events and famous artists.

This Stade de France behind-the-scenes tour offers a well-rounded, engaging experience at a reasonable price, perfect for those seeking an authentic glimpse into one of France’s most celebrated stadiums.