Visiting Parc des Princes
A century of transformation
Home to Paris Saint-Germain, Parc des Princes began as a velodrome stadium inaugurated in 1897. Redesigned in 1972 by architect Roger Taillibert, it served as the largest stadium in France for 25 years, with a capacity of approximately 48,000 seats.
While newer stadiums have since surpassed it in size, its legendary status remains. It has served as the stage for historic sporting events, including finishes for the Tour de France, numerous major international soccer matches, the first Rugby League World Cup, and a variety of concerts.
Where does the name Parc des Princes come from?
Contrary to popular belief, the stadium owes its name to the history of the site rather than the heroes, artists, or athletes who played on its pitch. In the 18th century, royal hunting grounds were located nearby. The Route des Princes (Road of the Princes) passed through this area, leading to these natural spaces in the commune of Boulogne-Billancourt. This road was attached to the capital by Napoleon III in 1860.
A landmark architectural design
While the first version of the stadium held 3,200 spectators, successive expansions increased its capacity 15-fold, reaching 47,929. The elliptical stadium features cantilevered concrete arches that provide its distinct silhouette. For night games, 172 floodlights are integrated into the roof. A stadium expansion project is currently under consideration by PSG, pending an agreement with the Paris city hall to purchase the venue.
Watching a match or visiting the stadium
The seating area is divided into four stands, arranged clockwise: Gates I and H: Auteuil. Gates G, F, E, D, C, B, A: Paris. Gates P, O, V: Boulogne and Gates N, M, L, K, J: Presidentielle-Francis Borelli, named after the club president who served from 1978 to 1991.
Tours of Parc des Princes are available for a fee. You can explore the private boxes, locker rooms, trophy room, and press conference area at your own pace. You will also see iconic items like Zidane's cleats, Ronaldo's jersey, and various Ballon d'Or trophies. Guides stationed throughout the site provide context and behind-the-scenes stories, making the tour a worthwhile experience.
Opening hours
Open daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM during the summer and from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM the rest of the year. Closed on the day before Champions League matches, on match days, and until noon on the day after a match.
*Information subject to change
Il y a des escape games au parc des princes ??? Merci pour le tuyau, ça peut être sympa pour les anniversaires d'enfants.