Matmut Atlantique Stadium, built for the roar of the crowd
Since opening in 2015, the Matmut Atlantique Stadium has completely shifted how the people of Bordeaux experience live sports. The days of the aging Chaban-Delmas stadium are gone. Here, every seat sits close to the pitch, the acoustics turn individual cheers into a wall of sound, and the architecture makes the building a landmark visible from miles away.
Why this stadium demands a visit
Designed by the architecture firm Herzog & de Meuron, the same team behind the Allianz Arena in Munich and the Beijing National Stadium, the Matmut Atlantique Stadium is far from just another generic sports venue. Its openwork concrete facade, inspired by the rows of local vineyards, filters the Aquitaine sunlight to create a changing visual experience throughout the day. At night, the structure glows, serving as a beacon in the lac de Bordeaux neighborhood.
With a capacity of 42,115 seats, it ranks as the tenth largest stadium in France. What really stands out to regulars is the proximity to the action. The stands wrap around the field without unnecessary distance, making the energy during big games feel intense and focused.
A destination beyond soccer
The stadium is the home of the Girondins de Bordeaux, but it also hosted several matches during Euro 2016, including a quarterfinal. These events cemented its reputation as a venue capable of handling major international competitions.
On non-game days, the site offers guided stadium tours that provide access to the locker rooms, the press room, the VIP areas, and the pitch itself. It is a practical way to see the inner workings of a modern arena, which remains interesting even for those who are not die-hard sports fans.
Opening hours
Access to the Matmut Atlantique Stadium depends on the sports and cultural calendar. There is no permanent public access outside of scheduled events.
On match or concert days, gates typically open 2 hours before the start of the event. For guided tours organized by the Bordeaux Tourist Office, time slots are specific and must be booked in advance through their dedicated platform.
The Bordeaux Stadium Store, located on the plaza, follows its own schedule: Tuesday through Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays, except on match days.
How long for this activity
Plan on about 2 hours to attend a game or a concert. If you choose to take a guided tour of the facilities, allow for 1 hour and 30 minutes of exploration.