What Stade Jean-Bouin Is
In Paris’s 16th arrondissement, steps from the Parc des Princes, Stade Jean-Bouin is a 20,000-seat sports venue and a prominent part of the city’s sporting scene. It is home to Stade Français Paris rugby club and, from the 2025–2026 season, Paris FC football team. The stadium also hosts concerts, corporate events, community gatherings, and sporting competitions.
With modern amenities and accessibility features, Stade Jean-Bouin welcomes sports fans, architecture enthusiasts, and other visitors. For current schedules and visitor information, check the Stade Jean-Bouin website.
History
Inaugurated in 1926, the stadium was named after Jean Bouin, an Olympic silver medalist and First World War hero. Its history includes international rugby, football, and community events, as well as Sergey Bubka’s world-record pole vault in 1985 (World Athletics).
The stadium was redesigned by architect Rudy Ricciotti between 2010 and 2013, with the transformed venue completed in 2013. It has since hosted events including the Paris Sevens, the Women’s Rugby World Cup, and the 2024 Paris Olympics. Its sporting history and architectural and ecological features connect it to Parisian culture (Klook; CNEWS: History of Stade Jean-Bouin).
What to See and Do
Architecture and design
Ricciotti’s design combines resilience and lightness. Its undulating, lace-like façade is made from fiber-reinforced concrete and acts as a brise-soleil, filtering sunlight and reducing heat gain (Delabie). The lattice’s variable height minimizes its impact on local views, while the building’s proportions and materials are designed to fit its prestigious urban setting. Its form and façade evoke both Parisian fashion and the dynamism of sport (CNEWS: History of Stade Jean-Bouin; Delabie: Architectural Features).
Three underground levels and up to six above-ground floors make use of the compact urban site. Sustainability features include solar panels that supply energy for stadium lighting, rainwater harvesting for irrigation of the natural-grass pitch, and low-carbon materials and advanced digital fabrication methods. The stadium has received international recognition, including recognition from the American Concrete Institute for excellence in construction (Architect Magazine; Formakers).
The venue offers comfortable seating and good sightlines. It can accommodate rugby, football, concerts, and community events, with accessibility features for visitors (Klook: Visitor Guide).
Tours, events, and views
Guided tours offer access to areas such as the pitch, locker rooms, and hospitality suites, as well as insights into the stadium’s design and history. Tours require advance booking and are generally held on select non-event days. The stadium’s events also include international tournaments, concerts, corporate events, and community gatherings (Aller Paris: Stadium Information).
The exterior lattice façade is a photographic subject, particularly at sunset. Upper tiers offer panoramic views of the pitch and crowd, while the nearby Bois de Boulogne provides a green backdrop.
Dining
The stadium has an on-site brasserie, restaurant, and café offering French cuisine and snacks, as well as a club shop. Food stalls are also available on match days. Cafés, restaurants, and bistros can be found in the surrounding 16th arrondissement.
Practical Visiting Information
Hours and access
Stadium access is primarily tied to scheduled sporting or cultural events and official guided tours; public access may be limited on non-event days. On match days, the stadium typically opens 1.5–2 hours before kickoff and closes about an hour after the match.
Guided tours are offered on select weekdays and weekends, generally on non-event days. Typical tour hours are 10:00 AM–5:00 PM, and advance booking is required. Check the Stade Jean-Bouin website or its event calendar for current opening hours and tour availability.
Tickets
Tickets for rugby and football matches and special events can be purchased online through the clubs’ official websites or the stadium’s portal. Tickets are also sold at on-site counters on match days. Advance online booking is recommended, especially for high-demand events.
- Match tickets typically range from €15 to €60, depending on the event and seating.
- Guided tours usually cost around €15 for adults, with discounts for children and seniors.
Address and transport
Address: 26 avenue du Général Sarrail, 75016 Paris.
- Metro Porte de Saint-Cloud (Line 9) is a 10-minute walk away. Exelmans (Line 9) is also nearby.
- Bus Lines 22, 62, 72, and 123 stop near Avenue du Général Sarrail.
- RER RER C stops at Avenue Henri Martin, within walking distance.
- Car Underground parking is limited to about 500 spaces. Local traffic and event congestion make public transport strongly recommended.
Accessibility
Facilities include wheelchair-accessible entrances and seating, accessible restrooms, elevator access, and ramps. Assistance is available on request. Contact the stadium’s customer service in advance for tailored support (Klook).
Tips
- Arrive early to enjoy the atmosphere and avoid queues.
- Dress for the weather, as the stadium is partially open.
- Use public transport to avoid parking challenges.
- Check the event calendar and book tickets in advance.
- Explore the 16th arrondissement and nearby cultural sites.
Nearby Places and Accommodation
Nearby attractions include:
- Parc des Princes Home to Paris Saint-Germain, just meters away.
- Roland-Garros Stadium Venue for the French Open tennis tournament.
- Bois de Boulogne An expansive park for leisure and relaxation.
- Musée Marmottan Monet and Fondation Louis Vuitton Nearby museums.
Hotels listed near Stade Jean-Bouin include Hôtel De Sevres, Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel, Melia Paris La Defense, ibis Paris Tour Eiffel Cambronne, and Hôtel Auteuil Tour Eiffel. They offer convenient access to the stadium and major Paris attractions (Klook: Visitor Guide).
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Stade Jean-Bouin’s opening hours?
Hours depend on scheduled events and tours. On match days, the stadium generally opens 1.5–2 hours before kickoff.
How do I buy tickets?
Tickets are available online through official platforms or at the stadium box office on match days.
Is the stadium accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes. It has dedicated seating, accessible entrances and restrooms, elevators, and ramps. Assistance is available on request.
Are guided tours available?
Tours are offered on select days, generally on non-event days. Check the website for availability and booking information.
What are the best ways to reach the stadium?
Take Metro Line 9 to Porte de Saint-Cloud or Exelmans, bus lines 22, 62, 72, or 123, or RER C to Avenue Henri Martin.
Where can I find announcements about special events?
Check the stadium’s official social media channels for announcements on special events.