Paris La Défense Arena (Paris)

Paris La Défense Arena (originally known as the U Arena) is a multi-use domed stadium in Nanterre, a western suburb of Paris. Opened in October 2017, it was developed by the rugby union club Racing 92, and replaced Stade Olympique Yves-du-Manoir as their home field. It is one of the two multi-use domed stadiums to be built in Europe, along with Telenor Arena and is one of the Europe’s largest indoor arena. Its naming rights are held by Paris La Défense, the management company of the nearby La Défense business district.

General information

Arena capacity: 30,680 spectators

Address: 8 Rue des Sorins, 92000 Nanterre, France

GPS coordinates for the navigator: 48.895844°N 2.230203°E

Year of construction: 2017

Construction cost: €360 million

Field: grass lawn with dimensions of 106 x 70 m

Seating plan of Paris La Défense Arena

The seating plan of Paris La Défense Arena can be described as follows:

• Lower Level: The lower level of the arena consists of several sections surrounding the central event space. It offers close proximity to the stage or playing area and provides a dynamic and immersive viewing experience.
• Upper Level: The upper level is situated above the lower level and offers elevated views of the event. It is divided into multiple sections, providing different vantage points and perspectives.
• Club Level: The club level is a premium seating area with exclusive amenities and services. It typically includes comfortable seating, private lounges, and access to upscale dining and beverage options.
• Suites: Paris La Défense Arena features luxury suites located on various levels. These private spaces offer a more intimate and luxurious experience, often equipped with comfortable seating, catering services, and dedicated hospitality staff.
• VIP Boxes: The arena also offers VIP boxes, which are smaller private seating areas designed for a more exclusive experience. These boxes provide a private setting with premium amenities and personalized service.

Please note that the exact seating configuration and availability may vary depending on the specific event. It’s advisable to refer to the official website or contact the arena directly for the most up-to-date seating information for a particular event.

Where to buy tickets?

Tickets for events at Paris La Défense Arena can be purchased through various channels. Here are some options:

1. Official Website: The official website of Paris La Défense Arena provides a dedicated ticketing platform where you can browse upcoming events and purchase tickets online.
2. Ticketing Platforms: Tickets for events at the arena may also be available on popular ticketing platforms such as Ticketmaster, FNAC, or Digitick. These platforms offer a convenient way to browse available events and purchase tickets securely.
3. Box Office: The arena has its own box office where you can buy tickets in person. The box office is typically located near the stadium and opens on event days. It is advisable to check the opening hours and availability of tickets in advance.
4. Resale Platforms: In case tickets are sold out or unavailable through official channels, you can explore authorized resale platforms such as Ticketmaster Resale or StubHub. These platforms allow individuals to resell their tickets at face value or higher.

It is recommended to purchase tickets from official sources or authorized ticketing platforms to ensure authenticity and avoid scams.

How to get there?

Paris La Défense Arena is conveniently located in the La Défense business district of Paris, making it easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Here are some ways to get there:

Metro: The arena is well connected to the Paris Metro system. You can take Line 1 or Line 12 to the La Défense station, which is just a short walk away from the arena. Line 1 provides direct access from popular tourist areas like Champs-Élysées and Louvre Museum.

RER Train: The RER A line also serves La Défense station. You can take the RER A train from central Paris or other parts of the city and alight at the La Défense station, which is within walking distance of the arena.

Bus: Several bus lines operate in the La Défense area, providing convenient access to the arena. You can check the specific bus routes and schedules based on your location and plan your journey accordingly.

Car: If you prefer to drive, Paris La Défense Arena has ample parking facilities available. However, it’s worth noting that traffic and parking can be challenging in the busy city center, so it’s advisable to check for available parking options and plan your route in advance.

It’s recommended to check the official website or local transportation resources for the most up-to-date information on routes, schedules, and any changes or disruptions to public transportation services.

Where to eat and sleep?

Paris La Défense Arena is located in the La Défense district, which offers a variety of dining and accommodation options. Here are some suggestions.

Eating:

• La Grande Arche: The nearby La Grande Arche building houses several restaurants and cafes, offering a range of cuisines from French to international. You can enjoy a meal with a view of the iconic arch.
• Les Quatre Temps: This large shopping center adjacent to the arena features a food court with numerous eateries serving diverse cuisines, fast food options, and casual dining spots.
• Avenue de la Grande Armée: A short distance from the arena, this avenue offers a selection of restaurants and brasseries where you can enjoy traditional French cuisine.

Sleeping:

• Hotels in La Défense: There are several hotels located within the La Défense district, ranging from budget-friendly options to upscale accommodations. Some popular choices include Pullman Paris La Défense, Hilton Paris La Défense, and Novotel Paris La Défense.
• Central Paris: As Paris La Défense Arena is well-connected to central Paris, you can also choose to stay in the city center. This gives you access to a wider range of hotels, from luxurious properties to boutique hotels and budget-friendly options.

It’s recommended to check online booking platforms or consult with a travel agent to find the best accommodation options based on your preferences and budget. Additionally, exploring nearby areas in Paris can provide you with even more choices for dining and accommodation.

Facilities

Paris La Défense Arena offers a range of facilities to enhance the visitor experience. Here are some of the facilities available at the arena:

1. Hospitality Areas: There are dedicated hospitality areas within the arena for VIP guests and corporate events, offering premium services and amenities.
2. Concessions: Throughout the arena, you’ll find concessions stands and food vendors offering a variety of refreshments, snacks, and beverages.
3. Restrooms: The arena is equipped with multiple restroom facilities, conveniently located throughout the venue.
4. Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available within the arena, allowing visitors to stay connected and share their experiences.
5. Accessibility: Paris La Défense Arena is designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities, providing accessible seating, ramps, and facilities.
6. Parking: The arena has parking facilities available for visitors arriving by car, offering convenient access to the venue.
7. Merchandise: There are merchandise stands within the arena where you can purchase official event merchandise, souvenirs, and memorabilia.

Please note that the specific facilities and services available may vary depending on the nature of the event and the organizers. It’s recommended to check the official website or contact the arena directly for more information about the facilities available during your visit.

History

Paris La Défense Arena was officially inaugurated on October 16, 2017. The inaugural event featured a rugby match between Racing 92 and Toulon. The arena was designed by the renowned architectural firm Christian de Portzamparc. It is known for its distinctive oval-shaped roof structure and futuristic design, which makes it a prominent landmark in the La Défense business district. Paris La Défense Arena is a versatile venue that hosts a wide range of events, including rugby matches, concerts, corporate events, and more. It is the home stadium of Racing 92, a professional rugby union club.