First Time at Roland Garros: Rules and Information
Roland Garros is one of the most famous tennis venues in the world. Located in Paris, France, it hosts the annual French Open, one of the four Grand Slam tournaments. The stadium complex includes several courts, including the iconic Court Philippe-Chatrier. Visitors from around the globe come to see top tennis players compete in a historic and vibrant setting. For those bringing bags or luggage, there is a Roland Garros storage point available close to the venue, offering a secure and convenient place to leave your belongings before entering.
Besides tennis matches, Roland Garros offers a lot to see and experience. The grounds feature statues, gardens, and exhibitions that celebrate the sport’s history and its French roots. Guests can also visit the Roland Garros museum, which showcases memorabilia, photos, and videos of past champions and legendary matches. During the tournament, the atmosphere is electric, filled with fans, vendors, and entertainment around every corner.
Roland Garros Bag Policy
Types of Bags Allowed
Small bags and personal items are allowed inside Roland Garros, provided they do not exceed 15 liters in capacity. This includes small handbags, compact backpacks, belt bags, and fanny packs. All bags must be easy to inspect and must fit comfortably under your seat. For quicker access through security, clear bags or small clutches are highly recommended, as they speed up the inspection process and reduce waiting times at the entrance.
Diaper bags and small medical bags are also permitted, but they may be subject to additional security checks. It’s advisable to clearly separate any essential medical items to facilitate inspection. Visitors attending with young children or specific health needs are encouraged to arrive early to allow for smooth entry.
Types of Bags Not Allowed
Large backpacks, suitcases, sports bags, and wheeled luggage are strictly prohibited inside the stadium. These types of bags are considered security risks and are not permitted past the screening checkpoints. The policy applies to anything bulky, heavy, hard-sided, or difficult to inspect, including carry-on trolleys and large shoulder bags.
If you arrive with a restricted item, you will be required to leave it at the official left-luggage facilities located near the stadium entrances. These storage points are secure and available throughout the duration of your visit, but it’s strongly recommended to travel light to avoid delays or inconvenience at the gate.
Roland Garros Lockers
Roland Garros does not provide public lockers inside the stadium grounds, but free left-luggage facilities are available just outside the entrance gates. These are intended for visitors carrying bags or items that do not comply with the tournament’s strict security rules.
It is strongly recommended to bring only essential belongings that fit within the allowed bag size (maximum 15 liters). Arriving with a small bag or no bag at all will make the security process faster and help you enter the venue with minimal delay.
Roland Garros Transportation
Getting to Roland Garros is easy thanks to its location in the 16th arrondissement of Paris. One of the fastest ways to reach the stadium is by metro. Several lines serve the area, including Line 9 to Michel-Ange Auteuil and Line 10 to Porte d’Auteuil. Both stations are within walking distance of the gates.
Another option is taking the bus. Many city bus lines operate routes that pass close to the stadium. These buses provide a scenic ride through Paris and are convenient for visitors staying in nearby neighborhoods.
For those arriving from outside Paris, the RER train network is a good choice. RER Line C connects to other parts of the city and suburbs. From the nearest RER stations, it’s just a short walk or bus ride to the venue. During tournament days, special services and increased frequencies are often in place to accommodate the crowds.
Roland Garros Camera Policy
Cameras are allowed inside Roland Garros, but there are strict rules. Small personal cameras and mobile phones can be used to take photos for private use. Many fans like to capture moments from their seats or take pictures around the grounds. However, camera use must not disturb players, other fans, or the staff. Flash photography is often banned in seating areas, especially during matches.
Professional camera equipment is not permitted unless the visitor has press credentials. This includes large lenses, tripods, and video rigs. Filming matches is strictly prohibited. Visitors should be aware of signs posted around the stadium indicating where and when photography is restricted. Security staff may ask guests to put cameras away if the rules are not followed.
Roland Garros Food Policy
Visitors are not allowed to bring outside food and drinks into Roland Garros. This rule helps maintain safety and cleanliness. Bags are inspected at the entrance, and any food items found will be confiscated. Exceptions may be made for baby food, medical diets, or allergy-related items, but these should be declared at the entrance and kept in small, sealed containers.
Inside the venue, guests will find a wide variety of food options. From French pastries to international cuisine, the food stands cater to many tastes. Water stations and drinks are available throughout the stadium, and many areas offer vegetarian and gluten-free options. Food service is fast, but lines can get long during peak times.
Other Roland Garros Rules & Information
Re-entry is not allowed once a guest leaves the stadium grounds. This means visitors must plan ahead if they need to collect items or take a break. Leaving and re-entering requires special permission and is usually not granted.
Smoking is only allowed in marked areas. These zones are clearly labeled on the stadium map and must be respected. Smoking outside these areas, including vaping or using e-cigarettes, is not allowed and may result in a warning or removal from the premises.
Children under a certain age must be accompanied by an adult. While Roland Garros is a family-friendly venue, staff are not responsible for watching unattended children. If a child becomes separated from their guardian, they should contact the nearest staff member for help.
Tips for Visitors
Before visiting Roland Garros, it is smart to check the official website. There, you’ll find information about match schedules, stadium maps, ticket details, and any last-minute changes. The site also provides health and safety updates, which can affect entry rules or seating arrangements.
For faster entry, consider bringing a transparent bag, a small clutch, or a compact backpack. These are easier for security to check and can help you get through lines more quickly. Smaller bags also make it easier to move around the grounds.
Avoid bringing large items to Roland Garros. Instead, leave big backpacks or suitcases at home or use an alternative storage point. This will make your visit smoother and more enjoyable, as you won’t need to worry about carrying heavy or prohibited items.