First Time at Stade de France: Rules and Information
Stade de France is the national stadium of France. It is in Saint-Denis, just north of Paris. The stadium was built for the 1998 FIFA World Cup. It is the biggest stadium in the country and one of the most famous in Europe. People come here for football games, rugby finals, and concerts. If you’re visiting, there is a Stade de France storage point nearby. It’s perfect for leaving large bags or luggage before going inside.
The stadium hosts world-famous events. It has welcomed stars like Beyoncé and major tournaments like the Rugby World Cup. No matter where you sit, you’ll have a great view. The stadium can hold over 80,000 people. Visitors can also take a tour, learn about French sports history, or enjoy the exciting vibe of this famous place.
Stade de France Bag Policy
Types of Bags Allowed
Small handbags, purses, clutches, and clear plastic bags are permitted inside Stade de France as long as they comply with size regulations. The general rule is that bags must not exceed A4 dimensions (21 x 29.7 cm) and should be easy to check during the security screening. Bags that can be held on your lap and contain essentials—such as phones, wallets, or medications—are usually accepted without issue.
Transparent tote bags and compact waist packs are also allowed and may help speed up the security check process. Regardless of type, all bags are subject to inspection at the entrance. For a smoother experience, it’s best to bring only the essentials.
Types of Bags Not Allowed
Oversized backpacks, suitcases, wheeled luggage, and sports bags are strictly prohibited at Stade de France. These items pose safety risks in crowded environments and can obstruct pathways or emergency exits. Security will deny entry to anyone carrying such bags.
Hard-sided containers, coolers, picnic baskets, and rolling bags are also not allowed, even if they contain food or personal belongings. These restrictions are firmly enforced during all events to maintain crowd safety and ease of movement throughout the stadium.
Stade de France Lockers
There are no long-term locker services inside Stade de France. However, small bags can be stored at free, supervised lockers located at the gates during events. Due to strict security rules, large luggage such as suitcases and travel backpacks is not allowed and cannot be stored on-site. Visitors are advised to use external luggage storage services nearby if they arrive with bulky items.
Stade de France Transportation
The Stade de France is easily accessible by public transportation, and this is strongly recommended due to limited parking and heavy event-day traffic. The most direct way to reach the stadium is via RER B, stopping at La Plaine–Stade de France station. From there, it’s about a 5-minute walk to the stadium entrances. Trains are frequent and run late into the night on event days.
Another option is RER D, which stops at Stade de France–Saint-Denis station. This line serves visitors coming from different parts of Paris and suburban areas. Metro Line 13 also reaches the stadium area via Saint-Denis–Porte de Paris, but it’s a bit farther from the main gates.
For those who prefer driving, parking spaces are available, but they are limited and must be reserved in advance. Ride-share services such as Uber and Bolt can also drop visitors off near the venue, though pick-up spots may vary depending on crowd control measures.
Stade de France Camera Policy
Photography is allowed at Stade de France, but with limitations depending on the nature of the event. For most concerts and sports games, visitors may bring smartphones, compact cameras, or point-and-shoot devices. These can be used freely before and after the event, as well as during non-restricted moments. Flash photography and obstructive behavior are discouraged and may prompt intervention by staff.
Professional camera equipment, including detachable lenses, monopods, tripods, or video recording rigs, is not allowed unless you have a media pass or special authorization. Drones are strictly forbidden in and around the stadium. In some performances or private matches, even phone filming may be discouraged, and event-specific rules will be clearly posted.
Stade de France Food Policy
Bringing outside food and beverages into Stade de France is not permitted, except in rare cases. All bags are subject to thorough inspection at the entrance, and visitors will be asked to dispose of any snacks, drinks, or glass containers before entry. This rule applies even to sealed bottles of water, so it’s best to finish any drinks prior to arriving at the gates.
Once inside, the stadium offers a wide range of food and drink options through its many concession stands and mobile vendors. You’ll find everything from hot dogs and sandwiches to vegan snacks and soft drinks. Prices are typical for large venues—relatively high—and availability may vary depending on the event or section, but most dietary preferences are covered.
Exceptions may be made for medical needs, such as bringing in baby food or specific dietary items, though these must be approved by stadium security at the time of entry.
Other Stade de France Rules & Information
Re-entry is not permitted once you exit the venue, even if your ticket is still valid. Visitors are encouraged to take everything they need—such as jackets, medications, or payment cards—before going through security, as they will not be allowed to leave and return.
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, especially during high-capacity events. While the stadium is safe and well-monitored, minors are not permitted to enter or remain unattended. The staff can assist in locating lost children or help with ID wristbands upon request.
Smoking is only allowed in outdoor areas or designated smoking zones. These are clearly marked and are the only spaces where cigarettes or vapes may be used. Smoking in the stands or corridors is forbidden and can result in a fine or expulsion from the event.
Weapons, flammable materials, and loudspeakers are strictly forbidden. Items like laser pointers, selfie sticks, or flags on poles are also banned for safety reasons. Visitors may be denied entry if carrying anything considered disruptive or dangerous.
Tips for Visitors
To ensure a seamless experience, always check the official Stade de France website before your visit. The site includes up-to-date information about scheduled events, gate opening times, entry procedures, and public transit changes. You’ll also find venue maps, health and safety updates, and details about ticket policies.
For a faster security screening process, bring a transparent bag, small clutch, or fanny pack. Bags that are easy to inspect not only reduce wait times but also minimize confusion at the turnstiles. Avoid unnecessary items, as even a compliant bag may be turned away if it contains restricted contents.
If you’re carrying a large bag, laptop, or travel gear, leave it at home or store it at the alternative luggage storage point nearby. This service provides peace of mind and allows you to enjoy your event without the stress of managing extra baggage. With a little preparation, your visit to Stade de France can be smooth, safe, and unforgettable.