European travel news: Seven of the best things to see during a visit to Roland-Garros
The French Open at Roland-Garros is one of the most iconic tournaments in tennis.
Held every year in the leafy western suburbs of Paris, the Grand Slam is steeped in history and overflowing with Parisian charm.
However, between the tense five-setters and star-studded showdowns, there's plenty to experience outside of the tennis; the Roland-Garros experience extends well beyond the baseline.
Here, Travel News Blitz’s Sam Condy picks out seven things to see and do while visiting Roland-Garros.
Roland-Garros Stadium Experience
Even without a match ticket, there’s plenty to enjoy within the grounds.
Take time to explore the outer courts and practice sessions, where you can see the top players up close in a more relaxed setting.
Visit the official Roland-Garros store, grab a glass of champagne, or stroll the beautifully kept walkways lined with plenty of food stalls and photo opportunities.
Tennis Museum
Tucked within the stadium complex is the Tenniseum, a unique museum entirely dedicated to tennis.
It offers a compact but insightful look into the history of the sport, showcasing vintage racquets, clips from the classics, and tributes to French Open champions past and present.
Great for fans wanting a break from the sun and a deeper look into the history of the beloved racquet sport.
Bois de Boulogne
Just next door to the stadium is the Bois de Boulogne, one of Paris’s largest green spaces, and it’s perfect for a quiet walk or picnic if you need a breather from the crowds.
There are lakes, botanical gardens, and even rowing boats for hire. During a packed day of sporting entertainment, it offers a welcome dose of calm.
READ MORE: Paris travel news: Seven of the best things to do in the home of the Eiffel Tower
Fondation Louis Vuitton
Located within the Bois de Boulogne, this ultra-modern art museum is housed in a futuristic glass building designed by Frank Gehry.
Within its walls, you’ll find cutting-edge exhibitions and collections from some of the world’s top contemporary artists.
Even if modern art isn’t your thing, it is worth checking out the unique architecture housing some of Paris’s greatest works.
Auteuil Greenhouses
Just around the corner from the stadium are the Serres d’Auteuil, a set of historic greenhouses filled with an array of exotic plants.
You’ll be walking among palms, orchids, and cacti within glass structures that date back to the 19th century.
It’s free to enter, making it a great destination for those watching their wallets after shelling out on tickets to the Slam.
Local cafés in Auteuil
The surrounding Auteuil neighbourhood is full of elegant, lesser-known Parisian cafés and brasseries.
Settle in for a morning espresso or a post-match glass of wine, in one of the many peaceful establishments far from the Parisian tourist hubs.
Many places put up screens showing the day’s action, so you won’t miss a moment even while tucking into a croque monsieur.
Seine Riverside Walk
After the tennis winds down, take a walk along the nearby banks of the River Seine. Heading east toward the Eiffel Tower offers one of Paris’s most iconic walking routes.
A relaxed way to end a day filled with rallies and roars from the Court Philippe-Chatrie.
Summary
While you may have made the trip to Paris for the tennis, the fun doesn’t stop there.
From artistic escapes to leafy parks and Parisian cafés, there’s something for everyone in this charming corner of the French capital.
