Held every four years, the Rugby World Cup is rugby’s most prestigious sporting event. It’s also the perfect opportunity for traveling fans to explore the host country. This year it’s the turn of France, and the country will be welcoming rugby enthusiasts from across the world.
From the bustling streets of Paris to the picturesque beauty of Bordeaux, France has so many amazing locations to explore. This travel guide will take you on a journey through the cities near the Rugby World Cup venues.
Whether you’ve got a free morning or an entire day, here are nine French cities to visit during the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Paris
The Stade de France in Saint-Denis will be the stage for some of the tournament’s biggest fixtures. This includes the opening game between France and New Zealand as well as the final.
Situated just outside of Paris, Rugby World Cup fans will be perfectly placed to tour the city of love. Take in the sights at some of the city’s most renowned landmarks. Visit the Mona Lisa at the Louvre, take a stroll along the Seine, or discover the city’s artistic side in Montmartre. To see the city from above, climb the Eiffel Tower. At 460 feet high, the observation deck provides spectacular panoramas.
Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Head to the Sacré-Cœur Basillica at sunset. With views that stretch across the city, this is one of the most breathtaking ways to see Paris.
Saint-Étienne
Stade Geoffroy-Guichard is set to host four matches during the 2023 Rugby World Cup. As rugby fever sweeps the city, immerse yourself in the history and culture of Saint-Étienne.
Plan a trip to the Museum of Art and Industry, a beautiful 19th-century building that houses a collection of weapons, bicycles, and textiles. If you love the stars, then the planetarium is a must. This state-of-the-art facility houses a 3D cinema for a truly immersive experience.
For nature enthusiasts, venture to the nearby Pilat Regional Natural Park. This protected area spans 160,000 acres and is filled with mountains, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
Bordeaux
Five of this year’s Rugby World Cup matches will be contested at the Stade de Bordeaux. Also known as the Matmut Atlantique, 900 white columns frame this eye-catching stadium.
In addition to this unique feat of architecture, Bordeaux is known for its historical structures. To see some of the most stunning examples, visit the Old Town, Vieux Bordeaux. Here you’ll find the Golden Triangle, an area filled with grand 18th-century buildings.
Of course, Bordeaux is also known as a wine country. Visit the La Cité du Vin, an interactive museum dedicated to the region’s wine heritage, or take a scenic drive through the nearby vineyards.
Marseille
The Stade de Marseille, or the Stade Vélodrome, will be another important venue during the 2023 Rugby World Cup. This stadium will host six matches during this year’s tournament.
The captivating city of Marseille is famous for its vibrant atmosphere and Mediterranean charm. Visit the Old Port of Marseille, a natural harbor with a history that dates to 600 BC. Hike up to the Notre-Dame de la Garde or get lost in Le Panier, the old town of Marseille.
If you enjoy being outdoors, the Calanques National Park is a must. This area covers 20km of the coast between Marseille and Cassis.
Toulouse
Five Rugby World Cup matches will be held at Stade de Toulouse in 2023. While you’re here, make sure you travel around Toulouse.
Known as the ‘La Ville Rose’ (the Pink City), the city was built from pink-hued terracotta bricks. This gives the streets of Toulouse a distinctive Mediterranean feel. From the Basilica of Saint-Sernin to the Musée des Augustins, some of the city’s most unique attractions were crafted from terracotta.
In addition to the architecture, Toulouse is known for its canals. The canal network spans 360 km, and it’s widely regarded as one of the most impressive feats of modern engineering.
Lille
Next on the list is Lille. This city is home to the Stade Pierre-Mauroy, which will host five games in the upcoming tournament.
This city is known for its Flemish-inspired architecture and lively atmosphere. For art fans, visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts, one of the biggest art museums in France. If you love history, explore the old town, Vieux Lille, where you’ll find the Grand Palace.
Consider yourself a foodie. With the Lille’s proximity to the border, you’ll find plenty of eateries serving moules-frites. The national dish of Belgium, moules-frites, is a delicious combination of steamed mussels, French fries, and Dijon mayo.
Nice
In addition to four rugby matches at the Stade de Nice, this vibrant city has many things to see and do. Nestled on the French Riveria, Nice is the perfect combination of city and sea.
Spend the day relaxing at one of the city’s best beaches or visit the old town, Vieux Nice. Walk up the Colline du Château (Castle Hill) to enjoy breathtaking views over or explore Cours Saleya, a colorful street market filled with flowers and local produce.
One of the city’s biggest attractions is the Promenade des Anglais. This 7km promenade is filled with palm trees and overlooks the ocean.
Nantes
Situated on the banks of the Loire River, Nantes will host four Rugby World Cup matches at the Stade de la Beaujoire.
A blend of old-world charm and modern architecture, Nantes is a city with so much to offer. Visit the Bouffay district, the heart of Nante’s medieval past. If art is your thing, you’ll love the steampunk mechanical art installations at Machines de l’Île.
If you’d like to escape for the afternoon, hop on a boat ride along the Erdre River. As you journey down the river, your views will change from luxury mansions to green-filled landscapes.
Lyon
Famous for its universities, Lyon is also home to Parc Olympique Lyonnais (OL Stadium), which will be used for five matches during the 2023 tournament.
In addition to its universities, Lyon is known for its food. Sample some of the city’s traditional dishes, including coq au vin and the signature tarte aux pralines (pink praline tart). You’ll find plenty of restaurants in the old town, Vieux Lyon, which is filled with cobbled streets and narrow alleyways.
Want to get away from the crowds? There are plenty of boat rides along the Rhône and Saône rivers.
The Rugby World Cup and French culture
The 2023 Rugby World Cup is the ideal opportunity to explore some of the best cities in France. From the iconic landmarks of Paris and the vineyards of Bordeaux to the beaches in Nice and the cuisine in Lyon, there’s plenty to see and experience in every host city.