Bercy Arena, officially known as Accor Arena for sponsorship reasons, is a legendary multi-purpose venue and a landmark of modern architecture in Paris. More than just a sports arena, it is a global hub for sports, music, and entertainment. With its distinctive pyramid shape and central location, the arena has become a premier destination in France for major international events, drawing millions of visitors each year.
History and Design
The arena was originally opened in 1984 as the Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy. Designed by a collective of architects including Michel Andrault and Pierre Parat, its most striking feature is its unique pyramidal shape, covered in a sloping lawn. The design was revolutionary for its time, blending into the surrounding Parc de Bercy while creating an iconic visual identity.
In 2014, the arena underwent a major two-year renovation to modernize its facilities, increase its capacity, and improve acoustics and comfort. The renovation transformed it into a world-class venue, solidifying its place among the top arenas in Europe. The new design maintained the original exterior but completely revamped the interior, adding cutting-edge technology and enhanced seating configurations.
Major Events Hosted
While its primary purpose is to host a variety of sporting events and concerts, Bercy Arena has a long history of hosting major international events, cementing its status as a regional hub for sports and entertainment.
- Paris Masters: The arena is the long-time host of the Rolex Paris Masters, one of the most prestigious tournaments on the ATP Tour.
- 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics: The arena was a key venue for the Games, hosting a variety of events, including basketball and gymnastics (artistic gymnastics and trampolining).
- Basketball and Handball: It has hosted numerous national and international championships, including EuroBasket and the final stages of the IHF World Handball Championships.
- Music Concerts: The venue is a must-stop for global music tours. It has hosted sold-out shows for superstars like Lady Gaga, Madonna, Metallica, and Kendrick Lamar, leveraging its immense capacity and modern acoustics.
- Various Sports: The arena is known for its versatility, hosting events from ice hockey and gymnastics to equestrian competitions and motorsports.
Key Information
Official Name: Accor Arena (for sponsorship reasons)
Location: 12th arrondissement of Paris, France
Opened: 1984 (as Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy), renovated 2015
Capacity: Up to 20,300
Address: 8 Boulevard de Bercy, 75012 Paris, France
Getting to the Bercy Arena
The arena is located in the vibrant Bercy neighborhood, approximately 5 km from the city center. It is conveniently located and easily accessible via public transport.
- By Air: For visitors traveling from out of town, the nearest major airports are Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Paris-Orly Airport (ORY). From either airport, you can take a taxi or rideshare service, or use the RER B suburban train line to connect to the Paris Metro network, which will take you to the arena.
- By Public Transport (Metro & Bus): The most reliable and recommended way to get to the arena is by public transport. Take Metro Line 6 or 14 and alight at the “Bercy” stop, which is located directly in front of the arena. Several bus lines, including 24, 87, and N32, also serve the area.
- By Taxi / Rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services are a quick and convenient option from the city center, with the journey typically taking around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic.
- By Foot: The arena is within walking distance of many popular areas, including the lively Bercy Village and the Seine riverbank. It is a scenic 30-40 minute walk from the Latin Quarter.
- Parking: On-site parking is limited and can be heavily congested on event days. Public transport is highly recommended.
Tickets at the Bercy Arena
Tickets for concerts and sporting events can be purchased through official ticketing partners like Ticketmaster France. It’s best to book in advance, especially for high-profile events, as they can sell out quickly.
Where to Stay Near the Bercy Arena
The best area to stay is in the central districts of Paris, as they offer the most options for attractions, restaurants, and bars, all with easy metro access to the arena. The Bercy neighborhood itself also offers several modern hotel options and is convenient if you want to be within walking distance of the venue.
- Booking Tips:
- Plan Ahead: Book your accommodation and event tickets well in advance, especially during major events, as demand can be very high.
- Check Transport: Ensure your hotel has convenient access to the Metro, as it is the most efficient way to get to the arena on event days.
- Use Reputable Sites: Use well-known and trustworthy booking websites like TripAdvisor to find and compare accommodation options.
Helpful Links for Planning Your Visit to Bercy Arena
We hope this guide helps you have an incredible experience at Bercy Arena!
Last Updated on September 18, 2025 by Sports Tourist