Before I detail my tips and experiences gained while watching the Rugby World Cup action in Paris, I ought to point out the following. Before you travel to the French capital, be under no illusion - the beer is more expensive, the locals hate tourists and there is practically nothing written in any language other than their own. And always have your passport in your pocket if stopped by police. They will want to see it straight away.
On the other hand, France is totally excited by the tournament, and has a fantastic public-transport system. You will have a great time.

These findings were all discovered on Friday September 14, the day England seemingly surrendered their crown. On match day, the streets of Paris are alive and buzzing with fans of just about every nation competing in the World Cup. Paris is known as a city of cafes and culture - the tables are a mass of bright colours; the day I went it was the white and green of England and South Africa.

The majority drink pints of cool lager and try to take in some sun and the atmosphere is electric. You hardly hear a French voice, everything is English with accents from across the globe. There is zero trouble; everyone, regardless of which team they support, is talking about rugby.

'France is totally excited by the World Cup, and has a fantastic public transport system. You will have a great time'


Getting to the stadium is pretty easy. Take the RER train directly to the Stade de France; it takes around 20 minutes from the centre of the city, it's cheap and runs regularly. There are many bars en route and plenty of opportunity to buy tickets from touts. This walk takes around 10-15 minutes.

Arriving at the stadium you are thrust into a cauldron of noise and excitement, people singing, bands playing music, people dancing and fans of all ages. There are plenty of Heineken stands and although really overpriced (€7 per pint) there are plenty of people drinking. During the game and inside the stadium there are plenty of bars and food outlets serving the usual fare. Toilets, as ever, are a major problem as there aren’t enough.

The atmosphere is one big party extending to after the game. Trains run until everyone has left the stadium..

Top Tips at a glance

1. Get RER train to Stade de France;

2. Get there 2-3 hours before kick-off and enjoy the build-up outside;

3. Have a beer after the game and miss the rush;

4. If you want to watch a game before the one you;re attending, make sure you do it in a bar en route;

5. Not got a ticket? Plenty are selling on behalf of friends who couldn’t make it;

6. Instead of buying a programme (€8), wait until after. Loads are left under seats!

If you've been to Paris to watch the rugby, you can post your tips for travelling fans below.