
Vélodrome Jacques Anquetil La Cipale
Historic velodrome, site of 1900/1924 Olympics & Tour de France finishes. A rustic gem for sports history lovers.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the track alive with action

Vélodrome Jacques Anquetil La Cipale
Best Time
Experience the track alive with action

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic velodrome, site of 1900/1924 Olympics & Tour de France finishes. A rustic gem for sports history lovers.
"Wonderful historical velodrome on the outskirts of Paris, a cozy place to hang out."

Check Event Schedules
See what's happening! Cyclo-cross and rugby events are common.
Metro Line 8 Access
Easy to reach! Take Metro Line 8 to get here.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Cycling Track
Main Velodrome
Feel the echoes of past champions on this iconic track, once a finish line for the Tour de France.

Olympic Legacy
Throughout the Velodrome
Stand where Olympic athletes competed in 1900 and 1924. A true piece of sporting history.

Cozy Spectator Benches
Grandstands
Relax on the old benches and imagine the roar of the crowd from decades past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History, Expect the Rustic Charm
Getting There & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Event Schedules
See what's happening! Cyclo-cross and rugby events are common.
Metro Line 8 Access
Easy to reach! Take Metro Line 8 to get here.
Bring Your Own Refreshments
Kiosks can be closed, even in heat. Pack water and snacks.
Embrace the Nostalgia
It's historic, not modern. Enjoy the rustic charm and past glory.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Event Schedules
See what's happening! Cyclo-cross and rugby events are common.
Metro Line 8 Access
Easy to reach! Take Metro Line 8 to get here.
Bring Your Own Refreshments
Kiosks can be closed, even in heat. Pack water and snacks.
Embrace the Nostalgia
It's historic, not modern. Enjoy the rustic charm and past glory.
Potential for Laps
If you time it right, you might sneak in a few laps on the track! :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Vélodrome Jacques Anquetil La Cipale for its immense historical significance, particularly its Olympic legacy and connection to cycling legends. It's seen as a charmingly rustic spot to soak in the past. However, some find the venue quite worn down and note a lack of amenities, even during events.
"Quite worn down venue. Even with +3000 people there, no kiosk or anything else open despite the heat."
Carsten Østberg
"This velodrome hosted the 2nd ever Olympics in 1900 and as the cycling venue in 1924. It also acted as the finish of Tour de France.
The velodrome now is a cozy place to hang out on the old benches at the stands. It still has the cycling track and an artificial turf for rugby. There are toilet facilities here and it’s easy to get to by taking metro line 8."
Patrick Hohberg
"Wonderful historical velodrome on the outskirts of Paris. Home of a cycling club, a great restaurant, and also a rugby club. Served as the finish line of the Tour de France in the 1970s and named after the legendary french cyclist Jacques Anquetil. If you time it right you can sneak in to do a few laps :)"
Ju Do
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The velodrome is easily accessible by public transport. Take Metro Line 8 to the 'Porte de Vincennes' or 'Charenton - École Véterinaire' stations, followed by a short walk.
Parking can be limited in the Bois de Vincennes area. Public transport is generally recommended for ease of access.
While the grounds may offer some accessibility, the historic nature of the velodrome means some areas might be challenging. It's best to check specific event accessibility.
For events, especially those with large crowds like cyclo-cross, the Metro is your best bet to avoid traffic and parking hassles.
Yes, cycling is a great option! The Bois de Vincennes has many cycle paths, and you can often ride directly to the velodrome.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds is often free, but specific events like cyclo-cross races may require tickets. Check the organizer's website for details.
The velodrome itself doesn't have fixed public opening hours outside of events. Access is typically granted during organized activities or by 'sneaking in' if you're lucky.
General access to the grounds is usually free. Ticket prices vary for specific sporting events hosted at the velodrome.
For organized events, it's advisable to check with the specific organizing clubs (e.g., Cyclosport Pantin) for advance ticket purchase options.
While not officially open, some visitors report being able to access the grounds for a quiet look around, especially during off-peak hours.
🎫 🚴 Onsite Experience
It's a hub for cycling events like cyclo-cross, and also hosts rugby matches. It's a place steeped in cycling history, having hosted Olympic events and Tour de France finishes.
Basic toilet facilities are available. However, don't expect extensive amenities like kiosks or shops, especially during non-event times.
While not officially permitted for casual use, some visitors mention the possibility of 'sneaking in' for a few laps if the opportunity arises.
It's a place with a strong sense of history and nostalgia. During events, it can be lively, while at other times it's a peaceful spot to reflect.
There's a restaurant associated with the velodrome, and it's also located within the Bois de Vincennes, which has other dining options.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic grandstands, the iconic cycling track, and any event action. The Olympic legacy provides great historical context for photos.
Yes, the open nature of the grounds and the historical architecture make it a photogenic spot. Be mindful of event rules if present.
A versatile lens is useful for capturing both wide shots of the velodrome and action during events. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions during evening events.
Generally, casual photography is fine. For professional or commercial use, it's always best to inquire with the venue management.
During official events, photographing athletes is usually permitted for personal use. For media purposes, accreditation might be required.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday morning for a quieter, more exploratory experience. It's a chance to talk about sports history and the Olympics in a tangible setting. While accessibility might be a concern for strollers in some areas, the main grounds are generally manageable. The easy access via Metro Line 8 also makes it a convenient day trip from central Paris.
🚴 Cycling Enthusiasts
Attending a cyclo-cross event here is highly recommended to experience the velodrome's current sporting life. It's a chance to see the track in action and feel the passion of local cycling clubs. Even if there are no events, the historical significance alone makes it a worthwhile visit for anyone passionate about the sport's heritage.
🏛️ History Buffs
Beyond the Olympics, its role as a Tour de France finish line further solidifies its place in sporting history. Visiting La Cipale is like stepping back in time, offering a unique perspective on how sports venues and events have evolved. It’s a quiet, reflective spot that rewards those who appreciate the deep roots of athletic competition.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The Olympic and Cycling Heritage
Walking through La Cipale, you can almost feel the echoes of past glories. The historic cycling track itself is a marvel, and the old benches in the stands offer a cozy spot to imagine the roar of the crowds from decades gone by. It's a place where generations of cyclists, from Olympic hopefuls to Tour de France legends, have competed. This rich heritage makes it a compelling destination for anyone interested in the evolution of cycling and Olympic sports.
Today, the velodrome continues to be a venue for sporting activities, including cyclo-cross and rugby, keeping its spirit alive. While it may show signs of age, its historical importance and the palpable sense of the past make it a unique and worthwhile visit for sports history buffs and casual visitors alike.
Experiencing La Cipale Today: Events and Atmosphere
The atmosphere at La Cipale is often described as a blend of nostalgia and community spirit. Visitors can relax on the old benches, soaking in the historical ambiance, or even try to 'sneak in' for a few laps on the track if the opportunity arises – a tip shared by many Reddit users. It's a place that encourages a more intimate connection with sports history, away from the commercialism of modern stadiums. The presence of a restaurant on-site also adds to the experience, allowing visitors to enjoy a meal in a historically significant setting.
It's important to manage expectations regarding amenities. As one reviewer noted, the venue can be quite 'worn down,' and services like kiosks might be closed, even during hot weather. Therefore, it's advisable to bring your own refreshments and be prepared for a more rustic experience. Despite this, the unique historical charm and the chance to witness local sporting events make La Cipale a memorable destination for those seeking an authentic Parisian experience beyond the typical tourist trail.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit