The Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, France’s biggest and most highly anticipated horse event, usually takes place at Longchamp Racecourse on the first weekend of October. Mares, colts and fillies under three years compete in races over two days for the chance to win a very generous grand prize – usually in the millions.
As with British races, the Arc gives visitors the chance to dress up in their finest and enjoy a day of spectating, betting and Parisian racing tradition. Going since 1920, it’s the ideal event to combine with a post-summer break in Paris.
All you need to know and more ahead of the Prix de L’Arc de Triomphe
Booking tickets
The event has historically tried to be as inclusive as possible, so tickets can be a real bargain. Kids under 18 get in for free, and standard tickets start at around €12. If you fancy splashing out, you can pay more to sit in the grandstand or for a VIP experience.
Booking in advance is a must as tickets sell out quickly to both locals and horse enthusiasts from around the globe. Securing your accommodation and travel in advance is key too; many people opt for race packages, which can include hotels, travel and transfer to the racecourse. This is the most stress-free and often the most affordable way to enjoy the weekend. Many packages, including those offered by Leger Holiday and National Holidays, include other excursions to some of Paris’ best attractions.
Getting there
Nestled in a picturesque corner of the leafy Bois de Boulogne, Longchamp Racecourse is about half an hour from central Paris by metro. If you aren’t travelling on a package that includes transfer to and from the track, or staying in Suresnes or Saint-Cloud, take a metro then one of the free shuttle buses leaving regularly from Porte Maillot and Porte d’Auteuil on both days of the event.
Where to stay
If you’re travelling to Paris specially for the event, try one of the Arc’s official partner hotels a short walk from the track, which include the Novotel Suresnes Longchamp and the Novotel Paris Pont de Sèvres. These are also used by many tour package companies.
If you’re planning on combining your trip with sightseeing, a hotel near the Arc de Triomphe/Champs-Elysées is within easy reach of museums, galleries and other must-see monuments as well as being convenient for access to Longchamp Racecourse (metros go direct to Port Maillot).
What to do at Longchamp Racecourse
When you’re not watching the races from the excellent viewpoint in the stands or admiring the horses in the weighing area, enjoy a glass of wine at atmospheric rooftop restaurant and bar Panorama, or have a light lunch with views of the stables at Brasserie la Grille d’Honneur.
Other attractions at the racecourse include Arc Village, a relaxed space with food stalls, horse-related games, music and even a champagne bar. There are also equestrian experts on hand if you have any questions about the event or just racing in general, and you can have your photo taken in a replica of the EPIQE jockey cloakroom, a private room at the track where the champion riders hang out between races.
Jockeys competing on the Longchamp Racecourse at the Prix de L’Arc de Triomphe
What to see and do in around Longchamp
If you’ve got an hour or two to spare but don’t want to stay at the track, wander in vast Bois de Boulogne park with its picturesque landscaped and botanic gardens, greenhouses and amusement park.
Walk a few minutes east of the racecourse to enjoy a slap-up meal at L’Auberge du Bonheur or neighbouring La Grande Cascade, or continue until you find the idyllic Jardin du Shakespeare garden. Alternatively, head north to discover the Parc de Bagatelle with its quaint chateau and Oriental-inspired gardens.
If you have a little more time, the Champs-Elysées a short metro ride from the park is perfect for a spot of retail therapy, and the majestic Arc de Triomphe is worth a look. There’s are also plenty of theatre and show options for when race day comes to a close, including cabaret performances at the Crazy Horse and opera at Palais Garnier.