My Experience at Roland-Garros as a Powered Wheelchair User: Travel Tips and Accessibility Insights

I recently had the chance to attend the French Open at Roland-Garros – an unforgettable experience filled with world-class tennis, vibrant crowds, and the unmistakable Parisian energy. As a powered wheelchair user, I want to share a bit about my journey there and offer some practical tips for fellow travelers navigating Paris with mobility needs.

Getting Around Paris: What You Need to Know

While Paris is a beautiful city, getting around in a powered wheelchair can be tricky due to limited accessibility in the public transport system. Here's what I learned:

• Metro: The Paris Metro is largely not accessible. Out of the entire network, only Line 14 is fully accessible for wheelchair users. It's modern, fully automated, and has elevators at all stations – a real lifeline if your route happens to line up!

  
  

• RER Trains: These commuter trains connect central Paris with the suburbs and can be useful, especially for getting near Roland-Garros (via RER Line C). However, you must book assistance in advance to use them if you're in a wheelchair, as not all stations or train cars are accessible without help.

  
  

• Buses: By far the most accessible and convenient option for wheelchair users. All Paris city buses are wheelchair accessible, with ramps and designated spaces on board. They may take a little longer, but they're reliable and let you see the city as you travel.

  
  

Arriving at Roland-Garros

Once at the venue, accessibility was generally really good. There were accessible entrances, helpful staff, and areas designated for wheelchair users in the stadiums. The atmosphere was electric, and it was incredible to be part of such a historic and iconic sporting event.

Here are a few pictures from my 2 days at the French Open

Final Thoughts

If you're planning a trip to Roland-Garros or Paris in general as a powered wheelchair user, I’d recommend sticking to buses as your main transport method and planning well ahead if you need to use the RER. Despite some challenges, it’s absolutely worth the effort – especially when you get to witness the magic of Grand Slam tennis in person!