La Cipale Paris
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Vélodrome Jacques Anquetil La Cipale

4.2
·255 reviews·Paris, France

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Event evenings

Experience the track alive with action

CrowdMedium
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La Cipale Paris

Vélodrome Jacques Anquetil La Cipale

Best Time

Event evenings

Experience the track alive with action

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.2
(255 reviews)

"Wonderful historical velodrome on the outskirts of Paris, a cozy place to hang out."

Vertical photo
TIP

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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Cycling Track

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

Olympic Legacy

Throughout the Velodrome

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

Cozy Spectator Benches

Cozy Spectator Benches

Grandstands

Relax on the old benches and imagine the roar of the crowd from decades past.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the History, Expect the Rustic Charm

This historic velodrome, a relic from the 1900 Olympics, offers a unique glimpse into cycling's past. While charming, expect a 'worn down' feel rather than modern amenities. It's a place to soak in history, not for luxury.

Getting There & What to Expect

Easily accessible via Metro Line 8, La Cipale is on the outskirts of Paris. While it hosts events and has facilities, don't count on extensive services like kiosks, especially during hot weather. Check event schedules beforehand.

Best Times

When
Event evenings
Why
Experience the track alive with action
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quiet contemplation of history
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚴‍♂️ Cyclo-Cross à la Cipale de Paris 🚴‍♀️ Rejoignez-nous pour une soirée de cyclo-cross nocturne au Vélodrome Jacques Anquetil - La Cipale. 📅 Date : 31 janvier 2025 📍 Lieu : La Cipale, Paris ⏰ Heure : À partir de 18h30 Organisé par le @cyclosportpantin , l' @usivry_cyclisme Ivry et @paris.cyclisteolympique Cycliste , cet événement FSGT, UFOLEP et FFC est ouvert à tous. Venez nombreux pour sou...
cyclosportpantin
23 likes • 832 views

Check Event Schedules

See what's happening! Cyclo-cross and rugby events are common. TikTokInstagram

Metro Line 8 Access

Easy to reach! Take Metro Line 8 to get here. Reddit

Au Vélodrome Jacques Anquetil - La Cipale dans le Bois de Vincennes pour accueillir avec bonheur la flamme paralympique ! Quel bonheur de voir notamment le triple champion du monde Raymond Pelé porter la flamme paralympique dans ce lieu qu'il connait si bien. Ici de nombreux athlètes avaient relevé le défi olympique pour les Jeux de Paris de 1900 et 1924, tout un symbole !
annehidalgo
636 likes • 21K views
Ça commence comme ça … Père & fils ... transmission d’une passion ... La Cipale Vélodrome Jacques Anquetil - 1965 #verdon #feelsingletrack #lafermedupetitsegries #guidevttverdon #gravelverdon #moniteurcyclistefrancais #moustierssaintemarie #lacdesaintecroix #gorgesduverdon #alpesdehauteprovence #coachmarchenordique #marchenordique #nordicwalking @feelsingletrack gorgesduverdon  mo ustierssainte...
feelsingletrack
7 likes • 93 views

Bring Your Own Refreshments

Kiosks can be closed, even in heat. Pack water and snacks. Reddit

Embrace the Nostalgia

It's historic, not modern. Enjoy the rustic charm and past glory. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Event Schedules

See what's happening! Cyclo-cross and rugby events are common. TikTokInstagram

Metro Line 8 Access

Easy to reach! Take Metro Line 8 to get here. Reddit

Bring Your Own Refreshments

Kiosks can be closed, even in heat. Pack water and snacks. Reddit

Embrace the Nostalgia

It's historic, not modern. Enjoy the rustic charm and past glory. Reddit

Potential for Laps

If you time it right, you might sneak in a few laps on the track! :athletic_shoe: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(255 reviews)

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

Rich sporting history
Olympic venue
Nostalgic atmosphere

What People Dislike

Worn-down facilities
Limited amenities

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. Reddit

Parking can be limited in the Bois de Vincennes area. Public transport is generally recommended for ease of access. Reddit

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. Instagram

For events, especially those with large crowds like cyclo-cross, the Metro is your best bet to avoid traffic and parking hassles. TikTok

Yes, cycling is a great option! The Bois de Vincennes has many cycle paths, and you can often ride directly to the velodrome. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

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. Reddit

General access to the grounds is usually free. Ticket prices vary for specific sporting events hosted at the velodrome. Reddit

For organized events, it's advisable to check with the specific organizing clubs (e.g., Cyclosport Pantin) for advance ticket purchase options. TikTok

While not officially open, some visitors report being able to access the grounds for a quiet look around, especially during off-peak hours. Reddit

🎫 🚴 Onsite Experience

It's a hub for cycling events like cyclo-cross,TikTok and also hosts rugby matches. It's a place steeped in cycling history, having hosted Olympic events and Tour de France finishes. InstagramReddit

Basic toilet facilities are available. However, don't expect extensive amenities like kiosks or shops, especially during non-event times. Reddit

While not officially permitted for casual use, some visitors mention the possibility of 'sneaking in' for a few laps if the opportunity arises. Reddit

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. Reddit

There's a restaurant associated with the velodrome, and it's also located within the Bois de Vincennes, which has other dining options. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the historic grandstands, the iconic cycling track, and any event action. The Olympic legacy provides great historical context for photos. Instagram+1

Yes, the open nature of the grounds and the historical architecture make it a photogenic spot. Be mindful of event rules if present. Instagram

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. TikTok

Generally, casual photography is fine. For professional or commercial use, it's always best to inquire with the venue management. Instagram

During official events, photographing athletes is usually permitted for personal use. For media purposes, accreditation might be required. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

La Cipale offers a unique historical outing for families. While not a playground, the vast open space and the historic cycling track can spark imagination. If there's a rugby match or a family-friendly cyclo-cross event, it can be an exciting spectacle for children. TikTokInstagram The old benches offer a relaxed spot for parents to supervise while kids explore the grounds. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities can be limited. Reddit

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

For cycling aficionados, La Cipale is a pilgrimage site. You're walking on ground that hosted Olympic cycling events and served as the Tour de France finish line. The chance to see the historic track and imagine legends like Jacques Anquetil or Eddy Merckx racing here is a major draw. InstagramReddit If you're lucky, you might even get to ride a few laps yourself, a tip that resonates within cycling communities online. Reddit

Attending a cyclo-cross event here is highly recommended to experience the velodrome's current sporting life. TikTok 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

History enthusiasts will find La Cipale a treasure trove. This venue is a direct link to the 1900 and 1924 Paris Olympics, offering a tangible connection to early Olympic history. Instagram The fact that it was named after Jacques Anquetil, a titan of cycling, adds another layer of historical significance. Reddit Exploring the worn-down stands and the historic track allows for a contemplative experience, imagining the athletes and spectators from over a century ago.

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

The Vélodrome Jacques Anquetil La Cipale is more than just a sports venue; it's a living monument to sporting history. It proudly hosted events for the 1900 Paris Olympics and the 1924 Paris Olympics, cementing its place in international sporting lore. For cycling enthusiasts, it holds a special significance as it served as the finish line for the Tour de France in various years, most notably in the 1970s. The velodrome was also named in honor of the legendary French cyclist Jacques Anquetil, a five-time winner of the Tour de France, further linking it to the sport's golden era. InstagramReddit

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. InstagramReddit

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. TikTok

Experiencing La Cipale Today: Events and Atmosphere

While its Olympic days are long past, the Vélodrome Jacques Anquetil La Cipale remains an active venue for sporting events. Cyclo-cross races, particularly nocturnal ones organized by local clubs, draw enthusiastic crowds and offer a vibrant atmosphere. TikTok The track and its surrounding artificial turf also host rugby matches, showcasing the venue's versatility. These events provide a fantastic opportunity to experience the velodrome buzzing with energy, much like it would have during its heyday. Instagram

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

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. Reddit 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.

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