Céline Dion in Paris: how to get to La Défense Arena by public transport?

Published by Caroline de Sortiraparis · Photos by Caroline de Sortiraparis · Updated on September 3, 2026 at 12:08 p.m.
Céline Dion makes her big return to the stage this autumn. And this time, the Canadian megastar plans to reconnect with her fans in Paris after several years away. She will take over La Défense Arena from September 12 to October 17, 2026 for a 16-date run! Wondering how to reach the Francilienne venue by public transport? Metro, RER, or by car and bike... we’ve got you covered!

16 dates this autumn, followed by 10 more shows in spring 2027. For her big comeback to the stage, Céline Dion isn’t doing things by halves. The Canadian superstar has announced a major residency totaling 26 concerts at Paris La Défense Arena, the largest indoor venue in Europe. 

This new show, with staging by Willo Perron, is set to thrill the singer's legion of fans. French fans will, of course, be there. But fans from all corners of the globe have also snapped up tickets.

So, how do you reach the La Défense arena by public transport? Which metro and RER lines should you take? And if you’re driving, are there parking options near the Paris-region venue? Here’s what you need to know.

How to reach Europe’s largest indoor venue by public transport

More precisely located in Nanterre, just a stone's throw from Paris, Europe’s largest indoor venue is easily accessible by public transport.

The closest station is La Défense (Grande Arche), accessible to riders via the RER A, the RER E, the metro Line 1, as well as the T2 tram and the Transilien lines L and U. Once you’re out, just take exit No. 2 (Dôme - Valmy / Arena) and follow the signs to Paris La Défense Arena.

You can also get off at Nanterre-Préfecture on the RER A, or at Nanterre-La-Folie on the RER E.

  • Line 1 of the metro: La Défense – Grande Arche station
  • RER A: La Défense or Nanterre-Préfecture
  • RER E: La Défense or Nanterre-La-Folie
  • Tramway T2: La Défense station
  • Transilien Lines L and U: La Défense station

Visuels salles de spectacle et théâtres - Paris La Défense ArenaVisuels salles de spectacle et théâtres - Paris La Défense ArenaVisuels salles de spectacle et théâtres - Paris La Défense ArenaVisuels salles de spectacle et théâtres - Paris La Défense Arena

Getting to the venue by car or motorcycle

The Île-de-France venue urges attendees to travel by public transport. Nevertheless, if you opt for another mode of transport, be aware that the venue is easily accessible by car, "with 15,000 parking spaces available nearby", officials say.

From Paris, simply hop on the A14 toward La Défense, then merge onto the circular boulevard and let the signs guide you to the hall. If you’re arriving from Versailles, it’s best to take the “exit 35 – Chatou / Rueil 2000,” then head toward La Défense via the D991 and then the D913. Follow the signage once you’re on the La Défense circular boulevard.

Finally, if you’re arriving at the venue from Saint-Denis, take our Exit 2 – Colombes / Bezons / La Garenne-Colombes, then follow La Garenne-Colombes along the D992 toward La Défense.

What about the parking options near Paris La Défense Arena? They fill up fast, so the venue has teamed up with a partner to let spectators book their spot in advance, giving them peace of mind. Head to the Indigo Valmy parking, about a five-minute walk from the arena, or the CNIT La Défense parking, which is roughly a 15-minute stroll away.

For those arriving at the venue by motorcycle or scooter, note that there is a parking area on the Nanterre side, specifically at Nelson Mandela Square, not far from the arena. However, "there will be no staff supervising it," the venue warns, so keep that in mind before you park.

Getting to the arena by bike

Finally, if you plan to arrive by bike, note that Vélib’ stations are located on Place Nelson-Mandela, along Avenue de l’Arche, and at Nanterre‑Université station. "The Centre-Grande Arche parking also offers secure spaces and a bike escalator, and 700 bike racks are spread throughout the La Défense district," the Île-de-France venue says.

Practical information

Location

99 Jardin de l'Arche
92000 Nanterre

Route planner
Accessibility info

Official website
www.plenitudearena.com

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