Did you know? There's a Gallo-Roman amphitheatre in Paris, a vestige of the time when the capital was called Lutetia. Nestled in the 5th arrondissement of Paris, it is located in the square des arènes de Lutèce, with free access and just a stone's throw from rue Monge.
The amphitheatre is thought to date back to the 1st century AD. In the past, the stage was used for theatrical performances, while the arena was used for glorious gladiatorial combat. Nowadays, instead of fights, the arena welcomes pétanque players and Sunday footballers who come to take advantage of this ideal terrain for their favorite sport.
In its rows, where 17,000 spectators could watch the games, visitors to the square take their seats for a picnic, to play music or simply to sunbathe with friends. From time to time, small festivals are held here, taking advantage of the beautiful acoustics provided by theamphitheatre. For birdwatchers, there's also a bird house. You can also take advantage of the botanical trail.
As you can see, the Lutetia arenas have lost none of their splendor over the centuries, and even today continue to provide Parisians and Lutecians alike, almost 2000 years ago, with a moment of relaxation and entertainment now adapted to the art of living of our era.
World Music Day 2026: soundsystem cultures and Latino-Caribbean rhythms at the Arènes de Lutèce
La Fête de la musique returns this Sunday, June 21, 2026, with a wealth of unmissable plans to catch in Paris. Head to the Arènes de Lutèce, in particular, to discover a large, free, crowd-pleasing celebration organized by radio Fip. For the occasion, get ready to travel, feel the vibe, and dance—from Colombia to Jamaica and across the Caribbean—thanks to three sound-systems spotlighting Latin-Caribbean rhythms. [Read more]
Roma, City of Light: the free photo exhibition to see this summer outdoors in Paris
The Roma, City of Light exhibition offers a portrait of the Italian capital through cinema’s seventh art, and examines its role as a backdrop in film. The free exhibit runs from July 2 to 6, 2026 at the Arènes de Lutèce, then continues until August 30 along the banks of the Seine. [Read more]
Dolcevita on the Seine: the lineup for the open-air Italian film festival at the Arenes de Lutèce
La Dolcevita sur Seine is back from July 2 to 6, 2026, whisking us away to Italy. Over five days, enjoy free film screenings and activities at the Arènes de Lutèce! Discover the program for this edition. [Read more]
Le Clos des Arènes, hidden vineyards in the heart of the Arènes de Lutèce in Paris
In the 5th arrondissement, the Arènes de Lutèce is one of those suspended places that still retains all its charm from ancient times. This is where you'll find some of the rarest vines in Paris, to be discovered adorned with beautiful bunches of grapes as the harvest season approaches. [Read more]
Please note that it's been over 4 years since our last visit, so the place and experience may have changed.
Dates and Opening Time
Next days
Saturday:
from 09:00 a.m. to 05:45 p.m.
Sunday:
from 09:00 a.m. to 07:00 p.m.
Monday:
from 08:00 a.m. to 07:00 p.m.
Tuesday:
from 08:00 a.m. to 07:00 p.m.
Wednesday:
from 08:00 a.m. to 05:45 p.m.
Thursday:
from 08:00 a.m. to 05:45 p.m.
Friday:
from 08:00 a.m. to 05:45 p.m.
Location
Square des Arènes de Lutèce -
4 rue des Arènes
75005 Paris 5
Prices
Free
