Paris Saint Germain is one of France’s big boys in domestic club football. Many would go one step further and say they are the most dominant club in the country. However, it was not always the case, as it was in 2011, that they received major investment from Qatar, and fast forward many years later, they now occupy the throne.
The 48,583-seater Parc des Princes is situated in the southwest of Paris, and despite having great transport links, the drinking infrastructure is not necessarily the best in the immediate area. Thus, this list will include quite a few options from other parts of the city. Either way, there is no shortage of exciting locations for a pre-match build-up and a post-match cool-down.
Tip: One vital piece of information to know before visiting the Parc des Princes, especially for fans who want to get in the mood with a pint, is that alcohol isn’t sold in the stadium itself. Once you push through those turnstiles, there is no going back. This may sound rather dramatic, but we all know how important the pre-match drink is.
Which Nearby Pubs are the Best For Traveling to the Parc des Princes?
Molitor Rooftop Bar
The ‘Molitor’ name is quite a famous one in Paris, as the complex that it occupies has garnered a reputation over many years for its approach to hospitality. It continues to be at the top of the list in hotels, bars, and relaxation, offering fans a hub to base themselves when traveling long distances to see PSG.
The bar itself is a special one, taking its place on the building’s rooftop, making it a spot to consider on a sunny day in Paris. The views on offer are reason enough to visit, with the Eiffel Tower peeking out from the buildings in the distance. This may not be the spot if you are on a tight budget, as with the premium surroundings come premium prices, so be sure to bring your wallet!
Sitting just to the north of the stadium, there’s a measly 5-10-minute walk to the stands, which only adds to the appeal of the Molitor complex for football fans.
Location: 6 Avenue de la Porte Molitor, 75016, Paris
Aux Trois Obus
This option is for the traveling fan who wants to embed themselves at the core of the PSG faithful. Aux Trois Obus has become known within Parisian football circles as the pre-match drinking spot for the ‘Ultra’, or the most diehard of fans.
The regular custom that Aux Trois Obus attracts on match days is no doubt bolstered by the excellent location relative to the Parc des Princes. Being a straightforward 5-10-minute walk from the Parc des Princes, it takes away the stress of figuring out which transport to use when moving on to the stadium. Its proximity and charged atmosphere also make it suitable for a post-match drink.
On a trip to see PSG play last year, I popped into the atmospheric drinking spot before the game, and it’s safe to say that the reputation is spot on. From wall to wall with lifelong fans, the chants began, the pints flowed, and the excitement grew.
Tip: When I visited, there was no need to show match tickets at the door.
Location: 120 rue Michel Ange, 75016, Paris
Les Fontaines
Within touching distance of Aux Trois Obus, Les Fontaines is suited to fans who want a more laid-back approach to the pregame build-up but with the same added benefit of close proximity. Despite being more of a cafe offering great food, within the PSG fan base, it is still known as a calm location to have a glass of wine or two before kick-off.
With this said, the area surrounding the stadium isn’t celebrated for its wide array of drinking spots, so by default, Les Fontaines has a leg up because of being within walking distance..
From having food and drinks there before a Champions League away day a few years back, the staff’s ability to communicate in English stood out, along with the selection of beers and deep dinner menu, with each item coming out excellently prepared.
Location: 219 avenue de Versailles, 75016, Paris
Frog XVI
Frog XVI is a sports bar geared towards the expat and tourist community in Paris. Travelling fans can feel at home here, as it gives them the chance to not only meet like-minded supporters from around the world but also provides a great pre-match hub to base themselves.
Although train times can take anywhere from 30 to 40 minutes to reach the Parc des Princes, it is an apt starting point for a day of landmarks, culture, and slick football. The Eiffel Tower sits across the river from Frog XVI, along with the Aquarium, so fitting a pre-match beer into the schedule won’t be too tricky.
Location: 110 BIS avenue Kleber, 75016, Paris
Bar Anglais Hotel Raphael
As you may have guessed from the name, the English spirit runs through Bar Anglais. If you are an international PSG fan and want a taste of English culture while you drink or are simply on an away day and desire that homey feel, this could be the watering hole for you.
The bar is situated within Hotel Raphael, which classes itself as ‘tremendously traditional’. Boasting a well-thought-out decor that oozes classic ‘Stately Home’ English style, they certainly are not wrong in their estimation.
The interior has been modelled on a London club of old, where gentlemen would sit and chat over a whiskey and a cigar. In the Hotel Raphael’s modern-day depiction of that, football fans can come and discuss tactics, transfers, and which bets they are going to be putting on pre-game.
From its setting near the Arc de Triomphe, it will take around 30 minutes via train to reach the Parc des Princes.
Location: 17 Avenue Kleber, 75116, Paris
The Frog & Princess
Despite the fairytale name, this establishment is far more grounded than it sounds. Sat in the central part of the city, nearer to Notre Dame than the Parc des Princes, it’s geared towards those who have selected a hotel in the heart of Paris.
Offering an excellent international menu, a range of local beers and brews from further afield, some stronger spirits and cocktails, and partiality towards sports fans, The Frog & Princess is a great option for pre-match refreshments. It may even be worth a visit on the way back to the hotel to revel in the post-match afterglow.
Location: 9 rue Princesse, 75006, Paris
Aux Sports
Now for a classic all-around sports bar that represents an equally good time for fans heading to the stadium and those who want to continue their night after the game. Although beer is the primary focus of many fans on match days, there are also options to fuel up before taking a seat in the stands.
Aux Sports is located in the southwest of the city, within a 40-minute train journey from the Parc des Princes, making it a great choice for fans to visit before heading back into the city centre.
Location: 2 Rue des Morillons, 75015, Paris
Honourable Mentions
Here are some extra pubs and bars that may not be as optimal for match day as those that made it onto the list, but they still offer something different that could still be appealing to football fans looking for somewhere to drink.
Harry’s New York Bar
The Harry’s New York Bar had to get a mention as it has become a cultural and historical landmark in its own right. The over century-old establishment has served some greats of literature, such as Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald, during its time.
Location: 5 Rue Daunou, 75002, Paris
Bam Karaoke Bar
This is a spot for those who want to carry on using their vocal chords long after the PSG chants stop. With a host of themed private karaoke booths, you can bring your group here and stay long into the night.
Location: 40 avenue de la République, 75011, Paris
Bar Hemingway
Ernest Hemingway gets another mention with the bar named after the wordsmith. To get an exclusive spot here may take some prior planning, as with only 25 seats, the demand is high. Self-classified as the most famous bar in the world, there will be plenty of photoshoot opportunities and lasting memories to be made here.
Location: 15 Place Vendôme, 75001, Paris
What are the Best Pre-Match Pubs Near the Parc des Princes?
For those who want to experience the authentic PSG fan experience, chant the classic Parisian songs, and get to know some of the ‘Ultras’, then Aux Trois Obus is a solid choice. The fact it only sits within walking distance from the stadium only adds to the appeal. Like with many of the authentic fan experiences at many of the major clubs, the intensity may not be for everyone.
If a laid back atmosphere is more of your cup of tea pre-game, Les Fontaines or the Molitor Rooftop may be a better choice. Still retaining the proximity of Aux Trois Obus, they aren’t dedicated to PSG fans, so what it lacks in energy they make up for in ambience.
What are the Best Post-Match Pubs Near the Parc des Princes?
Again, for those who want to celebrate with the Ultras, Aux Trois Obus is your best bet. However, with many fans picking accommodation within the city centre, being closer to the hotel post-game may be more desirable. Because of this, many of the bar options closer to the heart of Paris come into play.
Aux Sports is one of these bars that cater for sports lovers, not requiring an overly classy, top-tier experience. The humble yet entertaining spot provides an atmosphere with a buzz and plenty of screens to watch the post-match analysis. The Frog & Princess also sits more centrally and is a location built for locals and tourists alike.
Bar Anglais or the Molitor Rooftop could be a great shout for fans who require a fancier experience after the match.
The Gem (Our Pick)
Traveling to watch Paris Saint-Germain and any big team in Europe can be overwhelming during the planning stages, particularly when figuring out where to stay, how to get there, or where to eat. So use this list to ease the burden, knowing that whichever drinking spot you do choose, you’ll have a good time.
Our personal favourite spot has to be the Molitor Rooftop, as it offers more than many on the list. The views alone push it to the top of the list, along with its excellent proximity to the Parc des Princes. The laid-back atmosphere will most likely impress many football fans and fit in with the overall vibe of Paris. Be wary, though, with the high quality will come high prices, so be prepared to splash the cash.
