All you need to know about Roland-Garros 2026: dates, access, restaurants and practical tips

Every May, Paris changes its rhythm. In the shade of the grandstands and on the ochre clay, Roland-Garros 2026 is one of the most eagerly awaited events of the spring. An event to be experienced as much for the sport as for the very Parisian atmosphere that surrounds it.

Between tense matches, lunches in the sun and the end of the day stretching out, attending Roland-Garros requires a minimum of anticipation. Here are the essentials (access, restaurants and practical advice) to help you organize your day.

Dates for Roland-Garros 2026

The tournament traditionally takes place from late May to early June.
For 2026, the dates are :
Monday May 18 to Sunday June 7, 2026
The first week is ideal for moving freely between the courts. The second week focuses on the big names and a more electric atmosphere.

The matches to watch: between expectations and rivalries

With just a few days to go before Roland-Garros kicks off, the women’s and men’s singles tables are already sketching out the broad outlines of a highly anticipated 2026 edition. Players from the WTA and ATP circuits will take to the courts at Porte d’Auteuil, against a backdrop of wide-open dynamics and well-established rivalries. A promise of intense matches, where each round could hold its share of surprises.

Ladies’ singles

On the women’s side, the balance of power makes this edition difficult to anticipate. Coco Gauff will arrive with the status of title holder and the desire to retain the Suzanne-Lenglen Cup. Opposite her, world No.1 Aryna Sabalenka, buoyed by a remarkable season, will be aiming for a Parisian title that has yet to elude her. Her great rival Elena Rybakina could also make history with a rare double, while Iga Swiatek, already a four-time winner here, will be looking to reclaim her place on a clay court she has mastered to perfection. In addition to these headliners, a number of players will be making their comeback thanks to a protected ranking, adding an extra dimension to an already dense field.

Here: Complete list of players entered in the women’s singles competition

Men’s singles

On the men’s side, the absence of Carlos Alcaraz, double title-holder forced to withdraw, reshuffles the cards. His rival Jannik Sinner, now firmly established at the top, will have to contend with some particularly keen competition. These include Alexander Zverev, a recent Grand Slam finalist, and Novak Djokovic, always a formidable presence at major tournaments. With a mix of experience and the new generation, the tournament promises to be a memorable affair, with every round of the draw uncertain. Some players will benefit from a protected ranking to enter the competition, while certain absences, notably on the French side, will also weigh on the overall balance.

Here: Full list of players entered in the men’s singles competition

On-site experience: choosing the right moment

Arriving early allows you to enjoy the site in a still calm atmosphere. The alleys gradually fill up, the first matches start, and you can stroll between the annex courts.

The main courts – Philippe-Chatrier, Suzanne-Lenglen – offer a more spectacular experience, but the secondary courts often reserve moments closer to the game, almost intimate.

Between two matches, we linger, observe and take our time. That’s what the French Open is all about!

Access and parking: what you need to know

The Auteuil district quickly becomes very dense during the tournament.
Parking is limited and strongly discouraged in the immediate vicinity.

A few options, however:

• Public parking lots around Porte d’Auteuil
• Parking lots near Boulogne-Billancourt (10-15 minute walk)
• Valet parking services offered by certain high-end establishments in the vicinity

The easiest way is :

• Metro line 10: Porte d’Auteuil or Michel-Ange Molitor stations
• Bus or VTC

Eating at Roland-Garros

Inside the stadium, the offer has expanded considerably in recent years.
Today, you’ll find :

• Fast but qualitative stands
• More premium spaces with table service
• Proposals signed by guest chefs, depending on the edition

Lunch can quickly become a moment in itself, especially between two match sessions.

Where to eat around Roland-Garros

Molitor Restaurant

Set in the grounds of the Hôtel Molitor, the restaurant offers an elegant interlude around the legendary swimming pool. Ideal for prolonging the spirit of the tournament in a luminous, peaceful setting.

Auteuil brasserie

A lively, green address, perfect after a day on the courts. Generous Italian cuisine, pleasant terrace, lively but controlled atmosphere.

Auteuil Congress

Large Parisian brasserie with classic charm. Seafood, traditional dishes and non-stop service: a sure bet, especially on match nights.

A Parisian interlude apart

The French Open is more than just a tournament. It’s an atmosphere.
A suspended moment when Paris takes on an air of summer before its time. We come for the sport, of course. But also for the light on the clay, for the silences before the serves, for the conversations that continue on the terraces after the matches.