Accor Arena is one of Paris’s most famous event venues, located in the vibrant Bercy neighborhood of the 12th arrondissement. Opened in 1984 and originally known as Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy (POPB), it underwent a major renovation before reopening in 2015. That year, following a naming partnership with Accor, it became AccorHotels Arena; it has used the current Accor Arena name since 2020. The arena is known for hosting everything from major sports events and concerts to comedy shows and international tournaments. For visitors carrying large bags or luggage, a Accor Arena storage point is available nearby, making it easier to enjoy the event without carrying extra weight.
The arena offers an unforgettable experience with its modern design, excellent acoustics, and massive seating capacity of up to 20,300 people, depending on the configuration. Depending on the event, the space is transformed to suit basketball games, ice hockey, combat sports, or pop concerts. Visitors can expect dazzling light displays, high-quality sound systems, and a buzzing crowd. From global stars like Madonna and BTS to major international sporting events, Accor Arena regularly hosts top-tier entertainment in the heart of Paris.
Accor Arena Bag Policy
Types of Bags Allowed
At Accor Arena, handbags and shoulder bags with a capacity of 30 liters or less may be admitted after inspection, although the event organizer can impose stricter conditions.
All permitted bags are subject to security screening at the entrance. There is no general clear-bag requirement, so visitors do not need to bring a transparent bag specifically for the Arena.
Medical necessities should be declared to security staff when entering, and event-specific rules should always be checked before arrival.
Types of Bags Not Allowed
Backpacks are not allowed inside the event hall, regardless of their size. However, they can generally be left at the Arena’s cloakroom for €2 per item, subject to any additional restrictions imposed by the event organizer.
Suitcases and travel bags are not permitted inside Accor Arena and cannot be accepted at the cloakroom either. Visitors arriving with this type of luggage should arrange external storage before coming to the venue.
Other bulky items or objects that could present a danger to visitors are also prohibited. Event organizers may introduce additional restrictions, so always check the specific event page before attending.
Accor Arena Lockers
Accor Arena does not have public self-service lockers. However, it does operate cloakrooms in the Grand Hall and at the entrance to the Pit.
The cloakrooms are intended specifically for items that are prohibited inside the event hall, such as backpacks, motorcycle helmets, or strollers. The current fee is €2 per item.
Items must be collected no later than 30 minutes after the end of the event.
Importantly, suitcases and travel bags cannot be stored in the Arena’s cloakrooms, so visitors carrying travel luggage should use an external luggage storage service instead.
Accor Arena Transportation
Getting to Accor Arena is simple and convenient thanks to its central Paris location. One of the fastest ways is by metro. You can take Line 14 to the station “Bercy,” which is located right next to the arena. Line 6 also serves Bercy station, making it easy for people coming from different parts of the city.
Another option is using the RER. The RER A stops at Gare de Lyon, which is within walking distance of the venue. Buses, including Lines 24 and 87, also serve the Bercy area and can be useful depending on where you are coming from.
For those who prefer to drive, Accor Arena has a car park at 85 Rue de Bercy. Parking spaces must currently be booked online in advance. The car park opens when the Arena opens to the public and remains accessible for one hour after the event ends. Vehicles must be under 1.90 meters in height.
Ride-sharing services and taxis can also be used, although traffic may be heavy before and after major events.
Accor Arena Camera Policy
The Arena’s current camera rules are stricter than simply banning professional equipment. Filming inside Accor Arena is prohibited.
Cameras, camcorders, GoPros and similar small recording cameras are prohibited, as are DSLR cameras with interchangeable lenses and selfie sticks.
However, compact digital cameras, bridge cameras, and small disposable cameras without flash are permitted under the general venue rules.
Individual event organizers may impose additional restrictions, so always check the conditions for your specific event before bringing photographic equipment.
Accor Arena Food Policy
Outside food and drinks are not allowed inside Accor Arena. The venue’s current general rules prohibit visitors from bringing their own food or beverages into the event areas.
The Arena has a variety of food options available inside, including counters serving burgers, hot dogs, pizza, paninis, snacks, vegetarian and vegan options, as well as soft drinks and other beverages. The exact selection can vary depending on the event.
Some individual events may introduce specific rules regarding water bottles or other items, so visitors should check their event page before arriving.
Other Accor Arena Rules & Information
Re-entry is generally not permitted once you leave the controlled areas of Accor Arena. Under the Arena’s rules, an exit is normally final, although exceptions may be made at the request of an event organizer in exceptional circumstances.
Smoking and the use of electronic cigarettes are prohibited outside the designated smoking area. Accor Arena currently has a dedicated smoking area opposite doors J/K on the Gallery level, so visitors do not need to leave the venue entirely to use the designated area.
There is no general minimum age for entry to Accor Arena. However, the venue strongly advises against bringing children under 3 years old, and every child, regardless of age, must have a valid ticket.
Accor Arena also reserves the right to refuse admission to visitors under 16 who are not accompanied by an adult and do not have parental authorization. Individual events may introduce their own age restrictions, so parents should check the ticket conditions carefully.
Strollers and buggies are not permitted in the event halls but can be left at the cloakroom for €2 per item.
Tips for Visitors
Before visiting Accor Arena, check out the official website. It provides updated event information, entrance procedures, restrictions, parking details, and accessibility information. Because some policies are determined by individual organizers, checking the page for your specific event is particularly important.
Do not rely on a clear bag to speed up entry. Accor Arena does not have a general clear-bag policy. Instead, make sure any handbag or shoulder bag is 30 liters or less and be prepared for it to be inspected.
Remember that backpacks cannot be carried into the event hall, regardless of size. They can generally be checked at the Arena cloakroom for €2, while suitcases and travel bags cannot be brought into the venue or stored in its cloakroom at all.
If you have large travel luggage, leave it at your accommodation or use a nearby storage option. Qeepl storage costs €4.39 per item per day, and luggage is protected by insurance coverage of €1,000.
