The Rugby World Cup tournament is a global sporting event that hundreds of thousands travel to see.
France will host the 2023 Rugby World Cup from 8 September to 28 October. Matches are being held in:
If you're attending the World Cup during September/October, be prepared and plan for your safety. Read our advice below, along with the travel advice for France. Subscribe to the travel advice to be updated if things change.
On this page:
Transport and venues
Transport routes around the stadiums will be very busy during the tournament. Expect significant congestion and delays in traffic and on public transport.
Plan your journey and leave plenty of time to avoid issues, particularly on match days when travelling to the stadium. Local authorities may ask fans to access or leave the stadium by specific routes.
Information about the stadiums is available on the France Rugby World Cup website, including:
- transport to and from the venue
- accessibility
- parking.
Unticketed fan zones (Rugby Villages) will be available outside venues. These are 'first come, first served' and will likely be crowded.
Security
Luggage and specific items are prohibited in the stadium grounds. Restrictions may vary between stadiums. Be prepared to be asked to check large bags in when you enter match venues. Check the France Rugby World Cup FAQ page for prohibited items.
Crowded places are attractive targets for terrorism. France's domestic terror threat is at the medium level - 'Reinforced security - Risk of attack' (Government of France, French language only). Attacks can occur at any time. Methods of attack have included knife attacks, shootings, bombings, and vehicle attacks.
To reduce your risks:
- be alert to possible threats, especially in public places and large crowds
- report anything suspicious to the police
- monitor the news for any new threats
- take official warnings seriously
- follow the instructions of local authorities.
Authorities have additional powers to deal with counter-terrorism security. There'll be enhanced security in all major cities throughout the tournament. In some public areas, they may:
- restrict access
- perform random spot checks, searching your bags and vehicle
- ask for proof of identity.
For more information, see our advice on terrorism.
Public demonstrations and strikes
Strikes are frequent across France. Expect demonstrations and disruptions affecting public transport and other public services when they occur.
If a demonstration starts near you, move away from the location to a safe place. Monitor local media for updates. Never participate in a public protest while you're travelling overseas.
For more information, see our advice on demonstrations and civil unrest.
Crime
Bag snatching and pickpocketing are common across France, particularly on the streets of larger cities. Take care of your personal belongings.
- Don't carry more cash than you need.
- Carry wallets and phones in a theft-proof bag, not your back pocket.
- Don't put your valuables on the table when dining outside.
- Hold backpacks where you can on public transport. Don't wear them on your back.
- Pay attention to your surroundings when in a crowd.
- Put your bag somewhere it's not visible in your car, and don't leave valuables in it when you're not.
- Only use ATMs in secure locations, and put all cash and cards away before leaving.
Be on the lookout for scams. Only buy transport, accommodation and event tickets from verified sellers.
For more, see our advice on theft and robbery.
Local laws
You must always carry a photo ID, such as your passport or driver's licence. Police conduct random checks, particularly at borders. Make sure to look after your passport.
Alcohol and drugs
France has strict drink-driving laws. Police regularly carry out roadside checks for alcohol and drugs. Penalties include fines, loss of licence and prison.
Alcohol will be available to purchase at World Cup venues. Take public transport if you plan to have a drink. And drink responsibly - your travel insurance will likely not cover you if you hurt yourself or lose something valuable while drinking.
See our advice on partying safely for more information.
Photography
It's illegal to photograph security forces, including the police. Penalties may include authorities detaining you and deleting your images or footage and confiscating your camera/device.
Flying drones is prohibited in Paris. Prohibitions also exist in other locations in France. Check with local authorities.
Read more advice about staying within the law overseas.
Where to get help
Depending on the help you need, your best option may be to first contact your family, friends, airline or travel insurer. Your travel insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.
Local emergency contacts
Call 112 for all local emergency services.
Consular help
Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in France.
4 Rue Jean Rey
75015 Paris, France
Telephone: (+33 1) 4059 3300
E-mail: consular.paris@dfat.gov.au
Website: france.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: L'Australie en France
Twitter: AusAmbFR
Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.
24-hour Consular Emergency Centre
In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:
- +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
- 1300 555 135 in Australia