Spending a delightful evening in Paris doesn’t get much better than a pre-dinner outing filled with classic French culture and camaraderie. Visitors can experience the age-old pastime of petanque, or bocce ball, in the historic Bastille area. Guided by local experts, they’ll learn the art of throwing boules while sipping wine or soft drinks in a convivial setting – a unique way to take in Parisian life before dinner.

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Key Points

Engage in a classic French pastime of petanque (bocce ball) game in the historic Bastille area for a 1.5-hour experience.
Enjoy wine or soft drinks while learning how to play the game from local instructors in a convivial atmosphere.
Participate in the guided tour that includes playing boules in a local alleyway and experiencing the local atmosphere.
The experience is wheelchair accessible and suitable for couples, groups, solo travelers, and families.
The activity has an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 8 reviews, with positive feedback on the guide and the fun, social atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

For those interested in experiencing a classic French pastime, this pre-dinner drinks activity with a petanque (bocce ball) game offers an engaging culture.

The 1.5-hour experience takes place in the historic Bastille area, starting at 32 Bd de la Bastille. Availability varies, so check for starting times.

The price is from $267.60 per group (up to 4 participants), and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Priced at $267.60 per group (up to 4), with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

No prior experience is necessary, as local instructors will teach participants how to play this timeless French sport while enjoying wine or soft drinks.

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Experience Description

Engage in boules, a traditional French sport enjoyed by all ages, as part of this pre-dinner drinks experience in the historic area of la Bastille.

Learn to play from local instructors, honing your skills as you throw the boules. Sip a glass of wine or soft drink while playing, creating a convivial atmosphere.

No special equipment or prior experience is required – just bring enthusiasm and a willingness to try something new.

This guided tour allows you to learn about a beloved local pastime, setting the stage for a delightful French evening.

Itinerary and Highlights

The guided tour includes playing boules in a popular local alleyway.

Participants will learn how to throw the boules, the weighted balls used in the game. Attendees can also enjoy snacks and drinks typical of a French apéritif before dinner.

The evening sessions start at 5:30 PM, allowing ample time to play and experience the local atmosphere.

Learn how to throw boules from local instructors
Enjoy snacks and drinks typical of a French apéritif
Evening sessions start at 5:30 PM

Meeting Point and Accessibility

The meeting point for this experience is outside the shop Cascade at 32 Boulevard de la Bastille.

The instructor leading the activity will be wearing a pink vest, making them easy to identify.

The closest metro station is Bastille, which serves lines 1, 5, and 8.

The experience is wheelchair accessible, ensuring it’s inclusive for all travelers.

Whether you’re a couple, group, solo traveler, or family, this petanque game is conveniently located and accessible, allowing you to fully learn about the French apéritif tradition before dinner.

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Customer Feedback

Customers have overall rated this pre-dinner drinks with petanque game experience 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 8 reviews.

The value for money is also scored 4 out of 5. Reviews highlight a nice guide and recommend the experience, though some noted difficulty finding the guide.

This activity is suitable for various traveler types, including:

Couples
Groups
Solo travelers
Families

Reviewers praise the fun and social atmosphere of the petanque game, as well as the opportunity to enjoy French apéritif drinks before dinner.

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History and Significance of Petanque

Petanque, a beloved French pastime, has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. Originating in the South of France, the game involves tossing metal balls as close as possible to a smaller target ball. The game’s simplicity and social nature have contributed to its enduring popularity, making it a fixture at cafes and public spaces across the country. Today, petanque is played by people of all ages, and its tournaments draw enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing the game’s cultural significance and timeless appeal.

| Origin | Objective | Equipment |

| — | — | — |

| South of France | Toss metal balls close to target ball | Metal balls, target ball |

| Early 20th century | Social, competitive | Casual, accessible |

What to Expect and How to Prepare

Participants can expect an engaging introduction to the timeless French pastime of petanque. During this 1.5-hour experience, guests will learn the basics of this social lawn bowling game from local instructors.

They’ll have the opportunity to:

Try their hand at throwing the boules (metal balls) and compete in friendly matches
Sip on a glass of wine or soft drink as they play in a historic alleyway near the Bastille
Enjoy a typical French apéritif of snacks before heading to dinner

No prior experience is necessary – just an enthusiasm for trying something new.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Activity Suitable for Children?

The activity is suitable for children. No prior experience is required, and the instructors provide guidance for all participants, making it an enjoyable experience for both adults and children alike.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

The activity does not allow participants to bring their own food and drinks. Snacks and drinks typical of a French apéritif are provided as part of the experience. Participants are expected to enjoy the provided refreshments during the activity.

What Should We Wear for the Activity?

For the activity, participants should wear comfortable, lightweight clothing and closed-toe shoes that allow for easy movement. It’s recommended to dress in layers as the evening may get cooler. No special equipment is needed.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?

There is no minimum group size requirement for this activity. It can be booked for individuals and groups of up to 1 person, allowing guests to enjoy the experience solo or with their party.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?

There are no discounts or special offers mentioned for this experience. The price is listed as a flat rate from $267.60 per group (up to 1 participant), so group size does not affect the pricing.

The Sum Up

This pre-dinner petanque game in Paris’ historic Bastille area offers a unique cultural experience. Guided by local instructors, you’ll learn the classic French pastime, enjoy drinks, and learn about the local atmosphere before your evening meal. Perfect for all ages, this accessible activity provides a fun and engaging way to explore Parisian culture.

You can check availability for your dates here: