Exploring the Out Door Escape Game in Bordeaux: A Closer Look

If you’re planning a trip to Bordeaux and enjoy a good puzzle or interactive experience, the Escape Game Magic Team activity offers a lively and engaging way to explore the city’s streets. It’s a game designed for friends, family, or colleagues who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of mental challenge. While it’s not a traditional tour with a guide or museums, it offers something more playful — an outdoor puzzle hunt that tests your ingenuity while you soak in Bordeaux’s charming atmosphere.
What we really like about this experience is its flexibility and modern twist. You can start the game whenever it fits into your schedule, and it’s all managed through a smartphone app, making it easy to pick up and go. Plus, the game is set in the historic city center, which means you’ll be walking through some of the most picturesque parts of Bordeaux. On the downside, the activity relies heavily on your phone’s network, and some reviews hint that it’s more suited to those who enjoy puzzles and walking rather than a leisurely stroll. This adventure is perfect for travelers looking for something interactive, especially if they’re after a personalized experience without the constraints of scheduled tours.
This activity tends to suit groups of up to six people who enjoy a mixture of history, mystery, and a little friendly competition. If you’re hoping for a traditional sightseeing tour or don’t like walking or puzzles, this might not be the best fit. However, for those who love a blend of urban exploration and brainteasers, it could become a highlight of your trip.
Key Points
- Flexible Scheduling: Play whenever you wish, no prior reservation needed.
- City Center Adventure: Set in Bordeaux’s historic streets, perfect for enjoying the city’s vibe.
- Interactive and Independent: Guided by an app, your group controls the pace and stops.
- Time-Limited Challenge: Complete the game in approximately 2 hours, with a real sense of urgency.
- Photogenic Memories: Photos and videos are saved directly to your phone, easy to share.
- Cost-Effective for Small Groups: Around $80 for up to 6 people — good value considering the personalized experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Bordeaux.
An In-Depth Look at the Experience
The Escape Game Magic Team in Bordeaux offers a fresh way to spend a couple of hours in this lively city. The game begins at Place de la Comédie, a central and iconic location that’s easy to find and a great starting point. From there, your group embarks on a quest to thwart an evil spell cast by a condemned man. The story is simple enough to follow but engaging enough to keep you moving and thinking.
The core of the game involves visiting various families and notable sites in the city. Your phone will display a scenario, and you’ll be prompted to meet with families or their servants, each holding a code word. These code words are crucial—they help you gather clues and get closer to finding the secret underground platform. The game’s narrative feels imaginative, transporting you into a world of mystery and magic, which appeals especially to those with a fondness for storytelling.
One of the standout features is how the game encourages problem-solving. According to reviews, the riddles are varied and require some thought—”Some riddles that require thought and challenges to complete,” as one reviewer shared. It’s not just about finding your way; you’ll have to think critically to connect clues and decode the four key code words. This combination of mental activity and outdoor exploration makes it more than just a walk through Bordeaux; it’s an interactive puzzle.
Participants are provided with a free app download that delivers instructions, scenario details, and the game’s structure. Each group gets a unique code to access their adventure. The app also allows users to take photos and videos, which are automatically saved to their device, adding a fun way to document the experience.
The duration of around 2 hours is reasonable, giving you enough time to enjoy the game without feeling rushed. The clock is ticking — the platform and access will disappear after 120 minutes, so timing is everything. This creates a sense of urgency that makes the experience more thrilling. It’s important to note that the activity ends back at the starting point, so there’s no need for transportation or extra planning.
The cost, approximately $80 for a group of up to six, is quite competitive considering the personalized, app-driven nature of the activity. It’s a good value if you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy puzzles and a city walk. However, be aware that your own smartphone is essential — the activity doesn’t include physical guides or printed materials, and a solid network connection is necessary for smooth gameplay.
What to Expect at Each Step
Starting at Place de la Comédie, you’re immediately immersed in the lively heart of Bordeaux. As you progress, you’ll visit different families—each representing a different part of Bordeaux’s social fabric. The game guides you with clues and hints, but you’ll need to work together to solve riddles, find clues, and connect the dots. The riddles are described as “well-functioning” by reviewers, and the Harry Potter-themed scenario is praised for its faithful atmosphere, although this may vary depending on the theme you choose.
One review highlights that the app functions very well, making the experience straightforward, while another points out that the game is “far from being adapted to everyone” given the walking involved. If your group includes children or older travelers, consider their stamina and interest in walking around. The activity involves a fair amount of outdoor movement—count on about 2 hours of walking with occasional pauses.
Authenticity and Fun
Many reviewers say they had a “fun” time, noting that it’s a great way to combine sightseeing with mental challenges. One mentions that the riddles required thought, and everyone enjoyed the challenge, which is a good sign that the game strikes a balance between entertainment and brainwork. Another review describes a “very good moment,” especially during a day spent with friends, praising the app’s reliability and the universe created by the game.
However, not everyone found the experience perfect. A reviewer with a family of five found the distance and exercise involved to be more than they bargained for, and the game’s suitability might depend on your group’s preferences for physical activity. It’s worth noting that the storyline and interactive elements, like meeting families and gathering clues, are what set this activity apart from a simple city walk.
Practical Considerations
Since the activity is booked 12 days in advance on average and costs around $80, it’s a good idea to plan ahead if you’re on a tight schedule. You can start the game on the same day without reservation, which adds flexibility—ideal if your plans are somewhat spontaneous.
The meeting point at Place de la Comédie is central and accessible via public transportation, adding to its convenience. The activity ends at the same spot, so no extra transport is needed to wrap up.
- The Most Complete and Best Rated Tour of Bordeaux
- Bordeaux by Bicycle: a 3-Hour Tour Immersive Experience
- Saint-Emilion Small-Group Electric Bike Wine Tour Tastings & Lunch From Bordeaux
- Professional – Bordeaux Wine and Cheese Tasting With a Walking Tour
- Bordeaux Full Day Wine Tour – 3 Wineries & Gourmet Picnic Lunch
- Medoc Small-Group Wine Tour With Tastings & Chateau Visits From Bordeaux
Final Thoughts on Value
The price of about $80 splits nicely among up to six people, making it a relatively affordable and unique activity. It’s less about traditional sightseeing and more about interactive fun, perfect if you’re tired of walking through museums or sitting in cafes and want a more engaging way to explore Bordeaux.
Who Will Love This?

This experience is ideal for small groups who enjoy puzzles, storytelling, and city exploration. If your travel companions include teens or adults who appreciate a challenge and a bit of competition, you’ll likely find this activity a hit. It’s especially well-suited for families with older children or groups of friends looking for a memorable, interactive way to see Bordeaux’s streets.
On the other hand, if you prefer a relaxed, guided tour or aren’t keen on walking or solving riddles, you might find this less satisfying. It’s also not suitable for those who rely heavily on physical mobility or prefer a guided experience with a guide rather than an app.
The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?
For travelers seeking a fun, flexible way to explore Bordeaux’s city center, this outdoor escape game provides a charming mix of mystery and sightseeing. The storyline and puzzle-solving elements make it more than just a walk, adding a layer of engagement that can turn an ordinary day into an adventure.
If you appreciate interactive activities that challenge your brain and keep you moving, this tour offers good value at a reasonable price. It’s especially perfect for small groups or families who want to spend a couple of hours actively exploring with a fun narrative guiding their way.
While it’s not a traditional sightseeing tour with detailed commentary, it compensates by offering a personalized, game-based experience that highlights Bordeaux’s streets in a different, memorable way. Just remember to carry a charged phone, be ready to walk, and enjoy the puzzles along the way.
FAQ
Do I need to book in advance?
Not necessarily. You can start the game on the same day without prior reservation, but booking 12 days ahead is typical and ensures availability.
How many people can participate?
Up to 6 people per group, making it perfect for families, friends, or small teams.
What do I need to bring?
Your own smartphone is essential, and a good network connection (3/4/5G recommended). No physical guide is provided.
How long does the activity last?
The game lasts about 2 hours, but it’s important to start within the 120-minute window before access disappears.
Is it suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the walking distance and the puzzle difficulty. It’s better suited for older children and adults.
What’s the starting point?
The activity begins at Place de la Comédie, a central and accessible location in Bordeaux.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
In essence, if you’re looking to add a dash of mystery and challenge to your Bordeaux visit, this outdoor escape game offers a lively, engaging, and uniquely personal way to see the city while solving puzzles and making memories.
More Tour Reviews in Bordeaux
- Private Wine Tour with Food Pairing Saint-Émilion
- Enigmatic Ghosts, Crimes, & haunting Tales of dark Bordeaux
- Margaux & the Medoc private wine tour in a classic Citroën car
- Bordeaux in a Day City and Chateau Visit Shared Walking Tour
- Bordeaux by the Water commented cruise
- Visits and Tastings in the Médoc in Small Group with Meal
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Bordeaux we have reviewed
- Private Wine Tour with Food Pairing Saint-Émilion
- Enigmatic Ghosts, Crimes, & haunting Tales of dark Bordeaux
- Margaux & the Medoc private wine tour in a classic Citroën car
- Bordeaux in a Day City and Chateau Visit Shared Walking Tour
- Bordeaux by the Water commented cruise
- Visits and Tastings in the Médoc in Small Group with Meal
- Bordeaux Traditional Gourmet Walking Food Tour
- Escape Game outdoor The Walking Dead in Bordeaux
- Bordeaux Awakens Private Sunrise Serenity Morning Tour
- Bordeaux: Wine tasting with a DipWSET, CMS Certified Sommelier
- Medoc 1855 Individual Full Day Wine Tour
- Medoc Wine Route Private Guided Day Tour with Luxury Picnic
