Parisians know how to start an evening right. This pre-dinner activity combines the classic French pastime of petanque (or bocce ball) with delightful aperitifs in a historic Bastille setting. Under the guidance of friendly hosts, even beginners can expect to master the game’s fundamentals and enjoy a lively social atmosphere. With the competition heating up and the drinks flowing, this 1.5-hour experience promises an unforgettable taste of Parisian culture before the main event.
Key Points
- Experience the traditional French sport of petanque (bocce ball) in the historic surroundings of La Bastille, Paris.
- Enjoy an evening session with local experts providing instruction in English and French, along with classic French aperitif drinks and snacks.
- No special equipment or prior experience required, as the boules set and necessary equipment are provided for a hassle-free experience.
- Opportunity to immerse in local culture and socialize with others in a fun and engaging atmosphere.
- Overall positive customer feedback, with an average rating of 4.3/5 and appreciation for the knowledgeable and friendly guides.
Activity Overview
The activity offers visitors a chance to experience the traditional French sport of boules, also known as petanque or bocce ball, while enjoying pre-dinner drinks in the historic surroundings of la Bastille in Paris.
Priced from 6,140 CZK per group (up to 1 person), the 1.5-hour experience takes place at 32 Bd de la Bastille, with the meeting point outside the shop Cascade, where an instructor in a pink vest will be waiting near the Bastille metro station.
No special equipment or prior experience is required, as the activity includes all necessary boules set and instruction from local experts fluent in English and French.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Paris.
Experience Description
Visitors can engage in the beloved French sport of boules, also known as petanque or bocce ball, in the historic surroundings of la Bastille.
Visitors can engage in the beloved French sport of boules, also known as petanque or bocce ball, in the historic surroundings of la Bastille.
No prior experience is necessary, as local experts provide instruction in both English and French. The evening sessions start at 5:30 pm, allowing participants to enjoy good wine and snacks for a traditional French apéritif.
The boules set and necessary equipment are provided, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
This activity offers a unique opportunity to take in the local culture and socialize with fellow travelers or Parisians.
What to Expect
When participants arrive at the meeting point, they’ll be greeted by a local expert in a pink vest near the Bastille metro station.
The guide will provide a brief introduction to petanque, the beloved French boules game. Participants will then head to a nearby park or square to play, surrounded by the historic architecture of la Bastille.
Throughout the session, the guide will offer tips and instructions, ensuring everyone has a fun and engaging experience.
Alongside the game, participants can enjoy classic French aperitif drinks and snacks, creating a convivial pre-dinner atmosphere.
Inclusions
The experience includes a boules set and all necessary equipment for the petanque game.
Participants will also enjoy:
A fun and social atmosphere in the historic surroundings of la Bastille, with snacks, drinks, and expert guidance.
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Snacks and drinks for an authentic French apéritif
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Guidance from local experts fluent in both English and French
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No special equipment or prior experience required to play
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A fun and social atmosphere in the historic surroundings of la Bastille
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A convenient meeting point near the Bastille metro station
Booking Information
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This allows for flexible travel plans.
Plus, the "Reserve now & pay later" option is available, further accommodating guests’ scheduling needs. The overall booking process is straightforward, ensuring a seamless experience.
With an average rating of 4.3/5 based on 8 reviews, the activity offers good value for money according to past participants. Some comments note the need for clearer meeting instructions, which may be an area for improvement.
The booking information provides the necessary details for a pleasant pre-dinner Parisian experience.
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Customer Feedback
What do past participants have to say about this pre-dinner Parisian experience?
According to the customer feedback, it’s an enjoyable activity with a solid overall rating of 4.3/5. The value for money is rated 4/5, suggesting it’s a good deal.
This pre-dinner Parisian experience receives a solid 4.3/5 rating, offering good value for money at 4/5 according to customer feedback.
Key highlights from the reviews include:
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Praise for the knowledgeable and friendly guides
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A need for clearer meeting instructions to find the exact location
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An appreciation for the historic backdrop of the Bastille area
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The opportunity to try a traditional French sport in a social setting
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The inclusion of drinks and snacks for a classic Parisian aperitif.
Meeting Point and Location
As indicated in the activity overview, the meeting point for this experience is outside the shop Cascade, near the Bastille metro station.
The instructor, wearing a pink vest, will be waiting at this location. The experience takes place at 32 Bd de la Bastille, in the historic surroundings of la Bastille.
This area is conveniently accessible, as it’s served by metro lines 1, 5, and 8. Participants can easily find the meeting spot and join the group to enjoy an evening of traditional French boules, drinks, and snacks in this iconic Parisian setting.
French Apéritif and Socializing
One of the highlights of this experience is the opportunity to enjoy a traditional French apéritif.
Participants will be treated to a selection of local wines and snacks as they socialize and learn the rules of the classic game of pétanque (boules).
This allows visitors to enjoy French culture and enjoy a convivial atmosphere before their dinner plans.
The experience provides:
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Sampling of local wines and aperitifs
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Traditional French savory snacks
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Guidance from knowledgeable English-speaking instructors
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Chance to mingle with fellow participants
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Scenic backdrop of the historic Bastille district
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Petanque/Bocce Ball Set?
The activity provides all necessary equipment, so you don’t need to bring your own petanque/bocce ball set. However, you’re welcome to use your own set if you prefer, as the activity is focused on enjoying the game.
Is There a Dress Code for This Activity?
There’s no formal dress code for this activity. Guests can wear comfortable, casual clothing suitable for playing an outdoor game. The focus is on enjoying the experience, so there are no specific attire requirements.
What Is the Minimum Group Size Required?
The minimum group size required is 1 person. The activity can be booked for up to 1 person, though larger groups are welcome to participate together.
Can I Request a Specific Start Time?
Yes, you can request a specific start time for the activity. The booking allows for flexible scheduling, so you can coordinate the 1.5-hour session to fit your pre-dinner plans in Paris.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
There are no age restrictions for participants. The activity is suitable for all ages and is enjoyed by groups of all generations, providing a fun and inclusive experience.
The Wrap Up
This engaging petanque experience in Paris combines the traditional French sport with classic aperitifs, offering a unique pre-dinner activity. Beginners and seasoned players alike can enjoy the fun social atmosphere, expert guidance, and the opportunity to enjoy local culture. With a boules set, drinks, and tasty snacks included, it’s an unforgettable way to start an evening in the City of Light.
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