Board Game Cafés in France: Where to Play

A cozy board game café in Paris with wooden tables, shelves full of colorful board games, and people playing games while enjoying coffee

France, known for its rich culture and culinary delights, is also home to a thriving board game scene. For game enthusiasts looking to combine their love for tabletop adventures with the country's famous café culture, we've compiled a guide to some of the best board game cafés across France.

Paris: The Board Game Capital

Paris, the city of lights, offers a plethora of options for board game lovers:

  • Le Dernier Bar avant la Fin du Monde: A geek paradise with an extensive game library and themed decor.
  • Oya: Not just a café, but also a game shop where you can try before you buy.
  • Ludibay: A cozy spot in the 11th arrondissement with over 800 games to choose from.

Lyon: Games and Gastronomy

Lyon, France's culinary capital, also serves up some great gaming spots:

  • Moi j'm'en fous je triche: A local favorite with a vast game selection and regular tournaments.
  • L'Odyssée des Coccinelles: Family-friendly café with games for all ages.
A group of friends playing a strategic board game in a Lyon café, with French pastries and coffee on the table

Marseille: Mediterranean Gaming

The sunny port city of Marseille offers its own unique board game experiences:

  • La Carte à Jouer: A warm, welcoming space with a mix of classic and modern games.
  • Le Manoir du Jeu: Themed rooms and immersive game experiences make this spot stand out.

Bordeaux: Wine and Board Games

In the heart of wine country, Bordeaux offers some delightful gaming venues:

  • Le Jeu de Rôle: A café that combines board games with role-playing game nights.
  • La Cité du Vin et du Jeu: As the name suggests, this unique spot pairs wine tasting with board game sessions.
A Bordeaux board game café interior with wine bottles displayed alongside board games, creating a unique atmosphere

Tips for Visiting French Board Game Cafés

  1. Many cafés charge a small fee for unlimited play time.
  2. Some places offer game explanations in English, but it's helpful to know some basic French game terms.
  3. Weekends can get busy; consider booking in advance or visiting during off-peak hours.
  4. Most cafés offer food and drinks, so you can make an evening of it.
  5. Don't be shy about asking for game recommendations – staff are usually passionate gamers themselves!

Whether you're a casual player or a die-hard gamer, France's board game cafés offer a unique way to experience the country's social culture. From strategic Eurogames to light-hearted party games, there's something for everyone. So next time you're in France, take a break from sightseeing and immerse yourself in the world of tabletop gaming – you might just discover your new favorite pastime!