🥇 Where to play pétanque in Paris? The best courses, from the most unusual to the most confidential
Paris may not have a southern accent, but it does have pétanque courts. In the shade of a plane tree or in the heart of the Marais district, the capital is full of perfect spots to get the triplets out. Whether you're a weekend shooter, a seasoned pétanque player, or simply aperitif-lover, we've compiled a list of the best pétanque courts in Paris.
🏛️ Paris Center: the story
🥏 Place Dauphine – 75001
Atmosphere : In the heart of Paris, under the trees
At the end of the Île de la Cité, between two games of chess or a glass of wine, pétanque reigns supreme. It's THE romantic and central spot, just a stone's throw from the Pont Neuf. The sandy ground is perfect for a leisurely game of pétanque.
📍Address: Place Dauphine, 75001 Paris
Photo © French Moments 
🎨 Tuileries Garden – 75001
Atmosphere : Competitive pétanque
The garden's paths are wide, shaded, and very popular with fans of wild games. You'll encounter as many curious tourists as true enthusiasts.
📍Address: Tuileries Garden, 75001 Paris
Perfect for : Playing in peace and quiet right in the center.
🏛️ Royal Palace Garden – 75001
Atmosphere : Masterful
Fancy playing pétanque in a prestigious historic setting? Then head to the gardens of the Palais Royal, created by Richelieu himself. Playing pétanque in this majestic setting is a real treat! But the tranquility of the place requires a certain restraint. So the only watchword: remain dignified!
📍Address: 2 Galerie de Montpensier, 75001 Paris
Perfect for : An elegant party in a royal setting.
📚 Left Bank: culture and boules on the terrace
🏟️ Arenas of Lutèce – 75005
Atmosphere : Asterix and Obelix
Yes, you can play pétanque in a Roman amphitheater. This unique venue is also used for soccer and theater… but it's even better with a game and a bottle of rosé.
📍Address: 49 Rue Monge, 75005 Paris
Perfect for : A timeless game
🌳 Luxembourg Gardens – 75006
Atmosphere : Classic Parisian
Two pétanque courts are located near the south gate. A calm atmosphere, with sharp retirees and a few local students. It's a bit like the Roland-Garros of the jack.
📍Address: Rue de Médicis, 75006 Paris
Perfect for : Purists.
🏞️ Esplanade des Invalides – 75007
Atmosphere : XXL Relaxation
Large, airy, perfect for large teams and long games. Also ideal for a picnic and boules session overlooking the Golden Dome.
📍Address: Avenue de Tourville, 75007 Paris
Perfect for : Groups of friends on a party.
🎯 The land to visit
The Club du Tertre and its bar – 18th
Atmosphere : Licensed and very Montmartre
This private but not showy pétanque club located next to Place du Tertre isn't open to just anyone. Reserved for a select few members and lovers of the hill, this private terrain is lined with artists, historic bars, and a few local veterans.
📍Address: Place du Tertre, 75018 Paris (access by invitation)
Perfect for : Playing pétanque like a true Montmartre resident.
Discover this beautiful club that we love in our collaboration video with the Obut brand.
🌆 Bonus: alternative & unusual places to try
🍷 Buttes-Chaumont Park (19th)
Atmosphere : Aperitif-guinguette
Playing pétanque, glass of rosé in hand, in one of Paris's coolest parks? Yes, and you can even dance afterward.
📍 Address: 2 Av. de la Cascade, 75019 Paris
Perfect for : Drinking & pointing. Not always in that order.
🚂 La REcyclerie – 18th
Atmosphere : Eco-friendly third place + railway pétanque
A former train station transformed into a sustainable events spot, the REcyclerie sometimes offers impromptu games on the disused rails.
📍 Address: 83 Boulevard Ornano, 75018 Paris
Perfect for : Eco-friendly hipsters (we love you).
🤫 Impasse Berthaud – 3rd
Atmosphere : Ultra confidential
Hidden between two buildings in the Marais district, this small paved square is perfect for a game among the initiated. Not official at all, but tolerated.
📍 Address: Impasse Berthaud, 75003 Paris
Perfect for : Purists in clandestine mode.
🌳 Square Suzanne Buisson – 18th
Atmosphere : Breathtaking view
Perched high atop Montmartre Hill, the discreet Suzanne Buisson Square hides a delightful pétanque court overlooking Paris. This private spot only has one court, so you'll have to wait to enjoy it. But the breathtaking view of the capital is well worth the sacrifice!
📍Address: 7 bis Rue Girardon, 75018 Paris
Perfect for : A game with a panorama.
🏞️ Square Émile-Chautemps – 75003
Atmosphere : Urban and relaxed
Located across from the Gaîté Lyrique, Square Émile Chautemps is a small oasis of calm away from the hustle and bustle of the Réaumur-Sébastopol district. Its long pétanque court is very popular with locals. Perfect for a few games after work or on weekends, between exhibitions at the Gaîté!
📍Address: 98 bis boulevard de Sébastopol, 75003 Paris
Perfect for : A party right in the heart of the city.
🌳 Square Maurice-Gardette – 75011
Atmosphere : Family and friendly
Double Dragon, Krügen, Atelier des Lumières, Le Servan… If you like going out (and especially eating), the area around Gardette Square has the feel of Eden. And if you like to relax and unwind, the square also has some great attractions to offer, including a kiosk, children's games, and a space entirely dedicated to pétanque.
📍Address: Rue du Général-Blaise, 75011 Paris
Perfect for : A game with family or friends.
🌳 Square des Batignolles – 75017
Atmosphere : Bucolic and peaceful
This delightfully bucolic setting has become one of the most popular spots for boules aficionados. A true English garden, swans mingle with strollers. Tournaments are regularly held here. Enjoy a game of bowls in complete peace!
📍Address: 147, rue Cardinet, 75017 Paris
Perfect for : A relaxing game in a green setting.
🧭 And in your neighborhood?
Paris is full of hidden playgrounds. From Square Léon in the 18th arrondissement to the banks of the Seine in the 12th arrondissement, including schoolyards open on weekends, all you have to do is keep your eyes peeled. And always keep your triplets in your Club Pétanque tote bag.
💡 Club Tip: Get kitted out at Club Pétanque
Join the Pétanque Club, discover our iconic t-shirts , sweatshirts and caps to play this summer.
🔚 Conclusion: Paris, capital of pétanque?
Whether you're a Right Bank or Left Bank fan, a fan of secret spots or unusual places, Paris is a life-size playground. So you too, join the Club...