Discover where to play poker in France with our guide to casinos, featuring a selection of the best establishments for poker enthusiasts.
11.11.2024
Article written by Gandalf, professional poker player, co-founder of Poker Sciences.
List of Casinos with Texas Hold’em Poker in France
France is home to several prestigious casinos where Texas Hold’em poker enthusiasts can compete. Whether you’re a casual player or a regular grinder, here’s a selection of the 10 most popular casinos where you’ll find poker tables:
Casino Barrière Deauville
Casino Barrière Deauville
City
Deauville, Normandy
Schedule
Poker opens at 8:30 PM on Fridays, 9:00 PM on Saturdays. Every day at 8:30 PM in July/August, 9:00 PM on Saturdays.
Cash game
Buy-in: €250 (registration 30 minutes prior)
Tournaments
First Saturday of the month at 5:00 PM. €400 + €40, single Re-entry / 20,000 chips.
Monday to Thursday from 3:00 PM to 4:00 AM, Friday until 5:00 AM, Saturday, public holidays, and their eves from 4:00 PM to 5:00 AM, and Sunday from 4:00 PM to 4:00 AM.
For players who have never participated in a live poker game in a casino, the process may seem intimidating. However, it is straightforward and governed by clear rules. Here’s how a poker game in a casino unfolds, from registration to the end of the session.
Tips for Your First Games in a Casino
Registering at the Table and Buying Chips
When you arrive at a casino to play poker, the first step is to register for a cash game or tournament:
Choosing a table: If you wish to join a cash game table, register with the poker table staff. You may be asked about your preferred poker variant (usually Texas Hold’em or Omaha) and the betting limit you wish to play.
Buying chips: Once registered, you’ll need to buy chips at the casino cashier. Minimum buy-ins vary depending on the table, starting at around €50 for low-stakes games.
<span class="inarticle_section">ℹ️ For tournaments, you must register in advance (or on-site if spots are available) by paying the buy-in, which grants you a set amount of chips to start the game.</span>
How a Live Poker Game Unfolds
Once at the table, it’s important to understand certain specifics about poker in a casino:
Dealer’s role: Unlike home games, dealers handle all actions at the table. They deal the cards, manage the pot, and ensure the rules are followed.
Blind structure and time management: In cash games, blinds remain constant, while in tournaments, blinds increase according to a predetermined structure. The dealer will announce blind changes and the time left for each level.
House rules: Each casino has specific rules to follow, including handling cards, minimum raise amounts, and general table behavior.
Tips for Proper Behavior in a Casino Poker Game
Good etiquette is essential to be respected at the table:
Never reveal your hand before the showdown: This universal casino rule may result in penalties if violated.
Stay focused and prompt: Don’t take too long to make decisions, as this slows the game.
Keep your chips visible: Other players must see your chip stack. Hiding them is against the rules.
Avoid distractions: Refrain from excessive phone use or engaging with spectators, as it may disturb others.
Be a good loser and winner: Respect is fundamental in live poker. Avoid boasting about wins or reacting poorly to losses.
<span class="inarticle_section">🫱🏼🫲🏻 While competitive, poker in a casino is ultimately a social game where respecting fellow players and staff ensures a positive gaming experience.</span>
Legality of Casinos in France
Games of chance, including poker, are strictly regulated in France to ensure player safety. French casinos are subject to the laws of the National Gaming Authority (ANJ), which enforces compliance with gambling standards. Only licensed casinos are authorized to offer poker games and other gambling activities.
Licensed casinos are typically located in tourist and spa towns.
Key Points of Regulations:
Strict licensing: Casinos must obtain a license issued by the Ministry of the Interior, which sets stringent criteria for transparency, security, and player protection.
Casino locations: By law, casinos must be in spa, seaside, or tourist towns, limiting the establishment of new venues.
Minimum age: Players must be at least 18 years old to participate in gambling activities, with ID required at entry.
All establishments undergo regular inspections to ensure compliance with responsible gambling and fraud prevention standards. Moreover, French casinos implement responsible gambling programs, including betting limits and addiction prevention services.
<span class="inarticle_section">👉🏿 Players can visit these casinos confidently, knowing they are playing under transparent and regulated conditions.</span>
Online Casinos – Playing Poker Safely in France
In addition to physical casinos, poker enthusiasts can play online on legal platforms. Since 2010, the online gambling market has been regulated in France, allowing players to join online poker games with legal and financial protection.
<span class="inarticle_section">⚽ Online poker and sports betting platforms were legalized in France in 2010, coinciding with the FIFA World Cup that year.</span>
The rest of the article is reserved for members of Poker Sciences. Good news, registration is 100% free.
