Can I go play poker at the Palais des Congrès anytime?

No. The venue only operates as a poker room during specific scheduled festivals (usually in February for the EPT). The rest of the year, it hosts congresses and concerts.

Do I need a passport to enter?

Yes. France has strict gaming regulations. You must present a valid passport or national ID card to register. Driver’s licenses are often not accepted as a primary form of ID for gambling entry.

Is there a dress code?

During poker festivals at the Palais, the dress code is generally casual . Sportswear (hoodies, sneakers) is widely accepted and common due to the long hours of play. Sunglasses and hats are allowed at the tables.

What currency is used?

ll games are in Euros (€) . Currency exchange is usually available on-site, but buy-ins can often be paid via casino membership cards or online poker accounts (depending on the specific festival rules).

Palais des Congrès de Paris Poker: EPT Tournament Venue & Guide

AdamAuthor

Reviewed by Jessy

Updated: 2025.12.04

Experience the Heart of French Poker at Palais des Congrès

Are you ready for the biggest action in the capital? The Palais des Congrès de Paris has established itself as the ultimate destination for huge poker events in Paris. As the chosen venue for prestigious festivals like the EPT Paris (European Poker Tour), this iconic location at Porte Maillot transforms into a massive arena for elite Texas Hold’em and Omaha action.

Whether you are a professional chasing a title or an enthusiast soaking up the atmosphere, our guide covers everything you need to know about this premier live poker venue. From tournament schedules organized by Club Barrière Paris to essential entry requirements, get ready to shuffle up and deal at the most exciting poker tournament in France.

The Palais des Congrès de Paris is not a permanent casino but a massive event center. In the poker world, it is famous for hosting major international festivals, most notably the PokerStars European Poker Tour (EPT) Paris.
Because the permanent poker clubs in downtown Paris (like Club Barrière or Club Circus) have limited space, these huge tournament series are moved to the Palais des Congrès.

The Experience: During these festivals, the conference halls are transformed into a gigantic poker room with hundreds of tables.
Games: Primarily No Limit Texas Hold’em and Pot Limit Omaha tournaments.
Stakes: Buy-ins range widely, typically from €1,100 (FPS events) to €5,300 (Main Event) and up to €50,000 for High Rollers.
Atmosphere: It feels more like a major sporting event than a traditional dark casino. It attracts a mix of the world’s best professionals and recreational players.