Game On in Besançon: Where to Catch the Action
Ah, Besançon! This stunning city, cradled by the Doubs River and crowned by its magnificent Vauban citadel, offers so much more than just historical charm and breathtaking views. For the sports enthusiast, Besançon also boasts a vibrant, though perhaps more understated than in larger metropolises, scene for catching live games. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter of AS Ginko, a follower of the French national football team, or simply looking for a lively atmosphere to cheer on your favorite team, I’ve got you covered. As a local who loves to combine my passion for sports with good company and a cold drink, I’ve explored the nooks and crannies to bring you the definitive guide to Besançon’s best sports bars. Get ready to dive into the heart of Besançon’s sporting spirit!
Understanding the Besançon Sports Scene
Before we get to the venues, it’s worth noting that Besançon, while a significant city, doesn’t have the same density of dedicated ‘sports bar’ establishments as, say, Paris or Lyon. Instead, the spirit of sports watching is often found in traditional brasseries and pubs that make a point of showing key matches. This means you’ll often find a more relaxed, local vibe rather than a high-octane, screens-everywhere kind of place. The focus tends to be on community and camaraderie, making it a great way to experience local life while enjoying the game.
Local teams like the football club Racing Besançon (often referred to as AS Ginko) and the handball team Besançon-HBC generate a lot of local pride. International events, especially the Six Nations Rugby Championship, the Tour de France, and major football tournaments, bring everyone together. When a big match is on, expect these places to be buzzing.
Top Picks for Sports Viewing in Besançon
1. Le Pourquoi Pas
Often cited by locals as a go-to spot, Le Pourquoi Pas (meaning ‘Why Not?’) lives up to its name by being a fantastic, unpretentious place to catch a game. Located in the heart of the city, it’s easily accessible and consistently shows major sporting events. They have a good selection of beers on tap, including some local Franche-Comté brews, which is always a plus in my book. The atmosphere is generally friendly and boisterous when there’s a big match. It’s not a massive place, so for crucial games, arriving early is advisable. They often have multiple screens, meaning you might catch a different sport if you have diverse interests within your group.
Insider Tip: During major football tournaments, they sometimes organize special events or themed nights. Check their social media or give them a call a few days in advance if you’re planning to visit during a significant match.
Address: 4 Rue de la République, 25000 Besançon
2. O’Malley’s Irish Pub
For those who enjoy the classic pub atmosphere, O’Malley’s is a solid bet. While it’s an Irish pub, which implies a certain sporting culture, they are particularly good at showing a variety of international sports. You’ll find rugby, football, and sometimes even GAA games here. The ambiance is usually lively, with friendly staff who are accustomed to a crowd. They offer a decent range of beers and hearty pub fare, which is perfect for a long match. It’s a reliable option for catching matches that might not get as much local broadcast attention but are still important to international fans.
Insider Tip: O’Malley’s often has live music on other nights, but on match days, the focus is squarely on the game. Don’t hesitate to ask the staff if they’re showing a specific match you’re interested in – they’re usually accommodating.
Address: 11 Rue du Marais, 25000 Besançon
3. Le P’tit Comptoir
This is more of a traditional French brasserie that also embraces the sporting spirit. Le P’tit Comptoir, nestled in a charming part of Besançon, might surprise you with its dedication to showing key sporting events. It’s a great option if you want a more relaxed, less ‘sports bar’ specific environment but still want to catch the game. The food is often excellent, offering a taste of local cuisine alongside your viewing experience. It’s perfect for a more discerning palate that also enjoys a good match. The atmosphere is usually more conversational, making it ideal for smaller groups who want to discuss the game without shouting over loud music.
Insider Tip: They are known for their ‘plat du jour’ (dish of the day). If you’re going for a mid-day match, this can be a very satisfying and authentic experience. Ask if they’ll be showing your specific game when you book a table, as they are selective about which matches they broadcast.
Address: 15 Rue des Granges, 25000 Besançon
4. Brasserie de l’Hôtel de Ville
This brasserie, located very centrally, is another excellent example of a classic establishment that caters to sports fans. It’s a place where locals gather, and when a significant sporting event is on, they will invariably put it on their screens. The advantage here is the central location and the wide range of drinks and food available, often with a more upscale feel than a dedicated sports bar. It’s a great spot for business colleagues looking to unwind after work or for tourists who want to experience a bit of French life alongside their sports.
Insider Tip: Their terrace is lovely on a sunny day, but for watching a match, you’ll want to be inside where the screens are. They tend to focus on the most popular events like the French national football team or major rugby clashes. It’s worth checking their schedule if you have a specific game in mind.
Address: 4 Place de la Mairie, 25000 Besançon
5. Le Bistrot de Gray
While not strictly in the immediate city center, Le Bistrot de Gray is a local favorite that often gets mentioned when discussing places with a good atmosphere for watching sports. It’s a bit further out, requiring a short bus ride or a longer walk, but many locals swear by it for its authentic feel and dedicated crowd. They are known for showing a good range of sports, and the vibe is very community-oriented. This is where you’ll find locals who are passionate about their teams and happy to share that enthusiasm.
Insider Tip: If you’re looking for a truly local experience away from the main tourist paths, this is the place. The food is hearty and traditional, and the beer selection is usually well-chosen. Ask about their schedule for major events; they often have a blackboard outside detailing what’s on.
Address: 3 Rue de Gray, 25000 Besançon (Note: This address might be slightly approximate, as bistros can sometimes have subtle location changes or be known by their general area. It’s best to search for ‘Le Bistrot de Gray Besançon’ to confirm the exact current location).
Tips for the Ultimate Sports Bar Experience in Besançon
- Check Schedules in Advance: Unlike major cities with dedicated sports bar chains, individual establishments in Besançon decide which games to show. Always call ahead or check their social media pages (Facebook is common for local businesses) to confirm they’ll be showing the match you want to see.
- Arrive Early for Big Games: For major finals, derby matches, or important national team games, popular spots will fill up quickly. Aim to arrive at least 30-60 minutes before kick-off or start time to secure a good spot.
- Embrace the Local Vibe: Don’t expect a rowdy, shouting-only atmosphere everywhere. Besançon’s sports bars often blend viewing with conversation. Appreciate the local camaraderie – it’s part of the charm!
- Learn a Few French Phrases: While many people in hospitality speak some English, knowing basic phrases like ‘Une bière, s’il vous plaît’ (A beer, please), ‘Quel est le score?’ (What’s the score?), or ‘Allez [Team Name]!’ (Go [Team Name]!) will enhance your experience and endear you to the locals.
- Consider the Neighborhood: Some bars are in the bustling city center, while others might be in quieter residential areas. Think about the kind of atmosphere you’re looking for. The central options are usually more convenient, but the slightly out-of-the-way ones can offer a more authentic local feel.
- Food is Part of the Experience: Many of these places offer good food, from classic pub grub to local specialties. Ordering food can enhance your visit and often comes with the expectation that you’ll be staying for the duration of the game.
- Hydration is Key: From beers to local wines and soft drinks, ensure you stay refreshed. For a great selection of craft beers and an understanding of what makes a good drink, exploring options like those found at dropt.beer can give you an appreciation for quality beverages, which you can then look for at your chosen bar.
Beyond the Bars: Other Ways to Experience Sports in Besançon
While sports bars are great for live viewing, don’t forget that Besançon itself has a lively sporting culture. If you have the chance, attending a local match is an incredibly rewarding experience. Check the schedules for Racing Besançon at the Stade Léo Lagrange or for Besançon-HBC at the Palais des Sports. The passion of the local fans is infectious!
For those interested in the culture and behind-the-scenes of the beverage industry, which often goes hand-in-hand with sports viewing, resources like dropt.beer’s insights and news blog offer fascinating articles. And if you’re looking to bring some of that bar experience home, consider exploring their shop at dropt.beer/shop/ for unique beverage-related items.
Conclusion
Besançon might not be the first city that springs to mind for sports bar hopping, but it offers a unique and authentic experience for fans. The key is to look for the brasseries and pubs that embrace the spirit of the game, offering good company, local flavor, and a prime spot to cheer on your team. So, next time you’re in this beautiful Franche-Comté capital and a big match is on, you know exactly where to head. Enjoy the game, enjoy the atmosphere, and enjoy Besançon!
