Those who were cycling here ten years ago know that biking in Paris wasn't a given. Now, there are bike lanes, storage facilities, and ways to move through the city without pressing on the metro. I actually bike everywhere in Paris. And my advice: choose an electric bike. Paris is larger than it seems on the map, there are hills, and you want to arrive without it feeling like a workout.
Bike Tour through Paris with an English-speaking Guide
If you're unfamiliar with Paris, I find a bike tour through Paris with a English-speaking guide one of the most enjoyable ways to get to know the city. I've had great experiences with the Highlight Tour from Baja Bikes. For three hours, you'll bike past the city's major sights, guided by an English-speaking guide who knows the way. They share fun stories that you wouldn't hear otherwise. The tour costs 45 euros per person, and you have two time slots per day to choose from.
Baja Bikes also offers other bike tours: a day trip to Versailles, a combination of city cycling and a Seine cruise, or a tour of less well-known spots; think of the apartment from Emily in Paris or the Panthéon. This is for those who know a bit more about the city and don't want to bike past the Eiffel Tower yet again.
Good to know: after the tour, you can keep the bike for the rest of the day. This way, you combine the best of both worlds: a guide to get you started and the freedom to explore on your own afterward.
Check out the Baja Bikes tours in Paris
Looking for a hotel in Paris? I previously wrote about the best hotels near Gare du Nord and the charming boutique hotels in the Marais.
Renting a Bike in Paris: My Experience with Holland Bikes
If you'd rather cycle on your own, you can rent a bike in Paris at various locations. Holland Bikes is my go-to. They have high-quality bikes; city bike, e-bike, cargo bike, longtail, or custom model. Pickup points are conveniently located: close to the Notre Dame, at Opéra, and by the Arc de Triomphe. Last time, we picked up our bikes at the Notre Dame, in a parking garage, just perfect.
An e-bike costs 45 euros per day and is worth every cent. You ride through the city without huffing and reach places you wouldn't otherwise. However, one thing to consider: you can't always leave your bike on the street overnight, even locked up. Make sure your hotel or apartment has a place for storage. You absolutely must bike to the Latin Quarter. Want to know what to do there? I wrote a fun article about it: things to do in the Latin Quarter.
Renting a Lime Bike in Paris: Handy for Short Rides
For short trips, I often use a Lime bike in Paris. These electric shared bikes can be found via the Uber or Lime app and are available in many parts of the city. I use them all day: to hop over to another neighborhood, quickly get from one restaurant to another, or just when I don't feel like walking. You pay a small start fee and then per minute, which suits short trips perfectly.
In all honesty: the bikes aren't always clean or fully charged, and you can't park them just anywhere. There are designated parking spots, and sometimes you have to cycle to find one. Download the app beforehand, locate the nearest bike in the app, and reserve it if you need to walk to it. Then, at least it will still be there when you arrive. You're also quickly at the best food halls in Paris on a Lime bike.
Cycling in Paris Solo: 3 Scenic Routes
If you prefer cycling through Paris on your own, you can also follow a mapped-out route. I find this especially enjoyable if you already know Paris a little and don't want to bike past the usual landmarks. A cycling guide with mapped-out routes through the inner city. Not on the busy boulevards where Parisians rush to work, but through quiet streets, neighborhoods with few tourists, and where you almost forget you're in a city.
Fietsenparijs.nl has three routes of about 25 to 30 kilometers, along water, parks, cemeteries, and former railway lines. You visit well-known spots but also discover unknown corners with a nearly rural feel. Along the route, cafes and terraces are marked, and special attractions aren't overlooked. Think of Parc de Bercy or the Paris Mosque.
An extra reason to take the guide: Cycling in Paris was already good, but after the 2024 Olympic Games, even more has been invested in bike lanes. The downside is that these paths have also become quite busy.
Looking for an affordable stay? Check out my favorite budget hotels in Paris, lovely places where you sleep well without it draining your travel budget.
Which Way to Cycle in Paris Suits You?
Baja Bikes for those who want to explore the city with a guide who does the work for you. Holland Bikes for those wishing to ride independently for a day or more with a bike that really works. Lime for those quick, impromptu rides anytime. And the cycling guide for those who want to pedal through quiet streets without anyone watching. In all cases, choose the electric option. Cycling in Paris is now one of the best ways to see the city. Trust me.
Still Looking for Great Restaurants in Paris?
In my Google Maps guide, you'll find all my favorite hotspots (120+) neatly organized. From restaurants and wine bars to breakfast spots and places I've personally selected. So you just have to decide where to start.
View the Mapped by Carole map of Paris
Frequently Asked Questions about Cycling in Paris
Is cycling in Paris safe?
Paris has heavily invested in bike lanes in recent years, and it's noticeable. The city center is manageable, especially if you avoid rush hour. A bit of attention is always necessary, as this remains a major city, but it’s not dangerous.
Where can you rent a bike in Paris?
You can rent a bike at various places in Paris. I personally prefer Holland Bikes, mainly because they provide good e-bikes and have multiple locations in the city. For short trips, I regularly use an electric Lime bike.
Can you cycle through Paris on your own?
Absolutely. Paris has significantly increased its bike lanes in recent years. If you’d rather not plan your own route, there are predefined cycling routes that take you through quieter streets and lesser-known neighborhoods.
Is an electric bike practical in Paris?
I believe so. Paris is larger and more hilly than you might expect. With an e-bike, you can see much more of the city in one day without feeling the need for a shower halfway.
