Biking in Paris: Your Guide to Exploring the City on Two Wheels

If you love to ride a bike, exploring Paris on two wheels is one of the very best ways to experience the city. Paris boasts over 620 miles (1,000 kilometers) of bike paths and marked routes, including physically separated bike lanes, painted road markings, and shared vehicle routes. Each time we visit, we notice more dedicated bike lanes and growing numbers of cyclists throughout the city.

Getting Started with Vélib'

Vélib' is Paris's public bike-sharing system, launched in 2007 with around 20,000 bikes available for public use. Here are our essential tips for getting started on your biking adventures.

Before You Arrive

Download the Vélib' Métropole app first and create your account before arriving in Paris. For tourists, the 1-day (€5) or 7-day (€15) passes offer the best value, including unlimited 30-minute rides on classic bikes. E-bikes cost an extra €2 per ride but are absolutely worth it for tackling Paris's hills. You'll need a chip-and-PIN credit card, and the system will place a €150 security deposit on your account.

Finding and Testing Your Bike

Use the app to check real-time bike availability at stations—nothing's worse than walking to an empty dock. Before you start riding, quickly test your bike's brakes, adjust the seat height, and check tire pressure. If there's an issue, return the bike within 2 minutes and you won't be charged. When you spot electric bikes, grab them quickly—they disappear fast and are perfect for navigating Paris's hillier areas like Montmartre.

Mastering the System

Learn the 30-minute rule to avoid extra charges. Each ride is free for 30 minutes on classic bikes, so for longer explorations, dock your bike every 25 minutes near cafés or attractions, take a break, then grab a new one. Always stick to bike lanes whenever possible—Paris has an extensive network, and busy streets can be overwhelming for beginners.

Returning Your Bike

Plan your return early by using the app to find stations with available docking spots, especially near popular areas like the Louvre or Notre-Dame. Push the bike firmly into the dock until you hear the confirmation beep and see the green light. Screenshot the return confirmation from your app as backup proof.

Pro Tips for Success

Timing matters: Avoid rush hours (8-9 AM and 6-7 PM) when stations empty quickly. Carry a phone charger since you'll be using the app constantly throughout your rides.

Know your locations: Learn key station locations near your hotel and major attractions before heading out. This saves time and reduces stress when you need to find a bike or docking spot.

Pack smart: Use the front basket for small items, but never leave valuables unattended—bikes can't be locked away from official stations, making them vulnerable to theft.

With these tips in hand, you'll be ready to join the growing community of cyclists discovering Paris from a completely new perspective. The freedom to stop wherever catches your eye, combined with the city's expanding bike infrastructure, makes cycling one of the most rewarding ways to explore the City of Light.

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