The best cycling routes around Paris

Paris offers a diverse range of touring cycling experiences, from scenic riverside routes along the Seine to extensive urban forests like the Bois de Vincennes and Bois de Boulogne, and tranquil canal paths. While the city itself is generally flat, areas just outside Paris feature rolling hills and larger state forests such as Meudon Forest, providing varied terrain for cyclists of all levels.

Yes, many routes around Paris are suitable for leisurely rides. The city's expanding network of dedicated bike paths and canal routes, like those along the Canal de l'Ourcq and Canal Saint-Martin, offer gentle, mostly flat terrain. These paths are perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed cycling experience.

Absolutely. Many touring cycling routes around Paris are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Bike loop from Colliers is a moderate 34.6-mile (55.7 km) route that offers varied landscapes, while the Bike loop from Weirton covers 24.9 miles (40.1 km) through urban green spaces and suburban roads.

Paris and its surroundings are rich in natural beauty and iconic landmarks. You can cycle along the Seine to see monuments like Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower. The Bois de Vincennes and Bois de Boulogne offer extensive woodlands and parks. Further afield, the Parc Naturel Régional de la Haute Vallée de Chevreuse provides forests, castles, and rivers, while the Canal de l'Ourcq and Canal Saint-Martin offer charming waterside paths.

Yes, Paris is increasingly family-friendly for cyclists. The numerous car-free paths along the Seine, within large parks like the Bois de Vincennes, and along canals are ideal for families. The Coulée Verte, a 12-kilometer pedestrian and bicycle path in southern Paris, also offers a gentle and safe option for family outings.

Spring and early autumn are generally considered the best seasons for touring cycling around Paris. The weather is typically mild and pleasant, and the natural landscapes are at their most vibrant. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially along shaded routes in forests or by canals, though it can get warm.

Yes, Paris serves as an excellent starting point for longer touring adventures. Routes like 'La Seine à Vélo' offer a 420 km journey from Notre-Dame to the beaches of Le Havre or Deauville, crossing eight departments. Another notable route, 'La Véloscénie', takes cyclists from Notre Dame through the city to Versailles and even as far as Mont St-Michel, providing opportunities for multi-day exploration.

Many touring cycling routes in and around Paris are well-connected by public transport. The city has an extensive metro, RER, and bus network, with some lines allowing bikes during off-peak hours or on weekends. This makes it convenient to reach starting points or return from end points of your cycling tours, especially for routes within the city or its immediate suburbs.

The touring cycling routes around Paris are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from urban green spaces to tranquil forests and scenic riverbanks. The expanding network of dedicated bike paths and the ability to combine cycling with exploring iconic landmarks are frequently highlighted as major attractions.

Yes, there are several shorter touring cycling routes perfect for a quick ride. For instance, the Bike loop from Burgettstown is a moderate 16.1-mile (26.0 km) trail that leads through local parks and residential areas, typically completed in about 1 hour 33 minutes. Many urban park loops and canal paths also offer distances well under 30 km.

Yes, especially along popular routes and in areas closer to the city. The banks of the Seine, the Bois de Vincennes, and the Bois de Boulogne, as well as the Canal de l'Ourcq, are well-served with various amenities. For multi-day routes like 'La Seine à Vélo' or 'La Véloscénie', you'll find numerous villages and towns offering accommodation and dining options along the way.