Bike Rides in Paris: 5 Must-Try Routes
Looking for the best bike rides around Paris to enjoy the fresh air? Good news: the capital and its surroundings offer a wide range of accessible, safe, and charming cycling routes. Whether you’re a casual rider, long-distance enthusiast, or planning a family outing, there’s a loop or route just for you!
In this article, we present 5 must-try cycling routes in Paris and the Île-de-France region, plus a bonus ride for the most motivated. Grab your helmet, water bottle, and let’s go!
1. The Canal de l’Ourcq: From Paris to Claye-Souilly
- Starting point: Parc de la Villette
- Distance: About 25 km (one way)
- Level: Easy to intermediate
This is undoubtedly one of the favorite routes for Parisian cyclists. Starting from La Villette, you follow the banks of the Canal de l’Ourcq on a continuous bike path. The route passes through Pantin, Bobigny, Bondy, and extends to Claye-Souilly in Seine-et-Marne. A true breath of fresh air just outside Paris, featuring street art, parks, and industrial bridges.
Perfect for a full-day outing with a picnic and optional return by train. This route is also very popular on Komoot, a testament to its popularity!
2. The Bois de Vincennes: Green loop in eastern Paris
- Starting point: Porte Dorée
- Distance: About 15 km
- Level: Very easy
In the east of the capital, the Bois de Vincennes is a real playground for cyclists of all ages. The route winds through the park’s bike-friendly paths, passing by Lac Daumesnil, the Parc Floral, and sometimes running along the banks of the Marne.
An ideal ride for a weekend family outing or a light training session. Bonus: you can easily extend the ride to the banks of the Marne or the Château de Vincennes for a cultural visit.
3. The Southern Green Corridor: From Montparnasse to Massy
- Starting point: Place de Catalogne (Paris 14th)
- Distance: About 14 km
- Level: Easy
This cycling route follows a former railway line converted into a secure, green pathway connecting Paris to the southern suburbs. Skirting the tracks and urban parks, you’ll pass through Malakoff, Châtillon, Bagneux, and on to Massy.
A calm and pleasant ride, perfect for a weekday outing. Be sure to check your battery level if using an e-bike, as some segments are slightly hilly.
4. La Seine à Vélo: From Paris to Bougival
- Starting point: Quai d’Orsay or Pont Alexandre III
- Distance: About 25 km
- Level: Intermediate
This riverside cycling route offers stunning views of the city and the valley. You’ll ride through the Bois de Boulogne, follow bike paths along the quays, and pass through Suresnes, Saint-Cloud, and arrive in Bougival, a charming town by the water in the Yvelines.
Between city, nature, and heritage, this ride will delight photography and discovery lovers. You can continue all the way to the Marly forest if you’re feeling sporty.
5. Loop around Île de la Jatte and the Seine in Levallois
- Starting point: Pont de Levallois-Bécon
- Distance: 10 km
- Level: Easy
Small but very charming, this ride lets you discover Île de la Jatte, a surprising green haven in the heart of the metropolis. The loop runs along the Seine’s banks, past Haussmann buildings, offering a peaceful escape from the city bustle.
This route is ideal for an evening ride or a short Sunday morning tour and is especially popular among beginners.
Bonus: From Paris to the Forest of Saint-Germain-en-Laye
- Starting point: Porte Maillot
- Distance: About 30 km
- Level: Intermediate to advanced
Looking for a bit of a challenge? Head northwest on this route to the forest of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, via Bois de Boulogne and Rueil-Malmaison, then into the large national forest. This is one of the best rides for escaping without leaving Île-de-France.
Make sure to bring water—this route can be physically demanding, but the reward awaits: shade, cool air, and endless forest trails!
Conclusion: Rediscovering Paris by Bike
Riding a bike in Paris isn’t just about pedaling: it’s about traveling differently, seeing the city from a new perspective, enjoying parks, the Seine’s banks or nearby valleys, and taking a true break from the urban rush.
So, ready to hop on your bike and try one of these cycling routes? Which one will be your next favorite ride?
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