Bike Rides in Strasbourg: 5 Must-Try Routes

Looking for bike rides around Strasbourg? The region offers a wide range of cycling tours for everyone, through canals, forests, picturesque villages, and countryside landscapes. Whether you’re into cycling, mountain biking, or just want a family outing, the cycling routes around Strasbourg offer both relaxation and discovery.

Here are 5 must-do routes starting from the city, with a bonus loop for the most motivated.

1. The Bruche Canal: from Strasbourg to Molsheim

This is undoubtedly one of the most popular cycling routes around Strasbourg. This bike path follows the Bruche Canal, set in a lush green environment ideal for a family ride. The former towpath has been transformed into a veloroute with minimal elevation, making it great even for beginner cyclists.

You’ll ride through regional villages like Achenheim, Kolbsheim, and Ergersheim, reaching Molsheim, a charming town known for its historic center. You can return via the same route or take a loop through the scenic country roads.

• Distance: around 25 kilometers
• Difficulty: easy to intermediate
• Type of route: bike-only, separate from traffic
• Points of interest: park, locks, flowered bridges, rural heritage

2. EuroVelo 15 along the Rhine: to Kehl and beyond

The European veloroute EV15, also known as EuroVelo 15, follows the Rhine River from its source in Switzerland to the Netherlands. Starting in Strasbourg, cross the Pont de l’Europe to reach the German city of Kehl, then follow the marked route along the riverbank.

This flat, well-marked route is ideal for a nature outing. Along the way, you’ll pass forests, ponds, protected areas, and numerous canals. It’s also a great opportunity for a cross-border bike tour between France and Germany.

• Type of route: EuroVelo, fully bike-friendly
• Perfect for: leisure cycling, families, riverside views

3. Loop through the Robertsau Forest and La Wantzenau

This forest ride is perfect for immersing yourself in nature without straying far from the city. From Strasbourg’s city center, head to the Robertsau district, then enter the vast Robertsau Forest, a Natura 2000 protected area.

The route leads you to La Wantzenau, a lovely Alsatian village known for its timber-framed houses and traditional inns. This bike ride is accessible to all and especially pleasant in spring and autumn.

• Distance: around 30 km round trip
• Highlights: local wildlife, natural park, wetlands

4. The Forts Route: a historical and scenic ride

For a more challenging ride, try the Forts Route, a cycling itinerary that connects the old military fortifications surrounding Strasbourg. This 85 km loop can be split into multiple segments depending on your fitness level.

You’ll ride on bike paths, country roads, through forests and along canals, all while discovering an underrated part of European military history. The circuit is suitable for touring bikes and mountain bikes.

• Distance: up to 85 km (possible over 2 days)
• Difficulty: intermediate
• Tip: bring a map or GPS (waymarks are sparse)
• Areas crossed: Reichstett, Hoenheim, Illkirch, Geispolsheim…

5. Strasbourg to Saverne via the Marne–Rhine Canal veloroute

One of the most beautiful itineraries from Strasbourg! Following the Marne–Rhine Canal, this cycling path takes you to Saverne, gateway to the Vosges. Over nearly 90 kilometers, you’ll ride along the peaceful waters, with locks and picturesque villages lining the way.

This flat route is ideal for relaxed cycling, with plenty of picnic areas along the canal. Saverne, with its castle and flower-covered houses, is well worth the visit. You can return to Strasbourg by train with your bike.

• Distance: 90 km
• Return option: TER train from Saverne to Strasbourg
• Vibe: bucolic, relaxing, rich in heritage
• Best for: MTB, road bikes, families with kids over 12

Bonus: The European Parliament and Orangerie Park

For a shorter but iconic ride, start from downtown Strasbourg toward the European Parliament. This route crosses the European institutions district before reaching the Orangerie Park, a perfect spot for a nature break.

Ideal for a weekday outing or a late afternoon tour, this short route is fully bike-friendly and offers a great opportunity to (re)discover Strasbourg by water, riding along canals and the Rhine embankments.

• Distance: 10 to 12 km
• Key spots: Parliament, Orangerie, Quai Jacoutot
• Difficulty: easy
• Perfect for a quick outing with kids

Practical tips

• View the cycling map on Strasbourg.eu
• Bike rentals available via Vélhop
• Check the weather and bring water
• Many more routes on France Vélo Tourisme

Conclusion: Strasbourg, France’s cycling capital

With its dense bike path network, varied landscapes, and accessible routes, Strasbourg is a top destination for cycling getaways. Whether for a short city ride or a long Alsace loop, there’s a bike tour to match your goals. Time to hop on your bike!

Thinking of staying longer?

Looking for an apartment in Strasbourg? Lodgis offers a selection of furnished rentals available now.

Do you own a property to rent in Strasbourg?

To learn more about our services, contact us or visit our dedicated page for rental management support.

Where’s the best place to live in Strasbourg? Check out our neighborhood guide.