Cycling Through the City of Lights

(4 minute read)

Ah, Paris. The city of romance, wine, art, and—of course—those slightly squeaky green and blue rental bikes that seem to appear like magic on every corner. If you’ve ever passed a Vélib’ station, you’ve probably thought: I could totally bike around Paris. And honestly? You’re not wrong. There’s no better way to experience the city up close: wind in your hair (or helmet), cruising past iconic landmarks, and stumbling on neighborhoods you’d never reach on foot.

I learned this the fun way a few years ago when Paul and I spent three days biking over 60 kilometers through Paris. We coasted along the Seine like we were in a movie, tackled Montmartre’s hills on e-bikes (zero regrets), and cooled off at Rosa Bonheur in Parc des Buttes-Chaumont—our unofficial finish line each day. It wasn’t always smooth riding, but it was the best way to see the city: spontaneous, scenic, and just unpredictable enough to keep things interesting.

So if you’re considering it, here’s what to expect—from the quirks of the rental process to the chaos of Parisian traffic, plus the unexpected joys that make it all worth it.

1. How to Rent a Vélib’ Bike in Paris

First things first: the bikes. Vélib’ offers two kinds—green bikes, which are classic pedal-powered, and blue bikes, which are electric-assisted. The e-bikes give you a little boost that’s especially appreciated when you're heading uphill or just want to cover more ground without arriving drenched in sweat. Trust me: they’re a game-changer, especially if your day includes Montmartre.

To rent, you’ll need the Vélib’ app (or you can use a terminal at a docking station). The app is helpful—but not always intuitive. Unlocking a bike often requires entering a code, and the process can feel like a small puzzle. Sometimes the bike doesn’t respond the first time. Or the second. Be patient—it usually works eventually, even if it feels like you’re trying to outsmart a vending machine in a foreign language.

One important note: a perfectly working Vélib’ is a rare find. If you get a bike with full tires, working brakes, and a seat that stays put, treasure it. You’ve basically struck Parisian gold.

For visitors, Vélib' offers several options: short rides up to 30–60 minutes, or 1-day and 3-day passes for unlimited trips. The multi-day pass is your best bet if you plan to explore multiple neighborhoods across several days. Just remember: this is a rental, not a love affair. Don’t get too attached. You’ll be saying goodbye soon enough.

2. What It’s Like on the Road

Once you're on the bike, you'll quickly realize that Paris isn’t all charming cafés and scenic boulevards—it’s also a bit of a maze. There’s structure, but also a kind of organized chaos that makes riding through the city feel like part-tour, part-challenge.

Pedestrians
Parisian pedestrians have a sixth sense. They cross streets on instinct, often without looking, and they’re not shy about stepping into bike lanes. Somehow, it works—but it takes some getting used to. Stay alert, expect the unexpected, and don’t assume you have the right of way just because there’s a bike symbol painted on the ground.

The Sidewalk Temptation
At some point, probably near the Louvre or in the Marais, the streets will feel overwhelming. The sidewalk will start to look like a much easier option. And while it’s tempting, it’s also technically illegal. Locals will let you know—often with a glance that could cut glass. Still, in especially crowded areas, even seasoned riders might sneak a few meters when needed. Just keep it slow and courteous.

Realizing You're Not a Local (Yet)
There will come a moment when you’re feeling confident—until a local whizzes by, navigating cobblestones one-handed while sipping a coffee. Then your handlebars wobble, your front wheel hits a curb, and you’re reminded: you’re learning. It's all part of the experience, and it's totally fine.

3. The Moments That Make It All Worth It

Despite the occasional hiccup, cycling through Paris gives you access to some of the most unforgettable city moments. You’ll ride along the Seine, spot the Eiffel Tower around an unexpected corner, and stumble upon quiet cafés or bakeries just off the main roads.

There’s a rhythm to the city you can only catch from a bike—fast enough to explore widely, slow enough to take it all in. You’ll pause at viewpoints, take detours through side streets, and feel a little thrill every time you dock a bike and head off on foot to explore something new.

And yes, at some point, the wind will catch your hair and you’ll feel vaguely cinematic. No shame in it.

4. Returning the Bike

Eventually, it’s time to let go. You’ll search the app for the nearest docking station, only to find that the closest one is “full”—a small frustration that becomes part of the routine. Luckily, stations are everywhere, and another one is usually just a block or two away.

Once docked, listen for the click, check the app to confirm your return, and take a moment to feel proud: you’ve just biked through one of the most iconic cities in the world.

Cycling in Paris is unpredictable, energizing, and often a little chaotic—but in the best possible way. It’s a chance to see the city from a different perspective, to move like a local (even if just for a day), and to collect stories you wouldn’t find on the Metro.

Have you biked through Paris? Got a Vélib’ tip, surprise, or misadventure? Share it in the comments—we’d love to hear your take.