Bike Tour of Paris Old Town, Top Attractions and Nature

If you’re dreaming of seeing Paris in a way that’s both active and eco-friendly, this Bike Tour of Paris Old Town might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and descriptions paint a pretty appealing picture. It promises a chance to explore the city’s most famous landmarks and charming neighborhoods at a leisurely pace, all while riding a professional bike guided by knowledgeable locals.

What really catches my eye are the stunning views of the Eiffel Tower and Seine and the way the tour combines city highlights with a touch of nature. The fact that it’s a private experience adds a layer of comfort and flexibility that many travelers appreciate. However, it’s worth noting that the price, at around $261 per person, is on the higher side compared to other options, but that fee covers quality bikes, a licensed guide, and a thoughtfully designed route.

One consideration to keep in mind: the route length and comfort level depend on the option you choose, from 2 hours up to 6 hours. If you’re not used to cycling or have limited time, the shorter options will still hit the main highlights, but the longer routes offer a deeper dive into Paris’s hidden corners and historic sites.

This tour seems best suited for active travelers who want a flexible, personalized way to see Paris with expert guidance—perfect if you love cycling, want to learn about the city, and enjoy being outdoors.

Key Points

• Flexible duration options allow you to pick a quick glance or a full day’s adventure.
• Private guided experience ensures personalized attention and local insights.
• Includes rental of professional bikes, making it accessible even if you don’t own a bike.
• Ideal for active visitors who prefer an environmentally friendly way to explore.
• Stops at major landmarks like Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, Arc de Triomphe, and Notre-Dame.
• Longer routes include more sights, from the Tuileries Garden to the Louvre and Luxembourg Gardens.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Paris on Two Wheels: The Basics

This bike tour is designed to showcase the beauty and history of Paris through a carefully curated route. It’s a private experience, which means you and your group will have a guide dedicated solely to your interests and pace. The tour lasts from 2 to 6 hours, giving you the option to tailor the experience based on your time and energy levels.

Starting point is conveniently located in front of the Bank of China on Avenue de la Grande Armée, close to the Arc de Triomphe. The guide will prepare your bikes and give a quick safety briefing—helmets and safety gear are optional, but I’d recommend helmets if you’re concerned about safety. Children’s bikes, seats, and other equipment are available if needed, so it’s suitable for families or travelers with kids.

What You’ll See and Experience

The Shorter 2-Hour Option

If you’re pressed for time but still want a taste of Paris, the 2-hour route hits some of the most recognizable sights. Your journey begins by cycling along Avenue Kléber to the Trocadéro, where you get outstanding views of the Eiffel Tower. Crossing the Pont d’Iéna and riding underneath the tower itself will be a highlight—nothing beats seeing it from a bike with the wind in your hair.

You’ll then glide through the Champ de Mars, the expansive green space that’s perfect for photos. Next, the guide will lead you to Les Invalides, a grand complex with Napoleon’s tomb, and then along the Seine River, where you’ll see the Flame of Liberty. The final stop is the Arc de Triomphe, an essential Parisian icon that commemorates victories and military prowess.

The 4-Hour Route: More Landmarks, More Charm

Upgrading to the 4-hour tour expands the scope considerably. You’ll cycle from Les Invalides across the Seine to the Tuileries Garden, home to statues, fountains, and the Louvre’s outside views. Passing the Palais Garnier, the Madeleine Church, and Place de la Concorde, you’ll experience some of Paris’s most beautiful and historic plazas.

The longer route also takes you past the opulent Rue de Rivoli, home to the Joan of Arc statue, and the grand Grand Palais. This option allows more time for photos, quick snack breaks, and soaking in the atmosphere at a relaxed pace.

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The 6-Hour Epic: An In-Depth Paris Experience

For those eager to truly dig into Paris’s history and culture, the 6-hour tour is the way to go. It includes all the sights from the shorter routes plus visits to the Luxembourg Gardens and the Luxembourg Palace, which now houses the French Senate. You’ll also see the Panthéon, where French luminaries like Voltaire and Marie Curie are buried.

A significant highlight is the journey into the heart of old Paris—the Île de la Cité—where you’ll marvel at the Notre-Dame Cathedral and see other historic landmarks like the Hôtel de Ville and Saint-Jacques Tower. This route includes a bit of free time to grab a croissant or coffee, giving you a taste of the local life.

The Guide and the Route

The guide’s knowledge and friendliness are widely praised, making the experience engaging and educational. According to reviews, the guide is passionate, fluent in several languages, and knows how to balance sightseeing with a comfortable riding pace. The route is specially designed to minimize busy traffic areas and include scenic, peaceful spots, making the ride enjoyable even for less experienced cyclists.

Routes are tailored to your pace and preferences, and the inclusion of professional bikes ensures a smooth ride. It’s worth noting that the route and attractions depend on your selected option, so if you’re eager to see the Louvre and Notre-Dame, opt for the longer or 6-hour tour.

Practical Details and Considerations

The cost is around $261 per person, which might seem high at first glance, but considering the private guide, bike rental, and the customized experience, it offers good value—especially if you appreciate a personalized approach. Remember that entrance tickets to attractions are not included, so if you plan to visit the inside of places like the Louvre or Notre-Dame, you’ll need to budget separately.

The meeting point is central and easy to find, and the tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—adding some flexibility to your plans. For families or travelers with children, bikes and seats are available on request, making this a flexible option for various groups.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This bike tour appeals most to travelers who want to see a lot without walking long distances. It’s perfect if you enjoy cycling and want a more relaxed, informative way to explore. The private guide means you get personalized attention and can focus on the sights that interest you most.

Given the different route options, it’s suitable for those with limited time or those wanting an in-depth look at Paris’s history and architecture. However, it’s probably not ideal if you prefer a very leisurely pace or are uncomfortable on bikes, especially for the longer routes.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a dynamic, active way to experience Paris’s top sights, this bike tour offers a well-organized and customizable experience. The emphasis on scenic views and local insights makes it stand out from typical bus or walking tours. While it’s a bit on the pricier side, the private guide, quality bikes, and flexible routes can make it worth the investment.

This experience would suit travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of physical activity, especially those eager to explore beyond just the surface. The longer options provide a deeper immersion into Parisian life, history, and architecture, making it ideal for those who want to truly feel connected to the city.

For anyone looking to see Paris from a different perspective—on two wheels, with expert guidance, and a focus on comfort and personalization—this bike tour is likely to hit the mark.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Bikes, child seats, and equipment are available on request, so it’s possible to tailor the experience for families with kids. Just let the provider know when booking.

Are safety helmets included?
Helmets and other safety equipment are optional and not included by default. You might want to bring your own or request them when booking.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration depends on your choice—ranging from 2 hours to 6 hours.

Where do we meet for the tour?
The meeting point is in front of the Bank of China at 23 Avenue de la Grande Armée, 75116 Paris.

What’s included in the price?
You get a private guided bike tour, professional bikes, and a special route tailored to your pace and interests.

Are entrance tickets to attractions included?
No, tickets to attractions like the Louvre or Notre-Dame are not included and need to be purchased separately if you wish to visit the inside.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning.

Is this tour good for first-time visitors?
Absolutely. The guide can customize the route, and you’ll see many of Paris’s famous sites, making it a great introduction.

Do I need to be an experienced cyclist?
Not necessarily. The route is designed to be adjusted to your pace, and the bikes are professional and easy to ride.

If you’re eager to explore Paris actively, with a personal touch and scenic views, this bike tour ticks many boxes. Just weigh the options based on how much you want to see and how long you want to spend pedaling through the City of Lights.

You can check availability for your dates here: