Paris

WHERE ON EARTH?

WHY GO:​
Follow the canal on nice and easy cycling - where Parisians enjoy the green riverside, the public squares and parks along the way.
DESCRIPTION:​
The tour starts at the Port de l'Arsenal harbour, but can really be started anywhere. This is a pleasant, small boat harbour. Take your time to explore the cozy park next to the harbour, Jardin de l'Arsenal. Place de la Bastille is a busy intersection, with the impressive July Column in the middle (Colonne de Juillet). Be aware through the intersection so you come out on the right exit. Here, there are bike lanes separated from traffic.
The bike path eventually runs along the open canal and it gradually ascends. There are nice green areas that Parisians know to make use of on sunny days. At the Bassin de la Villette, you can admire the lock system and cycle along the cobblestones along the canal. The tour turns at the Parc de la Villette, over a pedestrian bridge where bikes must be pushed. This park has large open spaces, the Géode – a giant metal sphere, and a science and industry museum.
The route returns the same way, but on the other side of the canal. At La Rotonde Stalingrad, there are several restaurants along the canal. The park Jardin Villemin is passed on the route. Don’t miss the detour to the beautiful Place de la Republique before you return to the canal again and continue to the Bastille, ending at the Port de l'Arsenal.
Have a great trip!
​BE AWARE OF:
The lanes are quite narrow and be observant for cyclists coming from behind. Some intersections can be unclear, so be especially aware of traffic here.
​BIKE RENTAL:
Vélib is the citybike with regular and electric bikes. Easy to use and a lot of stations all over the city.
​
Distance:
13
km
​
Time:
2
hours
​
Elevation: