Green tourism; exploring Paris by bike
Published on 5 August 2020, dans Visit Paris
Both historic and modern, Paris also wants to become an environmentally friendly city. The recent proliferation of cycle paths allows you to move around the capital in a healthy, zero carbon way. What’s more, exploring Paris by bike lets you discover the city from a new angle. Push those pedals during your stay at the Hotel de l’Université!
Explore the northern districts of Paris by bike
Almost cocking a snook at public transport, this cycle path follows the Metro line 2 route through the north of Paris. Starting from the Place de la Nation, you pass in front of the Père-Lachaise Cemetery. Following the Ménilmontant and de la Villette boulevards, you cross the Canal Saint-Martin and the elevated Metro, arriving in the very cosmopolitan district of Barbès.
We suggest taking a break at the Brasserie Barbès and checking out the neo-Egyptian architecture of the old Le Louxor cinema. Heading off via the Boulevard Rochechouart, you arrive at La Pigalle. This district is home to some of the most famous Parisian theatres; the Élysée Montmartre, the Trianon, and the Cigale. You complete this 7 km route in triumphant style by arriving at the Place Charles de Gaulle, where the Arc de Triomphe proudly stands.
Treat yourself to a bike ride along the Canal Saint-Martin
Leaving from the Port de l'Arsenal, you’ll reach the historic Place de la Bastille and its proud July Column. The Boulevard Richard-Lenoir and the Boulevard Voltaire take you to the Place de la République.
Via the Rue du Faubourg, you can then reach the Quai de Jemmapes on the Canal Saint-Martin. Following the quays, you come to the Place de la Bataille de Stalingrad and its superb Rotunda. Your journey continues along the canal, whose calm waters are only occasionally disturbed by the passage of barges and other small craft. This waterway takes you to the Quai de la Loire, which hosts Paris Plages in summer, and finally to the Parc de la Villette.
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Hotel de l'Université, a charming hotel at the heart of Saint-Germain des Prés