Does Paris Have Rentable Bikes?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re planning a trip to Paris, one of the best ways to explore the city is by bike. Not only is it an eco-friendly option, but it’s also a great way to see the sights at your own pace.

But does Paris have rentable bikes? The answer is yes! In fact, Paris has one of the largest bike-sharing programs in the world.

What is Velib?

Velib is a bike-sharing program that was launched in Paris in 2007. It allows people to rent bikes from various stations throughout the city and return them to any other station when they’re done. The program has been hugely successful and has since expanded to other cities around the world.

How Does Velib Work?

To use Velib, you need to first purchase a subscription. There are several options available, including a one-day pass or a long-term subscription. Once you have your subscription, you can then find a Velib station near you using the mobile app or website.

When you arrive at a station, simply use your membership card or smartphone app to unlock a bike. You can then ride around the city for as long as you like, and return the bike to any other Velib station when you’re done.

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of using Velib depends on how long you want to rent a bike for. For example, a one-day pass costs €5 and allows you to rent a bike for up to 24 hours. If you keep the bike for longer than 30 minutes at a time, there may be additional fees.

For longer-term subscriptions, prices start at €10 per week or €36 per year. With these subscriptions, you can rent bikes for up to 45 minutes at a time without incurring additional fees.

Where Can You Find Velib Stations?

Velib stations are located throughout Paris, so you should have no trouble finding one. There are more than 1,800 stations in total, with at least one station within a 300-meter radius of every point in the city.

You can use the Velib mobile app or website to find stations near you, or simply look for the distinctive silver-and-green bikes parked at designated bike racks.

Conclusion

If you’re planning a trip to Paris and want to explore the city on two wheels, Velib is an excellent option. With thousands of bikes available at hundreds of stations throughout the city, it’s easy to rent a bike and start exploring.

Just be sure to familiarize yourself with the pricing structure and return your bike to a designated station before your rental period ends. Happy biking!