Paris Tour de France Bike Ride

Experience the Tour de France in Paris on Two Wheels

Imagine pedaling along the famous Champs-Élysées, just hours before the race’s final sprint, with the city awakening around you. For about $80 per person, you can join this unique 2-hour guided bike ride that traces the official Tour de France route right through the heart of Paris. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a rare chance to feel the excitement and see the sights that race fans dream about—without the crowds.

What we love about this experience is how early it starts—at 6:15 am—which means you’ll beat the tourist rush and enjoy the city’s most famous avenues in peaceful quiet. Plus, the inclusion of coffee, croissants, and orange juice at the Eiffel Tower adds a charming touch to kick off the morning. The small-group format, with a maximum of 16 cyclists, ensures a more personalized experience, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts.

One thing to consider is that the tour can feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re in a larger group or if the guides are pressed for time. As one reviewer noted, there’s a sense of urgency, and some participants felt their ride was somewhat chaotic. Also, this tour does not include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to get yourself to the meeting point bright and early. It’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness who enjoy cycling and are comfortable on a bike for a couple of hours.

In essence, this tour is perfect for cycling enthusiasts, race fans, or anyone who wants to experience a truly authentic side of Paris before the city fully wakes up. If you’re looking for a unique, active way to connect with the Tour de France’s spirit and see iconic sights in an intimate setting, this could be your ideal morning adventure.

Key Points

• Unique routing: Cycle the official Tour de France route through Paris, including the Champs-Élysées and iconic landmarks.
• Early start: Enjoy the peaceful city streets before the crowds arrive.
• Inclusive experience: Ride on modern, three-speed city bikes with helmets provided.
• Charming start: Kick off with coffee, croissants, and orange juice at the Eiffel Tower.
• Small-group size: Max of 16 riders ensures a more relaxed and personal experience.
• Limited downtime: The tour is timed tightly, so expect a brisk pace and some rushing if the group is large.

In-Depth Review of the Paris Tour de France Bike Ride

The Itinerary and What Makes Each Stop Special

The tour begins at Fat Tire Tours shop at 24 Rue Edgar Faure, where you’ll meet your guide and get comfortable with your rental bike. The introductory five minutes are a quick chance to check the fit of your 3-speed city bike and gear up with a helmet. This initial meeting sets the tone for a relaxed, friendly experience—your guide will be your point person throughout.

From here, the journey kicks off with a ride towards the Eiffel Tower, where the tour concludes. Before you start, you’re treated to coffee, croissants, and orange juice, adding a touch of French café culture to your morning. This breakfast is a simple but thoughtful gesture, providing energy and a cozy vibe before hitting the streets.

As you pedal through the city, your first official stop is the Arc de Triomphe. Here, your guide will circle the monument, giving insights into its history and significance. This is a great spot to soak in the grandeur and imagine the famous final laps of the cycling race. The tour then heads to Place de la Concorde, where you’ll ride through the very areas where the professionals will cross the finish line later that day. This brings a real sense of being part of the race day excitement.

The highlight undoubtedly is riding the Champs-Elysées, the race’s finishing stretch. You’ll cycle the same course as the cyclists do in their last eight laps—a thrill for any race fan. The avenue is usually bustling with travelers and vehicles, but early in the morning, it’s cloaked in silence. The experience of gliding along this iconic boulevard in traffic-free serenity is truly unforgettable.

Finally, the tour ends back at the Eiffel Tower, where you’ll relax with a coffee and croissants and reflect on the morning’s adventure. This moment offers a great photo opportunity and a chance to chat about the race, Paris, or cycling in general.

What Travelers Can Expect

Participants can anticipate a leisurely yet brisk ride, with stops designed to give a sense of the race’s course and atmosphere. The small group size (up to 16 people) means you’re unlikely to feel overwhelmed, but it also means the pace can be fast and efficient, especially during the final laps on the Champs-Elysées.

The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience accessible for those with moderate cycling ability. Since no hotel pickup is included, you’ll need to be ready to meet at the designated spot promptly. The timing—early morning in summer—also means you’ll avoid much of Paris’s usual traffic and tourist crowds, creating a more authentic and peaceful experience.

Authenticity and the Race Vibe

What makes this tour stand out is its authenticity. You’re riding along the same route as the professional cyclists, experiencing the city in a way few travelers do. The quiet streets and early morning light lend a special charm. Plus, the chance to see the race finish from the sidelines adds a layer of excitement many visitors only watch on TV.

The Downsides and Considerations

One downside—highlighted by a reviewer— is that the tour can sometimes feel hurried. If the group is large, or if your guide is pressed for time, you might find yourself rushing through stops or feeling a bit overwhelmed. The lack of a refund if you decide to withdraw once the tour begins is something to keep in mind, especially if you’re unsure about your cycling stamina or schedule.

Also, because it’s a morning activity starting so early, you’ll need to plan your logistics carefully. The tour does not include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to arrive at the meeting point by 6:15 am, which might require some pre-planning if you’re staying outside central Paris.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for cycling lovers, sports fans, and those who appreciate a more personal view of Paris. It’s particularly appealing if you want to combine sightseeing with active movement and enjoy the quiet of the city before dawn. It’s also ideal for families with children who can ride bikes and are comfortable in a small group setting.

Conclusions: Who Should Consider This Tour

If you’re a cycling enthusiast or a Tour de France fan, this ride offers an unmatched opportunity to be part of race day in a relaxed setting. The early start and small-group format make it perfect for those who want a more personal experience. You’ll love the chance to cycle traffic-free on iconic Parisian streets and enjoy a breakfast with a view of the Eiffel Tower.

For travelers seeking a unique way to see Paris and experience the race atmosphere, this tour provides authenticity and excitement—a genuinely memorable morning. However, if you prefer a more leisurely, unhurried pace or need hotel transportation, you might want to look for other options.

Overall, for a value-rich, active, and highly thematic experience, this bike ride hits many sweet spots—and the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm make it even more worthwhile. Just be prepared for an energetic start and come ready to enjoy a slice of Tour de France history, pedal by pedal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting time of this tour?
The tour begins at 6:15 am, so be prepared for an early morning start.

Do I need to bring my own bike?
No, bikes and helmets are provided, along with three-speed city bikes suitable for most riders.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, there is no age minimum or maximum as long as you are comfortable riding a bike. Child seats are available upon request.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes bike rental, helmet, guide, and breakfast—coffee, croissants, and orange juice.

Are there any additional costs?
The tour does not include admission tickets to attractions like the Eiffel Tower or Arc de Triomphe.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes for cycling are recommended.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is offered if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour physically demanding?
It requires moderate physical fitness—you should be comfortable riding a bike for a couple of hours.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy to reach from central Paris or your hotel.

This guided bike ride offers an engaging way to experience Paris during the Tour de France festivities, combining iconic sights, the thrill of racing, and the pleasure of cycling through a peaceful city in the early morning. Whether you’re a race fan, a cyclist, or just looking for a unique Parisian adventure, this tour promises a memorable start to your day.