1. A Guide to Vélib’ Métropole

1. If you're visiting Paris and looking for a fun, flexible, and eco-friendly way to explore the City of Light, look no further than Vélib’ Métropole — Paris’s official public bike-sharing system. With over 20,000 bikes and 1,400+ stations across the city and surrounding areas, Vélib’ makes navigating the capital both convenient and enjoyable.

   🚲 What Is Vélib’?

   Launched in 2007 and expanded in recent years, Vélib’ Métropole offers a fleet of bikes that can be picked up and dropped off at any of its numerous stations. Whether you're commuting, sightseeing, or just enjoying a leisurely ride along the Seine, Vélib’ gives you the freedom to travel Paris on your own terms.

🛠 How It Works

1. Download the Vélib’ App

Start by downloading the Vélib’ app, available on both iOS and Android. The app is your all-in-one control center.

4. Unlock a Bike

• Open the app, find a nearby station, and select a bike

• Tap “Unlock,” and you’ll get a 5-digit code to enter on the bike’s keypad

• The lock releases, and you’re good to go!

If docks are full, the app will show nearby stations with space.

🔋 Two Types of Bikes

1. Vélib’ offers two bike models to suit your needs:

   • Green bikes: These are classic pedal-powered bikes — simple, reliable, and great for short distances.

   • Blue bikes: These are electric bikes with a helpful boost, ideal for longer rides or hilly areas. Note: electric bikes may incur a slight extra charge per ride.

   📍Finding a Station

   Stations are spread all across central Paris and beyond. To find one near you, just search “Vélib station” on Google Maps or use the app. Most landmarks, neighborhoods, and metro stations have one nearby, making it easy to start and end your ride almost anywhere.

   🚴 Why Use Vélib’?

2. Rent from a Private Bike Shop

If you prefer more comfort, flexibility, or plan to cycle all day, renting from a private bike shop is a great choice. Unlike Vélib’, these shops offer well-maintained, high-quality bikes, including electric bikes, city bikes, and kids’ bikes, along with extras like helmets, baskets, and child seats.

Private rentals are perfect for families, longer rides, or travelers who want a smoother experience without worrying about time limits or docking stations. Many shops also offer guided bike tours — ideal if you're new to Paris or want to explore with a local expert.

Prices typically range from €18 to €25 per day, depending on the bike type and duration. Discounts are often available for multi-day rentals.

🔗 Useful Links to Rent a Bike in Paris:

• Paris à Vélo – Le Marais

• Holland Bikes – Near Eiffel Tower

• Fat Tire Tours – Central Paris

2. Create an Account

Once the app is installed:

• Sign up with your name, email, and a valid credit/debit card

• You can also use a Vélib’ terminal at any station, but the app is more convenient

3. Choose a Pass

There are different options depending on how long you’ll be using the bikes. For visitors, the best is:

🚴 V-Découverte Pass – €5 for 24 hours

• Unlimited number of rides during the 24-hour period

• Each ride can last up to 30 minutes for free

• If a ride exceeds 30 minutes, you’ll be charged a small additional fee:

  • +€1 for the next 30 minutes (classic bike)

  • +€2 for the next 30 minutes (electric bike)

Pro tip: To avoid extra charges, just dock your bike at a station before 30 minutes is up — then start a new ride.

• Find stations and see how many bikes/docks are available

• Unlock bikes

• Track your ride time

• Manage your subscription or pass

• Affordable: Cheaper than taxis or day-long metro passes

• Eco-friendly: Reduce your carbon footprint while seeing the city

• Fun & Fast: Beat the traffic and enjoy open-air views of Paris

Whether you're admiring the Eiffel Tower, cruising along Canal Saint-Martin, or discovering hidden gems in Le Marais, Vélib’ gives you a new way to connect with Paris — one pedal at a time.