Paris in 1 Day for Friends - Guided bike ride along Canal Saint-Martin
In Collaboration with Rentabike Paris. Updated on February 25, 2026.
Get on your bike and let yourself be guided along this magnificent bike ride of the Canal Saint-Martin. An authentic and almost magical way to discover the city, over the water. Discover charming neighborhoods, far from classic tourist itineraries. Your passionate Guide will tell you the story of our industrial past that shaped betting through the canal. Let's take advantage of a break by the沟l
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Rentabike Paris, inspired by the tour Cycling along the Canal Saint-Martin. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Guided bike ride along Canal Saint-Martin
- Passage Brady ('Little India' of Paris)
- Place de la Bataille de Stalingrad and canal locks
- Break at Quai de la Loire with optional pétanque
- Visit to the Philharmonie / Parc de la Villette area
Itinerary
Day 1
Meeting, bike fitting and guided ride along Canal Saint-Martin with stops at local highlights and a riverside break.
Meet & bike fitting — 20 Rue Greneta
Meet your guide and get fitted to a bike at the meeting point. Short safety briefing and route overview before departure.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 10 minutes early to complete paperwork and sizing; you must be at least 1.50 m tall for adult bikes.
- Bring a photo ID and any personal helmet if you prefer; helmets may be provided but availability varies.
- Wear comfortable shoes for cycling and a light waterproof layer in case of spring showers.
Porte Saint-Denis (old gate of Paris)
Short stop under the historic gate — a former ceremonial and tax entry point to the city; your guide will explain its role in Paris' past.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep bikes close and locked during the stop; use the group lock if provided by the guide.
- This stop is brief — have your camera ready for quick photos of the monument.
- Watch for local traffic when parking bikes; the area is busy with cars and scooters.
Passage Brady (the 'Little India' of Paris)
Ride through and stop at the covered passage known for South Asian shops and restaurants — you'll see why it's nicknamed 'the little India of Paris'.
Tips from local experts:
- Passage Brady is narrow and pedestrian; walk your bike through the covered section if the guide asks you to.
- If you plan to buy food, keep it small and easy to carry while cycling.
- Be mindful of low lighting and steps in older passages; supervise any small items or phones.
Quai de Valmy — canal bridges and locks
Cycle along Quai de Valmy, observe canal life: boats, bridges and functional locks while the guide points out industrial-era history.
Tips from local experts:
- Maintain single-file spacing on shared paths and obey your guide's instructions at crossings.
- Keep a moderate pace to enjoy photo opportunities of boats and lock mechanisms.
- If you want close-up photos of boats, ask the guide where it's safe to stop without blocking paths.
Former warehouse district along the Canal Saint-Martin
Stop in the transformed former storage areas — now lively, hidden districts that retain industrial character and local charm.
Tips from local experts:
- Look for converted warehouse facades and quiet courtyards — a good chance for candid street photography.
- Keep valuables secured; these areas are popular with locals and visitors alike.
- If you need a restroom, tell the guide so they can point to the nearest facility.
Place de la Bataille de Stalingrad
Historic crossing point where goods entering Paris were taxed; viewpoint over a broader stretch of the canal and nearby city life.
Tips from local experts:
- This square can be windy; keep loose clothing and hats secured for photos.
- Traffic around the roundabout can be busy — follow the guide when crossing to photo points.
- If you'd like local snack recommendations nearby, ask your guide for a quick suggestion.
Break at Quai de la Loire — drink & pétanque option
Halfway break by the canal; relax, have a drink (at your expense) and join a casual game of pétanque if available.
Tips from local experts:
- Drinks and snacks during the break are not included — bring a small amount of cash or card for purchases.
- If you want to play pétanque, wear flat-soled shoes; the guide can show basic rules and lend balls when available.
- Use this time to refill water bottles; public restrooms are limited so plan accordingly.
Philharmonie / Parc de la Villette area
Discover the Philharmonic Park area and nearby green spaces; the guide will point out contemporary cultural sites and local activities.
Tips from local experts:
- This area is spacious — stay with the group on bike or dismount where indicated to explore pedestrian zones.
- If you plan to visit inside the Philharmonie after the tour, check opening hours separately; the tour stops outside and in the park.
- Keep an eye on children or personal items near open lawns; the park is popular for informal gatherings.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 8 |
| Total Places | 8 |
| Activities Types | Experience, Culture, Neighborhood, Outdoor, Break, Attraction |
