Paris by Night City of Lights Sightseeing Guided Bike Tour

Discover Paris in a fresh new light with the Paris by Night City of Lights Sightseeing Guided Bike Tour. Priced at $52.14 per person, this 3-hour 30-minute tour offers a lively way to explore the city’s most iconic sights after dark. Led by knowledgeable guides from Fat Tire Tours – Paris, it promises a blend of sightseeing, cultural insights, and fun, all from the comfort of a well-equipped bicycle. The tour is especially suited for those eager for an active, engaging experience and a different perspective on the City of Light, with safety gear provided and a small group size for personal attention.

While this tour involves quite a bit of riding, it remains accessible for most fitness levels thanks to regular stops and gentle pacing. A highlight is the chance to see landmarks like Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower bathed in night’s glow, combined with a sweet treat at Berthillon ice cream shop. Keep in mind, the tour does not include entry to any interiors, but the outdoor views and commentary make for a memorable evening in Paris.

Key Points

• Affordable price just over $52 for a comprehensive 3.5-hour night bike tour
• Visit major Paris landmarks like Notre Dame, Louvre, Pont des Arts, and Eiffel Tower, all beautifully lit after dark
• Small group setting (max 16 people) ensures a more personal experience
• Bikes and helmets are provided for safety and comfort
• Includes a stop for ice cream at the famous Berthillon shop (cost not included)
• Suitable for most fitness levels, with regular stops and a relaxed pace

Starting Point and Tour Duration

The tour begins at 24 Rue Edgar Faure in the 75015 Paris area, a location close to public transportation, making it easy to reach. The full experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, with outdoor sightseeing, stops, and a scenic ride along the Seine River.

The tour concludes back at the original meeting point, allowing ample time for further exploration or dinner afterward. The overall length strikes a good balance between covering top sights and allowing time for photos and rest.

What the Tour Includes and Excludes

This guided bike tour provides bicycles and helmets at no extra charge, along with a small group setting capped at 16 participants. During the ride, you’ll enjoy water or juice, and after a scenic cruise along the Seine River, there’s a well-deserved stop for ice cream at Berthillon—famous for over 20 flavors.

Food and drinks apart from the provided beverages are not included, and participants should plan to eat beforehand. Rain gear can be bought on-site for €2 if weather conditions change unexpectedly.

Detailed Stops and Sights

The tour begins at Fat Tire Tours and then heads through Ecole Militaire, offering a quick outside view and photo opportunity. Travelers pass through the vibrant Saint Germain neighborhood, known for its lively atmosphere and historic charm.

A key stop is Ile Saint-Louis, where a brief visit includes photos and ice cream at Berthillon, located on the bridge between Ile Saint-Louis and Ile de la Cité. Guests get to taste more than 20 flavors while listening to stories about Paris’ early history.

The iconic Cathedral Notre-Dame de Paris is viewed from the outside, with commentary on its architecture and significance. The Conciergerie also features as a notable monument, highlighted from the outside with informative stops.

Riders then cruise along the Seine River for about 45 minutes, enjoying views of the Pont des Arts and the river’s illuminated bridges. The Louvre Museum courtyard is visible from the outside, offering pictures of the famous architecture, without entry inside.

The tour concludes with a view of the Eiffel Tower, which is especially striking when illuminated at night. Stops for photos and commentary ensure visitors capture the perfect shot of the city’s most famous monument.

The Experience of Biking in Paris at Night

Riding through Paris after sunset offers a different perspective, with landmarks glowing under the night sky. The tour’s route is designed for a leisurely pace, with plenty of stops for photo opportunities and storytelling. The ride is suitable for most fitness levels, with guides ensuring everyone feels safe and comfortable.

The bikes and helmets help keep the experience smooth, while the regular stops provide chances to rest and take in the sights. Despite involving some riding, the pace remains relaxed enough for a wide range of participants, including those new to cycling.

The Guides and Tour Atmosphere

Many reviews commend the knowledgeable and friendly guides like Kayley, Vlad, Andrew, and others. Guides are praised for their enthusiasm, safety-consciousness, and ability to share engaging stories about Paris’ landmarks. Their explanations add depth without overwhelming, making the experience both fun and educational.

The small group size fosters a personal and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for asking questions and taking photos. The guides’s attentiveness makes even a rainy night enjoyable, with some reviews noting that the weather does not diminish the overall experience.

Tips for Participants

To maximize enjoyment, travelers are advised to dress appropriately for the weather and eat before the tour, as there are no meal stops apart from the ice cream. The tour is not recommended for children under 12, and participants should inform the provider if a child’s bike is needed.

While rain gear is available for purchase, it’s wise to check the weather forecast beforehand, especially during the rainy season, to avoid discomfort. The tour involves some riding, so a basic level of physical fitness helps, but the relaxed pace and frequent stops make it accessible for most.

Why This Tour is a Great Choice

The Paris by Night City of Lights Sightseeing Guided Bike Tour stands out for its combination of iconic landmarks, scenic river views, and lively atmosphere. The $52.14 price point offers good value considering the duration, guided commentary, and inclusion of bikes and helmets.

Reviewers consistently praise the expert guides and the stunning views of Paris illuminated at night, with many describing it as a highlight of their trip. This tour works best for travelers who enjoy cycling, history, and vibrant cityscapes, and who want to experience Paris in a more dynamic, outdoor way.

Final Thoughts on the Paris Night Bike Tour

This tour offers an engaging and active way to see Paris’ most famous sights after dark, with plenty of opportunities for photos and stories. Its small group size, professional guides, and scenic route along the Seine make it a memorable experience for most visitors.

While it does involve a fair amount of biking, the relaxed pace and regular stops make it accessible and enjoyable. The inclusion of ice cream at Berthillon adds a sweet touch to the evening, rounding out a lively, memorable night in the City of Lights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Participants under 12 are not recommended, and all minors must be accompanied by an adult. A child’s bike must be advised at booking.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour proceeds rain or shine. Rain gear is available for purchase for €2.

Are helmets and bikes provided?
Yes, bicycles and helmets are included at no extra charge, ensuring safety during the ride.

Does the tour go inside any landmarks?
No, the stops are mainly outside views of landmarks like Notre Dame, Louvre, and Eiffel Tower. There is no entry included.

How long is the ride along the Seine River?
The ride along the Seine takes approximately 45 minutes, providing scenic river views and photo opportunities.

What food or drinks are included?
Only water or juice are provided during the ride. The ice cream at Berthillon is own expense.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, with a full refund. Less than 24 hours’ notice results in no refund.

Is the tour suitable for most fitness levels?
Yes, the tour is designed for all fitness levels with a gentle pace and regular stops for rest and photos.

What are the main landmarks I will see?
You will see Notre Dame, the Louvre courtyard, Pont des Arts, Eiffel Tower, and cruise along the Seine River.

What makes this tour different from other Paris sightseeing options?
Its focus on nighttime scenery, active outdoor experience, and small group setting provide a lively, personal way to explore Paris’s illuminated landmarks.