Visiting France - Suggestions for holidays, trains, itineraries, day-trips, and sightseeing from someone who has lived and traveled extensively in France
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Velib’ is taking Paris by storm. Velib’ is the free bike rental service in Paris.
Throughout Paris there are stations where Velib’ bikes are lined up. People visiting Paris can purchase a pass for a small fee and then use the Velib’ bikes to get around Paris.
If you are visiting Paris frequently, it’s worth the time to get a yearly pass for Velib’ so you don’t have to wait in line at the payment machine. You can link the Velib’ pass to Navigo metro pass for ease of use.
Bikes from one Velib’ station can be returned at any other Paris Velib’ station, so it’s a great way to do your Paris sightseeing. Velib’ is especially helpful when the Paris metro and buses go on strike (not uncommon!).
When you rent a Velib’ bike in Paris make sure to inspect the bike for damage, as some of the bikes are old or not in good condition.
Velib’ is also available in Lyon and several other cities in France.
I just returned from Paris–the only downside is that you have to have a computer chip on your credit card or bank card or a good friend in Paris (none of my American cards worked). The Velib auto-stations require a 150 Euro deposit in case you lose bike! The cost is 1 Euro a day or 5 Euro a week–great fun, just wish it was a little more user friendly. In mornings and late afternoons, you may have trouble finding a station with any working bikes! Buy a Paris map that shows location of all Velib stations–very helpful, since you have to switch out bike every 30 minutes.
Ruthie
Just beware when renting Velib bikes that you may not ever get your deposit back (150 euro per bike). My girlfriend paid for 2 bikes (300 euro) by debit card almost 4 months ago and never got her deposit back. I have been ringing and faxing the company but still they have not returned this money.