The Seine by Bike: embark on an adventure from Paris to the sea.

© Buchowski & Vagabonde

Tellement jolie, elle nous ensorcelle… La Seine !

If -M- dedicated a song to it, it’s for a reason. By the way, fun fact: the Seine is the 4th most visited site in Paris - behind the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Sacré-Cœur… and ahead of the Eiffel Tower! Not bad for a simple river, right?

Except that unlike the Monster in Paris, the allure of the Seine is not limited to the capital. The river winds its way to the English Channel, between Le Havre and Honfleur, creating landscapes that would inspire any artist to pull out their easel… or at least their sketchbook.

And that’s where La Seine à Vélo comes into play, the cycling route that connects Paris to the sea. All the way to Deauville or Le Havre, you follow the river’s loops with your GPS set to “poetry.”

We’re taking you on this bike route that makes you want to pack your panniers.

La Seine à vélo, what is it?

Seine à vélo is over 500 kilometers of marked cycling routes. Imagine: starting from the heart of the capital, following the quays, crossing Normandy along the water, and ending up with the wind in your face facing the Channel. No need to travel to the other side of the world to feel like you’re in a different place.

The route alternates between greenways, safe small roads, and paths along the water. In short, accessible to everyone: from Sunday cyclists to lycra addicts. And good news: if your legs give up, the SNCF is there to bring back tired bikes and calves.

Why try the adventure?

• Because it’s close. No traffic jams, no passport, no security gates: you hop on your bike (or rent one), and off you go!
• Because it’s varied. Museums, Gothic cathedrals, impressive cliffs, castles, typical villages: there are treasures scattered all along the route.
• Because it’s slow. You take your time, pedal at your own pace, stop whenever a terrace catches your eye. Low-carbon travel and no pressure - except in your tires ;)
• Because it’s stylish. Admit it, telling people upon your return from vacation “I went to Deauville… by bike” sounds pretty cool, right?

10 must-see stops on the Seine à Vélo

Saint Germain en Laye

The first breath of fresh air outside Paris, Saint-Germain-en-Laye charms with its vast terrace overlooking the Seine valley (first selfie of the bike trip!), but also for its surrounding forest. You can take a break (or why not a picnic) at Maisons-Laffitte to admire its castle.

La Roche-Guyon and its cliffs

Nestled in a cliff, it’s one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France.” A medieval castle (you can visit its 12th-century keep), breathtaking views of the valley and the river, troglodyte dwellings... The scenery is spectacular.

Giverny

You know, the famous water lilies by Monet? They’re here, in real life, in Giverny. The artist’s house and its gardens are a must-see, and arriving by bike gives a special flavor to the place. Pro tip: avoid peak tourist hours to enjoy the magic.

If you’re passionate, extend your stop to visit the Museum of Impressionisms, which features two new temporary exhibitions each year.

Les Andelys & Château Gaillard

Richard the Lionheart knew how to choose his spots: perched on its rocky spur, the Château Gaillard overlooks the Seine with panache.

Your calves will remember the climb, but your retinas will remember the grand panorama. A true medieval film set - we wouldn’t be surprised to run into Robin Hood there.

Rouen: medieval vibes

Rouen is a bit like Game of Thrones with a Norman twist: cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and a Gothic cathedral so imposing that it inspired 30 paintings by Monet (yes, him again). Add to that the Gros Horloge, a local star that might have given ideas to Big Ben, and you have a city filled with history.

Don’t leave without tasting cider + camembert + Norman tart: the perfect combo to recharge your batteries.

The Brotonne Forest & Regional Natural Park of the Seine Normande Loops

Time for some XXL nature. Mysterious forests, white cliffs, peaceful meanders, picturesque villages, and heritage: this is the moment when you slow down just to say “wow” every 5 minutes.

Jumièges Abbey

Nicknamed “the most beautiful ruin in France,” the abbey impresses with its both ghostly and romantic silhouette. Between the white walls and the Norman sky, the place is (once again) worthy of a painting.

Honfleur

A magical arrival by the Channel. With its tall houses with colorful facades and its picturesque port, Honfleur has that little something that makes you fall in love instantly.

The terraces of the Vieux Bassin welcome you: seafood platter, glass of cider, and your legs suddenly forget the kilometers covered. It’s the perfect stop to stroll, bite into a waffle, and capture the moment postcard-style.

Deauville: the glamorous arrival

Final clap with an arrival in the most mythical resort of Normandy. Deauville is known for its vast sandy beach, its beach cabins named after stars, and its chic yet relaxed atmosphere.

The beach unfolds at your feet like a red carpet – after all, you are the star of the day.

Our tips for a successful bike adventure

• Choose your bike wisely. Hybrid, gravel, road bike, electric assistance: it all depends on the duration of your trip, your endurance, and your desires. How to choose your bike?
• Travel light. Panniers yes, moving your apartment no.
• Keep some free time. The Seine is not a Strava circuit. Detours, contemplative breaks, and visits are mandatory!
• Book your accommodations in advance: between gîtes, guesthouses, and cozy hotels, there’s plenty to choose from… but in Normandy, cozy addresses go fast.
• Pack smart: a rain jacket (Normandy requires it), a water bottle, and a small repair kit. Norman cows are cute but not very skilled at mechanics.
• Think trains: many train stations line the route. Perfect if your legs say stop or if you fancy a museum along the way.

And for families?

Good news: the Seine à vélo is kid-friendly. Safe sections, flexible stops, picnic breaks by the water, and fun visits (castles, gardens, interactive museums). Your teenager might even look up from their smartphone.

The Seine on two wheels

La Seine à vélo is the perfect combo: close, refreshing, eco-friendly, and full of discoveries. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a leisurely walker, there’s a version of the trip for you. And honestly, arriving at the sea using only the power of your calves is pretty classy.

Warning: upon your return, you might find yourself humming « On s’aime comme ça, la Seine et moi » on repeat. No known antidote.