Paris – Nice by Bike: the Scandibérique and ViaRhôna

🌍 The first stage of the Paris - Nice by bike with DolceVia!

🚲 Embark on a unique stage starting from Paris by bike, heading towards Melun, just 70 km from the capital. Leave the hustle and bustle of Paris to follow the curves of the Seine, quickly immersing yourself in the tranquility and beauty of the Île-de-France countryside.

🏰 Along the way, you can visit iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre-Dame. You will discover the majestic Fontainebleau Forest. In Melun, it will be possible to visit the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, a masterpiece of baroque architecture that will transport you back in time.

🌜 To perfect your getaway, stay at the Nomade Lodge, offering a vast campsite of yurts and gîtes in the colors of Mongolia, providing a serene and relaxing setting after a day of cycling exploration.

© toureiffelofficielle

🚲 Discover the charm of the French countryside by cycling the 90 km that separate Melun from Sens. Along the way, take breaks to explore the villages and soak in the local atmosphere.

⛪ Upon arriving in Sens, dive into history by visiting the majestic Saint-Étienne Cathedral, one of the first Gothic cathedrals in France.

🍃 For a restful night, stay at La Capucine des Lavandières, which will allow you to unwind.

© Raimond Spekking

🚲 Discover the charm of Burgundy, a stage of the Paris - Nice by bike, by cycling the 72 km that separate Sens from Auxerre. Leaving Sens, let yourself be seduced by the villages and vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see.
🍷 In Joigny, discover a charming medieval center with its half-timbered houses and cobbled streets. Enjoy a tasting of local wines at one of the many vineyards in the region, famous for their Burgundy wines. Pedal along the peaceful banks of the Yonne, where each pedal stroke brings you closer to the charming town of Auxerre.
⛪ Upon your arrival, dive into history by visiting the Abbey of Saint-Germain and the Marine district for a stroll and to enjoy the terraces. Walk through the medieval streets of Auxerre and discover its half-timbered houses and Gothic buildings.
🏠 You will have the opportunity to stay at Clos Saint Eusèbe located on a quiet street in the heart of the historic center of Auxerre.
© gr8ful Ted Productions

🚲 Let yourself be tempted by a mini adventure by cycling the 23 km that separate Auxerre from Chablis. This short yet rich journey takes you through the beautiful vineyard landscapes of Burgundy.

🍷 Upon your arrival in Chablis, dive into the world of great wines by visiting the famous Chablis cellars, where you can taste the most renowned wines of the region. Stroll through the charming village of Chablis, with its narrow streets and friendly atmosphere.

🌿 Spend an unusual night at the Lodges des Grands Crus, a world of comfort, calm, and serenity, a true observatory of nature.

© Lodges des Grands Crus

🚲 Embark on an escape by cycling the 64 km between Chablis and Montbard. Leave the famous vineyards of Chablis to immerse yourself in the rolling landscapes of Burgundy, where each pedal stroke reveals breathtaking panoramas of fields and forests.

🌿 Along the way, take a break to explore charming villages and taste local products. In Montbard, dive into history by visiting the Parc Buffon, a beautiful French garden, and the Abbey of Fontenay, a Cistercian masterpiece listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

👍🏼 Take a break at the Concept-Studio, offering the perfect setting to relax and discover local craftsmanship.

© Xavier SPERTINI

🚲 Continue the Paris - Nice adventure by bike. Embark on a superb stage by cycling the 80 km from Montbard to Dijon, in the heart of the Burgundy region.
🏰 Leave Montbard to follow the Burgundy Canal, where the landscapes and historic locks accompany you throughout your journey. Cross charming villages and discover local heritage by visiting sites like the Château de Bussy-Rabutin.
🧑🏻‍🎨 Upon your arrival in Dijon, let yourself be charmed by the city's cultural richness: explore the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy and the Museum of Fine Arts, which houses some of the richest collections in French museums, and savor the local cuisine.
🌙 For one night, drop your bags at L'Artium located just 2 minutes' walk from Place de la République.
© Dijon Bourgogne Tourisme & Congrès

🚲 Experience a memorable moment of the Paris - Nice by bike by pedaling the 54 km that connect Dijon to Beaune, in the heart of the prestigious vineyards of the Côte de Nuits.

🍇 Leaving Dijon, follow the Route des Grands Crus, a dedicated cycling path that winds through some of the most famous wineries in Burgundy. Stop to taste the renowned wines of Gevrey-Chambertin and Nuits-Saint-Georges.

🍷 In Beaune, discover the jewels of Burgundy's heritage by visiting the Hospices de Beaune, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and dive into the history of wine at the Burgundy Wine Museum.

❤️ To spend your Burgundy night in a charming house, the Maison Millot in the heart of historic Beaune will be perfect for you.

© Expedia

🚲 Treat yourself to a getaway by cycling the 50 km that separate Beaune from Chalon-sur-Saône, in the heart of the Burgundy wine region.

📸 Leaving Beaune, follow the charming paths of the Wine Route, surrounded by vineyards and historic villages. Stop to taste local wines in Meursault or Pommard and explore traditional cellars.

⛪ Upon your arrival in Chalon-sur-Saône, discover the city's rich heritage by visiting the Saint-Vincent Cathedral and the Nicéphore Niépce Museum, dedicated to the invention of photography.

💕 To perfect your getaway, stay at the Romantique, ideally located.

© JSL /Renaud LAMBOLEZ

🚲 This short journey from Paris to Nice, in the heart of Burgundy, covering 66 km from Chalon-sur-Saône to Mâcon by bike, takes you along the banks of the Saône, through charming landscapes and villages.

☀️ Along the way, stop in Tournus to visit the Abbey of Saint-Philibert, a gem of Romanesque architecture, and enjoy the riverside terraces for a gourmet break.

🖼️ Upon arriving in Mâcon, discover the cultural and gastronomic richness of this vibrant city: stroll through the lively streets, visit the Ursulines Museum, and taste the wines of the Mâconnais.

😌 For a restful night, stay at the Balcon des Deux Roches, which will allow you to relax.

© Alain Doire - BFC Tourisme

🚲 Embark on an adventure cycling the 66 km between Mâcon and Lyon, a route that will take you through the landscapes of the Saône Valley.
🍽️ Leaving Mâcon, follow the roads lined with vineyards and charming villages, such as Saint-Amour and Belleville. Enjoy breaks to taste the local wines of Beaujolais and discover traditional markets.
🥇 Upon your arrival in Lyon, immerse yourself in the cultural richness of this vibrant city: explore Vieux Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, and indulge in Lyonnaise cuisine at one of the many typical bouchons.
🏅 To be ideally located in Vieux Lyon, stay at the Collège Hôtel, which is also certified Accueil Vélo!
© Tripadvisor

🚲 Cycle the 39 km between Lyon and Vienne, a stage of the Paris - Nice, along the banks of the Rhône. Leaving the vibrant Lyon, follow a scenic bike path that winds through tranquil landscapes.
💧 Take a break in the charming village of Vernaison for a picnic by the water. Upon your arrival in Vienne, dive into history by visiting the Temple of Augustus and Livia, as well as the ancient theater. For food lovers, be sure to sample local specialties in traditional bistros.
🏙️ Stop for the night in a warm, bright, and comfortable apartment located to connect major cities and local activities, without getting caught in the twists and turns of the city center.
© Nicolas Janberg

🚲 Embark on an adventure by cycling the 93 km from Vienne to Valence along the spectacular banks of the Rhône. Leave Vienne, a city rich in history, and follow a bike path that traverses varied and beautiful landscapes, from terraced vineyards to lavender fields.

🌷 Along the way, stop in Tain-l'Hermitage to visit its famous vineyards and taste world-renowned wines. Continue your journey to Valence, a sunny city where you can stroll through the gardens of Parc Jouvet, explore the Saint-Apollinaire Cathedral, and savor local cuisine in bistros.

🛌🏻 Close your eyes in a Gîte at the Ferme des Marettes in the midst of the woods and valleys of Northern Ardèche.

© Eric Labrot

🚲 Embark on a captivating stage of the Paris - Nice by cycling the 73 km between Valence and Montélimar, traversing the sunny and diverse landscapes of the Drôme. Leaving Valence, follow a bike path that winds through fields of lavender, orchards, and vineyards.

☀️ Take a break in the village of Crest to admire its medieval tower and narrow streets. In Montélimar, known for its sweet treats, dive into the world of nougat by visiting local factories and tasting this iconic specialty. Explore the old town, with its lively markets and historic buildings, and enjoy the sunny terraces for a gourmet pause.

🌼 Choose the Maison Saint James offering a tree-filled garden, a true hidden oasis to forget the city.

© City of Crest

🚲 Treat yourself to an adventure by cycling the 78 km between Montélimar and Orange, through the landscapes of Drôme and Vaucluse. Leaving Montélimar, famous for its delicious nougat, follow roads lined with lavender fields and lush vineyards.

🏆 Stop in Suze-la-Rousse to visit its medieval castle and renowned vineyards. Continue on to Orange, where Roman history comes to life with its Ancient Theatre and Triumphal Arch, both classified as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Immerse yourself in the Provençal atmosphere by strolling through local markets and tasting the region's wines.

💤 You can spend a night at the Hôtel l'Herbier d'Orange located near the Ancient Theatre.

© Céline Mathieu

🚲 Embark on a 35 km bike ride between Orange and Avignon, a short getaway rich in discoveries and Provençal charm. As you leave Orange, admire the Ancient Theatre and the Arc de Triomphe, witnesses to Roman grandeur, before following roads lined with vineyards and sunflower fields.

✨ Take a break in the charming village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape for a tasting of the region's famous wines. Upon your arrival in Avignon, dive into history by visiting the majestic Palais des Papes and the Saint-Bénézet Bridge.

😌 If you need a break, La terrasse des papes will be the perfect spot.

© Expedia

🚲 Pedal and cover the 88 km that separate Avignon from Aix-en-Provence by bike, through the landscapes of Provence to complete the Paris - Nice route.

🥰 Leave Avignon, famous for its Palais des Papes and Pont Saint-Bénézet, and follow roads lined with lavender fields and olive trees. Along the way, stop in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence to visit the Roman sites and discover Van Gogh's inspiration.

🖼️ Upon your arrival in Aix-en-Provence, immerse yourself in the elegance and charm of this university town, explore its colorful markets, fountains, and lively streets. Don't miss visiting Cézanne's studio and the Granet Museum.

💚 Rent a room at the Jardin de Sabine to feel like you have nature at the foot of your bed!

© Cultured Voyages

🚲 Embark on a beautiful getaway by cycling the 66 km between Aix-en-Provence and Manosque, through the enchanting landscapes of Provence. Leave the charming Aix-en-Provence, with its colorful markets and fountains, to pedal through fields of lavender.

🏰 On the way, stop in Gréoux-les-Bains to relax in its renowned thermal baths or visit its medieval castle. Continue on to Manosque, the heart of Haute Provence, where you can stroll through the medieval streets and discover the works of Jean Giono at the Jean Giono Center.

🏠 Enjoy the La Figuière apartment to catch your breath after all that pedaling!

© The Official Thermalism Guide

🚲 Dive into the heart of Provence by cycling the 102 km between Manosque and Draguignan, a route that will lead you through sunny landscapes and hidden treasures. Leave Manosque, a charming town steeped in the spirit of Jean Giono, and pedal through the hills and olive groves.

🧑🏼‍🎨 Along the way, take a break in Aups, the capital of Haut-Var, to explore its Provençal markets and taste local specialties, such as black truffle. Upon arriving in Draguignan, discover its rich heritage by visiting the Museum of Arts and Popular Traditions and stroll through its tree-lined streets.

🌙 To recharge, choose the guest rooms at Villa Lei Rigaü!

© Var Tourism

🚲 Embark on the adventure of Paris - Nice by cycling the 88 km from Draguignan to Cannes, a captivating route that will take you from the rolling landscapes of the Var hinterland to the sparkling beaches of the French Riviera.

🏖️ Leaving Draguignan, follow paths lined with vineyards and pine forests, and make a stop in Grasse, the world capital of perfume, to visit its famous perfumeries and stroll through its picturesque streets. Continue your journey down to the Mediterranean, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the azure sea.

🏖️ Upon your arrival in Cannes, discover the glamour of the Croisette, explore the historic Suquet district, and relax on the golden beaches.

👍🏼 If needed, stay in a cozy apartment to unwind!

© City of Cannes

🚲 The final stage of the Paris – Nice by bike! Treat yourself to a short but unforgettable experience by cycling the 34 km that connect Cannes to Nice, a route that runs along the splendid Côte d'Azur. Leaving Cannes, follow the coastline past the fine sandy beaches and the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean.

🚶🏻‍♂️ Stop in Antibes to explore its charming old port, visit the Picasso Museum, and relax on the ramparts overlooking the sea. Continue your journey through the prestigious seaside towns of Juan-les-Pins and Villeneuve-Loubet. Upon your arrival in Nice, stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, discover the treasures of Old Nice with its colorful markets and authentic Niçoise cuisine.

🕊️ Take a break at the Nice hillside house, a small haven of peace.

© Antibes – Juan-les-Pins

✨ For a better customization of your Paris – Nice bike trip, feel free to check our planner which allows you to add or remove stages, find other accommodations, and even restaurants!

Also, check out our article Preparing for your bike trip to be well-prepared!

🚴‍♀️ Did you enjoy the Paris – Nice bike adventure? Discover other DolceVia routes as well:

🚴‍♀️ Paris → Marseille by bike Travel through the stages from north to south of Provence and end your journey on the Mediterranean. 👉 Discover Paris – Marseille

🚴‍♀️ La Vélobuissonnière by bike A nature and heritage getaway, through forests and picturesque villages for a relaxing and authentic journey. 👉 Discover La Vélobuissonnière