By Cécile — September 2026 — 5 min read
If there is one French city made for cycling, it is Bordeaux. An almost entirely flat centre, kilometres of landscaped quays along the Garonne, historic streets where cars keep a low profile: here, two wheels are enough for almost everything. Whether you are a casual rider or a seasoned cyclist, here is how to make the most of Bordeaux by bike during your stay.
A City Built for Two Wheels
Bordeaux is one of the most pleasant cities in France to cycle in. The centre is virtually flat, the historic heart is largely traffic-calmed, and the main roads are lined with cycle paths and lanes. In a few minutes, you go from the narrow streets of old Bordeaux to the sweeping views of the quays — without ever straining your legs.
From our B&B, in the Saint-Michel district, everything is within easy pedalling distance: the quays are two minutes away, and from there, the whole city opens up to you.
Where to Find a Bike
Two simple options during your stay:
- The V³ bike-share scheme: stations spread across the metropolitan area let you borrow a bike for a single trip or for the day. Handy for one-off journeys.
- Renting from a bike shop: the best option if you plan to ride for several days or head out of the city. We happily recommend Pierre Qui Roule, which offers city bikes, electric bikes and equipment by the day or by the week.
The Essential Ride: the Quays of the Garonne
This is the iconic ride, and it is accessible to everyone. The quays of Bordeaux offer a continuous landscaped promenade along the river, fully separated from traffic for most of the route. As you follow the water, you pass the listed facades of the Place de la Bourse and its water mirror, the former warehouses turned shops and restaurants, all the way to the regenerated districts in the north of the city, home to the Cité du Vin.
Cross the Pont de pierre to change banks: the right bank, greener and quieter, offers the finest views of the waterfront — the famous "Port of the Moon" that earned Bordeaux its UNESCO listing. To plan the rest of your days, our Discover Bordeaux page covers the essentials.
The Great Escape: the Roger Lapébie Greenway
In the mood for greenery and vines? Starting on the edge of Bordeaux, the Roger Lapébie greenway unrolls 47 kilometres of converted former railway line through Entre-Deux-Mers, between vineyards, villages and old stations given a new life. The route is safe and free of motor traffic — but do not be fooled by its railway past: it is not flat, and a few solid climbs punctuate the ride. Less sporty riders should opt for an electric bike, and nothing forces you to do all 47 kilometres: the route is just as enjoyable in sections, with plenty of places to stop along the way.
It is one of our favourite day trips to recommend to our guests — you will find more in our article on day trips around Bordeaux.
The Right Rhythm for a Day on Two Wheels
A typical day from our door: a morning visit to the Marché des Capucins to fuel up, then the quays northwards to the Cité du Vin, back through the historic centre and its narrow streets, and across the Pont de pierre in the late afternoon to admire the quays glowing in the setting sun from the right bank. All without ever looking for a parking space.
A few practical tips:
- Ride early or late in the day in summer: the quays get very busy during the hottest hours of fine weekends.
- Watch out for tram rails: cross them at a right angle, especially in wet weather.
- Bring a good lock: as in any big city, always secure the bike, frame and wheel, to a fixed point.
Where to Stay (and Park Your Bike)
Our B&B is located in the Saint-Michel district, in the heart of historic Bordeaux, a few minutes from the quays, the Marché des Capucins and Saint-Jean station. An ideal base for exploring the city by bike — all the more so as you can book a spot for your bike right here with us, and keep it safely under cover during your stay. Our four studios welcome you all year round.
Ready to ride? Book your studio and discover Bordeaux at the pace that suits it best.