Cycling itineraries in Lyon: discover the city by bike

Discover the most beautiful cycling routes in Lyon

Lyon is a city made to be explored by bike. With its well-developed river banks, historic districts and emblematic hills, cycling in Lyon offers a unique experience combining heritage, nature and conviviality. Whether you're a local or a tourist just passing through, Mobilboard Lyon has put together a selection of unmissable cycling itineraries so you can discover the city at your own pace, on a muscle bike or an electric bike.

Lyon's must-do cycling itineraries

1. The banks of the Rhône and Saône rivers

Lyon's most accessible itinerary runs along the two rivers for which the city is famous. Completely flat and safe, this route is ideal for a first bike ride in Lyon with family or friends. You'll cycle along the redeveloped quays, enjoying the green spaces, the "guinguettes" and a breathtaking view of Lyon's bridges and facades.

Distance: approx. 12 km round trip

Difficulty: easy

What to see Parc de la Tête d'Or, Quais de Saône, Passerelle du Collège

2. The Presqu'île and Vieux-Lyon

This itinerary in the heart of the city takes you from Place Bellecour to the cobbled streets of Vieux-Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site. An ideal bike ride for history and architecture buffs, from traboules to Saint-Jean cathedral and the climb to Fourvière.

Distance: approx. 8 km

Difficulty: easy to moderate (a few climbs)

What to see Vieux-Lyon, Fourvière Basilica, Place des Terreaux

3. Parc de la Tête d'Or and the 6th arrondissement

For a gentle, green bike ride, the Parc de la Tête d'Or tour is a classic. This route crosses France's largest urban park before skirting the residential lanes of the 6th arrondissement, dotted with beautiful Haussmann architecture.

Distance: approx. 6 km

Difficulty: easy

What to see Parc de la Tête d'Or, free zoo, rose garden

4. Voie Verte Lyon - Mions (southern cycle path)

For cyclists wishing to get away from the city center, this cycle route follows the cycle paths to the south of Lyon. Less frequented, it passes through residential neighborhoods and natural areas, perfect for a sportier outing or exploration on an electric bike.

Distance: approx. 15 km

Difficulty: moderate

What to see Gerland, suburban landscapes, nature along the railroad line

5. The Route des Monts d'Or (panoramic route)

For seasoned cyclists or electric bike enthusiasts, this off-the-beaten-track route climbs to the Monts d'Or north of Lyon. The panoramic views over the city and the Saône are well worth the effort. A bike ride in Lyon with a nature and escape dimension.

Distance: approx. 30 km

Difficulty: difficult (steep gradients)

What to see: Monts d'Or villages, views over Lyon, vineyards

Why choose Mobilboard Lyon for your bike tours?

Guided bike tours in Lyon

Discover Lyon with our guided bike tours, led by passionate guides who reveal the city's secrets. Old Lyon, the Presqu'île, the banks of the Saône, each bike tour in Lyon is designed to combine cultural discovery and pedaling pleasure. Ideal for tourists and locals alike, curious to learn more about their city.

Book a guided bike tour

Muscle bike rental in Lyon

Want to explore Lyon's bike routes at your own pace? Our muscle bikes are available for hire for an hour, half a day or a full day. Perfect for flat routes such as the banks of the Rhône and Saône rivers or the tour of the Parc de la Tête d'Or, they give you total freedom to build your own ride.

Book a muscle bike

Electric bike rental in Lyon

For itineraries with steep gradients or simply to enjoy the ride effortlessly, opt for our electric bikes. Whether you're heading up to Fourvière, escaping to the Monts d'Or or taking a long ride south, an electric bike opens up all of Lyon's cycling itineraries to you, whatever your physical condition. An experience accessible to everyone, from beginners to experienced cyclists.

Book an electric bike

Practical tips for cycling in Lyon

Lyon has an ever-expanding network of cycle paths, making cycling safer and more enjoyable. Here are a few tips before you set off:

Choose the right bike: for flat routes (river banks, Presqu'île), a muscle bike is sufficient. For hilly routes (Fourvière, Monts d'Or), opt for an electric bike to enjoy the scenery without wearing yourself out.

Respect the highway code: in Lyon, cyclists are subject to the same rules as other road users. Pedestrians have priority in shared zones.

Prepare your outing: consult our app to download itineraries, check the weather and pack a snack for long-distance rides.

Combine bike and public transport: the TCL network (metro, streetcar, bus) is compatible with bike transport on certain lines, ideal for getting to the starting point of your itinerary.

Ready to get on your bike?

Whether you're looking for a family bike ride in Lyon, a sporting outing or a guided cultural discovery tour, Mobilboard Lyon has the itinerary and package to suit you. See all our itineraries in detail on our app and book your bike or guided tour directly online.