Paris Transforms: The 2021-2026 Cycling Plan in Detail

Paris is embarking on a major transformation with the 2021-2026 Cycling Plan, boasting a budget of over €250 million in investments, €100 million more than the previous plan. This ambitious program aims to make the capital a truly cycling city where cycling becomes the preferred mode of transport. From the Hôtel R de Paris, located in the heart of the 9th arrondissement, you can quickly explore and experience this cycling revolution that is reshaping Parisian streets.

180 Kilometers of New Safe Cycle Paths

The key element of the Cycling Plan is the development of continuous and safe infrastructure for cyclists.

In 2021, Paris boasted over 1,000 km of cycling infrastructure, including more than 300 km of cycle paths and 52 km of temporary paths created after the first lockdown, which will be fully made permanent. In addition, 180 km of new paths were added, comprising 130 km of new construction and the permanent addition of the 52 km of temporary cycle paths created during the health crisis. These cycle paths are designed to offer maximum comfort and safety. The main network, called the Vélopolitain, is a high-quality, structured network that integrates the future routes of the regional express cycle network. The paths are wide, safe, and separated from motorized traffic, meeting recommended quality standards. The secondary network completes this network to serve inter-district travel, while the local network ensures cycling accessibility on all streets of Paris.

Secure Parking Revolution: 130,000 New Spaces

One of the major concerns of Parisian cyclists is bicycle security. More than 6,000 bicycle theft reports were recorded in 2020, which prompted the Cycling Plan to include more than 130,000 new parking spaces dedicated to bicycles. These spaces are strategically distributed:

  • 30,000 bike rack spaces in public areas, including 1,000 spaces specifically for cargo bikes (for a total of 15,000 racks)
  • Secure bike parking for 100,000 spaces, including concessionary parking lots equipped with charging points for electric bikes
  • Secure residential parking for residents
  • Parking zones near train stations and strategic locations

In addition, all new buildings, whether offices or public facilities, must now include secure bike parking, and temporary parking areas are created during major events.

390 Kilometers of Two-Way Bike Lanes: Cycling Everywhere

An Innovation A key element of the Cycling Plan is the widespread implementation of two-way cycle lanes in Paris's smaller streets. The ambitious goal is to have 390 km of two-way cycle lanes by the end of the 2026 term. This means that a majority of Paris's smaller streets will be passable in both directions for cyclists, greatly facilitating daily commutes and enabling more direct routes. In central Paris (1st, 3rd, and 4th arrondissements), approximately two-thirds of the streets already allow two-way cycle traffic, with the objective of having all smaller streets do so by 2026. This approach fundamentally transforms cycling mobility by offering true journey flexibility. Regional Integration: The RER Cycle Network and the Vélopolitain (a network of cycle paths) The Cycling Plan does not stop at the city limits of Paris. Paris is fully integrated into the regional ecosystem with two major networks:

  • The RER Vélo (renamed Vélo Île-de-France): 9 main lines connecting Paris to the greater Paris region
  • The Vélopolitain: The Greater Paris metropolitan cycle network, guaranteeing continuity and consistency of cycle paths beyond the ring road

The RER Vélo network now achieves 84% continuity across its 9 main lines, with 72% of the 1,300 km planned in the 2021-2026 Cycling Plan already completed. This regional continuity allows cyclists to ride uninterrupted from their suburban homes to the heart of Paris.

Enhanced Safety and Reversed Priorities

To drastically improve cyclist safety, the Cycling Plan modifies traffic regulations by giving priority to bicycles and public transport over cars, contrasting with the previous advantages granted to motorized traffic via traffic lights.

In concrete terms, this translates to:

  • Expanded 30 km/h zones to improve the safety of cyclists and pedestrians
  • Dutch-style intersections and protective islands for cyclists
  • Dedicated bicycle boxes at intersections, with specific cyclist traffic lights
  • Blind spot markings mandatory on orders public
  • Increased enforcement by the Municipal Police to ensure compliance with cycle paths and pedestrian priority

    • Eco-mobility Support and Training

    To make cycling accessible to everyone, the Cycling Plan offers subsidies for the purchase of electric bikes and urban cycling training to ensure everyone can ride safely. This support facilitates the transition to sustainable mobility, particularly for seniors and families.

    In addition, the "Learn to Ride at School" program has been expanded to teach young Parisians how to cycle safely.

    The Numbers Speak: The Impact Is Already Measurable

    The results are spectacular. In 2021, more than 4.1 million bicycles and scooters used the Rue de Rivoli alone, one of the busiest cycle paths in Paris. Boulevard de Sébastopol, the busiest cycle path in Paris, saw 28,417 bicycles on a single day in October 2022. The increase in usage is even more striking: 11.2% of trips in Paris are now made by bicycle, compared to less than 5% before the lockdown, representing a 71.6% increase in the use of cycle paths between 2021 and 2023. Vélib' Evolution: More Bikes, More Stations For cyclists without their own bikes, the Vélib' public service now has 1,406 stations, including 1,006 in Paris and 400 in the inner suburbs. Electric bikes (blue) are now available alongside regular bikes (green), offering greater flexibility and accessibility.

    Near the Hotel R de Paris: Concrete Improvements

    The Hotel R de Paris directly benefits from this cycling revolution. Located in the heart of the 9th arrondissement, near the Grands Boulevards, you have access to rapidly expanding cycling infrastructure. The Rue du Havre and Rue Tronchet, near the hotel, have undergone major improvements including bike lane dividers, pedestrian refuges, and over 150 bike parking spaces, including cargo bike spaces. This remarkable accessibility makes the 9th arrondissement a true paradise for urban cyclists.

    Towards 2026: A 100% Cycling City

    The Cycling Plan is constantly evolving.

    As we approach 2026, the developments are multiplying, with a forecast of nearly 400 km of two-way cycle tracks created by the end of 2025 as part of this ambitious plan. This transformation isn't just about infrastructure: it's a profound shift in Parisian urban culture, where cycling is becoming the primary and preferred mode of transport.

    Practical Tips for Exploring Paris by Bike

    • Consult the official map "Paris by Bike, the best plan" available on paris.fr to identify safe bike lanes near the Hotel R
    • Rent a Vélib': More than 1,000 stations in Paris offer flexible rental options
    • Respect two-way cycle lanes: Check the signs; many small streets are now open for two-way cycling
    • Use the safe bike lanes: For greater comfort and safety, use the main Vélopolitain network.
    • Parking Smart tip: Over 130,000 spaces available; look for bike racks or secure parking near your destinations. Protect your bike: Use a good lock and choose monitored parking. A Cycling Revolution in the Heart of Paris The 2021-2026 Cycling Plan marks a major turning point in Parisian life. With 180 km of new bike lanes, 130,000 parking spaces, ubiquitous two-way cycle paths, and high safety standards, Paris is transforming into the world capital of urban cycling. From the Hôtel R de Paris, take full advantage of this green revolution: explore the city by bike, discover neighborhoods at your own pace, and experience Paris from a new, ecological, and dynamic perspective. The cycling Paris of 2026 is already under construction, and you can be a part of it now.