The Tour de France is like the Super Bowl and the World Series combined. But, it’s not in a stadium, it’s on the road, and might even pass right in front of your house!
Everyone in France, especially in the countryside, is glued to the tv during the weeks that the tour cycles through France. Everyone knows the names of the top three riders and all of the French riders. Most Parisians use it an excuse to party, drink, spike your hair, paint your face, barbecue, etc…
For me (and probably for most), the best part about the Tour de France is when the sponsors’ entourage. They drive the route 15 – 30 minutes before the cyclists do and they throw out free samples. Everything from candy to clothes, to the cheering crowds lining the streets.
I’ve only had one chance to really see the Tour de France up close. I’m not a huge fan of biking even though it was my main form of transportation in my youth. Still, taking a velib in Paris is half the time and the quickest way to get anywhere so it’s become my preferred mode of transportation since moving into Paris. Also happy to report that according to the UN polls, Paris is in the Top Twenty Safest Cities to Ride in.
Everyone loves it. And if you are into biking, just imagine. I’m not saying you have to run behind the bikes and find a favorite cyclist to support. You don’t have to know why the teams stay together and ride slow or fast on purpose at different points. I’m saying it’s a great time to be in Paris – in addition to the food, the fashion, the incredible art and the historic sites.
And if you do come to Paris then and happen to catch the final sprint, have a drink with us on the Champs Elysées! Ask us how to bike your way through Paris, and our favorite night bike tour.
See the classic sights of Paris with this collection of Private Tours and other experiences. Great for New Travelers.
Some parts of France can’t be put into a 2 or 3-hour tour and some just take a while to get to. Venture out of Paris on an exciting Day Trip.
Experience some of the most significant works of art in Paris on a Private Art Tour. Learn about the story’s of the painters behind the works and ask questions along the way.
Taste the latest Paris Food experiences with our personal and tasty private food tours. Learn to make authentic Parisian meals, taste chocolate assortments, or…
From perfume to WW2, our private history tours are a way to see Paris in a different light.
Experience immersive music tours in Paris. Sit and listen up close to an award-winning Master Pipe Organist or learn about the history of Jazz in Paris on a private tour!
Looking for something particular? We’ll help you find it in Paris. Our private shopping tours include Antiques, Wardrobe, and more!
The Château de Fontainebleau, just 35 miles southeast of central Paris, can proudly claim to have been a sovereign residence for eight centuries. Capétiens, Valois, Bourbons, Bonaparte and Orléans, all members of French ruling dynasties, have lived within these walls. The chateau dates back to 1137—and centuries of royals have expanded this former royal hunting lodge to a more than 1,500-room estate. Most of what you’ll see dates back to the 16th century, a combination of Italian Renaissance art and French design, these rooms are some of the most intricate and breathtaking in France. If times allows, you can enjoy lunch in this charming area.
Tour Length: 5 – 6 hours
Related Post
25Aug
ShareHow I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Flight
22Feb
ShareWhat is Paris like during the Tour de France?