How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking early , as many of our tours pass through popular destinations where accommodation fills up quickly, especially in peak season . The most sought-after tours are often fully booked for summer well before spring.

How do I get to the starting point of my tour?

All of our tour starting points are selected based on their accessibility via public transport. Our travel experts will help you find the most efficient route to reach your starting destination.

What if I run into problems during my trip?

Our tours take place in well-developed areas , ensuring access to essential services. Additionally, our support team is available by phone daily to assist in emergencies. Your travel documents will also include a list of bike repair shops along your route, so you can easily get professional help if needed.

How does luggage transfer work?

When luggage transfers are available, simply leave your bags at the hotel reception each morning . Our taxi service will pick them up and deliver them to your next hotel, usually by late morning or early afternoon. Your travel materials will include details on the transfer service, including contacts and schedules.

Are these tours suitable for children?

Most of our tours are best suited for individuals aged 14 and above with prior cycling experience. Some routes may not be suitable for young children due to longer distances and more challenging terrain.

How does luggage transfer work?

On cycling trips, luggage transfer allows you to ride without carrying heavy bags. Each morning, you leave your luggage at the designated spot—often the hotel reception—and it’s transported to your next overnight stop. Your bags are usually waiting for you when you arrive. Weight limits and pickup times can vary slightly depending on the service provider.

Do you transfer bikes too? How does it work?

Yes, bike transfers are often available when needed—such as before, after, or during your trip. Bikes are typically transported in secure vehicles or trailers designed for bicycles. You may need to notify the provider in advance, and some services require the bike to be clean or partially disassembled. Exact procedures vary depending on location and logistics.

Woman with bicycles near water channel with old buildings in Ghent city.

Historic guild houses line a canal with boats docked in Ghent under a bright blue sky.

Tour boat on the Seine River in Paris at sunset with the Eiffel Tower visible.

River Scheldt flowing between stone embankments lined with parked cars and autumn trees in a European city.

Canal with sunlit water reflecting light, flanked by historic buildings and a tall spire under a blue sky.

Eiffel Tower over the Seine River with tree-lined banks and historic buildings in Paris.

Canal with brick buildings and green trees along the banks, Canal du Nord setting

Aerial view of the Eiffel Tower overlooking the Seine River and the cityscape of Paris.

Cargo boat passes under stone bridge with flags; group of people on riverside walkway.

Ghent cityscape featuring St. Nicholas' Church tower over historic buildings and tram lines.

Large historic church with twin towers overlooking a town and rolling hills in Noyon.

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Belgium & France: Bruges to Paris Premium Bike and Barge

15 days / 14 nights

Journey from the medieval charm of Bruges to the allure of Paris, cycling through the heart of Flanders and Northern France, unveiling its scenic wonders.

Starting point

Bruges

Finish point

Paris

Season

From May to September

Fitness level

3/5

Tour type

Guided

Journey from the medieval charm of Bruges to the allure of Paris, cycling through the heart of Flanders and Northern France, unveiling its scenic wonders.

Starting point

Bruges

Finish point

Paris

Season

From May to September

Fitness level

3/5

Tour type

Guided

Highlights

Revel in the medieval splendor of Bruges and its UNESCO World Heritage-listed center
Dive deep into history with World War I battlefields and memorials in the Somme valley
Experience Paris, the iconic "City of Lights", in all its glory
Pedal through picturesque villages, alongside serene rivers, and across diverse landscapes
Discover the art and history of Ghent, Oudenaarde, and the chateau of Chantilly
Enjoy the luxury of guided tours, ensuring a rich and immersive experience

Itinerary of the trip

Embark on your adventure in the enchanting city of Bruges. After settling in and meeting the crew, take a short test ride to familiarize yourself with your bicycle. As evening falls, join a guided walk to explore the medieval heart of this UNESCO World Heritage site, often referred to as the "Venice of the North."

Gallery

Blue bicycle parked against a weathered brick building in Bruges, Belgium.

Stone arch bridge over canal with historic buildings and green trees in Bruges, Belgium.

Buildings on a steep, green hillside above a river in Dinant, Belgium.

After breakfast, you’ll set off on your ride. Midway along the canal between Bruges and Ghent, your barge will be waiting. As you approach Ghent, the spires of St. Bavo’s Cathedral and the Castle of the Counts rise above the city. Stroll along the picturesque canals, admire the historic guild houses, or relax at a café on the bustling Graslei.

Cycling

35 km and 60 m of elevation gain / 60 m of elevation loss

Gallery

Historic buildings line the canal with tour boats docked in Ghent, Belgium at dusk.

Historic guild houses line a canal in Ghent with boats docked under a bright blue, cloudy sky.

Aerial view of Ghent city center with St. Nicholas' Church tower and red rooftops under blue sky.

Today you will pedal along the scenic River Scheldt, passing quaint villages toward Oudenaarde, a city rich in tapestry heritage where you can admire the stunning Gothic Town Hall and explore the MOU Museum’s historic tapestries. A cycling hub and home to the Tour of Flanders, Oudenaarde invites you to pause for a local Ename Abbey beer before continuing your ride.

Cycling

45 km and 45 m of elevation gain / 40 m of elevation loss

Gallery

River Scheldt flowing between stone embankments lined with autumn trees and parked cars.

Pier with boats at dusk, illuminated industrial port with cranes across the Scheldt River.

Wooden sculpture by the river with boats and Antwerp skyline under cloudy sky

After following the River Scheldt upstream, you will cross the linguistic frontier into Wallonia. Your destination is Doornik (Tournai), one of Belgium’s oldest towns, which was under French rule until the 17th century. Like Oudenaarde, it thrived in tapestry production after the decline of the textile industry. The UNESCO-listed Notre Dame Cathedral and the Belfort are must-sees.

Cycling

40 km and 260 m of elevation gain / 245 m of elevation loss

Gallery

Cobblestone square in Tournai with historic buildings and cathedral towers under cloudy sky.

People walking and cycling along a canal path covered in autumn leaves in Tournai.

Barge moving on river past stone arch bridge with autumn trees in Tournai.

During breakfast the barge cruises into the direction of the Belgian-French border, through the “white land”, where the bright stone has shaped both the landscape and local architecture.You will begin today’s cycling journey near the village of Bleharies, close to the border. The route takes you through open farmland and small mining towns before reaching Lewarde. Your journey ends in Arleux, a town known for its canals and famous smoked garlic.

Cycling

40 km and 190 m of elevation gain / 180 m of elevation loss

Gallery

Aerial view of dense European town with red tile roofs, a church spire, and a bus on the street.

Cargo boat passes under historic stone bridge with flags flying above river in Doornik.

Canal with arched stone bridge, autumn trees, and paved walkway in Doornik.

The barge will depart from the large canal and continue along the Canal du Nord. Your cycling route will take you to Cambrai, a former Roman provincial capital and significant pilgrimage site. Later, the ride continues to the highest point of the Canal du Nord, where the barge will moor for the night amidst farmland.

Cycling

40 km and 205 m of elevation gain / 130 m of elevation loss

Gallery

Canal du Nord with historic European buildings and a prominent tower under a blue, cloudy sky.

Canal du Nord with historic brick buildings and lush green trees along the water.

Canal with historic brick buildings and Belfry tower under blue sky in Bruges.

In the morning you will sail through the Ruyaulcourt Tunnel. Above it lies the watershed between the Escaut (Scheldt) and Somme rivers, after which the barge begins its descent toward Péronne. Once past the tunnel, you will cycle through the Somme Valley. This region was a key frontline during the final battles of World War I. Your journey will then lead you to Péronne.

Cycling

40 km and 135 m of elevation gain / 135 m of elevation loss

Gallery

Calm green lake reflecting clouds and surrounded by lush forest in the Vallée de la Selle, Somme, Picardie.

Aerial view of marshland with ponds and winding streams leading to a wide tidal flat and the sea.

Marshy lake with lily pads reflecting cloudy blue sky, green trees, and Somme Valley landscape.

You can spend the day exploring Péronne's rich heritage. The Grande Guerre Museum offers insights into the town's wartime past, and its charming streets beckon for a stroll. The medieval Château de Péronne, now part of the museum, reminds visitors of the town’s strategic importance throughout history.

Gallery

Stone fortress entrance with round towers, flags flying, and cobblestone square in Péronne.

War cemetery with rows of white headstones and a large stone cross overlooking rolling fields.

Arched brick wall overlooking a grassy area with wooden picnic tables in Péronne.

While you enjoy breakfast, the barge will take you to the small village of Épénancourt. From there, you’ll set off on your bike for a long ride through gently rolling, open countryside, passing through the town of Ham and following the River Somme past several villages. Your destination is Noyon, home to its impressive cathedral.

Cycling

40 km and 40 m of elevation gain / 60 m of elevation loss

Gallery

Grassy lakeside park with blooming pink cherry tree and bare tree under blue sky, Somme Valley.

Somme River near Seraucourt-le-Grand, France, flowing through dense green summer foliage under a clear blue sky.

Large stone church towers over a town with red-roofed houses, backed by rolling hills.

From Pont l’Évêque, cycle toward Compiègne, passing through the forests of Ourscamp and Compiègne. At the Clairière de l’Armistice, you can visit a small but insightful museum. Compiègne’s grand architecture reflects its royal past, with the Château de Compiègne and its gardens well worth a visit. Tonight, dinner is not provided on board, giving you the chance to enjoy a local restaurant.

Cycling

40 km and 65 m of elevation gain / 100 m of elevation loss

Gallery

Motorized boat cruising on river near town with brick houses, Compiègne.

River in Compiègne with tree-lined banks and a docked barge under a blue, cloudy sky.

Stone bridge with cross spire over green river in Compiègne under cloudy sky

Your ride will begin through the forest south of Compiègne, then follow the Oise Valley towards Pont-Sainte-Maxence. In the Middle Ages, Pont-Sainte-Maxence, one of the few Oise crossings, was a key stop for merchants and royalty traveling between Flanders and Paris. Along the way, you can make a stop in Pierrefonds to admire its fairy-tale château.

Cycling

45 km and 180 m of elevation gain / 160 m of elevation loss

Gallery

Paddle boat on river with lush green trees lining the banks under a cloudy sky.

Château de Chantilly reflected in the water with formal gardens and a person sitting on a bench.

Aerial view of a town nestled by a wide river valley with autumn foliage.

After a sailing breakfast, you’ll cycle towards the renowned Château de Chantilly. After exploring the château, you will ride through a scenic forest. The shorter route ends in Beaumont, where the barge will pick you up, while the longer route crosses the Oise River, following it to Auvers-sur-Oise. Here, you can visit Vincent van Gogh’s grave during an evening walk in the town where he spent his final days. This region was a beloved retreat for Impressionist painters.

Cycling

40 km and 95 m of elevation gain / 70 m of elevation loss

Gallery

Rooftops of Conflans-Sainte-Honorine overlooking the Seine River with lush green trees.

Concrete bridge arch over river with weeping willow branches and houses in Conflans-Sainte-Honorine.

Rooftops overlooking a river with a passenger boat and barge in Conflans-Sainte-Honorine, France.

After arriving late in Auvers yesterday, you can take some time this morning to explore the town. You’ll then start cycling towards the Capital of Light. Stop for lunch in Conflans-Sainte-Honorine, a historic shipping hub. In the afternoon, ride up to the Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye for a stunning view of Paris before following the river to Bougival, where you’ll spend the night.

Cycling

40 km and 195 m of elevation gain / 200 m of elevation loss

Gallery

Barge carrying a car travels down a river past city buildings at sunset, likely the Seine.

Tour boat on the Seine River in Paris with the Eiffel Tower visible at sunset

Tour boat cruising the Seine River past the Grand Palais in Paris.

Today, the barge cruises upstream along the Seine into Paris. Though the distance is short, the river’s winding meanders make for a scenic journey through the heart of the city. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy - explore Paris by subway or take a bus tour to see its iconic landmarks.

Gallery

Pont Alexandre III ornate lampposts with Les Invalides dome at sunset in Paris.

Eiffel Tower reflected in pool at sunset with pink and blue clouds in Paris

Paris cityscape with Eiffel Tower, river, bridge, and Haussmann-style buildings.

After a final breakfast on board, it's time to say goodbye. Before leaving, you may have time for a last stroll through Paris or a visit to a nearby landmark, such as Notre-Dame or the Louvre. Make the most of these final moments in the city before your journey home.

Gallery

Cobblestone street cafe with red chairs outside, Sacré-Cœur Basilica dome visible in Paris.

Louvre Pyramid and palace illuminated at dusk with reflections on wet pavement in Paris.

Arc de Triomphe monument in Paris under a blue sky with white clouds, with traffic below.

FREE ITINERARY

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from:

3.199 €

/person

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Send an inquiry

Lan Cycling Tours Expert

Book a call

What’s included in the price?

Guided

14 nights on board with breakfast

13x 3-course dinner and packed daily lunches

Activities as per itinerary

Daily cleaning of the cabin

Fully guided cycling tours

GPS navigation with an easy-to-use app

Tour design and organization

Service and support during your tour

NOT INCLUDED

1x dinner

Bicycle rental or E-bike rental

Tourist tax

Go on a captivating journey that seamlessly blends the enchantment of Bruges with the magnetic charm of Paris. As you cycle through Flanders and Northern France, you’ll traverse regions untouched by mainstream tourism, offering a unique and authentic experience.

Starting in Bruges, often referred to as the “Pearl of Flanders”, you’ll be immediately captivated by its medieval architecture and winding canals. As you pedal onward, the historic city of Ghent awaits, boasting masterpieces like “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” by Jan van Eyck.

The wonders of Oudenaarde and the poignant World War I memorials in the Somme valley further enrich your journey.

France beckons with its own set of wonders. From the art-rich chateau of Chantilly to the vibrant streets of Paris, every turn promises a new discovery. The landscapes shift from forests to open farmlands, accompanying you as you cycle alongside rivers like the Scheldt, Somme, Oise, and Seine.

With our expert guides leading the way, every detail, from historical insights to local recommendations, is taken care of. We aim to ensure you immerse yourself in the journey, soaking in the sights, sounds, and flavors, without a worry in the world.

Are you ready to pedal your way from the historic lanes of Bruges to the vibrant boulevards of Paris?

Top Places You'll See

From natural wonders to authentic local culture, the route is packed with memorable sights—these are our absolute favorites.

Ghent

A lively blend of medieval grandeur and student energy, Ghent is home to nearly 100,000 university students and one of Belgium’s most beautiful riverside skylines. The 12th-century Gravensteen Castle rises above the Lys, while car-free cycling paths trace the edges of centuries-old quays lined with cafés and galleries. Pedaling through this cultural hub feels like a journey between past and present, where Gothic towers meet modern street art.

The Cathedral of Our Lady in Tournai, Belgium

Doornik (Tournai)

Dating back more than 2,000 years, Doornik is one of Belgium’s oldest cities and still retains its quiet medieval charm. The UNESCO-listed Notre-Dame Cathedral, with its five towers rising 83 meters, dominates a skyline of cobbled streets and cozy squares. Cyclists can pause at small bakeries or riverside terraces before crossing into France, enjoying a tranquil moment that feels timeless along the Scheldt River.

Bruges

Often called the “Venice of the North,” Bruges enchants with over 80 stone bridges, quiet canals, and cobbled lanes that seem unchanged since the 13th century. Cyclists ride past gabled merchant houses, windmills, and hidden courtyards that reflect in the water on calm mornings. The 83-meter Belfry Tower rewards a climb with sweeping views across red rooftops and church spires, a fitting send-off before heading into the Flanders countryside.

Compiègne

Surrounded by 14,000 hectares of forest, Compiègne is a stately town where history and nature intertwine beautifully. The grand Palais de Compiègne, redesigned under Napoleon with 133 rooms, stands beside leafy boulevards perfect for leisurely cycling. Just outside town lies the Armistice Clearing, a poignant site where World War I ended, adding quiet reflection to a journey otherwise filled with architectural elegance and woodland calm.

Paris

The final stretch into Paris feels almost cinematic as cyclists follow the peaceful Canal de l’Ourcq and Seine pathways into the heart of the city. After nearly 600 kilometers of cycling, the skyline unfolds gradually—bridges, domes, and finally the 324-meter Eiffel Tower marking the journey’s triumphant end. The route finishes with a sense of accomplishment and wonder, surrounded by museums, cafés, and the timeless rhythm of the City of Light.

Our Bikes

To ensure the best possible experience on your cycling adventure, we offer top-quality bikes for rent. Our fleet features the latest models, meticulously maintained for both performance and comfort.

To match each rider with the right equipment, our team will also assist you in selecting the most suitable bike based on your physical profile, personal preferences, and the technical requirements of the tour.

Black and red hybrid trekking bicycle isolated on white background

Trekking Bikes

Best for: Multi-day touring, relaxed pace, and varied surfaces

These high-quality trekking bikes are built for comfort over multiple days. They feature a relaxed riding position, smooth-rolling wheels, and often come with practical additions like an adjustable stem, rear rack, or mudguards. They're not necessarily built for speed, but more for enjoying the ride.

Black road bike with drop handlebars isolated on a white background

Road Bikes

Best for: Paved routes, longer distances, and climbs

Our road bikes are lightweight, fast, and built for endurance. They typically feature carbon or high-quality aluminium frames, smooth gearing, and reliable components—often Shimano 105 or similar. Well-suited for long days in the saddle, they’re perfect for climbs, steady cruising, and covering serious distance on tarmac.

Blue trekking e-bike with rear rack and fenders isolated on white background

Touring E-Bikes

Best for: Comfortable trekking, touring, longer distances, and hilly routes

These pedal-assist electric bikes are designed to make riding easier and more enjoyable—especially on longer or hillier routes. They come with powerful mid-drive motors, long-lasting batteries, and comfortable riding geometry for smooth support across varied terrain. With intuitive controls and quality components, they’re a great choice for riders who want extra assistance without giving up the feel of a real ride.

Frequently Asked Questions

Self-guided cycling tours offer an independent and flexible way to enjoy a cycling holiday. You can set your own pace, adjust your schedule as needed, and fully immerse yourself in the experience. Our team takes care of all the logistics, including accommodation arrangements, detailed itineraries, GPS routes, and 24/7 support. This ensures a stress-free journey while allowing you the freedom to explore Belgium’s beautiful landscapes and cultural sites at your own rhythm.

We classify our tours on a difficulty scale from 1 to 5 to help you select the best option:

1/5 – Easy rides of around 30 km per day on mostly flat terrain. Perfect for beginners or those with no prior cycling experience.

2/5 – Daily distances of up to 40 km with mild elevation gains (up to 200 m) on certain days. Suitable for anyone in good health.

3/5 – Covering approximately 50 km daily, with altitude gains reaching 500 m. On flatter days, distances may be longer. Ideal for recreational cyclists in good shape.

4/5 – Expect rides of 60 km or more each day, with climbs of 500 m or higher. Some stages can include up to 1000 m of elevation. Recommended for experienced cyclists accustomed to hillier terrain.

5/5 – Challenging routes with long distances and steep ascents. Best suited for highly experienced cyclists seeking a demanding yet rewarding adventure.

Accommodation availability can vary depending on the season, so we work with a selection of trusted lodging providers that meet our standards. We strive to match accommodations to your budget and preferences, ensuring you have a comfortable stay. While we provide examples of accommodation types in the itinerary, the exact locations may differ depending on availability.

Our tours cater to different cycling styles, whether you prefer road cycling, gravel, or mountain biking. Our specialists will recommend the best option based on your experience, terrain preference, and group needs. E-bikes are also available, allowing riders of varying fitness levels to enjoy the trip together.

A gravel bike is the most versatile option, even for road cycling tours, as it allows you to ride both well-paved roads and scenic backroads, which may not always be in perfect condition. These bikes also offer more comfort, making long-distance rides more enjoyable.

Many of our tours feature hilly landscapes, so some riders choose e-bikes for added support. However, if you're considering an e-bike, prior experience is recommended, as they handle differently from traditional bicycles.

If you don’t want to bring your own bike, we provide rental services. Our selection includes road bikes, gravel bikes, mountain bikes, and e-bikes to suit your tour requirements. Just provide your preferred bike size and any special requests, and we’ll ensure you have the best fit for a comfortable ride.

Bike rentals include delivery before the tour and pickup afterwards. We also provide a helmet, spare chain, basic repair kit, and pedals if needed.

We do our best to accommodate dietary needs, but the level of availability depends on the region. Vegetarian meals are relatively easy to find in larger cities, whereas vegan options can be more challenging in rural areas. Many of our lunch stops are at traditional Belgian eateries that may have limited options for special diets, so we recommend planning accordingly.

The best conditions for cycling are from late spring to early autumn (May to September). May and June offer long daylight hours and relatively dry weather, while September is a quieter time with fewer tourists. However, Belgian weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always wise to prepare for occasional rain.

Most tours can continue even in light rain with appropriate clothing. Thunderstorms are more common in summer afternoons, so we recommend starting your rides early. If extreme weather is forecasted, we can help modify your itinerary. Our support team is available should last-minute adjustments be required.

from:

3.199 €

/person

Join a group

Send an inquiry

Lan Cycling Tours Expert

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Ratings & Reviews

Greg Martin

Verified customer

Great holiday. Really easy to follow routes, good choice of hotels and the en route places to eat and visit was really helpful. Super responsive to questions during my holiday. Would definitely use them again.

Bicycle parked by railing overlooking crowded harbor with boats and waterfront buildings

Bicycle parked by bench overlooking Lake Bled with island church and mountains

SHONA Goaman

Verified customer

Well organised, great route and lovely hotels.

Karen Bergman

Verified customer

I thoroughly enjoyed this trip! The guides were professional and provided excellent leadership. They clearly know this country and the best cycling routes. I would definitely do another trip with them.

Amy Berger

Verified customer

Great trip! Klemen set up our trip perfectly. When we needed him he was there. The hotels were excellent. The biking a blast. We did a 5 day self guided tour. Do it!!

enric tomas

Verified customer

Good organization, we made the trip without any setbacks, and if there were any (a reservation that couldn't be found), they were able to resolve it satisfactorily. Recommended.

Adrian Wee

Verified customer

Klemen was very responsive and handled everything from start to finish. Route planning was customised to our ability and requirements. No cookie-cutter itinerary here. Accomodation selection was excellent. Absolutely would use this company again.