On Your Own Set of Wheels

Some would consider moving around Paris on your own set of wheels a challenge. It would seem that, no matter what your favourite means of transportation is, car, motorbike, bicycle or roller-skates, rush hours should definitely be avoided. Traffic can be painfully slow at traditional rush hours, and as tempers can rise, an excellent command of French, including colourful epithets, may become the indispensable survival tool. However, congestion eases up during the Summer months, particularly in the first fifteen days of August where it would appear that almost every Parisian has deserted the capital. A number of agencies will be available to rent cars with or without chauffeurs:

Weather permitting and if you feel audacious as well as hold the proper valid licence, you can rent a motorcycle from one these following agencies. Note that you do not need a licence for a moped or a motorcycle under 50cc.

You can also bicycle through Paris, on your own or in the company of an organized group. Cycling is a major activity in France and many shops or agencies rent bicycles. You can even rent one from the SNCF, the French National Railroad. In some cases, the bike can be dropped off at your hotel.

In case you forgot your blades at home, you will be able to rent a pair of rollerblades easily. There are a number of meeting places for roller-skaters such as the Trocadéro opposite the Eiffel Tower. There are also roller-blading discotheques and special obstacle courses. Pedestrians, however, are not particularly please to share the sidewalk with fast-moving skaters and shops will definitely not let in anyone on wheels. It is best to skate in areas designated for that purpose or to explore the city with an organized group such as "Bike and Roller", located near Notre-Dame cathedral.