We are using rental bikes in Strasbourg since our 3d day in the city. And loved how bike friendly and safe the city is. Both, cars and pedestrians are used to and aware of bicyclists, plus there are numerous bike paths. After exploring all corners of Strasbourg we decided to visit the nearest country – Germany :D.
Strasbourg, France bike trip across the border
1. Renting bikes, costs, etc.
We got our rental bikes at Velhop, Strasbourg bike rental service. (There are multiple stations around the city). The cost during July 2022 was 6 euros per bike a day, 2 euros per kids seat, and 150 euro deposit per bike.
2. Bike helmet law in France
Bike helmets are compulsory for children under 12 y.o. in France. But from what we saw on the streets of Strasbourg, many people (kids) skip them. We were lucky to get helmets for kids for just 15 euro (each) at the Velhop, as all other places were selling them for up to 50 euro!
3. Strasbourg – Kehl on bikes, 12.2 km round trip
From our new home in the center of Strasbourg the round trip was 12.2 km. The entire journey was mostly flat, with lots of shady areas. Getting through the border was … lonely and very quite, nobody except us:
If you look at Google Maps the border runs right through the middle of the Rhine river. But this stop with flags was the only reminder of the border through our entire trip 🙂
4. Next stop: Jardin des Deux Rives, Strasbourg
Right on the banks of the Rhine river spread out the spacious park Jardin des Deux Rives, the symbol of rapprochement between France and Germany. It has just a little shade, so we just biked across it. (There are two playgrounds and a public restrooms)
The most difficult part was getting on the bridge, but even during summer heat (30C) it was doable for Erika (just turned 8 y.o.); Andrew was in a child seat on this day.
5. Welcome to Kehl, Germany! Or should I say Willkommen? 🙂 Water playground Rhein
Wasserspielplatz am Rhein, or “Water Playground Rhein” turned out to be the best ever place to take children on a hot summer day in Strasbourg. No wonder we were one of the multiple families from France :).
The waterway, main kids activity, runs for a good 200 meters! Plus a restroom nearby, playground for bigger kids, smaller ones, a lake, sandpit, and a cafe. Unfortunately, we didn’t bring any cash, but we’ll definitely do next time 🙂
6. Strasbourg, France: Bike Trip With Kids To Germany, Kehl, good to know
Strasbourg has multiple water fountains: in Petite France, the city center, local parks, etc. In Germany, you have to bring your own water or cash (just in case) but buy some.
Sunscreen, helmets for kids, hats, swimsuits, towels, water guns, and sand play toys, will be a very handful, especially for the water playground Rhein.
If you are hungry, there are several cafes not far from the playground. As well as ice cream shops :).
“Merci beaucoup et à bientôt!” – Thank you and see you soon!
Read more:
Our summer adventures in the States;
And things to do in Strasbourg:
