Paris to Lisbon – Day 2: Sacré-Cœur and Orleans

Day 2 of my bikepacking journey starts with a sunrise ride to Sacré-Cœur, overlooking the rooftops of Paris. From there, I explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks—the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and Champs-Élysées—before catching a train to Orléans and continuing along the stunning EuroVelo 3 route through the Loire Valley.

I stop for coffee by the Eiffel Tower, visit Café du Cycliste for some bike geekery, and then it’s time to leave the city behind. Once in Orléans, I ride along quiet riverside paths, snack on pain au chocolat by the Loire, and enjoy some peaceful gravel roads through the forest.

This is day two of my backpacking adventure from Paris to Lisbon. I started the day early and rode up to Sagraur. I made my way to the Arctic Triumph and past the Eiffel Tower, Majestic and proud in the morning light. I stopped for a coffee near the tower just to enjoy the moment. And of course, I had to visit Cafe to check out some cool gear, fuel my inner bike nerd, and buy one jersey. By the afternoon, it was time to leave the city behind. I rolled my bike onto a train heading south to Orleans. From there, the ride followed the beautiful Laurier River, cycling along a Yuro tree, surrounded by vineyards, old stone houses, and postcard perfect views. I found the perfect riverside spot for a break. Upon a chocolate in one hand, the lorry flowing gently beside me. This is why I write. [Music]