on Alsace's cycling routes
Logos, colours, and icons: the signs in Alsace guide you through a network designed with cyclists in mind.
Understanding the bike signs in Alsace
With 2,500 km of marked cycling itineraries, Alsace is a top-notch destination for cyclists, both for locals and those passing through. But if you want to ride with peace of mind, it’s worth knowing the signs!
There are two types of cycling signs in Alsace:
- Local signs specific to the region for guiding cyclists on tourist itineraries, developed by the European Collectivity of Alsace.
- National signs from the French Highway Code that apply to all bikes, all throughout France.
Here's everything you need to know for a well-informed and safe outing by bike.
Logos and icons along the cycle routes
Regional signs designed for cyclists
The signs created by the European Collectivity of Alsace (CeA) are clear, consistent, and easy to recognise, helping cyclists find their way across the region.
Signs to look out for
Mon week-end en AlsaceRoute logos
Icons at the top of signposts highlight the major cycle routes:
- EuroVelo 5 (the north–south European route)
- Véloroute du Vignoble (Vineyard Cycle Route crossing Alsace's wine country),
- National route 52,
- Local Alsace à Vélo loops, for exploring the region at a gentle pace.
These logos help cyclists find their way, especially at intersections where different routes meet.
Mon week-end en Alsace Vertical yellow strip
This yellow band on signs identifies departmental cycle routes. Each itinerary has its own unique number to help you find your way.
Directional signs
Each intersection is equipped with a directional sign that indicates:
- nearby towns and villages,
- distances in kilometres,
- tourist icons indicating rest areas, heritage sites, bike services, etc.
These clear and consistent signs help cyclists get around the entire region.
5, 6 or 15
Icons for the EuroVelo itineraries (5, 6 and 15) identify the major European cycle routes that cross Alsace from north to south, linking the region with neighbouring countries.
Discover EuroVelo
Alsace Vineyard Cycle Route
The symbol in the shape of a bunch of grapes identifies the Alsace Vineyard Cycle Route, Véloroute du Vignoble, a cycling route that follows the famous Alsace Wine Route through the villages and landscapes of the wine country.
Discover the Alsace Vineyard Cycle Route
Greenways
In Haut-Rhin, some cycle routes include signs with VV to identify greenways (voie verte) followed by a route number, such as VV13.
Alsace à Vélo
The Alsace à Vélo signs identify regional cycling routes, particularly local loops, to help cyclists find their way around the network.
Types of cycling infrastructure in Alsace
Cycling paths, bike lanes, or shared greenways: each type has its advantages depending on your itinerary.
- Bike paths: reserved for cyclists, usually separated from the road.
- Bike lanes: on-road lanes marked by painted lines.
- Greenways: shared by pedestrians, cyclists, and sometimes horses, closed to motor vehicles.
- Multifunctional lanes: road shoulders open to cyclists but not reserved for their use alone.
Cycling signs from the French Highway Code
Rules that apply to all cyclists in France
Even without a driving license, cyclists must follow the rules of the Highway Code. Several signs and road markings are designed for the safety of cyclists and all users of the road.
Essential signs for cyclists
Here are the main signs to know when cycling in France:
- A round blue sign with a bicycle indicates a mandatory path or lane.
- A square blue sign with a bicycle indicates a path or lane that is recommended but not mandatory.
- A round sign with a crossed-out bicycle means cycling is not permitted.
- A triangular sign with a bicycle warns drivers of possible cyclists on the road.
- A small yellow sign with an arrow below a traffic light allows cyclists to turn right on red (or go straight ahead), while giving priority to pedestrians.
- A shared-zone sign indicates an area where cyclists, pedestrians, and vehicles all share the road, at a reduced speed.
- At traffic lights, a bike zone indicates a space reserved for cyclists to wait in front of vehicles so they can set off safely.
Remember: a round blue sign = mandatory route. A square blue sign = recommended route.
General rules to follow
Here are a few essential guidelines to ensure safe cycling. Cyclists must ride on the right unless otherwise indicated. Children under 8 may ride on sidewalks, even if a bike path exists. At traffic lights, bike zones offer cyclists a safe area to set off ahead of cars. Finally, helmets are mandatory for children under 12 and are strongly recommended for all cyclists.
In short
In Alsace, cycling signs and markers are designed to make cycling easier, safer, and more enjoyable for everyone. Whether for a leisurely Sunday ride or a long-distance trek, the easy-to-read local and national cycling signs guide you at every intersection. This clear, quality infrastructure makes Alsace a top-notch destination for cycle tourism in France and Europe.
Fancy trying it for yourself? Explore our cycle routes and trust our signs to lead the way.