The period of confinement has made it possible to discover car-free streets in the major cities of Europe. Because of the Covid19 crisis, no one could leave the house without a certificate and the most used means of transport was the bike.
Temporary cycle paths called “coronapistes” have even been set up in certain places to encourage this mode of travel and prepare for deconfinement. Indeed, the bicycle makes it possible to respect social distancing, and therefore to protect oneself against the coronavirus, but it is also a means of transport that is at the same time economical, ecological and practical.

Copenhagen

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Cities equipped for cycling in Europe

As we all know, the undisputed cycling capital of the world is Copenhagen. It stands at the top of the list of the most cycling cities in Europe because it has an important structured cycling network and even a real cycling culture. Most Copenhageners are already used to cycling to work and shopping and we know that this will not change during deconfinement.
It is also estimated that unlike other major European capitals, there are already enough cycle paths in Copenhagen, so there is no longer any need to build temporary paths. However, we still notice “coronapist” projects in the surroundings.

Berlin

Berlin also has an extensive network of cycle paths, which is why the idea of ​​taking a bike tour in this city excites many people. During confinement, the bicycle could only be used for very specific purposes, people could not pedal either for walks or for physical activity, and even less to discover the city.
And to prepare for deconfinement, the Zossener Straße with a temporary cycle lane equipped with alignment markers was set up in the Kreuzberg district and in other streets at the end of March.

Paris

Finally, with regard to the city of Paris, it has already made a lot of effort in recent years to be in the top 10 of the most cycle-friendly cities in Europe, but this is not enough in relation to deconfinement. Paris has therefore thought of multiplying the development of temporary cycle paths and announces 50 km of additional lanes specially dedicated to bicycles.
The mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo, is counting on the development of "coronapists" to promote the cycling in order to reduce the number of travelers on public transport and avoid a return to the car after May 11.
Transitional cycle paths are thus being gradually developed in certain strategic places in the capital of France, such as on Avenue du Général Leclerc, on Boulevard Saint-Michel, on the Tunnel de l'Etoile and along the metro 1, 4 and 13. Of course, these new tracks guarantee a security total for cyclists.