The bike-sharing service that saves your trips (and your nerves)
With the little hiccups of the metro these past months (hello, autopilot), it’s tough to rely on a train arriving right on time every day… Well, this time, ilévia has come up with a pretty neat plan B. Starting August 1st, if you have a long-term subscription (annual pass, 10-month pass, or permanent), you can ride a V’Lille bike for free. Or almost.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
The deal: the subscription is free, but long trips will cost you
So no, you won't be able to travel from Lille to Wattrelos for free. The first 30 minutes are free (just like usual), but after that, it's €1.20 for every additional half hour. Plus, you'll need to pay a deposit of €200 and €5 credit when you sign up.
But for your daily rides, it's definitely a great deal!
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Publicity stunt or a genuine helping hand?
Some might see it as a pretty band-aid on the wounds of the Lille metro. Others view it as a real gesture to encourage gentle mobility. What’s certain is that it’s super convenient when you want to avoid unexpected delays or overcrowded trains. And it’s definitely now or never to finally dive into biking around the city.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
And in the meantime... fares are going up
Not so silly, right? While you're enjoying the V’Lille for free, some ilévia prices are quietly going up. Just a few cents more on tickets, +2 euros on the public monthly pass, and the removal of certain titles like the evening passes.
Thankfully, social rates are being updated to allow more people to benefit from discounts.
How to take advantage of it?
As easy as pie: head over to the ilévia e-shop (in the V’Lille section), or visit a branch. No need to be a tech wizard; it only takes two clicks (and you'll save some precious euros for the back-to-school season).
V’Lille - Starting August 1, 2025
Free for 10-month / annual / permanent pass subscribers
Activation to be done online or at a branch
First 30 minutes free, then 1.20€/half hour
More info here