Check out the Decathlon stores...it's like a European version of Sports Authority and they sell bikes pretty cheap and focus on cruisers/commuters. I spent about two months in Paris over two separate trips and most the commuter bikes I saw were cheapo Decathlon brands, so they must be decent enough for meandering. You'll have to check the website to find the store nearest to your location over there, but I think there are tons of them in France, and they also sell parts/accessories and bike clothing. France also has proper bike shops, but at least in Paris, there weren't nearly as many of them as I thought there would be.