Tour of Paris in Citroën 2CV

Traveling through Paris by vintage Citroën 2CV offers a charming twist on sightseeing, blending classic French style with the city’s timeless allure. While this isn’t a tour you’d do every day, it promises a memorable experience packed with both iconic sights and lesser-known gems. We’ve gathered insights from past travelers to give you a clear picture of what to expect, what’s worth loving—and what might give you pause.

One thing we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines personalized guidance with the intimate feel of a small vehicle. Plus, the chance to explore narrower lanes and secret areas that large buses can’t access makes this a unique way to see Paris. On the flip side, since it’s a one-hour tour, it’s naturally a quick snapshot rather than an in-depth exploration.

This tour feels especially suited for those who want a romantic, fun introduction to Paris or are celebrating a special occasion. If you’re after a relaxed vibe, love vintage cars, and enjoy seeing the city in style, this might just hit the spot. Now, let’s look at what makes this experience stand out, and some points to consider before booking.

Key Points

• Intimate, private experience tailored to small groups up to 3 people.
• Guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals who can share interesting details.
• Allows access to hidden streets and charming squares that larger vehicles can’t reach.
• Includes stops at major sights like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and Champs-Élysées, plus photo opportunities.
• Flexible pickup location in the 1st to 8th arrondissement.
• Great for romantic outings, surprises, or brief city snapshots—not a full-day tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why a Vintage 2CV Tour Is a Great Way to See Paris

If you’re tired of the typical bus tours or crowded sightseeing buses, hopping into a classic 2CV Citroën offers a fresh perspective. These cars are small, quirky, and just enough of a conversation starter to make your Paris trip all the more memorable. We loved the way the guides make the experience feel personal and relaxed; it’s more like cruising around with a friend than being on a formal tour.

The small size of the vehicle means you can venture into the narrow streets of neighborhoods like Saint Germain des Prés and the Latin Quarter—areas that big tour buses simply can’t access. This results in a more authentic feel, where you can really soak in the atmosphere of Paris’s most beloved districts. Imagine weaving through tiny streets, stopping at picturesque squares, and snapping photos of the Eiffel Tower or Notre Dame without the usual crowds.

While the duration is just about an hour, the itinerary covers quite a bit of ground. You’ll get a good sense of the city’s layout and highlights, making it perfect if you’re short on time but want to see a lot. For those seeking a romantic or fun introduction to Paris, or even a surprising gift or special outing, this tour delivers.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Pickup

Depending on your chosen option, you’ll meet at a central spot, typically in front of Saint Germain des Prés’s Les Deux Magots, a classic Parisian café. This location sets the tone—it’s a lively area full of history and charm, ideal for beginning your adventure.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

This historic neighborhood is famous for its literary past and vibrant cafés. During your stop here, your guide will give a brief overview of the area and point out sights. Expect some great photo opportunities amidst the classic Parisian architecture.

More Great Tours Nearby

Church of Saint-Sulpice

Not as famous as Notre Dame but equally impressive, Saint-Sulpice offers a more intimate look at Parisian religious architecture. Your guide might share interesting stories about its history and the art inside.

Pantheon

A must-see in the Latin Quarter, the Pantheon is an iconic monument. You’ll stop for photos and a quick explanation of its significance—it’s a landmark that’s both grand and packed with history.

Latin Quarter and Notre Dame

Driving through the Latin Quarter, known for its student vibe and narrow streets, adds a lively, authentic touch. Passing by Notre Dame, you’ll get the chance to admire its architecture and take photos from outside. The tour stops briefly here for sightseeing and capturing memorable shots.

Île de la Cité and Place Dauphine

These areas are the heart of historic Paris. Île de la Cité, home to Notre Dame, is a small island with a lot of stories. Place Dauphine offers a peaceful, picturesque square perfect for photos.

Palais-Royal and Palais Garnier

Driving past these beautiful buildings reveals the city’s elegant side. Palais-Royal’s gardens and arcades are charming, while Palais Garnier, the historic opera house, is a symbol of Parisian elegance. Although brief, these stops add to the overall sense of grandeur.

Place Vendôme and Place de la Concorde

These squares show the city’s regal and political history. At Place Vendôme, you’ll see luxurious shops and the famous column, while the short stop at Place de la Concorde offers a sweeping view of the obelisk and surrounding landmarks.

Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe

The tour includes about 10 minutes along the world-famous avenue, with a photo stop at the Arc de Triomphe. This iconic monument is a highlight—being able to see it up close from the comfort of your vintage car is a treat.

Trocadéro and Eiffel Tower

A quick visit to the Trocadéro provides stunning views of the Eiffel Tower, especially at sunset or during the evening. The tour offers a 10-minute stop here for photos—a perfect chance to snap that classic Paris shot.

Les Invalides and Final Drop-Off

Your last sightseeing stop is Les Invalides, home to Napoleon’s tomb and impressive architecture. The tour concludes with a drop-off back at Saint-Germain des Prés, making it a convenient, relaxed finish.

What Travelers Love About the Tour

Multiple reviews praise guides like Florian and Fred, calling them “knowledgeable,” “friendly,” and “professional.” One reviewer shared, “Florian was an excellent guide, very knowledgeable, showed us great photo opportunities.” It’s clear that the guides add a lot to the experience, making sightseeing informative and engaging.

Another traveler mentioned, “In good weather with the top down it’s a dream,” highlighting how the open-top vintage car enhances the experience, especially on sunny days. The small size of the car also means getting into hidden spots and picturesque squares that larger tour buses can’t reach. This results in a more relaxed, intimate exploration of Paris’s best-loved sights.

Authentic and Personalized

Reviewers appreciate how the tour is private, allowing for flexible stops and personalized attention. The fact that it’s a small group means you’re not lost in a crowd, and the guides can tailor the experience based on your interests. Whether for a romantic outing or just a quick overview, many found it to be exactly what they were looking for.

Great Photo Opportunities

The stops at major landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and Notre Dame are brief but impactful. Plus, the guide’s advice on the best angles and moments makes for unforgettable photos. One reviewer noted, “Showed us great photo opportunities,” which is a big plus for any sightseeing trip.

Price and Value Analysis

At $211 for a group of up to 3, this experience is fairly priced for a private, guided tour. Considering the personalized service, the flexibility, and the access to hidden streets, many see it as offering good value. It’s not a full-day tour, but for an hour of charming sightseeing in Paris’s most scenic neighborhoods, it’s a worthwhile indulgence—especially if you’re after a memorable, stylish way to see the city.

Is It Worth It?

If you’re passionate about vintage cars, enjoy engaging guides, and want a flexible, intimate tour with plenty of photo stops, this is a solid choice. The small group size and private setup make it a good pick for couples, small families, or friends wanting a more personal experience.

Practical Details

The meeting point at Saint Germain des Prés is easy to find, right in the heart of a lively neighborhood. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within the 1st to 8th arrondissement, so if you’re staying centrally, it’s very convenient. The tour lasts roughly 1 hour, but you’ll get a condensed, curated look at the city’s highlights.

Languages available include English, French, and Spanish, and guides are generally praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

Final Verdict: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This vintage Citroën 2CV tour is perfect if you’re seeking a fun, stylish, and intimate way to see Paris. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate classic design and want to avoid the crowds in larger vehicles. The guide-driven stops and photo opportunities make it ideal for romantic couples, small groups, or anyone looking for a quick, memorable introduction to the city’s highlights.

If you’re after a relaxed experience with friendly guides and some hidden gems thrown into the mix, this tour hits the right notes. It’s a bit short for those craving an in-depth exploration, but for a taste of Paris with a vintage twist, it offers a charming, personal view of the city’s famous sights.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
This experience is generally geared toward adults and older teens. It’s a short sightseeing drive, so it’s not specifically tailored for children, but if your family enjoys vintage cars and relaxed outings, it could suit older kids too.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
The tour runs on a set itinerary designed to cover highlights and hidden spots. While it’s private, the focus is on a curated route, so customization options aren’t specified.

What if I want to see more sights?
Since it’s only about an hour long, you’ll get a nice overview, but not exhaustive coverage. For deeper exploration, consider combining this with other tours or activities.

Is the car comfortable and safe?
The vintage 2CV is a classic, so while it’s charming, it may not have the modern comforts of newer vehicles. That said, guides prioritize safety and comfort within the vintage style.

What’s the best time of day to take this tour?
Many reviews mention good weather and sunset times, which offer beautiful lighting for photos. Morning or late afternoon generally provide softer light and less traffic.

Are the stops frequent?
Stops are brief but strategically placed at major landmarks and scenic spots, allowing for photos and quick explanations.

How many people can join?
The tour is private for groups of up to 3 people, making it intimate and ideal for small parties or couples.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, within the 1st to 8th arrondissement, it’s included, making logistics simple.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your trip planning.

This vintage Paris tour offers a charming, stylish way to see the city’s highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. It’s a perfect choice for travelers looking for a personal touch and a touch of French vintage flair.

You can check availability for your dates here: