Paris Tootbus Festive Christmas Tour

Imagine cruising through the heart of Paris, wrapped in warm layers, with the city’s glittering holiday lights all around you. That’s pretty much what the Paris Tootbus Festive Christmas Tour offers—a relaxed, open-air way to see the city dressed up for the holidays. We’ve looked into what travelers experience and shared honest insights, so if you’re considering this tour, read on to find out if it’s right for you.

First off, what we like about this tour? For starters, it’s a charming way to get a snapshot of Paris’s most famous sights lit up during Christmas, especially from the comfort of an open-top bus. The second plus? The included special treat at Printemps, featuring a pastry by Nina Métayer—voted the best pastry chef globally in 2024 and 2024—and a hot drink, which adds a touch of luxury to the experience.

But, it’s not all perfect. Some reviews highlight concerns about the audio guide quality and the bus comfort, particularly on colder nights. So, this tour might be less suited if you’re expecting a highly detailed commentary or are sensitive to cold. Overall, it’s best for those wanting a light, festive overview of Paris, especially if they enjoy outdoor sightseeing and holiday ambiance.

This tour is ideal if you’re after a relaxed, visually stunning experience that captures the essence of Paris during Christmas. It’s not a deep historical tour, nor does it promise a comprehensive sightseeing experience—think of it more as a festive highlight reel from a comfortable vantage point.

Key Points

• Festive Atmosphere: The tour offers a unique way to see Paris decorated for Christmas, with beautifully lit landmarks.
• Iconic Landmarks: Highlights include the Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées, Place Vendôme, and more.
• Short and Sweet: At around 90 minutes, it’s a manageable outing, especially during chilly evenings.
• Included Treat: A pastry and hot drink add a sweet touch to the experience.
• Audio Guide: Personal earphones deliver commentary and Christmas tunes, though some find the narration quality lacking.
• Mixed Reviews: While many praise the views and organization, some travelers complain about comfort and narration issues.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Starting Point: 11 Rue Auber

You’ll meet just outside the famous department stores, Le Printemps and Galeries Lafayette, in front of the Christmas windows—a perfect spot to start your holiday adventure. The tour kicks off with a friendly group and a brief overview of the route.

Place Vendôme

Our first stop takes us to the grandiose Place Vendôme, built on Louis XIV’s orders. It’s a striking square with historically significant architecture, and the glow of Christmas lights makes it even more charming. The reviews mention it as a good photo opportunity, especially with the festive decorations.

Place de la Concorde

Next, the bus heads to this major square, famous for its historic statues and fountains. During the holidays, the lights create a festive backdrop perfect for snapping pictures or just soaking in the atmosphere.

Champs-Élysées

A highlight is cruising along the world-famous avenue, often called one of the most beautiful streets globally. During Christmas, the avenue is lined with lights, shops, and festively decorated trees. Many reviews mention the spectacular views here—especially at night when the lights twinkle.

Eiffel Tower

No trip to Paris is complete without a view of the Eiffel Tower. From the bus, you’ll get a glimpse of this iconic symbol, twinkling in the night. Several reviewers share how breathtaking this sight is, especially when the tower is illuminated and sparkling at the top of each hour.

Louvre Museum and Surroundings

While not a stop in the traditional sense, the tour passes by the Louvre, which, under festive lights, offers a stunning backdrop. The quick drive-by allows you to get a sense of the city’s grandeur.

Final Stop & Gourmet Treat at Printemps

The tour concludes at 74 Boulevard Haussmann, in front of Printemps department store. Here, you get to enjoy a gourmet pastry crafted by Nina Métayer—a real treat that elevates the experience. Many travelers appreciate this touch, describing it as a lovely way to end the tour.

The Experience in Practice

The Good Stuff

Many reviews are glowing about the spectacular Christmas lights—the Champs-Élysées, Eiffel Tower, and some luxury shop windows are frequently praised. Reviewers like Odete and Sarah mention that the displays exceeded expectations, and the overall atmosphere is simply magical.

The organization and timing seem appreciated by most. There’s mention of a well-planned route that gives a nice overview of Paris’s main sights. The inclusion of a drink and pastry is often singled out as a bonus, making it feel like a small holiday gift in itself.

The Not-So-Good

On the flip side, some travelers found the audio commentary lacking or not very informative. One review noted that the landmarks discussed weren’t always near the bus, making the narration seem disconnected. Others mention that the bus can get crowded, especially during peak times, which makes taking photos or moving comfortably a challenge.

The comfort level inside the bus also gets mixed reviews; some mention that it gets quite cold, and no blankets are provided. If you’re sensitive to cold or expecting a cozy ride, this could be a downside.

A few reviews shared frustration over skipped stops or crowded conditions that made the experience less relaxing. Traffic congestion, especially on a Sunday night, was also a common complaint, impacting the duration and serenity of the trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a traveler who loves seeing iconic sights lit up at night and enjoys a festive, outdoor atmosphere, this tour will suit you. It’s particularly great for those who want a quick, panoramic view of Paris’s holiday decorations without committing to a full day of sightseeing.

It’s also a good pick if you want to combine sightseeing with a small holiday treat, thanks to the pastry voucher at Printemps. If you’re visiting Paris during Christmas and want to learn about festive lights from a comfortable vantage point, this tour fits the bill.

However, if you’re after a detailed historical commentary or a warm, indoor experience, you might find this tour a bit lacking. Likewise, if you’re sensitive to cold, be prepared with warm clothing, as it’s an open-top bus.

Final Thoughts

The Paris Tootbus Festive Christmas Tour offers a charming, light-hearted glimpse of the city’s holiday sparkle. It’s well-suited for those who want to enjoy the holiday ambiance, take photos of famous landmarks, and indulge in a sweet treat at the end. The views are undeniably beautiful, and the organization helps make it a smooth experience.

While it may not satisfy everyone looking for in-depth commentary or indoor comfort, many travelers find it a worthwhile way to get into the Christmas spirit—especially if you’re short on time or prefer a relaxed, outdoor sightseeing route.

For those seeking a festive, visual celebration of Paris during the holidays, this tour provides a memorable snapshot of the City of Light’s holiday magic. Just remember to dress warmly, manage expectations about commentary, and enjoy the twinkling lights from a cozy open-top bus.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically designed for kids, the open-top bus experience can be enjoyed by all ages. Be mindful of the cold weather and ensure children are dressed warmly.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, making it a manageable outing during your day or evening in Paris.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the 90-minute guided tour with Christmas lights, audio commentary, and Christmas songs, plus a pastry and hot drink voucher after the ride.

Are there restrooms on the bus?
No, there are no restrooms onboard, so plan accordingly before the tour begins.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 11 Rue Auber and concludes at 74 Boulevard Haussmann, in front of Printemps.

Is the audio guide informative?
Reviews are mixed; some find it lacking in detail, while others enjoy the festive tunes and broad overview.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking around 27 days ahead is typical, so it’s best to reserve early during peak holiday season.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, as it’s an open-top bus and can get cold, especially in winter evenings.

Can service animals join the tour?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the bus.

If you love the idea of experiencing Paris’s holiday glow from a relaxed and scenic vantage point, this tour could be a delightful addition to your festive trip. Just come prepared for the weather, and you’ll likely leave with some beautiful photos and warm holiday memories.