Paris: Classic Sites Tour by Vintage Citroen 2CV

If you’re looking for a unique way to see Paris’s most famous sights without the fuss of big buses or walking for hours, a vintage Citroen 2CV tour could be just the thing. We’ve come across this experience a few times, and it’s clear that many travelers find it a charming, fun way to get a quick but memorable snapshot of the City of Light.

What really makes this tour stand out for us is how personal and flexible it feels. You get the chance to cruise down the Champs Elysées, soak up the sights of Notre-Dame, and enjoy Paris’s atmospheric streets—all from the comfort of a quirky little car. Plus, the knowledgeable guides really make the experience special, sharing interesting tidbits along the way.

That said, it’s not perfect. Since the tour is just 2 hours, it’s definitely a whirlwind—great for a quick overview, but not an in-depth exploration. And if you’re looking for a luxurious or high-end experience, this might feel a bit casual. Still, if you’re after something lighthearted, memorable, and different, this tour could be a fantastic fit.

This experience suits travelers who want a fun, fast-paced introduction to Paris, especially if you love cars, history, or just want a quirky story to tell. It’s ideal for those who appreciate good value and personalized service in a relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Unique transportation in a vintage Citroen 2CV makes for a memorable experience
• Guides are knowledgeable and able to share insightful stories about Paris landmarks
• Flexible pickup and drop-off from anywhere in central Paris
• Short, 2-hour duration offers a quick, efficient way to see the city’s highlights
• Open roof (in good weather) enhances the sightseeing, with rain cover if needed
• Great for those seeking fun and a bit of Parisian nostalgia in one package

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Paris: Classic Sites Tour by Vintage Citroen 2CV

When you start picturing Paris, it’s probably the sights you think of first—the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre-Dame, Champs Elysées. This tour offers a way to see all these from a different angle, literally, in a vintage Citroen 2CV. We love that the car is not just a mode of transportation but a conversation starter, with its retro charm and open-air feel.

The Itinerary: A Whirlwind Tour of Paris’s Icons

This two-hour drive aims to cover most of the city’s must-see sites, giving you a broad taste of Paris without the exhaustion of walking or the bus ride chaos. Your private driver and guide will pick you up from anywhere in Paris’s center, which adds a layer of convenience not always available in city tours.

Start with the Champs Elysées: It’s the quintessential Parisian boulevard, and cruising down it with the wind in your hair is a highlight. Many reviews mention how this is when they truly felt immersed in Paris—the sights, sounds, and elegant architecture all around.

Pass the Arc de Triomphe: An iconic symbol of Paris that dominates the end of the Champs Elysées. The guide will probably share some stories here—perhaps about Napoleon or the history of this monument—adding context to your view.

Tour past the Trocadéro and Eiffel Tower: You’ll get to see the Tour Eiffel from the outside, and many reviews mention how seeing the monument from the car is a delightful experience, especially if the weather is clear.

Drive through the Champ de Mars and Ecole Militaire: These areas offer a glimpse of Parisian grandeur, and if the guide is good, they’ll tell you stories about the buildings’ significance.

Les Invalides and the Grand Palais: Passing by these grand structures, you’ll get a sense of Paris’s cultural richness.

Stop at Place de la Concorde and Opéra Garnier: The ornate details and grand architecture make these stops memorable, with some reviews praising how the guide points out interesting facts and secrets.

Visit the Louvre courtyard and pyramids: Seeing the glass pyramid from the car is a quick but striking sight.

Notre-Dame on Ile de la Cité: While the cathedral is still under restoration, the exterior remains a must-see. Many appreciate how close you get to these historic sites without the crowds.

Crossing the Seine: You’ll see the quai des Grands Augustins and the Musée d’Orsay, both stunning places to visit in their own right.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Most reviews highlight how fun and relaxing the ride is, especially with the convertible roof. If the weather cooperates, you’ll want to keep the top down to truly enjoy the breeze and city sounds. A couple of travelers mentioned that even the older Citroen, a 1984 model, was surprisingly comfortable, with enough space for long legs and a smooth ride.

The guide plays a crucial role here. People often praise their driver-guide for being knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging. Many reviews mention how they appreciated the stories and insider tips, plus the fact that the driver managed the Paris traffic so well—understanding which streets to take, avoiding congestion, and making stops for photos.

Price and Value for Money

At $271 for up to two people, the per-person cost isn’t exactly pocket change, but considering it’s a private experience with a dedicated guide and driver, many say it offers good value. The tour covers a lot of ground in just 2 hours, giving a solid overview of key landmarks. It’s a great option if you’re short on time but want to see the essentials with a personal touch.

Optional extras, like champagne, miniature cars, or wine, are available for an additional fee, which can add a special touch if you’re celebrating or just want to indulge a bit.

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What the Reviews Say

Readers consistently describe the tour as “fun,” “informative,” and “beautiful”. One review from Rose from the UK points out that the car was surprisingly comfortable despite its vintage status. She loved how the small size allowed the car to access narrow streets, a benefit you won’t get on larger buses.

Richard from the US appreciated the driver’s handling of Paris traffic and the opportunity to stop for perfect photo moments. Monika from Canada mentioned how the guide’s stories made the experience even richer. Brooklyn from New Zealand was particularly impressed by how safe and friendly the guide was, and how much they learned about Paris’s hidden gems.

Others appreciated that the tour was a quick, fun introduction—ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time in the city. The ability to customize pickup from your hotel makes it accessible and convenient.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a lighthearted, memorable experience and love the idea of exploring Paris in a quirky, open-top car, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to see the main sights without walking, enjoy some fresh air, and listen to engaging stories from a local guide.

It’s also a good pick for couples, friends, or small groups who want a private experience. We don’t see this as ideal for families with very young children, since two hours in a small car might be limiting, but older kids with an interest in cars or history could enjoy it.

The Sum Up

This Paris classic sites tour by vintage Citroen 2CV offers an engaging, playful way to get a first taste of the city’s most famous landmarks. The combination of personalized guiding, nostalgic transportation, and beautiful views makes it stand out as a memorable experience. The open roof adds that extra magic, especially when the weather is good, and many reviewers mention how much fun they had with the guide sharing stories along the way.

While it’s not the most comprehensive or luxe tour available, its charm and intimacy make it a fantastic choice for those wanting a relaxed, enjoyable introduction to Paris. It’s especially suitable if you’re after something quirky and fun, as well as practical—covering a lot of ground in a short amount of time.

If you’re the type of traveler who appreciates good value, personalized service, and a bit of vintage flair, this tour could be just the highlight you’re looking for. It’s a delightful way to create stories and snapshots that will stay with you long after you leave the city.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all weather?
Yes, the convertible Citroen has a retractable roof. If it rains, the roof stays up, so you’re covered. On nice days, rolling down the top enhances the experience with fresh air and sunshine.

Can I be picked up from my hotel?
Absolutely, the tour includes pickup from any central Paris location. This makes it very convenient, especially if you’re staying near the city center.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts for 2 hours, which is enough time to see main landmarks without feeling rushed.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s designed as a private experience for your group, making it more intimate and tailored.

Are there any extras available?
Yes, you can opt to add champagne, a miniature 2CV, or wine for an extra fee. These can make the experience feel even more special.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, but older children who enjoy cars and sightseeing could find it fun. Very young kids might find the short duration and car space limiting.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, German, French, Italian, and Spanish, so you should have no trouble communicating.

Is it suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check specific needs in advance to ensure smooth pickup and boarding.

How good is the value for money?
Considering the personalized guide, private transport, and the chance to see Paris’s highlights from a fun vehicle, many find it worth the cost—especially if you’re looking for a memorable, stress-free experience.

If you’re seeking a playful, relaxed way to see the essentials of Paris, this vintage Citroen 2CV tour is worth considering. It’s a great blend of sightseeing, story-telling, and fun—perfect for making your trip a little more special.

You can check availability for your dates here: