Paris: Side-Car Tour of Paris’s most Beautiful Monuments

If you’re looking for a way to see Paris that’s a little different from the usual walking or bus tours, a vintage sidecar tour might just be your new favorite experience. We’ve checked out the details of this one, and it seems like a perfect option for those who want to combine fun, sightseeing, and a touch of adventure—all in a quick time frame.

What really caught our eye are the authentic open-air experience and the opportunity to get close to some of Paris’s most iconic landmarks. Plus, it’s a private group, which means a more personalized touch. On the flip side, some reviews mentioned that during busy traffic times, the tour can feel a bit rushed or crowded, which is worth considering if you’re after a more relaxed pace.

This tour is great for first-time visitors eager to hit the highlights in an exciting way, or even seasoned travelers wanting a unique perspective of the city. If you’re after a memorable ride with lots of photo opportunities and a friendly guide, this could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Unique transportation: Riding in a vintage sidecar offers an open-air, immersive way to see Paris.
• Iconic landmarks: Highlights include Notre Dame, Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysées, Invalides, and the Louvre.
• Tour duration: Just 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a quick yet comprehensive city overview.
• Hotel transfers included: The ease of being picked up and dropped off is a big plus.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable local guides share engaging stories and tips.
• Limited group size: Private group ensures a more intimate experience, but availability can be limited.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Inside Look at the Side-Car Tour Experience

Imagine starting your Paris adventure from the comfort of your hotel, with a friendly driver waiting to whisk you off on a vintage sidecar ride. This isn’t your typical bus or walking tour—here, you’ll zip around in an authentic open-air vehicle, feeling the breeze and hearing the city sounds up close. It’s a quirky, memorable way to explore that’s especially appealing if you’re craving something different.

The tour covers the major landmarks of Paris—Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, the Champs-Elysées, Les Invalides, and the Louvre. These are all stops where your guide will share stories and history, making the sightseeing more engaging than just snapping photos. Plus, there are several photo stops along the way, so you can get that perfect shot of the Eiffel Tower or Notre Dame in the background.

What’s Included and How It Works

Per the description, the experience is designed for two passengers, with you sitting in the sidecar and a second person behind the driver. This makes for a cozy, shared adventure that’s easy to manage. Included in the price are gloves, a helmet, and a professional driver—so you’ll stay comfortable and safe, even if you’re riding in cooler weather.

The hotel pick-up service is a nice touch, removing the hassle of finding your way to a meeting point. The tour is conducted in English or French, which covers most travelers, and the entire experience lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes—a perfect time to squeeze into a busy day without feeling overwhelmed.

The Tour Itself: What You’ll See and Do

Once seated, your guide will lead you through Paris’s streets, sharing stories about the city’s most famous sights. You might find, as one reviewer did, that the driver “drove calmly and smoothly despite the heavy traffic,” which is reassuring if you’re worried about navigating busy streets in a small vehicle.

The highlights include the Eiffel Tower, where you can enjoy a close-up view, and the Arc de Triomphe, which you’ll circle around in style. The Champs-Elysées is perfect for people-watching and snapping photos, while Notre Dame offers a stunning backdrop for your trip. Other landmarks like Les Invalides and the Louvre complete the city panorama.

Authenticity and Photo Opportunities

One of the biggest draws of this tour is the open-air vintage vehicle, which makes for some fantastic photos—your camera will thank you. Several reviews praised the guide’s knowledge and their tips for capturing the best shots, especially at iconic spots like Notre Dame.

A reviewer from the US even called the experience “the highlight of my trip,” highlighting how fun and unique it was to see Paris from this perspective. Others appreciated the friendly guide Raphael, who made sure everyone was comfortable and knew all the best angles for photos.

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The Human Touch: Guides and Service

Our source mentions Raphael as an exceptional guide, sharing fascinating facts about Notre Dame and helping guests find the best photo spots. He’s described as an absolute gentleman who added a personal touch to the experience.

The local guide and professional driver team approach their work with friendliness and knowledge, which really enhances the experience. From the reviews, it’s clear that guides who are passionate and personable can turn a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable moment.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This sidecar tour will appeal most to adventurous travelers who want a fun, slightly unconventional way to see Paris’s highlights. It’s ideal if you enjoy a bit of thrill and don’t mind being outdoors in an open vehicle. The private setting makes it a good choice for couples, friends, or even small families with a sense of adventure.

However, keep in mind that during busy traffic times, the tour can be somewhat rushed, and stops may be brief. If you prefer a more relaxed, slow-paced sightseeing experience, this might not be the best fit. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or have mobility issues, it’s worth considering how comfortable you’d be in a sidecar.

Price and Value

At $233 for a group of up to two people, this experience is definitely on the higher end of the sightseeing spectrum. It’s not budget-friendly, but the price reflects the personalized, private nature of the tour, the authentic vintage vehicle, and the hotel pickup service.

For travelers craving a unique photo-friendly experience and insider stories—and who value comfort and convenience—this price can be justified. It’s a special treat rather than an everyday sightseeing option, and many reviews mention how memorable it was—often cited as a trip highlight.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying Your Ride

• Book in advance: Availability might be limited, especially during peak times or busy seasons.
• Consider timing: Early evening might be more atmospheric, but could also be heavier traffic, which some reviewers found less ideal.
• Dress appropriately: Even with gloves and helmets provided, an extra layer or windbreaker might be wise if it’s cool.
• Bring your camera: Plenty of photo opportunities await, especially at landmark stops.
• Be aware of traffic: The tour runs through busy streets, which can sometimes feel rushed or crowded.
• Check cancellation policies: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in planning.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a fun, memorable way to see Paris’s most famous sights in a short amount of time, and you don’t mind a bit of wind and traffic, this tour offers a distinctive experience. It’s especially suited for adventurous couples or small groups who want to add a dash of excitement to their trip.

While it’s not a budget option, many find the experience worth the price for the personalized service, stunning photo ops, and insider stories. If you’re open to a slightly unconventional, open-air ride through the city’s heart, this tour could be a highlight of your Paris visit.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup, making it easy to start your adventure without worrying about logistics.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, providing a good snapshot of Paris’s main sights.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll see Notre Dame, Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysées, Les Invalides, and the Louvre.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Availability can be limited, so it’s best to book in advance. You can cancel up to 24 hours prior if needed.

Is this experience suitable for children?
The tours are designed for two passengers in a sidecar, so it’s best suited for adults or older children comfortable with open-air rides. Make sure to check with the provider about age restrictions.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers and bring gloves; a windbreaker is a good idea if it’s cool outside. Helmets and gloves are provided.

This vintage sidecar tour of Paris offers a charming, fun way to experience the city’s highlights—perfect for those who want a quick, photo-rich adventure with excellent guides. Just be prepared for some traffic and brisk outdoor riding, but if you’re ready for that, it’s a memorable way to see the City of Light.

You can check availability for your dates here: