Paris Vintage Olympic Tour on Sidecar Motorcycle

If you’re looking for a way to see Paris that’s a little different from the usual bus or walking tours, this Vintage Olympic Sidecar Motorcycle Tour offers something truly memorable. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it sounds like a fantastic option for anyone wanting to combine adventure, personalized experiences, and key sights—all in just a couple of hours.

What really draws us in is how this tour combines the thrill of riding a classic motorcycle with the intimacy of a private guide. Plus, it’s centered around sites related to the 2024 Olympic Games, which makes it especially appealing if you’re interested in modern history and sporting events. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this is a 2-hour adventure, so it’s best suited for those who want a quick, energetic overview rather than an exhaustive city exploration.

This experience seems perfect for travelers who crave an active, fun way to explore and enjoy Paris’s sights without the strain of walking all day. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or just want a new perspective on the city, this tour offers a combination of sightseeing, storytelling, and a touch of nostalgia that many will appreciate.

Key Points

• Private, customized experience with a knowledgeable guide
• Access to iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and more
• Unique transportation in retro-style sidecars that seat two
• Hassle-free pickup from your central Paris accommodation
• Flexible stops for photos, snacks, or just soaking in the views
• Great for those wanting a short, memorable adventure in the city

The Experience: What to Expect from the Paris Vintage Olympic Tour

This tour promises a 2-hour journey through some of Paris’s most famous landmarks and Olympic sites, all from the comfort of a vintage sidecar motorcycle. When we say “vintage,” think classic style and a bit of nostalgia—these sidecars are charming, and they’re designed to seat two people comfortably. Helmets are provided, and safety is clearly a priority, so you can relax and enjoy the ride.

Starting Point and Ease of Access

The tour begins at the Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, a well-known Parisian landmark, with a quick pickup service available from central hotels or apartments. That’s a bonus — no need to worry about navigating busy streets to meet your guide. Just sit back and let your driver take the wheel.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

The tour is designed to be flexible, but here’s a typical route with some highlights:

Arc de Triomphe
This is the first stop, right at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. The Arc honors France’s military victories and fallen soldiers, and it’s an iconic symbol. From the sidecar, you’ll get a good look at the monument, and many reviews mention how impressive it is to see it up close. One reviewer describes it as “one of the most famous monuments in Paris,” and appreciates the chance to learn about its significance during the ride.

Eiffel Tower
No Paris tour is complete without a stop at the Eiffel Tower. While you can’t go inside (admission tickets aren’t included), most travelers love stopping here to snap photos and enjoy a walk around the area. We loved the way the tour stops nearby for a good shot, and some reviews mention how the guide offers explanations about the tower’s architecture and history, making the photo stops more meaningful.

Les Invalides
This complex, housing museums and monuments related to France’s military history, offers a different perspective. The building’s grand architecture and historical significance add depth to your ride. One reviewer commented that the guide was very intelligent and took them to places they wouldn’t have discovered on their own.

Trocadéro Gardens
Facing the Eiffel Tower, this area was a major Olympic venue in 2024, with vibrant celebrations, concerts, and big screens during the Games. Riding here during the tour offers a lively, festive backdrop. The gardens’ views of the Seine and the Eiffel Tower make for great photo opportunities.

Grand Palais
During the Olympics, this spectacular venue hosted fencing and taekwondo. The glass roof and impressive architecture make it worth the stop. According to reviews, the guides do a good job explaining the significance of these sites, blending heritage with modern sporting events.

Seine River Quays
The tour also includes a ride along the Seine, which is especially scenic. During the Olympics, the river was transformed into a sports arena for triathlon, open-water swimming, and road cycling. Many reviews highlight how riding along the river gives a unique vantage point that’s hard to match on foot or by bus.

Place de la Concorde
This historic square, with its obelisk and fountains, was also a major Olympic venue in 2024, hosting a variety of sports and festivities. The lively atmosphere, combined with the guide’s commentary, makes this stop a highlight.

Customization and Flexibility

One of the biggest perks of this tour is the personalized itinerary. You can tell your guide what interests you most—be it history, architecture, or just enjoying the views—and they’ll tailor the route accordingly. Many reviews rave about guides who are knowledgeable, personable, and eager to share stories and insider tips.

Comfort and Safety

The retro sidecars seat two, with helmets provided, so you and a travel companion can enjoy the ride comfortably. The sidecar design allows for easy access to small streets and tight corners, giving you a different perspective than a car or bus. Travelers mention feeling safe and well-looked-after, even in traffic.

What’s Not Included

While the ride itself is the main attraction, note that admission tickets to places like the Eiffel Tower are not included, so plan for that if you want to go inside. The tour is primarily about the scenic drive and guided commentary.

What We Loved About This Tour

Based on the reviews and descriptions, there are several standout reasons to consider this experience.

First, the guides clearly make a difference. Multiple reviewers mention guides like Romain, Clement, Michael, and Louis as being knowledgeable, friendly, and full of interesting stories. They also stop for treats and take photos, adding a personal touch that elevates the whole experience.

Second, the views are hard to beat. Riding along the Seine, through iconic neighborhoods, and near Olympic venues offers a perspective you simply can’t get from a bus or on foot. Many comments describe the ride as “so much fun,” “a different way to see Paris,” and “a memorable experience.”

Third, the personalization is a major draw. Being able to customize stops and have a private guide means you get a tailored experience. If you’re someone who likes to go at your own pace, take photos whenever you want, or learn specific details, this setup works well.

And finally, the overall value seems good for what you get. At around $216 per person for two hours, you’re paying for a unique, engaging experience with high-quality guides and memorable scenery. Several reviews mention how this was the highlight of their trip or a “must-do” activity.

Considerations and Who It’s Best For

While this tour sounds fantastic, it’s important to set expectations. The ride lasts about 2 hours, so if you’re looking for an exhaustive tour of every corner of Paris, you might need more time or a different experience. It’s best suited for those who want a concise, lively overview, or for travelers eager for a fun adventure rather than a detailed history lesson.

People who dislike riding motorcycles or are uncomfortable in traffic might want to think twice, but the guides emphasize safety and comfort. Also, if you’re traveling with young children or elderly relatives, you’ll need to assess whether the sidecar experience suits them, as it’s designed for one or two passengers per sidecar.

Overall, it’s a top pick for visitors who crave a lively, engaging, and personalized way to see Paris, especially if they’re interested in the Olympics or unique local experiences.

FAQ

Is pickup from my hotel included?
Yes, hassle-free pickup from your central Paris hotel or apartment is offered, making it easy to start the adventure without logistical worries.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 2 hours, which is enough time to see several key sights without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the route?
Absolutely. The tour features a private guide who can tailor stops based on your interests, whether it’s iconic landmarks or Olympic venues.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, safety helmets are included in the experience, and the sidecars are designed for safety and comfort.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the reviews focus on adult travelers, the sidecar setup is best suited for individuals comfortable with motorcycle rides. You should consider the age and comfort level of children or elderly relatives.

What sights will I see on the tour?
You’ll pass top attractions like the Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, Trocadéro, Grand Palais, and along the Seine. You’ll also see Olympic-related sites such as the Place de la Concorde, which was transformed into a sports venue during the 2024 Games.

In The Sum Up

This Paris Vintage Olympic Sidecar Motorcycle Tour offers a one-of-a-kind way to explore the City of Light. From the ease of private pickup to the thrill of riding in a retro-style sidecar, it’s a memorable experience that combines sightseeing with adventure. The guides’ knowledge, combined with scenic routes along iconic landmarks and Olympic venues, makes for a lively, personalized day out.

If you’re someone who enjoys active, engaging experiences and loves learning stories behind the sights, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in the Olympics or want a fun story to tell back home about seeing Paris on a vintage motorcycle.

While it’s not the best fit if you’re looking for a long, in-depth tour or traveling with very young children, for a quick, scenic, and fun ride, this experience hits the mark. It’s a fantastic way to add a bit of adrenaline and nostalgia to your Paris visit.

Ready to turn heads and see the sights in style? This tour might just be what your Paris adventure needs.