Paris Vintage Private City Tour on a Sidecar Motorcycle

Exploring Paris in a Sidecar: Our Honest Take on the Vintage Private City Tour

If you’re hunting for a way to see Paris that’s more than just another walking route or bus tour, this Vintage Private City Tour on a Sidecar Motorcycle might catch your eye. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, the rave reviews and detailed descriptions give us a pretty good sense of what to expect. Imagine zipping through the city streets, wind in your hair, and your guide sharing insider tidbits—sounds different, right?

What really draws us in are the personalized experience—being picked up from your hotel and having a private guide means the day is tailored just for you. Plus, riding in a vintage motorcycle sidecar adds a sense of adventure and nostalgia that’s hard to beat. The tour promises to show you top highlights like Montmartre, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower, as well as some lesser-known spots. But, of course, there’s a tiny caveat: since it’s a quick 90-minute ride, you might find it’s more about the experience than a deep dive into every monument.

This tour suits those looking for a fun, memorable introduction to Paris—especially if you enjoy a bit of thrill, history, and great photo ops. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who loves unique adventures, this could be the highlight of your trip. Just keep in mind, if you’re after a long, detailed exploration, this might feel a bit brief.

Key Points

• Unique way to see Paris in a vintage sidecar motorcycle, offering a fun mix of thrill and sightseeing.
• Private tour means personalized attention and flexible stops, with hotel pickup included.
• Coverage of major sights like Montmartre, Sacré-Cœur, Eiffel Tower, and Arc de Triomphe, along with off-the-beaten-path areas.
• Tour duration of approximately 90 minutes makes it a quick but impactful experience.
• Highly rated with a 5.0/5 from 383 reviews, and a 99% recommendation rate.
• Weather-dependent—if it rains, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, so plan accordingly.

A Closer Look at the Paris Sidecar Experience

This tour is crafted for those wanting a whimsical, eye-catching way to explore Paris. The 90-minute ride packs in plenty of sights, but it’s not a comprehensive city tour—you’re cruising past landmarks, soaking in the atmosphere, and getting a taste of the city’s charm. It’s perfect for a quick, exciting overview or a romantic adventure.

What’s Included and How It Works

The price of around $165 per person might seem steep at first glance, but considering the private nature, hotel pickup, and the experience of riding in a vintage sidecar, it’s actually quite reasonable. You’ll get use of helmets, gloves, goggles, rain gear, and the comfort of private transportation—no sharing with strangers here.

The tour starts at Place Saint-Michel—a bustling, central spot—making it easy to access from most parts of Paris. After the ride, you’re dropped back at your hotel or the starting point, giving you a seamless experience. It’s a great way to get your bearings early in your trip or to enjoy a fun break from more traditional sightseeing.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Feel

The route covers several of Paris’ most iconic landmarks:

• Le Louvre: The world’s largest art museum and a symbol of Paris, seen from the street as you cruise by. It’s a great photo op, especially with the Eiffel Tower often in view nearby.
• Place Vendôme: An elegant square known for its architecture, with a Napoleon-era column at its center—perfect for a quick photo stop.
• Palais-Royal: Surrounded by historic arcades and gardens, this spot offers a peaceful contrast to busy streets.
• Galerie Vivienne: One of Paris’ famed covered passages, full of boutiques and cafes, giving you a taste of local charm.
• Palais Garnier: The opulent opera house, a highlight for architecture lovers—and a place many visitors want a picture of.
• Moulin Rouge & Montmartre: Strolling through this bohemian district, you’ll enjoy views of the basilica and the famous red windmill.
• The Arc de Triomphe & Champs-Élysées: The iconic arch, a symbol of France’s victories, and the bustling avenue.
• Les Invalides: The military museum complex with its recognizable golden domes.

Authentic Reviews and What Travelers Say

Travelers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer notes, “Max was THE BEST tour guide! Highly recommend this tour!” Others highlight how the views and the experience made for unforgettable memories, with comments like “Best experience in Paris” and “So much fun.”

Many appreciate the flexibility and personalized attention. Since it’s a private tour, guides tend to customize the experience—stopping for photos, sharing stories, and ensuring everyone is comfortable. Several reviews mention how guides went out of their way to accommodate older travelers or children, making it a family-friendly option if you’re traveling with kids as young as 10, based on comments about kids over the moon with the ride.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– The private setting ensures your group’s comfort and flexibility.
– Riding in a vintage sidecar is genuinely fun and different.
– Tour guide expertise makes the experience informative, not just a joyride.
– Hotel pickup and drop-off saves hassle and makes it easy to start your day.

Cons:
– The short duration means you may feel it’s more of a quick highlight reel than an in-depth exploration.
– Weather dependency: Rain can cancel or delay the tour, so check the forecast.
– If you’re looking for more stops or longer duration, this ride might leave you wanting more.

Value for Money

At $164.52, the price is on the higher side, but considering the private tour, the personalized service, and the unique experience, many find it worth it. The reviews back this up, with folks saying it helped set the tone for their entire trip or provided memories they’ll cherish.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you enjoy adventures that blend sightseeing with a sense of fun and novelty, this is a fantastic option. It’s especially suited for couples, friends, or anyone wanting a romantic, Instagram-worthy experience. The tour is less ideal if you’re after a detailed, comprehensive exploration—it’s more about the joy of the ride and quick glimpses of Paris.

Travelers who appreciate excellent guides and views combined with a dash of thrill will probably rate this highly. It’s a memorable way to see Paris without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those craving a unique Paris experience, this vintage sidecar motorcycle tour delivers exactly that. You’ll get a quick, fun look at some of the city’s most famous sights, with the added bonus of an engaging guide and the thrill of riding in a classic vehicle. It’s a playful, memorable way to kick off a trip or take a break from more traditional sightseeing.

For travelers who want a light, exciting introduction to the City of Light, it’s a solid choice. The reviews show that guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to make sure you have a good time. The key is to see it as a highlight reel—not a comprehensive tour—and plan your day around it accordingly.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from your Paris hotel, making it very convenient.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you a quick but memorable ride around the city.

What sights will I see?
You’ll pass many top landmarks, including the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, Sacré-Cœur, and Les Invalides, among others.

Can I book this tour for a group?
Yes, it’s a private experience, so only your group will participate, which makes it flexible and personalized.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly labeled as family-friendly, many reviews mention kids enjoying the ride, especially if they’re comfortable with motorized vehicles and are at least 10 years old.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably, and the tour provides rain gear if needed. Helmets, goggles, and gloves are also included.

What is the cost per person?
The price is $164.52 per person, which covers private transportation, guide, and all safety gear.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the price covers everything except entry fees for specific monuments, which are not included.

What happens if it rains?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I switch drivers or guides during the tour?
Since it’s a private tour, it’s tailored to your group, and the guide will be focused on making your experience enjoyable—no switching mid-ride.

If you’re after an experience that combines fun, photos, and a bit of adventure in one of the world’s most beautiful cities, this sidecar motorcycle tour might just be the highlight you’re looking for. It’s a chance to see Paris differently—and maybe even turn it into a story you’ll tell for years.