Private tour Paris Little-known places 2 hours in Citroën 2CV

If you’re looking for a way to see Paris beyond the usual sights, this private tour riding in a vintage Citroën 2CV might just be what you need. We haven’t personally done it, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it looks like a charming, personalized way to uncover some of the city’s lesser-known corners. What really catches our eye is the unique vintage car experience paired with a knowledgeable guide showing you Paris’s hidden gems. Plus, the fact that it’s a private tour means you get a tailored, relaxed journey.

One of the standout features is the off-beat route—you’ll skip the crowds and typical tourist traps, instead venturing into quieter neighborhoods and discovering street art and secret squares. We also love the convenience of pickup from your hotel or central location and the possibility of group discounts, making it flexible for different travel plans.

However, a consideration worth noting is that Citroën 2CVs are smaller than today’s cars, which limits the group size to three people per vehicle, and more if you book a convoy. That means if you’re traveling with a larger group or family, you’ll need to plan accordingly. But for couples or small groups, it’s a cozy, fun way to experience Paris’s hidden side. This tour suits travelers who enjoy vintage charm, off-the-beaten-path adventures, and personalized guides.

Key Points

• Unique vintage experience riding in a classic Citroën 2CV
• Private, customizable tour focusing on lesser-known Parisian spots
• Expert guides provide engaging and informative commentary
• Compact size of cars limits group to three per vehicle, ideal for small groups
• Highlights include street art, private mansions, and secret squares
• Flexible start times and hotel pickup options increase convenience

What You Can Expect from This Parisian Adventure

This tour offers more than just a ride; it’s a curated glimpse into the quiet, quirky side of Paris. You start at a central meeting point, either your hotel or a notable location like avenue des Champs-Élysées. Once you hop into your vintage 2CV, you’re off to explore neighborhoods and sights typically missed by standard tours.

The vintage Citroën 2CV itself is part of the charm. These cars, introduced in the 1940s, are quirky and iconic, instantly drawing smiles and curiosity from passersby. Its small size lets your guide take you into narrow streets and hidden corners that buses and larger vehicles can’t access. Several reviews mention how much fun it is to be driven around in such a distinctive vehicle, with travelers feeling like they’re part of a vintage movie scene.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Your 2-hour journey will take you through a variety of off-the-beaten-path locales, with carefully chosen stops to enjoy and photograph. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Start at the Meeting Point
– You’ll begin near the Petit Palais or at your hotel, where your guide greets you and helps you settle into the vintage car. Expect a warm introduction and some fun chatter about the car’s history.

Drive through the Marais
– The Marais is a favorite neighborhood for its mix of historic and contemporary Paris. You’ll see two ornate mansions—Hôtel de Sully and Hôtel de Sens—and get stories about their past.
– Plus, you’ll pass by Place du Marché Sainte-Catherine, a charming square often overlooked by travelers but loved by locals.
– The guide shares insights about the artists, street performers, and the lively character of this neighborhood.

Street Art & Hidden Squares
– One of the tour’s highlights is the Kiosque des Noctambules, a piece of street art by Jean-Michel Othniel. You’ll see how Paris embraces modern art, contrasting with its historic architecture.
– The Stravinsky Fountain is another quirky stop, decorated with sculptures meant to resemble running water. It’s a fun photo opportunity and a reminder of Paris’s eclectic creative scene.

Passing Notable Monuments
– The tour includes a drive past the elegant Place Vendôme, famous for luxury jewelry shops and grandeur, but often ignored in typical sightseeing routes.
– The route might also take you past other notable spots like Arenes de Lutece, Panthéon, and Jardin du Luxembourg, providing context about their location and significance.

Additional Stops & Drop-offs
– Your guide might include other charming squares like Place des États-Unis or Place Gérard-Oury, depending on timing and your interests.
– The tour wraps up with a return to your original starting point or a location of your choosing, making it easy to continue your day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Travelers consistently mention how informative guides make these rides memorable. Multiple reviews praise guides like “Robert,” “Kevin,” “Marion,” and “Vincent” for their local knowledge and friendly manner. The reviews emphasize that guides often share personal anecdotes and insightful stories, making the experience feel personalized and engaging.

Many reviewers highlight how the small size of the car allows access to tiny streets and hidden corners, creating a sense of discovery that large buses or walking tours might miss. For example, one reviewer mentioned going down a “tiny rue that no other car could fit into,” which sounds like a fun, exclusive peek into Paris’s secret alleys.

The car itself is a major attraction. The 1974 Citroën 2CV turns heads everywhere, and crowds often take pictures or smile as the convoy passes by. Several reviews compare the experience to a scene from a classic French film, adding a layer of romance to the adventure.

The Practical Side

Cost-wise, at around $115.53 per person, this tour offers a good value considering its private nature and personalized approach. When you think about the experience of riding in a vintage car, learning about Paris from a local guide, and enjoying exclusive access to hidden spots, it feels like a worthwhile expense.

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, which is enough to see a good number of sights without feeling rushed. The group size limitation (up to three per car, larger groups in convoy) ensures a cozy, relaxed experience where you can ask questions and enjoy the scenery fully.

It’s worth noting that the tour can be booked for larger groups as well—up to nine people—by arranging multiple cars in a convoy, making it suitable for small groups, couples, or even small families. Be aware that because of the car size, this isn’t the best choice if you prefer more spacious, traditional sightseeing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is particularly well-suited for vintage car fans and those who enjoy offbeat, personalized tours. If you’re someone who appreciates a mix of history, street art, and quiet neighborhood charm, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s perfect for travelers wanting an insider look at Paris’s hidden gems without the crowds.

However, if comfort and space are your top priorities, or if you’re traveling with a larger family or group, you might want to consider other options. Still, for small groups or couples looking for a fun, intimate way to explore, this tour hits the spot.

Final Thoughts

In a city packed with classic tours, this private Citroën 2CV experience offers something a little different. It’s not a grand, sweeping sightseeing bus ride—it’s a charming, laid-back, and personal look at Paris’s lesser-known corners. The combination of a quirky vintage vehicle, friendly guides, and exclusive access to hidden sites makes it a memorable addition to your Parisian adventures.

While the compact size of the cars limits groups to small numbers, that’s actually a plus here. It means more personalized attention and access to streets bigger vehicles can’t reach. Plus, the overall vibe—feeling like you’re part of a scene from a French film—adds a special touch that most standard tours can’t match.

If you’re a curious traveler who wants to see the city through a different lens, enjoy engaging guides, and love the idea of a vintage ride, this tour is worth considering. It’s a relaxed, engaging way to see Paris’s secret side and create some fun memories.

FAQ: Your Questions About the Citroën 2CV Tour

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
The tour is designed for small groups, with cars limited to three people each (not including the driver). It’s generally suitable for older children who enjoy a fun ride and are comfortable in a small car, but it’s not specifically tailored for very young kids or families with many children.

Can I pick the start time that works best for me?
Yes. You can select a tour start time that fits your schedule when booking, offering flexibility for your day in Paris.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at either your hotel in central Paris or a designated meeting point near the avenue des Champs-Élysées. It concludes back at the same location or your preferred drop-off point.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts roughly 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore a handful of hidden spots without feeling rushed.

How many people can join the tour?
While each car is limited to three passengers, larger groups can be accommodated by booking multiple cars in a convoy—up to nine people in total.

Is there a need to book far in advance?
Most travelers book around 84 days in advance, which suggests good availability but planning ahead ensures you secure your preferred time.

What is the price per person?
The current rate is about $115.53 per person, which covers the private guide and the vintage car experience.

Are refreshments or extras included?
The tour focuses on sightseeing and storytelling. Extras like refreshments are not included but you might find your guide willing to share local tips.

What if I want to extend or customize the tour?
The tour is private and flexible, so you can discuss additional stops or preferences with your guide before starting, within reason.

Is the vintage car comfortable?
The Citroën 2CV is quite small and more suited for short, fun rides than long journeys. Most reviews mention that it’s comfortable enough for the duration but not a luxury ride.

This 2-hour private tour in a vintage 2CV offers a distinctive way to get to know Paris’s secret corners with a fun, personal touch. Whether you’re a first-time visitor wanting an alternative perspective or a seasoned traveler craving a unique experience, it’s worth considering for that memorable Parisian adventure.