Tour in a vintage car with a Parisian

Exploring Paris in a Vintage Car: A Review of the 2CV Tour

If you’re after a unique way to see Paris beyond the usual crowded landmarks, a vintage car tour might just be the thing. We’ve come across this private 2-hour experience in a classic Citroën 2CV—brightly painted in the French flag colors—that offers a fun and intimate glimpse into the city’s lesser-known corners. It’s perfect if you want something more personalized than a big bus tour but still want to pack in a good mix of sights.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the personalized attention from your host, who is a local guide. Second, the chance to zip around in a charming vintage vehicle creates a truly memorable vibe. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the duration is short, so it’s really about hitting highlights and hidden spots rather than an in-depth exploration. This experience suits travelers who love a bit of style, enjoy off-the-beaten-path adventures, and want a manageable, relaxed way to get a fresh perspective on Paris.

Key Points

• Private, customizable tour in a vintage Citroën 2CV offers a personal touch.
• Focus on lesser-known landmarks alongside iconic sights like Montmartre.
• Live commentary from a knowledgeable local guide enriches the experience.
• Flexible stops for photos and exploring at your own pace.
• Two-hour duration suits those with limited time but craving a distinctive experience.
• Booked an average of 46 days in advance, indicating good planning for popularity.

Why Choose a Vintage Car Tour in Paris?

There’s something inherently charming about cruising through Paris in a vintage car. It’s a different vibe from the standard hop-on-hop-off buses or walking tours. The Citroën 2CV, with its cheerful colors, adds a playful touch, making your sightseeing feel more like a fun adventure. Plus, with a private tour, you get the freedom to customize your route and focus on what interests you most.

The tour’s local guide provides live commentary, ensuring you get stories and insights tailored to your interests. According to reviews, guides like Vivienne or Vivianne (both praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and attentiveness) really make a difference. They not only cover the major landmarks but also show you off-the-radar spots like the ancient Arènes de Lutèce amphitheater and the charming Place des Vosges.

What the Tour Looks Like: Itinerary & Highlights

The exact route can vary depending on traffic and your preferences, but here’s what you might expect:

Starting Point & Latin Quarter

The tour begins in the Latin District, a lively area filled with history, cafes, and academic institutions. Your guide might chat about the neighborhood’s evolution, giving you context that’s hard to find in a guidebook.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Gems

One of the best parts of this experience is visiting less-touristy landmarks. For example, Place des Vosges, one of Paris’s oldest squares, is a peaceful slice of history with beautiful architecture. It’s not always included in standard tours, but here you might get extra time to soak in the ambiance.

Another highlight is the Arènes de Lutèce, an ancient Roman-era amphitheater tucked away in a quiet park. It’s a reminder of Paris’s long-standing history that many overlook. As one reviewer noted, “Des endroits pas possibles à faire en plus où moins 2h00 à faire même des voitures ne passerait pas ou la deuch passe,” emphasizing that this tour can access spots that wouldn’t be feasible with larger vehicles.

Montmartre & Beyond

Many choose to include Montmartre, the bohemian hilltop district famous for artists and stunning views. Your guide can navigate the narrow streets, offering insights into the neighborhood’s artistic past and current charm. One traveler loved that their guide added a lot of info and site suggestions along the way, making the ride both fun and educational.

Photo Stops & Customization

This tour is designed to be flexible—your guide will stop whenever you want to take photos or explore. Several reviews mention how guides are happy to accommodate requests, making for a personalized experience. Whether you want a quick shot of the Eiffel Tower from afar or a quiet moment in a hidden square, your guide is there to help.

The Experience: What’s Included & What’s Not

For $288.02 per group (up to 3 people), you’re paying for an intimate, tailored experience with a driver/guide, live commentary, and the comfort of a private vehicle. The tour includes pickup and a mobile ticket, adding to its convenience.

However, food and drinks aren’t included, which isn’t surprising given the short duration. You’ll want to plan to eat before or after the tour, or simply enjoy the treats you might pick up along the way in Paris.

The duration of around 2 hours is just enough to cover a good mix of sights without feeling rushed. Travelers consistently mention how quickly the time flies—one reviewer said, “The 2 hours went by quickly but we were able to see a lot.”

Practical Considerations

Booking about 46 days in advance on average indicates this experience is quite popular, especially during peak seasons. It’s also worth noting that the tour might be operated by a multi-lingual guide, making it accessible to international visitors.

Since the tour is private, it’s ideal for couples, small groups, or friends. The flexibility and personalized touch help make the experience more meaningful than a generic group tour.

The Guide & Reviews: What Travelers Say

Looking at reviews, guides like Vivienne and Vivianne frequently earn praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to cater to requests. One reviewer mentioned, “Our driver Vivienne was personable, knowledgeable, and friendly,” indicating that you’re in good hands.

Many guests appreciate the guide’s effort to include off-the-beaten-path locations, adding depth to their sightseeing. The comments about the guide’s English proficiency, storytelling, and willingness to stop for photos reinforce that this is a genuinely personalized experience.

While most reviews are 5-star, some mention the short duration, which is worth considering if you prefer a more comprehensive tour. Still, for its price and style, it’s seen as a fun, memorable way to see parts of Paris from a different angle.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re a traveler who loves quirky experiences and appreciates a personalized touch, this vintage car tour offers plenty of charm. It’s especially suited if you want a relaxed, intimate way to see some of Paris’s hidden spots and iconic sights, all in a fun and nostalgic vehicle. The flexible stops and knowledgeable guides make it a standout option for those who want a mix of sightseeing and local storytelling.

On the other hand, if you’re after a comprehensive, in-depth exploration of Paris’s history or attractions, this short tour might feel a bit light. It’s best viewed as a taste of the city’s lesser-known corners combined with a joyful ride in a classic car.

This experience is a delightful way to add some style and personality to your trip—especially if you’re traveling with a small group or partner. It’s not the cheapest tour out there, but for the quality of guide, vehicle, and tailored experience, many find it well worth the price.

FAQ About the Vintage Car Tour in Paris

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour can be customized upon request. Your guide can include specific landmarks or areas you’re interested in, making it a personalized experience.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it convenient to start your journey without extra hassle.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, which is enough to see a good mix of sights and off-the-radar spots.

What’s the vehicle like?
You’ll travel in a cheerful, vintage Citroën 2CV painted in the French tricolor, adding a fun, nostalgic touch to your sightseeing.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely. The guide is happy to stop at picturesque spots whenever you want to capture the moment.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the small size and relaxed pace could suit small groups including older children, but keep in mind the vehicle’s comfort and the duration.

What language is the guide?
The tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 46 days ahead, especially during busy months.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind.

This vintage car tour isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about experiencing Paris with a sense of fun, intimacy, and a touch of classic style. If that sounds appealing, it’s worth considering for your next Paris adventure.