Private Lille Tour by Classic Convertible 2CV with Champagne

A Delightful Ride through Lille in a Classic 2CV

If you’re seeking a distinctive way to explore Lille, this private lille tour in a vintage 2CV convertible offers a charming blend of sightseeing, local history, and just a touch of indulgence. For about $68.78 per person, you’ll spend roughly 75 minutes cruising through the city’s most notable sights in a beautifully restored classic car. Guided by a knowledgeable local, you’ll learn about Lille’s fascinating past, from its old streets and historic buildings to its most iconic landmarks. Plus, the experience includes a well-deserved champagne break, making it perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply elevating your city visit.

What we love most about this tour is the personal touch: it’s exclusively for your party—no strangers, no crowds—just you, your friends or family, and a friendly guide. The second standout feature is the chance to see Lille from a different perspective—the open-top 2CV offers an immersive, intimate view of the city’s architecture and streets, which you’d miss if you were just walking or riding in a bus.

A potential consideration for some travelers is the one-hour-and-fifteen-minute duration, which is perfect for a quick overview but might leave those craving a more in-depth exploration wanting more time. Also, since the tour is in a classic convertible, it’s best suited for good weather days—wind and rain could make the experience less comfortable.

This tour fits best for visitors who appreciate authentic local experiences, enjoy vintage cars, or want a fun, memorable introduction to Lille. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or anyone keen to combine sightseeing with a touch of luxury and story-telling.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Exclusively for your group, ensuring a personalized touch.
• Unique Transportation: Travel in a charming 2CV convertible, adding a nostalgic feel.
• Highlight Stops: Key sights like Vieux-Lille, Old Stock Exchange, Meert shop, Beffroi, and Charles de Gaulle’s birthplace.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Lille’s history, architecture, and local stories from your guide.
• Champagne Break: Enjoy a relaxing toast during the tour, adding a festive element.
• Great for All Weather: Best enjoyed on clear days to fully appreciate the open-top experience.

Exploring Lille in a Classic 2CV: A Deep Dive

Getting into a vintage 2CV is like stepping back in time—it’s a fun way to see Lille without the humdrum of a typical bus tour. The car’s small size and open roof bring you close to the sights, sounds, and even the smells of the city. Your guide, whose enthusiasm and knowledge are frequently praised, will weave stories about Lille’s history, architecture, and local culture as you cruise past the highlights.

The tour begins at Place Rihour, a central spot easy to find, perfect for meeting your guide and jumping into the car. From there, the itinerary takes you to Vieux-Lille, the city’s historic old town, where cobblestone streets and centuries-old buildings tell stories of Lille’s past trading prominence. We loved how the guide pointed out details in the architecture that you might otherwise overlook—a testament to their local knowledge.

Next, you’ll visit the Old Stock Exchange, a striking building with layered history, and then glide down Rue Esquermoise, home to Meert, one of the city’s oldest shops. The guide enriches the experience with stories about Lille’s commercial history and local traditions. You might find yourself craving a sweet treat at Meert after the tour!

The Beffroi de l’Hôtel de Ville offers panoramic views and is a prominent landmark, now housing Lille’s Chamber of Commerce. From there, the tour moves to Porte de Paris, a beautiful city gate that showcases Lille’s fortifications, and then to the Musee Hospice Comtesse, an elegant historic hospital turned museum.

Finally, you’ll visit Maison natale Charles de Gaulle, where the French leader was born, adding a touch of national pride to your journey. Throughout, your guide will share anecdotes, making these stops come alive with stories that connect Lille’s past to its present.

The champagne break is a charming highlight—an opportunity to relax and toast your experience. Reviewers mentioned that the bubbly was cold, and it added a special touch to the ride, making it more than just a sightseeing tour. This break also provides a moment to chat, take photos, or simply soak in the scenery.

What Travelers Say

Multiple reviewers highlight how knowledgeable guides like Rafi, Ann, or Charles make each stop interesting and engaging. One noted, “Our guide was informative, very knowledgeable, and great fun,” while another said, “He was super knowledgeable and took lots of time to give us information about Lille.” The enthusiasm and friendliness of the guides are evident, making the tours feel personalized and lively.

The vehicle itself garners praise, with comments like “the pink 2CV was absolutely brilliant” and “the wee 2CV was fantastic, a real bit of history.” Travelers love the nostalgic charm of the car, which adds a playful element to the experience.

The value for money is also frequently mentioned, with many feeling that the cost is justified by the personalized service, the scenic views, and the stories shared. The small group size and private nature also elevate the experience, making it feel more exclusive.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour runs from Place Rihour and ends back at the same spot, making logistics simple. It’s advisable to book at least 22 days in advance—a sign of popularity—and the activity is suitable for most travelers, including service animals, and is accessible near public transportation.

Weather is an important factor; since it’s an open-top car, a clear, dry day will provide the best experience. If rain is forecasted, consider whether you’d be comfortable in the convertible or prefer a different kind of tour.

The price point is competitive for a private, guided experience with champagne, especially considering the personalized attention and the unique vintage vehicle. Many reviewers felt they received excellent value for what’s included.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Lille tour is ideal for history buffs, vintage car enthusiasts, couples celebrating a special occasion, or small groups looking for a memorable, personalized experience. It’s perfect if you want to combine sightseeing with a unique vehicle experience, topped with stories that bring Lille’s streets to life. Visitors who value local insights and want a relaxed, intimate way to see the city will find this tour especially rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the tour is exclusively for your party, providing a personal and customized experience.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it a perfect quick overview or introduction to Lille.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is at Place Rihour, and the tour concludes at the same location, simplifying logistics.

Are there any group discounts?
Yes, the tour offers group discounts, making it more economical for families or small groups traveling together.

Is the champagne included?
Absolutely. The tour includes a champagne break where you can toast your trip and relax.

Can children join this tour?
While most travelers can participate, it’s best suited for those comfortable in an open-top car. Children should be supervised, and it’s advisable to check if there are any age restrictions.

What should I wear?
Dress for the weather—layers and a hat on sunny days, or a raincoat if rain is forecasted. The open car means you’ll feel the wind, so comfort is key.

Final Thoughts

Choosing this private Lille tour in a vintage 2CV offers more than just sightseeing; it’s about experiencing the city in a way that’s personal, fun, and full of stories. The expert guides, stunning views, and affordable price combine to create a memorable outing that many travelers consistently praise. Whether you’re celebrating, exploring with family, or simply keen to see Lille differently, this tour provides real value and authentic charm.

For those who love a bit of nostalgia paired with cultural insight, and who appreciate a relaxed pace in a beautiful vintage car, this experience ticks all the boxes. It’s a great way to kick off your Lille adventure or to add a special highlight to your trip.

In summary, this tour is best suited for travelers who want a personalized, engaging, and scenic introduction to Lille, especially those who enjoy vintage vehicles and storytelling. Its focus on authentic experiences, coupled with the chance to toast with champagne, makes it a memorable, value-packed choice for a quick yet rich glimpse of Lille’s soul.