Paris Private Tour by Vintage Car with Wine Tasting

Imagine cruising through the heart of Paris in a beautiful vintage 1963 Peugeot, feeling the breeze and taking in the city’s sights with the full attention of your guide. This 2-hour private tour offers a unique blend of classic transportation, iconic landmarks, some lesser-known treasures, and a touch of local flavor via a natural French wine tasting. Priced at around $133 per person, it’s a charming way to see Paris with a personalized touch, especially if you’re craving an authentic experience in a relaxed, elegant setting.

What we really love about this experience is the exclusive attention you get from your guide, making it feel like a personalized adventure rather than a crowded sightseeing bus. Plus, the chance to snap photos at landmarks like Place Dauphine, the Eiffel Tower, and Notre-Dame without the hustle of large groups is pretty fantastic. Another highlight is the wine tasting in the historic surroundings of Les Caves du Panthéon, where you get to sample some of France’s natural wines—an unexpected treat.

One possible con to keep in mind is that the itinerary can be affected by city protests, which might limit access to some of the main attractions. For example, if streets are blocked, certain stops like the Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower might be skipped or shortened. Also, weighing the price against the duration, some travelers feel it’s a bit pricey for just two hours of sightseeing, especially if you’re hoping to cover all major sites in detail. This tour suits travelers who value personalized service, unique transportation, and a slower-paced, intimate experience rather than ticking off every famous landmark.

This tour is perfect for couples on a romantic getaway, first-time visitors wanting to combine sightseeing with a taste of local wine, or anyone looking for a fun, stylish way to see Paris at a relaxed pace. If you’re interested in private, tailored experiences with a dash of elegance, this could be just what you’re after.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private guide ensures tailored commentary and attention.
• Unique Transportation: Classic vintage car adds charm and nostalgia to your sightseeing.
• Iconic Landmarks & Hidden Gems: View major sites like Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame, plus quieter neighborhoods.
• Wine Tasting: Sample natural French wines at Les Caves du Panthéon, adding flavor to your tour.
• Flexible Timing: Multiple departure times suit various schedules.
• Potential Limitations: City protests may alter the planned itinerary.

In-Depth Review of the Paris Vintage Car Tour

The Experience of Riding in a Vintage Peugeot

From the moment we stepped into the 1963 Peugeot, we felt transported back in time. The car’s classic lines and polished finish made it feel like a piece of Parisian history itself. The driver, whose name isn’t provided but who clearly knew his way around the city, was both informative and engaging. He kept a lively commentary going, sharing anecdotes about each landmark, and peppered the ride with humor and local insights.

This mode of transportation isn’t just about getting from point A to B—it’s about experiencing Paris in a way that feels intimate and special. We loved the luxury of privacy, as only your group participates, and the ease of access to spots that might be crowded or difficult to navigate in larger tours.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

The tour kicks off at the City House of Paris, setting a central starting point. From there, your guide will take you past Place Dauphine, a peaceful square with stunning architecture that’s perfect for a quick photo. It’s a lesser-visited spot, which adds an element of discovery. Next, you’ll see Place de la Concorde, the largest square in Paris, famous for its historical significance and grand scale.

The Arc de Triomphe is always a crowd favorite, and even a brief stop here is worthwhile for snapping some photos of Napoleon’s triumphal arch. The Eiffel Tower comes next, arguably the most iconic symbol of Paris. The tour includes a walk around the Champ de Mars and a quick photo stop, giving you a chance to marvel at its iron lattice structure.

Your guide also takes you past the Army Museum and the École Militaire, providing context without overwhelming you with details, making it suitable even for first-time visitors. The visit to Saint-Sulpice Church offers a quieter, more reflective moment, and the interior is free to explore, including a quick visit to the Foucault pendulum nearby.

Wine Tasting: A French Essential

One of the highlights is the 30-minute wine tasting at Les Caves du Panthéon, where you sample natural wines not often found outside France. The owner is friendly and knowledgeable, eager to share stories about each wine’s origin and what makes them special. Travellers repeatedly mention the quality of the wines, often noting the experience as a fun and authentic way to deepen their appreciation of French culture.

Discovering Lesser-Known Sites

The tour also takes you to Les Arènes de Lutece, a Roman amphitheater from the first century, offering a glimpse into Paris’s ancient past. The Latin Quarter surroundings add to the historic atmosphere, with narrow streets and lively cafés. The Notre-Dame Cathedral is included, although some reviewers note that not all stops are as long as they would like, especially if street protests cause delays.

Practical Aspects & Considerations

The tour lasts approximately two hours, with an additional 30-minute wine tasting. The price point of $133 per person reflects the private, premium nature of the experience, but some reviewers feel it’s slightly over the value for just two hours of sightseeing, especially if the itinerary is shortened due to unforeseen events.

The flexible scheduling makes it easy to fit into your day, and the mobile ticket feature simplifies check-in. The starting point is close to public transportation, which helps with accessibility. Keep in mind that city protests can impact the route, and your guide will inform you if any changes are necessary—this transparency is appreciated but can be disappointing if you miss certain highlights.

Authenticity and Personal Touch

A recurring compliment from travelers is the guide’s knowledge and friendly attitude. As one traveler put it, “Our driver was very informational, funny, and had a big smile on his face the whole time,” which highlights the approachable vibe of this tour. This is a major plus for those who want a more personal connection than a typical bus tour.

Final Thoughts on Value

While some say the tour is a bit pricey, especially considering the limited time, many feel that the quality of the guide, the charm of the vintage car, and the wine tasting justify the cost. It’s not a comprehensive city tour, but rather a curated, intimate experience perfect for relaxing sightseeing combined with a taste of local culture.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private vintage car tour is especially well-suited for couples seeking a romantic, stylish way to explore Paris, those interested in less crowded, more personal insights, or anyone looking for a fun and distinctive sightseeing experience. If you value small-group intimacy, historical ambiance, and a chance to sip French wine while enjoying the sights, this tour offers a memorable slice of Parisian life.

Who Might Want to Consider Other Options?

Travelers eager to tick off every major landmark might find the 2-hour format limiting, especially with potential itinerary adjustments. Also, if you’re seeking a comprehensive, full-day tour, this might feel too brief. For those on a tight budget, it’s worth comparing with other options, but remember, the exclusivity and style are what set this apart.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.

How long does the tour last?
The core sightseeing lasts about 1.5 hours, with an additional 30-minute wine tasting, totaling roughly 2 hours.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll pass by major sites like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame, and less-visited spots like Place Dauphine and Les Arènes de Lutece.

Can I visit the interior of the landmarks?
The tour includes exterior views and short visits to places like Saint-Sulpice and Notre-Dame, but it does not specify extended interior access.

What’s included in the wine tasting?
A selection of natural French wines at Les Caves du Panthéon, with a knowledgeable owner sharing insights about each.

Is this suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, especially those who enjoy a relaxed pace and personalized service. Check for mobility needs if relevant.

What if there’s a protest or street closure?
Your guide will inform you of any changes, and some stops may be shortened or skipped due to city protests.

Final Words

This Paris private tour in a vintage car offers a blend of style, intimacy, and a dash of local flavor that’s hard to match. The experience is perfect for those who want to see Paris through a more relaxed, personal lens, enjoying the city’s iconic sights alongside lesser-known corners and a glass of natural French wine. While it might not cover every landmark in detail or deliver a full-day experience, what it does offer—charm, exclusivity, and authentic moments—makes it a delightful choice for special occasions or anyone craving a different way to fall in love with the City of Light.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates classic vehicles, expert guides, and local wine, this tour is well worth considering. Just keep in mind the potential for itinerary changes and weigh whether the intimate, stylish approach matches what you’re hoping to get out of your Paris adventure.