Private Sidecar Tour of Montmartre : Off the Beaten Path

Exploring Montmartre in Style: The Private Sidecar Tour

Imagine zipping through the cobbled streets of Montmartre in a vintage motorcycle sidecar, feeling the wind and hearing the stories of one of Paris’s most fascinating neighborhoods. This private tour offers a 2-hour ride that takes you off the typical tourist trail, focusing on the darker, more adult side of Montmartre’s history — from notorious brothels of the 1920s to the bohemian vibe of its famous cabarets. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll cover key sights and learn about the area’s vice, violence, and vibrant past, all while enjoying the fun and unique perspective of being in a vintage sidecar.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines adventure and education—the chance to see Montmartre from a different angle while hearing stories that are rarely covered in typical tours. The photo opportunities are plentiful, thanks to the open-air nature of the ride, making for some Instagram-worthy moments. Plus, the customizable nature of the private tour means it can be tailored to your interests or schedule.

That said, because the tour is not suitable for children and involves riding in an open sidecar, it’s best suited for adults who enjoy a bit of excitement and storytelling. If you’re looking for a relaxed, family-friendly sightseeing experience, this might not be the best pick. Also, it’s a relatively short tour — about two hours — so those with tight schedules will find it easy to fit in.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, adventure lovers, and those eager to see Montmartre’s edgier side in an authentic way. If you appreciate knowledgeable guides and scenic views, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Unique Perspective: Riding in a vintage sidecar offers an unmatched view of Montmartre’s streets.
• Edgy Stories: Focus on Montmartre’s less glamorous past, including vice and violence, which adds depth to your understanding.
• Photo Opportunities: The open sidecar creates perfect moments for memorable photos.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable and engaging, making the stories come alive.
• Flexible & Private: This is a private experience, allowing for a tailored and intimate tour.
• Short & Sweet: At about 2 hours, it fits well into busy Paris itineraries.

An In-Depth Look at the Private Sidecar Tour of Montmartre

What Makes This Tour Special?

This tour offers a rare way to explore Montmartre, not just on foot or from a bus, but in a vintage motorcycle sidecar. The approach is both fun and practical, giving you an excellent vantage point to see the neighborhood’s most iconic and lesser-known sights while feeling like a cast member in a vintage film. As the reviews mention, guides like Praveen and Simon are knowledgeable and personable, adding a layer of storytelling that elevates the experience from mere sightseeing to a memorable narrative.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Rue de Navarin
Your journey begins here, a street famous in the 1920s for housing three of Paris’s most notorious brothels. Our guide discusses the impact of prostitution on Paris’s development, giving an eye-opening glimpse into Montmartre’s more adult history. This stop is brief—about 10 minutes—but sets the tone for the tour’s focus on Montmartre’s edgier past.

Stop 2: Le Moulin de la Galette
Once a grain mill, this spot later became a lively cabaret and dance hall. The history of tragedy and resilience of the family that owned it adds depth to its charm. Visitors might recognize it from countless paintings or films, but the guide’s storytelling makes it come alive.

Stop 3: Dalida Statue
A tribute to the 1960s singer and icon, this statue has become a local landmark. An amusing custom has developed here, giving a quirky local flavor, and it provides a light-hearted contrast to the darker themes of the tour.

Stop 4: Statue of Saint-Denys
This statue honors the patron saint of Paris, Saint Denis, who was executed for his beliefs. It’s a reminder of Paris’s long history of faith and sacrifice, adding a historical depth to your ride.

Stop 5: Basilique du Sacré-Cœur
Perched atop Montmartre’s hill, this basilica is one of Paris’s most recognizable landmarks. While it’s a popular tourist spot, during the tour you’ll appreciate its spectacular views and learn about its significance, both spiritual and historical.

The Ride and Its Comfort

The 2-hour ride includes rain gear, blankets, and gloves — thoughtful touches that ensure comfort regardless of weather. One reviewer even praised how the guide made sure they stayed dry and cozy, even on a rainy day. Riding in an open sidecar can be exhilarating but chilly, so these amenities are much appreciated.

Authentic Experiences and Stories

The guides excel at weaving stories that bring Montmartre’s past and present to life. One reviewer shared that the guide was “so accommodating in adjusting our tour,” emphasizing the personalized service you get in a private setting. The stories about vice, violence, and the neighborhood’s bohemian past make this more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s a storytelling journey.

Pricing and Value

At $173.37 per person, the tour might seem a bit steep for a short ride, but considering the private nature, personalized storytelling, and the unique experience, it offers good value for those seeking something special. The ride’s intimacy and the behind-the-scenes stories are what make this a memorable investment.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits adventure seekers, history enthusiasts, and those craving authentic, behind-the-scenes stories of Montmartre. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic rides, photo ops, and learning about the neighborhood’s darker past. If you prefer a relaxed, family-friendly tour, this might not be ideal, but for adults looking for fun and insight, it’s a hit.

Final Thoughts

This private sidecar tour of Montmartre is a rewarding way to see the neighborhood’s edgier side in an intimate, fun, and scenic manner. The knowledgeable guides elevate the experience with fascinating stories, making it more than just a sightseeing ride. The photo opportunities and sense of adventure combine to make it a memorable highlight of any Paris trip.

While it’s a short tour, its personalized nature and storytelling make it feel genuinely special. The comfort gear provided ensures you can enjoy the ride regardless of the weather. It’s an experience that offers both fun and insight, perfect for those wanting to explore Paris with a bit of flair and a lot of stories.

If you’re eager to see Montmartre’s colorful, edgy history and enjoy a scenic ride in style, this tour is a fantastic choice. Just remember, it’s best suited for adults who appreciate a good story and a bit of adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is explicitly not recommended for children due to the nature of the content and the ride in a motorcycle sidecar.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it easy to fit into a busy Paris schedule.

What is included in the price?
Your fare covers private transportation, rain gear, blankets, gloves, and storytelling. Entry tickets to the monuments are not included.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 810 Pont de Bir-Hakeim, and the activity ends back at the same meeting point.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, on average, this tour is booked 58 days ahead, reflecting its popularity.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for weather conditions are recommended; the tour provides rain gear and blankets if needed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, allowing flexibility if your plans shift.

This private Montmartre sidecar tour offers a distinctive way to see Paris’ bohemian past and hidden stories, perfect for curious travelers eager for adventure and authentic insights.