Paris: Christmas tours in 2CV

Imagine drifting through Paris in a classic Citroën 2CV, with its transparent roof offering a perfect view of the Christmas illuminations. This 1.5-hour private tour, costing around $193 for up to three people, takes you around some of the most iconic Parisian spots, all shimmering with holiday cheer. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll enjoy a relaxed cruise through beautifully lit streets like the Champs-Élysées, Place Vendôme, and the Eiffel Tower, all while soaking in the festive atmosphere.

What makes this experience stand out is how intimate and authentic it feels. You’re not stuck on a crowded bus or among strangers; instead, you’re comfortably seated in a vintage vehicle with your own driver-guide. Two features we particularly loved are the stunning views of the city’s Christmas lights from the open-top car and the personalized attention that comes with a private tour. The chance to stop for photos whenever you wish helps you capture memories without feeling rushed.

A possible consideration is the weather; since the tour is in an open vehicle, rain could dampen the experience, though the Citroën 2CV does have a transparent roof that can be covered if needed. It’s also a relatively short tour—just an hour and a half—so travelers seeking a deeper exploration of Paris might want to combine it with other activities elsewhere.

This tour is best suited for those who want a cozy, authentic, and visually spectacular way to see Paris during the festive season. If you’re a lover of vintage cars, enjoy personalized experiences, or simply want to see Paris’s Christmas lights without the hustle of large crowds, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Key Points

• Authentic Parisian experience in a vintage 2CV
• Festive illuminated sites like Champs-Élysées and Eiffel Tower
• Private, personalized tour with a knowledgeable guide
• Relaxed pace with photo stops and commentary
• Weather considerations due to open-top nature
• Ideal for lovers of vintage cars and intimate experiences

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Charm of a Vintage 2CV in Paris

Driving through Paris in a Citroën 2CV is a rare pleasure. These quirky, nostalgic cars evoke a sense of freedom and fun, especially with their transparent roofs that make even a short ride feel like a special occasion. During the Christmas season, the illuminated streets of Paris look even more enchanting from the open-air seats, allowing you to gaze up at shimmering lights and beautifully decorated storefronts.

This tour is a private experience, meaning just your group and your guide, which enhances the intimacy and allows for a flexible schedule—stop for photos whenever you want, ask questions, or just soak in the sights at your own pace. The guide, whose enthusiasm and knowledge are frequently praised by reviewers, makes a real difference in how much you’ll learn and enjoy.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Experience

The tour is carefully designed to highlight Paris’s most festive and photogenic areas, all decked out for Christmas. Here’s a closer look:

Pickup and Initial Drive

Your driver will pick you up from your hotel or a central Paris location, making the start seamless and comfortable. This personalized service is a major plus, especially after a busy day of sightseeing.

Champs-Élysées (10-minute stop)

The tour kicks off along the Champs-Élysées, arguably the most famous avenue in the world. During Christmas, this street transforms into a sparkling corridor of lights. You may get a quick photo stop here, perfect for capturing the festive glow. One reviewer, Suzanne from the US, called it “a sparkling evening,” emphasizing how much the lights add to the magic.

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Around Paris (10-minute pass-by)

Next, your guide will navigate you through central Paris, pointing out beautifully illuminated buildings, festive storefronts, and the overall Christmas ambiance. We loved how the guide’s commentary brought the city’s seasonal spirit to life.

Place Vendôme (10-minute stop)

Known for its elegant architecture and luxury jewelry stores, Place Vendôme is also beautifully lit at Christmas. A brief stop allows for photos and a chance to admire the historic square’s glow.

Avenue Montaigne and Galeries Lafayette (10-minute stops)

A drive along Avenue Montaigne showcases the city’s high fashion and holiday window displays. The famed Galeries Lafayette department store, with its massive Christmas tree and elaborate window displays, creates a festive outdoor spectacle. Reviewers talk about the “delightful” and “sparkling” sights here, which feel even more special from the open-top vehicle.

Opéra and Eiffel Tower

Passing by the Opéra Garnier and Eiffel Tower, you’ll see these landmarks dressed up for the holidays. The Eiffel Tower, in particular, is a highlight with its twinkling lights—an iconic image that everyone wants to remember.

Additional Stops

The tour loops back to places like Place Vendôme and Avenue Montaigne, giving you multiple chances to see the lights and take photos. These repeated visits underscore how flexible and personalized the experience can be, based on your interests.

What It’s Like in the Car

The private Citroën 2CV has a transparent roof, which means you can enjoy the crisp winter air, see the lights better, and feel immersed in the city’s festive glow. Some reviews highlight the driver’s passion and knowledge, making the ride more than just sightseeing—it’s a storytelling experience.

The Driver/Guide

Our guide was praised for being “extremely funny,” “passionate,” and “knowledgeable,” often putting other guides to shame. This personal touch turns a simple drive into a memorable narrative about Paris’s holiday celebrations.

The Value of the Experience

At $193 for up to three people, this is a cost-effective way to enjoy an exclusive, festive overview of Paris. Compared to larger group tours or more expensive private drives, this one strikes a good balance, especially considering the personalized service and memorable sights. It’s perfect for couples, small families, or friends who want to indulge in the city’s Christmas beauty without the crowds or noise of larger tours.

Weather and Practical Considerations

The open-top nature of the 2CV means you should be prepared for winter weather—bring a warm coat, gloves, and possibly a hat. The transparent roof can be covered in rain if needed, but keep in mind that rain might affect your view and overall enjoyment. The tour lasts 1.5 hours, so it’s a relatively short window—ideal for a relaxed, scenic pre- or post-dinner activity.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want something authentic and intimate. Perfect if you love vintage cars, enjoy personalized guides, and want to see Paris’s Christmas magic from a unique vantage point. It’s also ideal for those who prefer a relaxed pace, with opportunities for photos and storytelling along the way, rather than a hurried, crowded tour.

If you’re visiting Paris during the holiday season and want a cozy, visually stunning way to enjoy the city’s lights, this Christmas in 2CV tour delivers. The combination of a vintage vehicle, expert guides, and festive sights creates a memorable evening that captures the holiday spirit perfectly. You’ll love the views from the open roof, the personalized attention, and the chance to take home unique photos of Paris dressed for Christmas.

This experience offers great value for those seeking an authentic, small-group adventure that’s both fun and festive. It’s a charming way to see the city’s most iconic sites decorated with holiday cheer, without the hassle of large crowds or touristy buses.

If you’re after a romantic outing, a family adventure, or just want to experience Paris in a truly memorable way, this tour hits the mark. Keep in mind the weather forecast to ensure the experience stays comfortable. For those who love a personal story, or the nostalgia of vintage cars, this is a must-do.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable if it rains?
Yes, the Citroën 2CV has a transparent roof that can be covered if it rains. However, heavy rain might limit your visibility and overall enjoyment, so check the weather forecast beforehand.

Can I stop for photos during the tour?
Absolutely. The tour includes stops for photos on request, making it easy to capture the best views of the Christmas lights and city landmarks.

What’s included in the price?
Your fare covers the private tour in the vintage 2CV with a driver/guide, pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, and stops for photos if needed.

Is this experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility challenges.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, so it’s a relaxed, manageable length for an evening activity.

What languages are available?
Guides speak both English and French, providing flexibility for international travelers.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility to plan your trip.

The Paris Christmas in 2CV tour offers a charming, personalized way to experience the festive cityscape in a vintage vehicle. Its combination of authentic sights, expert guides, and a cozy, intimate setting makes it a standout option for travelers seeking something memorable during the holiday season. The views of the illuminated landmarks from the open roof are truly special, and the story-telling guides make the experience all the more enjoyable.

If you’re looking for a romantic, fun, and authentic way to see Paris dressed in its holiday best, this tour hits just the right notes. It’s especially ideal for vintage car enthusiasts and those wanting a quiet, private glimpse of the city’s Christmas sparkle. For anyone craving a relaxed, visually stunning, and personable evening, this tour is a real winner—and a valuable addition to any Paris itinerary during the festive season.

You can check availability for your dates here: