Paris: Classic Sites Tour by Vintage Citroen 2CV

Imagine cruising through the heart of Paris, wind in your hair, in a vintage Citroën 2CV—that’s exactly what this 2-hour tour offers. For $271 per group (up to 2 people), you’ll visit the city’s most celebrated sights, from the Champs Elysées to the Notre-Dame on the Île de la Cité. Along the way, your guide—who’s often praised for their knowledge and friendliness—will share stories and insights that bring the city’s history alive.

What we love most about this experience is how flexible and intimate it is. First, the open-top car allows for a true Parisian breeze and photo opportunities that buses just can’t match. Second, the personal attention from your private driver makes it feel like a customized city sightseeing adventure, not just another generic tour.

A potential consideration is the small size of the vehicle—while perfect for weaving through narrow streets and parking close to landmarks, it might be less comfortable for those who prefer more space or are sensitive to the sun.

This tour really suits travelers who want a fun, memorable, and photo-friendly way to get an overview of Paris’s top sights. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy quirky experiences or want to avoid the crowds often associated with large buses.

Key Points

• Authentic Vintage Experience: Cruise Paris in a classic, open-top Citroën 2CV, capturing the city’s charm and style.
• Personalized Service: Enjoy a private driver/guide who tailors the experience and provides insightful commentary.
• Prime Landmarks: Cover major sights like the Champs Elysées, Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and the Notre-Dame.
• Ideal for Photo Enthusiasts: The convertible roof and scenic routes make for perfect photo stops.
• Value for Money: Despite the modest two-hour duration, the personalized approach and unique vehicle make it a worthwhile treat.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, suitable for a broad range of travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Paris: Classic Sites Tour

Starting Point and Pick-up

Your experience begins with a pick-up from your accommodation in Paris, making it convenient and stress-free. Once aboard, you’ll be greeted by your private driver/guide, who often earns praise for their knowledge, friendly demeanor, and ability to manage Paris’s sometimes hectic traffic.

The Vintage Car: A Moving Photo Frame

The Citroën 2CV isn’t just transportation; it’s a quintessential symbol of French design and fun. Many reviews highlight the surprisingly comfortable ride—even for long legs—thanks to the car’s compact yet surprisingly spacious interior. The retractable roof is a highlight, allowing you to feel the breeze and capture stunning cityscapes and monuments at their best.

Exploring the Landmarks

The itinerary is designed to maximize sightlines and photo opportunities. You’ll drive along the famous Avenue des Champs Elysées, passing the Arc de Triomphe, where your guide will likely point out its history and significance. Several travelers mention how the small size of the vehicle allows it to access streets that big buses cannot—a major plus for getting close to landmarks.

As you continue, expect to see:

• The impressive Ecole Militaire and the Grand Palais by the Pont Alexandre III, both perfect spots for photos.
• The Trocadéro, offering iconic views of the Tour Eiffel, especially beautiful if the weather is clear.
• The Place de la Concorde, with its giant obelisk and historic fountains, which often become a favorite photo stop.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Left Bank and Notre-Dame

Crossing the Seine to the Île de la Cité, you’ll pass by the Notre-Dame de Paris. Even if you don’t go inside—since the tour is primarily a drive—you’ll get a great view of its gargoyles and facade, along with a chance to appreciate its medieval architecture from a close vantage point.

On the Left Bank, you’ll see the quaint Quai des Grands Augustins, an area loved for its historic charm and literary connections, often highlighted by guides with interesting stories.

The Louvre and Musée d’Orsay

Driving past the Louvre’s glass pyramid gives you a sense of the stunning blend of classic and modern architecture. A quick glance at the Musée d’Orsay on the opposite bank completes the cultural overview—these are the kind of landmarks that make Paris uniquely captivating.

End of the Tour and Flexibility

The tour wraps up after two hours, leaving you with plenty of time to explore further or relax at a nearby café. Many reviews emphasize how the guide’s commentary added depth—covering everything from historical tidbits to movie trivia, making the drive both fun and educational.

Authentic Experiences and Real-World Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with comments like, “Vivien was fantastic, making every effort to make our tour fun,” and “Celine was an absolutely great guide—funny and entertaining.” The personalized service means your guide can adapt the commentary and stops to your interests, whether that’s history, architecture, or just capturing beautiful photos.

The small, vintage vehicle isn’t just a quirky feature; it provides a more intimate, less crowded experience, allowing for better photo opportunities and easier access to narrow streets. Several travelers mention how the car’s size enabled visits to places larger buses simply can’t.

The Value of a Private Tour

While the price may seem high compared to a standard bus tour, the personalized experience and nostalgic vehicle add value. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a fun, memorable introduction to Paris, especially if it’s your first visit or if you want a photo-rich overview.

Considerations

One thing to keep in mind is the small size of the car—it may not be ideal for travelers who prefer more space or who are sensitive to heat or sun, especially on a hot day when the roof is down. Also, since it’s a 2-hour tour, it’s a quick snapshot of the city’s highlights, not an in-depth exploration.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a fun, relaxed way to see Paris’s key sights without the hassle of navigating themselves. If you’re interested in quirky experiences, great photo opportunities, and expert local guides, this is a solid pick. It’s especially suited for those who want a personalized, intimate look at Paris, rather than a crowded bus tour.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for more travelers.

Can I be picked up from my hotel?
Absolutely, the private driver can pick you up from any location in central Paris, adding to the convenience.

What languages are available for the tour?
Guides speak English, German, French, Italian, and Spanish, so you can choose your preferred language.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 2 hours, which provides a good overview without feeling rushed.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transportation in a convertible Citroen 2CV and a private guide/driver.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but you can purchase champagne, cheese, wine, or souvenirs for an extra fee.

Is the roof always retractable?
Yes, the car has a retractable roof, perfect for sunny days but comes with a rain cover if needed.

What makes this experience stand out?
The personalized service, vintage charm, and the ability to get close to landmarks in a fun, intimate vehicle make it a memorable way to see Paris.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager for a quick but rundown or a lover of quirky, photo-friendly experiences, the Paris: Classic Sites Tour by Vintage Citroën 2CV offers a delightful way to see the city. It’s a blend of fun, history, and sightseeing wrapped into one memorable ride. The personalized attention from your guide and the charming vehicle elevate a simple tour into a genuinely authentic Parisian adventure.

Ideal for those who want a lighthearted, intimate experience, this tour provides not just a list of sights but a small, stylish window into the city’s heart, all from the comfort and character of a beloved classic car.

You can check availability for your dates here: