Paris : Private guided tour Rickshaw bike

Exploring Paris on a Rickshaw Bike in Saint-Germain: A Detailed Review

Imagine gliding through the charming streets of Paris in a quiet, eco-friendly electric pedicab with a knowledgeable driver guiding you past iconic sights. For just $46 per group (up to 2 people), you can enjoy a personalized tour lasting from 30 minutes to an hour that takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the city, specifically the lively and historic Saint-Germain neighborhood. This experience, offered by GoTurtle, combines comfort, convenience, and a touch of adventure—perfect for those seeking an authentic and relaxed way to see Paris.

What we love about this tour is how it highlights the city’s landmarks from a unique perspective, with wide 180° views that make photo opportunities plentiful and easy. Plus, the private guide/driver ensures you get tailored attention and interesting insights, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. On the downside, the tour’s short duration might leave some travelers wishing for more time to soak in the sights. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers who want a quick, scenic overview of central Paris without the hassle of walking or larger tour groups.

This tour is ideal for couples, solo travelers, or friends looking for a fun, flexible way to explore Paris comfortably. Whether you’re in town for a quick visit or want a different way to enjoy the sights, this private rickshaw bike ride offers a memorable, light-hearted experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Eco-friendly transportation in a quiet, electric pedicab
Over 20 landmarks visited in the 1-hour tour, fewer in the 30-minute version
Private guide and driver, ensuring personalized service
Flexible duration to suit your schedule and interest
Photo stops built into the itinerary for capturing memories
Weather protection developed for year-round touring

Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Paris

An Honest Look at the Rickshaw Bike Tour in Saint-Germain

Paris is famed for its art, architecture, and atmosphere, but sometimes the best way to see it is on a quiet, comfortable ride that lets you take in the sights without worry. This private rickshaw bike tour in the Saint-Germain neighborhood combines the charm of small-group intimacy with the convenience of electric pedal-powered transport. It’s a great way to experience the city’s highlights with ease, especially if walking feels too tiring or if you’re pressed for time.

What Does the Tour Cover?

The itinerary begins at the Fontaine Saint-Michel, a lively hub in the Latin Quarter. From here, your guide (or driver) takes you on a route past more than 20 landmarks in the hour-long option. Among the highlights are the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Pantheon, the Luxembourg Gardens, the Church of Saint-Sulpice, and the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area—each with a brief stop for photos and commentary.

The 30-minute version is a condensed version focusing on the Mini Saint-Germain tour, highlighting the Notre-Dame, the Latin Quarter, and key sites like the Saint-Michel Fountain, the Odeon Theater, and Saint-Sulpice. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want to get a taste of this lively neighborhood.

What’s Special About This Experience?

We love the personalized nature of this tour. The private guide ensures you’re not just another face in a large group, and the comfortable seats provide a smooth ride—even when navigating Paris’s sometimes bumpy streets. The 180° panoramic views from the rickshaw make photo breaks a joy, especially for capturing iconic Parisian architecture with ease.

Another feature we appreciate is the weather protection designed for all seasons. Whether it’s a chilly winter day or a rainy spring afternoon, you can enjoy the ride without weather worries. Plus, the inclusion of WiFi on board lets you share your experience immediately or stay connected during your sightseeing.

More Great Tours Nearby

Be Mindful of the Duration

One potential drawback is the shorter duration—if you’re eager to explore more deeply or see more neighborhoods, you might find this tour a bit brisk. It’s a quick overview, which is perfect for a first-timer or those with limited time, but if you want an immersive experience, you might want to consider extending the tour or combining it with other activities.

Appreciate having local insight? Here are other guided experiences in Paris we've examined

Who Will Love This?

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic, low-impact travel and enjoys small-group intimacy, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s also excellent for photo enthusiasts, since stops are built into the itinerary, and the views are stunning. Families with children might also enjoy the fun and unusual mode of transportation—it’s not every day you ride through Paris on a rickshaw.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

The tour’s itinerary offers a thoughtful route through Saint-Germain and surrounding areas, with each stop chosen for its beauty and significance. Here’s a closer look:

Fontaine Saint-Michel serves as the starting point—a bustling square that’s easy to locate and perfect for gathering. From here, your guide takes you past the Notre-Dame Cathedral, where you’ll have a chance for a quick photo stop. This is a highlight for many travelers—its Gothic architecture and history make it a must-see.

Next, the Pantheon offers a glimpse into France’s political and cultural history. The tour also takes you through the 5th Arrondissement, a vibrant area filled with student life, cafes, and historic streets—great for capturing that authentic Parisian vibe.

The Luxembourg Gardens are a personal favorite for their beautifully maintained lawns, fountains, and sculptures. You’ll likely enjoy some scenic photos here, and it’s a peaceful contrast to the busier city spots.

The ride continues past Saint-Sulpice Church, a less-touristy but stunning example of Baroque architecture, before arriving at Saint-Germain-des-Prés, famous for its literary history and lively cafes. The Pont des Arts bridge is a romantic spot for photos, with views of the Seine and the Louvre.

Other stops include the Institut de France, the Musée de la Monnaie, and the Pont Neuf, which is the oldest standing bridge across the Seine. The variety of sites means you get a well-rounded glimpse of Paris’s artistic, academic, and historical heart.

What Do Guests Say?

Reviews reveal that the guides are highly praised—Alexandre and Amine stand out for their friendly professionalism and knowledge. One traveler mentions how Amine was “always ready to listen” and made the experience relaxing. Others appreciate how guides adapt to weather conditions, like in the case where the guide switched to a covered bike during rain to keep the tour going smoothly.

Photo opportunities are a common highlight. One traveler notes, “We were able to take photos at the stops and also make individual requests,” capturing that this tour is flexible enough for personal interests.

Practical Considerations

The price point of $46 for a private group offers good value, especially considering the personalized service and the newness of the transport mode. The inclusion of hotel pickup within a certain area adds convenience, and the WiFi feature keeps you connected.

The tour runs rain or shine, so packing an umbrella or raincoat is advisable. The weather protections ensure you can still enjoy the ride even if the weather turns less cooperative.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private Rickshaw Bike Tour in Saint-Germain offers a relaxing, engaging way to see some of Paris’s most iconic sights without the fatigue of walking or the expense of larger bus tours. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want an intimate experience with knowledgeable guides and fantastic photo opportunities. It’s also great for those with limited time but still eager to absorb the city’s essence at a gentle, leisurely pace.

While the duration might leave some craving more, the personal touch, flexibility, and comfort make it a worthwhile choice for many. If you’re traveling with a partner or friend and crave a fun, authentic, and eco-friendly way to explore, this tour ticks those boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it can be fun for children, especially since riding a rickshaw bike is a novel experience. Just consider the short duration and ensure they’re comfortable with the ride.

What if it rains during my tour?
The tour is designed to take place rain or shine, thanks to weather protections. You might find the weather shields helpful if it’s drizzling, but heavy rain could require rescheduling or the use of additional rain gear.

Can I customize the stops or duration?
The tour offers two options—30 minutes or up to 1 hour. While the itinerary is set, you can make some individual requests during the ride, especially if you communicate with your guide beforehand.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, within a certain area near the starting point, making it convenient to begin your tour without extra hassle.

Are the guides multilingual?
Yes, guides speak several languages including Arabic, English, French, Spanish, and Polish. An audio guide is also available in multiple languages.

How many people can ride together?
The tour is private for up to two people, making it perfect for couples or friends. Larger groups would need to book multiple bikes.

In summary, if you’re looking for an intimate, eco-friendly way to enjoy Paris’s highlights in a relaxed setting, this private rickshaw bike tour in Saint-Germain offers a delightful blend of comfort, scenery, and local insight. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting a quick yet memorable glimpse into the heart of Paris, especially if you value personalized service and beautiful views.