Private tour Paris Christmas lights tour 2 hours in Citroën 2CV

Experience Paris at Its Most Festive in a Vintage Citroën 2CV

If you’re craving a cozy, memorable way to see Paris during the holiday season, this private Christmas lights tour in a Citroën 2CV might just be your perfect match. For about two hours, you’ll hop into a classic French convertible, snuggle under blankets, and cruise around the city’s most iconic sights illuminated for the holidays. Priced at $147.64 per person, this experience offers a uniquely charming perspective of Paris, especially if you enjoy vintage vehicles and personalized attention.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it combines authentic Parisian charm with a relaxed, intimate setting. The fact that it’s private means you won’t be part of a large bus crowd—just your group and your friendly driver, making the experience tailored and friendly. Plus, getting a French-made Saint James scarf as a gift is a lovely touch, perfect for keeping warm or as a souvenir. We also appreciate the thoughtful details like blankets and the opportunity to choose your preferred time of day, whether basking in the glow of sunset or enjoying the city’s sparkling lights at night.

That said, since the 2CVs are smaller than modern cars, comfort might be a consideration if you or your travel companions prefer more space. Also, since it’s a two-hour tour, you’ll want to keep your sightseeing expectations realistic—this is a scenic overview rather than an exhaustive tour. Overall, it’s ideal for travelers looking for a fun, relaxed, and authentically French way to enjoy Paris during the holiday season.

This tour suits those who appreciate nostalgic vehicles, want a private and personalized experience, and are excited about seeing Paris’s festive lights without walking or dealing with crowded buses. It’s particularly popular with travelers who enjoy learning about the city’s history from knowledgeable guides, as many reviews highlight.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a dedicated driver and small group size
• Vintage 2CV provides a nostalgic and iconic way to see Paris
• Includes a French-made Saint James scarf as a thoughtful gift
• Ideal for those wanting comfort and relaxation without tiring their legs
• Flexible timing options for morning, afternoon, or evening
• Limited to three passengers per vehicle for comfort and safety

A Closer Look at the Paris Christmas Lights Tour in a Citroën 2CV

Paris in winter is a special kind of magic. The city’s historic streets, illuminated with holiday lights, evoke a sense of warmth and wonder that’s hard to match. This tour offers a charming way to experience that magic without the fatigue of walking or the chaos of larger tours. Instead, you’ll sit back in a vintage Citroën 2CV, a model that’s become an icon of French automotive history.

The Itinerary and Sights You’ll See

This tour begins at the Petit Palais, a stunning early 20th-century building that’s famous for its beautiful architecture and cultural significance. From there, your driver will take you past Place de la Concorde, with its grand fountains and historic obelisk, offering a sense of Paris’s regal past. Next, you’ll glide along Place Vendôme, renowned for its luxe shops and historic architecture.

The Moulin Rouge makes an appearance on your route, giving you a glimpse of Montmartre’s lively nightlife scene (though you won’t stop there). As you cruise along Avenue Montaigne, you’ll pass high-end boutiques and fashion houses, adding a touch of Parisian chic. The highlight, of course, is the Eiffel Tower, which sparkles beautifully during the holiday season, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for your ride.

A few other notable stops include the Champs-Elysées, one of the world’s most famous avenues, lined with holiday lights and festive decorations. The tour ends back on Avenue des Champs-Élysées, giving you a chance to soak in the glittering sights one last time.

What Makes the Experience Unique

What really sets this tour apart is the personalized nature. Unlike crowded bus tours, you’re in a small, private vehicle tailored for your group. The driver is also your guide, sharing stories about Paris’s landmarks, history, and the myth behind the Citroën 2CV itself—an icon of French ingenuity and economy.

Many reviews mention how entertaining and knowledgeable the guides are, with some describing their driver as “brilliant” and “friendly.” One reviewer appreciated that their guide Rene-Jean made the tour both “entertaining and interesting,” which can make all the difference when you’re trying to soak up the city’s visuals and stories.

Comfort and Practical Details

Since the tour involves cruising in a convertible in winter, warmth is key. Blankets are provided, and the vehicle’s open top adds to the experience’s authenticity. Keep in mind that the 2CV’s small size limits the group to three passengers per car, which means a more intimate experience but also less room for larger groups. Larger groups can be accommodated by booking multiple vehicles, which your operator can arrange.

Timing options enable you to pick the best part of the day—some choose the evening for the glow of holiday lights, while others prefer a daytime ride with better visibility of the city’s details. The flexibility helps tailor the experience to your preferences.

Price and Value

At $147.64 per person, this tour might seem on the higher side compared to standard bus or walking tours. But consider what you’re getting: a private ride in a vintage vehicle, expert commentary, blankets, and a bespoke experience. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides and the nostalgic charm of the 2CV make this a worthwhile investment for those wanting something memorable and authentic.

Some travelers have noted the good value for money, especially if you compare it to the cost and effort of doing similar sightseeing in larger groups or with less personal attention. Plus, the gift of a French-made scarf adds a thoughtful touch, making it a perfect souvenir.

What Reviewers Say

Feedback from past travelers is overwhelmingly positive. One noted that the guide was fun and informative, adding that it’s a great way to get your first glimpse of Paris. Another called it a highlight of their trip, saying, “Everyone stared at us and wanted to take photos,” which is a testament to how charming the experience can be.

A common theme among reviewers is the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Many describe guides as brilliant, entertaining, and helpful, willing to offer recommendations for places to eat or visit afterward. Several reviewers also appreciated the nostalgic aspect, especially for those who had prior experience with the iconic 2CV or simply love vintage cars.

Considerations and Tips

While the experience is delightful, keep in mind that weather conditions can impact comfort. Early April reviews mention the possibility of chilly or cloudy weather, so dressing warmly and bringing extra layers is advisable. Since the tour is mostly open-air, it’s less suitable for travelers sensitive to cold rain or wind.

Booking well in advance is recommended, as this experience tends to be popular, especially during the festive season. Many travelers book 128 days in advance on average, indicating high demand.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for vintage car enthusiasts, those looking for a personalized and authentic tour of Paris, and travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a touch of nostalgia. It’s also great for couples or small groups celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to see Paris’s illuminated landmarks in a relaxed, intimate setting.

If you’re tired of crowded tours and want a more relaxed, stylish way to explore the City of Light, this ride in a classic 2CV offers a refreshing and memorable alternative. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate local craftsmanship, as the included scarf is made in France and adds a touch of elegance to the experience.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In our view, this tour offers a curious blend of history, comfort, and unique charm. You’ll enjoy the sights illuminated for the holidays from a perspective that’s as cozy as it is quintessentially Parisian. The private setting fosters a personalized experience, and the knowledgeable guides ensure you don’t just see the sights but learn their stories.

While it’s not a budget option, the value lies in exclusivity, comfort, and the fun of riding in a vintage car. It’s a fantastic choice for romantic outings, special celebrations, or anyone wanting an offbeat way to experience Paris’s festive glow.

If you’re after an authentic, intimate, and memorable way to glimpse Paris’s holiday beauty—without the fatigue—this 2-hour Citroën 2CV tour delivers. Just remember to dress warmly, book ahead, and prepare for a delightful ride through the City of Light’s most dazzling winter scenery.

FAQ

Is this tour private? Yes, this is a private tour, so only your group will participate, enhancing the personal and intimate feel of the experience.

How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, providing a relaxed overview of Paris’s most famous landmarks.

Can I choose the time of day? Absolutely. You can select a morning, afternoon, or evening slot, depending on when you’d like to see the city lights or daytime sights.

What is included in the price? The price covers the private tour, chauffeured ride in a vintage Citroën 2CV, blankets for warmth, and a French-made Saint James scarf.

How many people can fit in the vehicle? Each vehicle accommodates up to three passengers comfortably, with one driver. Larger groups can book multiple cars to stay together.

What should I wear? Dress warmly, especially if you choose an evening or early spring tour, as the open-top vehicle can be chilly.

Is this suitable for children? The tour is generally suitable for travelers comfortable in a small vehicle. Children who enjoy vintage cars and are okay with limited space should be fine, but check with the provider if you have any specific concerns.

What if the weather is bad? Since the tour is outdoors, rain or very cold weather might affect comfort. It’s wise to check the forecast and dress accordingly, and some providers may offer rescheduling options in case of severe weather.

In the end, this private Christmas lights tour in a Citroën 2CV in Paris is a delightful way to see the city in a festive glow, blending history, style, and intimacy. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a different perspective on Paris, it’s a memorable experience well worth considering.