Private tour Paris Little-known places 2 hours in Citroën 2CV

Experience a Hidden Side of Paris in a Vintage Citroën 2CV
This private 2-hour tour in a charming vintage Citroën 2CV offers a fresh perspective on Paris, steering clear of the usual tourist spots. For just over $115, you’ll be driven by a knowledgeable guide through lesser-known neighborhoods, uncovering the city’s secret corners, quirky street art, and historic mansions that most visitors never see. You can choose your start time and enjoy a customized journey that’s as informative as it is fun.

What we particularly love about this experience is the chance to relax in a classic French car while your guide shares stories and insights about Paris’s hidden gems. The 2CV itself, with its quirky design and open roof, makes the trip feel playful and authentic. Plus, the opportunity to explore areas like Le Marais, with its ornate private residences and lively street scenes, offers an intimate glimpse into Parisian life.

A possible drawback? The small size of the car means limited space for larger groups—only three passengers per vehicle—so if you’re traveling with a bigger party, you’ll need to book multiple cars. Also, since the tour focuses on lesser-known sites, the major landmarks will be missing from the itinerary—if you’re after the Eiffel Tower or Louvre, this isn’t your tour.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate local flavor, enjoy uncovering hidden spots, and want a quirky, memorable way to experience Paris beyond the typical guidebook. It’s especially ideal for those who love vintage cars, are curious about street art, or simply want a relaxed, personalized introduction to some of Paris’s less crowded neighborhoods.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Ride in a classic Citroën 2CV and enjoy a personalized, private tour.
• Hidden Gems: Discover lesser-known sites like Kiosque des Noctambules and Stravinsky Fountain.
• Local Insights: Guides share stories about artists, street performers, and neighborhood history.
• Flexible Scheduling: Tour start times are customizable, fitting into your travel plans.
• Group Size: Limited to three per car for comfort, but can be booked for larger groups with multiple vehicles.
• Price/Value: At about $115 per person, this tour offers a unique, intimate look at Paris for a reasonable price.

A Detailed Look at the Paris 2CV Private Tour

The Charm of the Vintage 2CV

Traveling in a Citroën 2CV — affectionately called “Deux Chevaux” — is a quintessentially French experience. These cars, designed in the mid-1940s and beloved for their quirky, boxy shape, are a delight to ride in. Their small size allows access to narrow streets and alleyways inaccessible to larger vehicles, giving you an authentic feel of Paris’s secret backstreets. As one reviewer noted, “The old Citroen cars can go places buses and taxis cannot,” which means you’ll see sights that are usually hidden from larger tour buses.

Another reviewer summed it up perfectly: “The 1974 Citroen car is a head-turner; people took pictures, smiled and pointed at it. We felt like celebrities!” The open-top design allows for an immersive experience, giving you fresh air and unobstructed views as your guide points out interesting details.

The Itinerary and Stops

Unlike conventional tours that stick with the big-ticket sights, this private excursion emphasizes offbeat locations and local neighborhoods. Your journey begins at Avenue des Champs-Élysées or your hotel, where your guide patiently helps you into this tiny, vintage car. Once underway, you’ll drift past places like Place Vendôme, a square often overshadowed by its high-end jewelry shops but worth a quick look for its elegant architecture.

The first highlight is the Stravinsky Fountain, decorated with sculptures that mimic flowing water — a playful, modern piece of public art. Your guide will share stories about the artists and the significance of street art like the Kiosque des Noctambules, a contemporary mural that makes for a great photo-op.

Next, you’ll venture into Le Marais, an area beloved for its charming streets, historic mansions, and lively street performers. Among the sights are Hôtel de Sully and Hôtel de Sens, two ornate private residences that hint at Paris’s aristocratic past. As one reviewer praised, “Our guide knew the neighborhoods well, and we saw places we’d never find on our own.” The narrow streets and tiny squares, such as Place du Marché Sainte-Catherine, give you a sense of the city’s authentic, lived-in charm.

The Experience and the Guides

From reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides make all the difference. Many reviewers mention guides like Robert, Marion, Kevin, and Vincent, highlighting their friendly demeanor and local expertise. One exclaimed, “Our driver Kevin was really great and very informative! We saw parts of Paris we had never seen before.”

Guides not only tell you about the sites but also share personal anecdotes, street artist stories, and tips for local eateries. This adds a layer of depth that makes the tour feel like exploring Paris with a knowledgeable friend rather than a scripted guide.

The Practicalities: Comfort, Duration, and Booking

While the 2-hour duration is enough to cover a good mix of neighborhoods and sights, it’s certainly a taste rather than a comprehensive tour. The tour ends back at the meeting point or your hotel, making it convenient for subsequent plans.

Because space is limited to three people per car (excluding the driver), the experience remains intimate and relaxed. Larger groups can book multiple cars, which travel together in a convoy, ensuring everyone gets the same personalized attention.

Pricing at $115.53 per person is quite reasonable considering the private nature, vintage car experience, and insider access. The reviews confirm that many find the value well worth it — especially when compared to more conventional tours.

A Thorough Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Petit Palais or Central Paris

Your adventure kicks off at a designated meeting point, such as the Petit Palais, a central and easily accessible location. The guide helps you into the Citroën 2CV, which is surprisingly comfortable considering its vintage charm. Given the car’s size, expect a cozy but fun ride.

Stops and Sights:

Rue François Miron and Hôtel de Sens
Your first stops include Hôtel de Sens, a beautiful medieval mansion that offers a glimpse into Paris’s aristocratic past. The street nearby is lively, filled with boutique shops and quaint cafés, perfect for the “off-the-beaten-path” feel.

Arenes de Lutece
A quick stop at the ancient Arènes de Lutèce allows for photos of this surprisingly well-preserved Roman amphitheater, tucked away in the Latin Quarter.

Les Quatre Coins de Paris
You’ll cruise past Place Vendôme, often overlooked by travelers rushing to the Louvre or Eiffel Tower. It’s a symmetrical, luxurious square that’s historically linked to high jewelry and fashion.

Street Art and Modern Installations
The Kiosque des Noctambules — a contemporary mural — and the Stravinsky Fountain are among the modern delights. Many reviewers loved snapping photos here, remarking how these pieces add a funky, artistic layer to the tour.

Le Marais
This neighborhood is a highlight, with narrow medieval streets, boutique shops, and historic mansions. You’ll see Hôtel de Sully and Hôtel de Sens, as well as lively squares like Place du Marché Sainte-Catherine.

Crossing Iconic Bridges
You may pass the Pont des Arts, known for lovers’ padlocks, and Pont Bir-Hakeim, with views of the Eiffel Tower from a different angle.

End Point

The tour concludes either back at your hotel or at the original meeting point — a flexible option appreciated by many.

Real Reviews, Real Insights

Many travelers rave about their guides. “Robert was very nice and spoke good English,” shared one reviewer, emphasizing how the personal touch enhances the experience. Others highlight the fun aspect of riding in a classic car, with one describing it as “head-turning” and “like being a celebrity.” Several reviewers mentioned that the tour is a great way to see parts of Paris they’d otherwise miss, especially the “tiny streets and back alleyways” inaccessible to buses.

Some reviews, however, mention a less-than-perfect experience — notably, difficulty understanding guides with heavy accents or similarities in the sightseeing route. This underscores the importance of choosing guides who communicate clearly and are attentive to your interests.

The Value of the Experience

When you compare the price to a standard city tour, the private, intimate nature, vintage charm, and local insights make it a good deal. The small group size means you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience, and the guide’s stories add context that you can’t get from a map or a big bus.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This Paris 2CV tour is perfect for travelers who value authenticity, personalized attention, and a playful approach to sightseeing. It’s particularly well-suited for those who love vintage cars or want to see the city’s hidden corners rather than the major landmarks. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples who want an especially intimate experience.

If you’re looking for a quintessentially Parisian experience that combines local flavor with a touch of fun, this tour delivers with a balance of informative commentary and relaxed exploration. It’s a memorable way to see Paris from a different angle, especially if you’re tired of crowded buses and scripted itineraries.

FAQs

Can I choose the start time for the tour?
Yes, you can select a start time that fits your schedule. The tour is flexible in that regard.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it an easy and manageable way to explore some offbeat areas of Paris.

How many people can join the tour?
Up to three travelers per car for comfort. Larger groups can book multiple cars, which will travel together.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, pickup from your hotel or a designated meeting point near the Opéra Garnier is available.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs about $115.53 per person, which offers a private, personalized experience in a vintage car.

Are the cars comfortable?
While cozy, the 2CV is smaller than modern cars, and some reviews mention the absence of seat belts in the back seat, so keep that in mind.

Can I visit major landmarks on this tour?
No, this tour focuses on hidden gems and lesser-known sites. If you’re after the Eiffel Tower or Louvre, this isn’t the right tour.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour won’t be refunded.

In all, this private vintage car tour offers a charming, offbeat way to see Paris’s quieter, more personal side. Perfect for those who love a mix of history, art, and a dash of fun in an authentic setting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just seeking a different perspective on the City of Light, this experience adds a unique story to your Paris trip.