Paris Vintage Olympic Tour on Sidecar Motorcycle

Exploring Paris usually involves walking, bus tours, or the classic river cruise, but for those craving something different, this Vintage Olympic-themed Sidecar Motorcycle Tour offers a fresh, exciting alternative. With a focus on key Olympic sites alongside Paris’s most famous landmarks, this private ride is designed to give you an intimate, fun, and memorable way to experience the City of Light.

One of the standout features of this tour is the personalized itinerary and private guide, which means every trip is tailored to your interests. The vintage style of the sidecar motorcycles adds a nostalgic charm, and the safety equipment provided makes it a worry-free adventure.

However, keep in mind that this experience involves a 2-hour ride on a vintage motorcycle sidecar, which might not suit travelers uncomfortable with open-air transportation or rapid city traffic. This tour is perfect for those who love a bit of adventure, scenic views, and storytelling in a cozy, stylish setting.

If you’re looking for a way to see Paris with a mix of excitement, history, and a touch of retro flair, this could be just the ride you need.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience ensures your interests are prioritized
• Stunning views and iconic landmarks like Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe
• Hassle-free pickup from central Paris hotels or apartments
• Safety helmets and vintage style add to both safety and fun
• Focus on Olympic sites creates a unique thematic experience
• Book well in advance (average 65 days) to secure your spot

Exploring Paris on a Sidecar: What You Can Expect

When considering this tour, it’s essential to understand what makes it stand out—and also what might be a consideration. Based on the reviews and itinerary, here’s a comprehensive look at what you can expect from start to finish.

Booking and Convenience

Booking this tour is straightforward, with most travelers reserving an average of 65 days ahead. The price is $216.07 per person, which, given the private, tailored nature of the experience, offers good value—especially considering the personalized guidance and unique mode of transportation. The tour includes pickup from your central Paris hotel or apartment, saving you the hassle of finding your way to a meeting point. This convenience is a real perk, particularly in a busy city like Paris.

Duration and Group Size

This is a 2-hour private tour—just enough time to cover several major sites without feeling rushed. Since it’s private, only your group will be on the motorcycle sidecar, allowing for a flexible, intimate experience. Reviewers repeatedly highlight how guides learn about your interests and adapt the route accordingly, making it feel like a bespoke adventure.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour’s route is designed around Olympic sites, with stops that include:

• The Arc de Triomphe: Positioned at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, this is a symbol of French victories and patriotism. The guide explains its significance, inscribes its history, and stops for photos. Several reviewers mentioned how the guide’s knowledge made these moments more meaningful; one noted that their guide, Romain, “brought us to places we would have never seen.”

• The Eiffel Tower: No trip to Paris is complete without a glance at this icon. Here, you’ll stop for pictures and enjoy a walk around the tower. While admission isn’t included, some reviews mentioned how the guide’s insights into the architecture added depth to the experience.

• Les Invalides: Home to France’s military history museums and the tomb of Napoleon, this site provides a deeper understanding of France’s military might and history. Reviewers appreciated the chance to visit places they might not have explored on their own.

• Trocadéro: Facing the Eiffel Tower, the Trocadéro was a highlight for many. During the Olympics, it served as a festive hub, with gardens and terraces offering incredible views of the Seine and the Eiffel Tower. Reviewers loved the panoramic vistas, with one mentioning how it was transformed into a vibrant Olympic celebration site.

• Grand Palais: Known for its stunning architecture and glass roof, it served as an Olympic venue for fencing and taekwondo. The guide explained how this blend of heritage and modernity gives Paris a unique Olympic atmosphere.

• Seine River Quays: The tour also takes in the Seine, transforming the city’s waterways into an open-air sports arena during the Olympics, with crossings and river views providing excellent photo opportunities. Reviewers noted how this added a dynamic element to the tour.

• Place de la Concorde: This historic square, with its obelisk and fountains, was transformed into a lively Olympic village during the Games. The guide highlighted the festive atmosphere, and travelers loved the chance to see this historic space buzzing with activity.

Unique Highlights and Authentic Experiences

One of the most praised aspects is the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Multiple reviewers, such as Odalys and Sharon, mentioned their guides—Marielle and Louis—as being outstanding, delivering both fun and insightful commentary. Louis, in particular, was praised for being an “excellent driver” who even stopped at pastry shops along the route, adding a little sweet treat to the ride.

The custom itinerary—created based on your preferences—means you can focus on sights that interest you most. Several reviews mention guides learning what sites guests had already seen and tailoring the route accordingly, which means no time wasted on repetitive sightseeing.

The Vintage Sidecar Experience

The retro-style sidecars, which seat two, are not just a novelty—they’re a comfortable way to navigate narrow streets, alleys, and traffic that might be challenging for larger vehicles. Many travelers expressed how the sidecar’s charm made the experience more memorable, with some noting that the motorcycle’s small size allowed access to places larger tour buses can’t reach.

Safety helmets are provided, and the overall vibe is relaxed yet exciting. Many reviewers mentioned how the guides made safety a priority while keeping the ride fun and lively. The open-air aspect means you get fresh air and unobstructed views, but travelers should be prepared for the possibility of weather changes.

Value for Money

At $216.07 per person, this tour offers a different kind of value—more than just sightseeing, it’s an experience. You’re paying for not only the route and guide but also the novelty of traveling via vintage motorcycle, the personalized service, and the convenience of hotel pickup. Multiple reviewers called it “the most fun I’ve ever had on a tour,” which speaks to how memorable and engaging this experience can be.

What You Should Consider

This tour involves riding on an open-air motorcycle sidecar, which might not be suitable for everyone—those sensitive to cold, wind, or rain might find it less enjoyable. The reviews do mention participation in some weather conditions, including light rain, which some found added to the adventure, while others might prefer a covered vehicle.

Booking well in advance is wise, given that most travelers plan this trip roughly 2 months ahead. Also, since it’s a private experience, it’s best suited for couples, friends, or small groups seeking something more exclusive and tailored.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure-seeking travelers who love history, architecture, and a bit of nostalgia. It’s ideal if you want a personalized, fun, and visually stunning way to see Paris without the crowds or the walking. Couples, small groups, or solo travelers with a sense of humor and curiosity will find this particularly enjoyable.

If you’re traveling with children or aren’t comfortable with open-air rides, this might not be the best fit. However, for those who cherish unique, authentic experiences, this sidecar tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers hassle-free pickup from your central Paris hotel or apartment, making it easy to start your adventure without extra planning.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, which is enough to visit multiple key sites without feeling rushed.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
The tour is private and for 1 or 2 passengers per sidecar. While most travelers of all ages have enjoyed it, children should be comfortable with open-air rides and traffic.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private guide, safety helmets, and pickup service. Admission tickets to sites like the Eiffel Tower are not included.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, guides learn what you’ve already seen and tailor the itinerary accordingly, focusing on your interests and preferred sites.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the weather, and consider bringing layers if it’s a cool day. The open sidecar exposes you to the elements, so rain gear might be advisable in uncertain weather.

Is the tour available year-round?
While not explicitly stated, most such tours operate seasonally and are best booked in advance, especially during peak times.

Final Thoughts

This Vintage Olympic Tour on a Sidecar Motorcycle offers a fantastic alternative to traditional sightseeing. You’ll get a rare chance to combine the thrill of riding on a stylish vintage motorcycle with visiting Paris’s most famous landmarks and Olympic sites, all with a knowledgeable guide. Many reviewers rave about the friendly guides, the stunning views, and the fact that it feels like a private, tailored adventure.

It’s especially suited for travelers seeking a fun, memorable experience that blends sightseeing with a touch of retro charm and excitement. The tour’s emphasis on Olympic sites adds a special layer of interest for sports enthusiasts or those curious about recent Parisian Olympic history.

This tour offers a blend of culture, history, and fun—perfect for those wanting more than just a standard city tour. Just remember to dress for the weather and book well in advance to secure your spot on this one-of-a-kind Parisian ride.

Enjoy your trip, and keep your camera ready—you never know when a perfect photo op, a friendly wave, or a laughing guide might make your day unforgettable!