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

Exploring Paris in a Vintage 2CV: A Hidden Side of the City

This private tour offers a different way to experience Paris — riding in a classic Citroën 2CV, exploring off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods and lesser-known sights. Unlike traditional bus or walking tours, this 2-hour journey in a charming vintage car provides a relaxed, intimate glimpse into the city’s lesser-seen corners.

What we love about this experience is how it balances fun and insight. The nostalgic 2CV — beloved for its quirky design and cultural significance — takes you places buses simply can’t reach, especially through narrow streets and tiny alleys. Plus, the personalized, private guide ensures you get tailored commentary, making each ride both entertaining and educational.

A potential consideration is the size of the vehicle. Since Citroën 2CVs are smaller than modern cars, they are best suited for groups of up to three per car for comfort. Larger groups are accommodated with multiple cars, which travel together in convoy — an arrangement that works well but might be less intimate for bigger parties.

This tour suits travelers who love authentic, quirky experiences and want to see a side of Paris that many travelers miss. Budget-conscious guests will find the price reasonable considering the personalized nature, but it’s especially ideal for those wanting a fun, memorable addition to their Paris itinerary.

Key Points

• Unique transportation: Travel in a vintage Citroën 2CV, which adds charm and photo opportunities.
• Exclusive access: Visit lesser-known sites and neighborhoods that are often skipped on typical tours.
• Personalized experience: A private guide offers tailored commentary, making it more engaging.
• Small group limits: Tours are limited to three per car for comfort, with larger groups able to book multiple cars.
• Authentic insights: Guides like Kevin, Christophe, and Vincent are praised for their knowledge and personable approach.
• Flexible start times: You can choose a departure to fit your schedule, with pickup offered from central locations.

A Closer Look at the Tour

This tour is about more than just riding in a vintage car — it’s about discovering hidden corners and local favorites that most visitors never see. Starting from centrally located meeting points like the Petit Palais, your private guide and your trusty 2CV kick off your adventure into a different Paris.

The Ride in a Vintage 2CV

The Citroën 2CV, introduced in the 1940s, is more than just a quirky icon; it’s a rolling piece of French history. Passengers often comment on how the cars turn heads, with many stopping to take pictures as you cruise by. The open-air roof (if weather permits) enhances the experience, making you feel part of the city’s pulse.

As some reviews suggest, the cars are smaller than modern vehicles, which means the back seat may have no seat belts. While this could be a concern for some, most find it part of the fun and nostalgia. The sense of open-air freedom adds a layer of authenticity that larger tours might lack.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour focuses on hidden gems and lesser-known sights, which is where it truly shines. Your guide will steer you through quaint streets and quiet squares away from the crowds.

Stop at Hôtel de Sens and Hôtel de Sully in Le Marais offers a chance to gaze at ornate architecture and imagine old Parisian life. Expert guides, like Kevin and Christophe, have a knack for sharing personal anecdotes and details that bring these sites to life — from artists working in the neighborhood to the history behind the buildings.

Moving past the more obvious attractions, you’ll visit place du Marché Sainte-Catherine and glide by Place Vendôme, an elegant square often overlooked by travelers rushing to more famous spots. The contrast of these quiet spots with bustling tourist areas reminds visitors that Paris’s charm often lies in its unexpected corners.

Street Art and Artistic Corners

One highlight is catching the Kiosque des Noctambules, a contemporary street art piece that adds a modern touch to your journey. The Stravinsky Fountain also makes an appearance — sculptures that mimic running water, adding a playful and artistic flavor to the ride.

Many reviewers, including Nora and Camilla, appreciated the guide’s commentary about street art and local artists, which added context to these urban artworks. This kind of insight makes the tour more than just looking at sights — it’s about understanding Paris’s creative spirit.

Offbeat Neighborhoods & Local Life

Driving through Le Marais, the guide will point out local street performers, independent shops, and hidden squares like Place Gérard-Oury. Some reviews note how guides like Vincent and Marion shared fun anecdotes and personal stories, making each stop more memorable.

The tour’s flexibility allows guides to cater to your interests. For example, some guests requested to see the Eiffel Tower, and guides like Matthieu happily obliged, showing how customizable this private experience can be.

Timing, Comfort, and Group Size

The 2-hour duration strikes a good balance: enough time to cover multiple secret spots without feeling rushed. Departure times are flexible, and pickup is available from central Paris locations like the Champs-Élysées or the Petit Palais.

Given the small size of the cars, the tour is limited to three guests per vehicle to ensure comfort. For larger groups, multiple cars are provided, all traveling together — a convoy that adds to the fun and sense of adventure. Many guests mentioned the experience’s intimacy and the enjoyment of having a dedicated guide.

Price and Value

At around $115.53 per person, this tour offers a personalized, intimate way to explore Paris’s hidden spots. When you consider the private guide, unique transportation, and the chance to see parts of the city most travelers miss, the value becomes clear. Reviews point out that guides like Robert, Kevin, and Christophe are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making the price feel justified.

Accessibility & Practical Tips

While the tour is open to most travelers, the smaller vehicle size may not suit those with mobility issues. It’s best suited for those comfortable with tight spaces and open-air riding. If you’re traveling with a larger group, booking multiple cars ensures everyone can enjoy the experience.

You’ll want to dress for the weather, especially if the roof is down, and bring a camera — this ride offers plenty of photo-worthy moments. The tour is also flexible in ending locations, so you can be dropped off at a preferred spot, such as near the Eiffel Tower or your hotel.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Reviewers universally praise the knowledgeable guides — with Kevin, Marion, Vincent, and others earning high marks for their enthusiasm and local insights. Nora called her driver Robert “very nice and spoke good English,” while Camilla loved how her guide knew the neighborhoods well, making her feel like a celebrity in her vintage car.

Several guests highlighted the unexpected sights and hidden streets they wouldn’t have found alone, emphasizing how this tour enhances understanding and appreciation for Paris’s more intimate side. The fact that many guests would do it again, or highly recommend it, speaks to the tour’s memorable nature.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private 2-hour Paris tour in a vintage 2CV is perfect for travelers craving an authentic, offbeat experience. It’s especially suitable for those who love quirky vehicles, local insights, and discovering secret spots that aren’t on the usual tourist maps.

If you’re a fan of vintage cars or simply want a fun way to see neighborhoods away from the crowds, this tour delivers both entertainment and education. It’s ideal for small groups or couples who enjoy personalized experiences and are comfortable with a small vehicle.

While it may not be the best choice for travelers seeking an intensive historical deep dive or full-day sightseeing, this journey offers a charming, relaxed taste of Paris’s hidden layers — memorable, intimate, and full of surprises.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, giving enough time to explore several hidden corners of Paris without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at a central location such as the Petit Palais or avenue des Champs-Élysées and ends back at the starting point or a location of your choice.

Can I book for a larger group?
Yes. While each car is limited to three passengers for comfort, the tour provider can arrange for larger groups with multiple cars traveling together in convoy.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered from your hotel in central Paris or near major landmarks like the Opera Garnier.

What is the cost?
Pricing is about $115.53 per person, which includes a private guide and a vintage 2CV ride. The value lies in the personalized experience and access to hidden spots.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes. Reviews mention guides like Robert, Kevin, and Christophe as very knowledgeable, personable, and enthusiastic about Paris.

Is the vehicle comfortable?
While small, the 2CV provides a fun, open-air experience that many guests find charming. For comfort, especially in bad weather, options may vary, so check with the provider about roof options.

This tour offers a delightful way to see a different side of Paris — in style, in fun, and with plenty of authentic stories along the way. It’s a charming choice for those looking to add a memorable, personalized touch to their Paris visit.