Visit Paris in a vintage car

Discover Paris in a Vintage Car: An Authentic and Stylish Tour

When it comes to sightseeing in Paris, most travelers picture crowded buses, long lines, or walking tours—sometimes all three. But what if you could see the City of Light from the comfort of a beautifully restored vintage car? That’s exactly what a tour in a 1963 Peugeot 404 offers. With a private driver guiding you through some of Paris’s most famous sights, the experience blends nostalgia with a personal touch, allowing you to enjoy the city’s charm at a relaxed pace.

We love how this tour offers authentic glimpses of Paris, away from the usual hustle. The vintage vehicle itself acts as a rolling photo prop, drawing admiring glances and compliments from passersby. Plus, the inclusion of French macaroons adds a sweet, tasty element to the journey, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

A possible consideration is that the tour is only about two hours long, which might feel a bit brief for some travelers eager to explore every corner of Paris. Also, note that admission tickets to sights like Notre-Dame and the Eiffel Tower are not included, so plan accordingly if you want to go inside or take longer photos. This tour is best suited for those who want a leisurely, stylish introduction to Paris with plenty of photo opportunities and some unique experiences.

Key Points

• Vintage Charm: Cruise around Paris in a beautifully maintained 1963 Peugeot 404, making your experience visually memorable.
• Personalized Experience: The private driver and guide ensure a tailored, intimate tour suited to your pace.
• Photo Opportunities: Stop at iconic landmarks like Notre-Dame, the Eiffel Tower, and Place des Vosges for memorable pictures.
• Authentic Tastes: Enjoy a complimentary taste of traditional French macaroons—an elegant sweet treat.
• Flexible Stops: The itinerary includes optional walks at some stops, giving you chances to explore or simply soak in the views.
• Price and Booking: At approximately $125.61 per person, the tour offers good value, especially considering the vintage vehicle and private format.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Start at Notre-Dame Cathedral:
Your journey begins with a stop at this Gothic masterpiece. While you won’t go inside (admission is separate), you’ll have a chance to snap photos of its stunning façade. As one reviewer remarked, the tour offers “great facts about the history of Paris,” which your guide will share during the stop. A quick three-minute photo session might seem brief, but it’s enough to capture the cathedral’s grandeur from the outside.

Eiffel Tower:
Next up is arguably Paris’s most famous icon. The tour provides about 15 minutes here for photographs and a chance to marvel at the tower from the street. Some guests mentioned that the ride culminates at the Eiffel Tower for the light show—an experience that’s difficult to match. If you wish, the guide might also take you on a brief walk around the area, offering some insider tips on the best spots for photos or nearby cafes. Remember, the ticket to go inside the Eiffel Tower isn’t included, so if you want to ascend, you’ll need to purchase that separately.

Place des Vosges:
This elegant square is often described as one of Paris’s most beautiful and historic public spaces. You’ll stop here for about 15 minutes, great for both photos and a leisurely walk. Several reviews praise this stop for its artistic atmosphere and unique charm. One reviewer noted, “Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and told us lots of interesting facts,” which makes the brief stop more engaging.

A Ride Through the Latin Quarter:
The driver will take you through this lively and historic neighborhood, known for its academic vibe, medieval streets, and vibrant cafés. It’s a chance to see Paris’s authentic side, away from the tourist-heavy spots.

The Most Famous Street:
The tour also covers the city’s most iconic thoroughfare, giving you a glimpse of Parisian life along its grand avenues. Expect lively street scenes, historic buildings, and a lot of photo ops.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

Many travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the stunning vintage car. One guest, Kareninnis, described the Peugeot as “beautiful in condition,” adding that the guide was “extremely knowledgeable and told us lots of interesting facts.” This highlights how a good guide can turn a simple sightseeing ride into a memorable story-filled experience.

Several reviews mention the photo stops as a highlight—places like Notre-Dame, the Eiffel Tower, and Place des Vosges offer iconic backdrops, perfect for creating lasting memories. The macaroons are another enjoyable touch, with one reviewer calling them a “gift” that rounded out the experience nicely.

However, some noted that the tour could be limited in scope. Donna_C felt that the guide’s delivery was somewhat robotic and that the tour ended abruptly—highlighting the importance of managing expectations regarding the guide’s style and the fixed itinerary. Also, since the tour doesn’t include inside entrance tickets, it’s best suited for those interested mainly in exterior views and photos.

Value and Practical Details

At $125.61 per person, this tour offers a mix of style, comfort, and local insight at a reasonable price, especially considering the vintage vehicle and private setting. It’s a good choice for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a personalized, relaxed way to see some of Paris’s highlights without the rush of traditional group tours.

Timing is flexible — most are booked about a month in advance, and the tour lasts approximately two hours. Meeting at 2 Bd de Bercy makes it accessible near public transport options, and since the activity ends back at the starting point, it’s easy to plan your next adventure in the city.

Who is this tour ideal for?

This experience is best suited for travelers who value style and authenticity over extensive sightseeing. If you want a relaxed, photo-friendly introduction to Paris with the charm of a vintage car, you’ll love this tour. It’s also great for those who appreciate a personalized, intimate experience rather than large-group tours. The inclusion of French macaroons adds a delightful, sweet touch that makes it feel special.

If you’re keen on inside visits or more comprehensive city exploration, this might be more of a highlight reel than a deep dive. But for a charming, photo-worthy glide through Paris’s most famous sights, it hits the mark.

The Sum Up

A tour of Paris in a vintage 1963 Peugeot is a delightful way to see the city with style and ease. The private experience offers personalized insights from a knowledgeable guide, combined with the visual appeal of a classic car. You’ll love the picturesque stops at Notre-Dame, the Eiffel Tower, and Place des Vosges, each offering plenty of opportunities for photos and soaking in Parisian atmosphere.

The inclusion of French macaroons adds a sweet, memorable touch that elevates this experience beyond just sightseeing. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a relaxed, romantic, and photo-rich introduction to Paris, or those looking to add a touch of vintage glamour to their trip.

While it’s not a comprehensive city guide or inside access experience, it excels at providing a charming, authentic overview with a personal touch. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking an elegant way to explore Paris, this tour offers good value and plenty of photo-worthy moments.

FAQs

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private tour exclusive to your group, providing a more personalized experience.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes transportation in a vintage Peugeot 404, a private guide/driver, and French macaroons at the end. Entrance tickets to sights are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect short but sweet Parisian experience.

Where do we meet?
The meeting point is 2 Bd de Bercy, 75012 Paris. The activity ends back at this location, making it easy to plan your next steps.

Can I visit inside the landmarks?
No, the admission tickets for places like Notre-Dame and the Eiffel Tower are not included. You’ll only see the exteriors during the stops.

Are there group discounts?
Yes, group discounts are available, which can make this experience even more appealing for small groups or families.

Is it suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues or looking for inside visits might find it limited.

What about the guide’s style?
Reviewers mention guides are knowledgeable, but some felt the commentary can be a bit robotic. Most appreciate the stories and facts shared.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book about 33 days in advance to secure your preferred date, especially during peak seasons.

What’s the overall value?
Considering the vintage car, private guide, and unique photo stops, many find it offers good value for a charming and authentic Paris experience.

Whether you’re a vintage enthusiast, a first-time visitor, or someone simply wanting a more intimate way to see Paris, this tour blends style, history, and fun into a memorable two hours.