Paris: Christmas tours in 2CV

Imagine gliding through Paris in a vintage Citroën 2CV, with the city’s famous Christmas lights casting a warm glow over the streets. This tour offers a charming blend of classic transport, holiday magic, and insider sights, making it a memorable way to celebrate the season. With a knowledgeable local guide behind the wheel, you’ll soak in the festive atmosphere while cruising past some of Paris’s most iconic landmarks.

What we really love about this experience is the personalized touch — the private tour in a vintage car feels intimate and special. Plus, the tour’s route covers a good mix of well-known sights and lesser-known corners, giving you a genuine sense of the city’s holiday spirit. One potential downside? The 1.5-hour limit might feel a bit short if you’re eager to linger at each spot or explore further. Still, it’s a perfect option for those wanting a quick, enchanting glimpse of Paris dressed up for Christmas. If you’re visiting around the holidays and enjoy scenic drives, this tour will suit lovers of cozy, authentic experiences and vintage car aficionados alike.

Key Points

• Authentic Paris experience in a vintage Citroën 2CV with a transparent roof option.
• Festive views of Christmas lights and decorations along the iconic avenues.
• Expert local guide providing engaging commentary and insights.
• Flexible stop options for photos and brief visits at major landmarks.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off from your central Paris accommodation.
• Short but sweet 1.5-hour tour perfect for a quick festive highlight.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This Christmas-themed drive in a vintage 2CV offers more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a celebration of Paris’s festive spirit in a uniquely intimate setting. The luxury of a private group means your experience is tailored, cozy, and free from crowds, making it perfect for couples, small families, or friends seeking a special holiday activity. The driver-guide isn’t just behind the wheel—they’re a wealth of knowledge, blending humor with facts, which makes the tour both informative and lively.

The cost of $193 for up to three people might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the exclusive private experience, personalized stops, and the vintage car ride, it’s quite reasonable. You’re not just paying for transportation—you’re buying a storybook moment in a city famous for its lights.

What To Expect: A Detailed Breakdown

Pickup and Introduction

The tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel or central Paris location. This is a big plus, especially after a day of sightseeing or shopping—no need to trek to a meeting point. Once settled in the classic Citroën 2CV, you’ll immediately feel transported back in time. The convertible, especially with the transparent roof option, makes for an unobstructed view of the dazzling lights overhead.

The Route and Landmark Highlights

The tour’s route is carefully curated to include some of the most festive areas in Paris. Expect to cruise past:

• Champs-Élysées: The grand avenue is a highlight, with its iconic Christmas displays and decorations. A brief stop here allows for photos and a quick visit, while the guide shares stories about the avenue’s holiday traditions.

• Place Vendôme: Known for its luxury boutiques and glittering holiday windows, this is a visual feast. The guide might point out the history and significance of the square, adding extra depth to the experience.

• Avenue Montaigne: Famous for high-end fashion, this street looks stunning lit up during the holidays. You’ll pass by and get a sense of the chic side of Paris Christmas.

• Galeries Lafayette: The department store’s famed Christmas window displays and the ornate, decorated façade are a must-see. The tour allows for a photo stop and a brief visit, giving you a chance to appreciate this Parisian tradition.

• Opéra Garnier: Even from the outside, this majestic building looks spectacular illuminated at night, adding to the festive mood.

• Eiffel Tower: No Christmas in Paris is complete without a view of the Eiffel, and this tour includes a pass-by, with the chance for photos and admiration of its glittering lights.

Photo Stops and Guided Insights

At each key location, you’ll have the opportunity for photo stops, which the guide is happy to facilitate on request. This is a real plus, allowing you to capture the magic and take home holiday greetings with iconic Parisian backdrops. The guide’s knowledge is a standout element; one reviewer praises Hugo for being “a mine of information and extremely funny,” while another mentions that their guide was “passionate about her car and so knowledgeable she puts other guides to shame.”

The Atmosphere and Experience

Cruising through Paris with the top down or transparent roof open, especially in the cool winter air, makes for a lively, authentic holiday sensation. The lights, the architecture, the festive decorations—they all combine to create a truly enchanting ambiance. The short duration means you get a quick but concentrated dose of holiday cheer, perfect for an early evening or a pre-dinner activity.

Returning and Final Thoughts

After 1.5 hours, the driver will return you to your original pickup point or hotel. The experience ends on a high note—smiling, with plenty of photos and stories to share. Reviewers mention that the experience felt “second to none,” and many express a desire to repeat it in different seasons, with one saying, “Even without the Christmas lights, I’ll be back in spring.”

The Value of This Experience

While $193 per group might seem like a splurge, the inclusion of a private, guided tour in a vintage car elevates the experience into something memorable. You’re paying for an intimate, personalized journey through Paris’s holiday lights, not just transportation. The comfort of being picked up from your accommodation and the flexibility of stops make it well worth considering.

The tour’s short duration means it won’t replace longer sightseeing plans, but it’s a fantastic way to add a festive highlight to your stay. The fact that the tour is wheelchair accessible and flexible with cancellation (full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance) adds to its appeal for a wide range of travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for couples seeking a romantic, Instagram-worthy moment, or small groups wanting a private, festive outing. Vintage car enthusiasts will appreciate the charm and authenticity, while those short on time will love the quick, high-impact format. It’s also an excellent choice for visitors wanting to see the city’s Christmas lights without the hassle of navigating busy streets on foot or in larger buses.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas tour in a 2CV offers a uniquely Parisian way to celebrate the holiday season. It combines the charm of a vintage vehicle, the magic of holiday lights, and the expertise of a local guide, all wrapped up in a cozy, private setting. You’ll get stunning views, insider tidbits, and plenty of photo opportunities—making it an excellent choice for anyone wanting an authentic, festive experience.

While it’s a short tour, the intimacy and quality of the experience make it well worth the price. It’s especially suited for those who cherish small, personal moments and love the idea of exploring Paris in a fun, unconventional way. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas or just want to see Paris dressed up for the holidays, this tour offers a delightful combination of sights and stories that will warm your heart.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 2 years old are not suitable for this tour. For older kids, it could be a fun, scenic ride, but check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

Can I request a stop for photos?
Yes, stops for photos are available on request at various landmarks, including Champs-Élysées, Galeries Lafayette, and Eiffel Tower.

What language is the tour guided in?
The tour is offered in English and French, and the guide can switch between these languages as needed.

Is pickup included?
Yes, the driver will pick you up from your accommodation in central Paris and also drop you off afterward.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect quick highlight without taking up your entire evening.

What happens if it rains?
The Citroën 2CV has a transparent roof, so you can still enjoy the sights even in light rain. For heavier weather, check with the provider about the rain plan.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve now and pay later, providing extra flexibility.

This tour blends the magic of Christmas lights with the timeless appeal of a vintage car, making it a truly charming way to see Paris during the holiday season. If you’re a fan of authentic, cozy experiences with a touch of luxury and fun, it’s definitely worth considering.