Guided tour of Paris in Citroën Traction Avant or DS 21

Picture cruising through the streets of Paris in a vintage Citroën, feeling the breeze and soaking in the sights in style. This guided tour offers a unique way to see the City of Light, combining the charm of classic cars with expert commentary on Paris’s most famous landmarks. While the experience isn’t a traditional sightseeing tour, it’s a memorable, personalized adventure ideal for lovers of vintage cars, photography enthusiasts, and anyone looking to add a touch of glamour to their Paris visit.

One of the best things about this experience is the opportunity to see Paris from a different perspective — riding in a beautifully restored Citroën Traction Avant 11B from 1955 or a DS 21 BHV from 1971. The guides, such as Abi and Aldo, are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make the ride fun and informative. A potential consideration is that some reviews mention the experience can be quite fast-paced, so if you’re after a leisurely, in-depth exploration, this might not be your ideal choice. Overall, it’s perfect for travelers who want a blend of sightseeing, photography, and a touch of old-world elegance.

If you’re after a short, luxurious romp around Paris with a knowledgeable guide and excellent photo opportunities, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate vintage aesthetics, crave personalized attention, and want a high-quality experience that offers more than just the usual bus route. Now, let’s dive into the detailed aspects of what you can expect.

Key Points

• Vintage Charm and Style: Ride in meticulously restored Citroën models for a stylish, memorable experience.
• Personalized Private Tour: Only your group participates, ensuring a tailored experience with a knowledgeable guide.
• Iconic Landmarks: Stops include the Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, Moulin Rouge, Sacré-Cœur, Notre-Dame, and more.
• Flexible Duration: Tours range from 1 to 3 hours, making it adaptable to your schedule.
• Photo Opportunities: Guides like Abi go out of their way to take great pictures with the Eiffel Tower or other landmarks in the background.
• Value for Money: The price, roughly $160 for up to four people, offers a luxurious, private experience with lots of photo and sightseeing potential.

An Authentic and Stylish Way to Discover Paris

We loved the idea of seeing Paris in a vintage Citroën — it’s not just a tour, but a travel experience that feels like stepping back in time. From the moment you meet your guide, whether Abi or Aldo, you’re welcomed into a friendly, professional atmosphere that promises a personalized touch. The vehicles themselves are stunning: the Traction Avant from 1955 has a timeless, elegant design, while the DS 21 from 1971 exudes futuristic flair for its era.

The transportation being private and vintage means you’re not part of a large crowd — instead, your small group gets to enjoy the sights comfortably and at your own pace. The duration varies from about 1 to 3 hours, giving flexibility depending on how much of Paris you want to see or how long you’ve got. This private setup is perfect for couples, small families, or friends traveling together who want a more intimate experience compared to big bus tours.

While the price point (~$160 for up to four people) might sound steep at first glance, it’s quite fair considering the exclusivity, the quality of the cars, and the personalized service. In fact, many reviewers highlight the value of having a professional guide who not only shares fascinating tidbits but also captures excellent photographs for you. As one guest mentioned, Abi is a “great photographer,” and his local knowledge makes the experience even richer.

The Itinerary: From Landmarks to Hidden Gems

The tour itinerary is crafted to give a taste of Paris’s most iconic sights, with stops that allow for quick explanations and photo opportunities. Expect to visit some legendary spots like the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower, which are, of course, must-see landmarks. The stops are brief — about 5 minutes each — but are enough to provide insight and capture memorable photos.

Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower

Starting at the Arc de Triomphe, your guide explains the monument’s historical significance and points out details that many overlook. You’ll get a chance to snap photos from different angles, with the monument creating a dramatic backdrop. The Eiffel Tower stop is similar, with insightful commentary and plenty of photo moments. Reviewers like Alexandra praised the “beautiful car” and “smooth ride,” and many appreciated how these iconic sights are made even more special by viewing them from the comfort of a vintage car.

The Seine and the Bridges

Next, the route takes you along parts of the Seine, offering glimpses of the famous bridges and riverfront. Even just passing by these bridges provides a new perspective on Paris’s architecture and history. While the tour doesn’t include inside visits, the guides often share stories that make each stop more meaningful.

Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur

A highlight for many is the stop at Basilique du Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre. The guide explains the basilica’s role in Parisian history and offers tips on nearby cafes and attractions. The group gets about 5 minutes here, enough for photos and a quick story. Reviewers, such as Anne, enjoyed how Abi allows time to take pictures and makes stops engaging, even in hot weather.

Moulin Rouge and Other Landmarks

The tour also covers the famous Moulin Rouge, where your guide shares its history as the birthplace of the cabaret scene. Though only a brief stop, it’s a fun photo op and a chance to learn about its place in Paris nightlife.

Notre-Dame and the Pantheon

Further stops include explanations of Notre-Dame’s architecture and history, along with the Pantheon, offering insights into Paris’s spiritual and intellectual past. While no inside visits are included, the explanations add depth to the sightseeing experience.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Based on reviews and our observations, the highlights of this tour include:

• The guides’ knowledgeability and friendliness, which make the ride both fun and educational.
• The photo opportunities provided by stops at major landmarks, with guides like Abi going out of their way to take great pictures.
• The quality of the vintage cars, which attract attention and add a touch of glamour to your Paris visit.

However, some considerations are worth noting:

• The fast pace might not suit travelers wanting a relaxed, in-depth exploration. Many stops are brief, and the itinerary covers a lot in a short time.
• The weather can impact the experience; rain or heat can make the ride less comfortable, though some reviewers still found it enjoyable regardless.
• For those interested in inside visits or detailed commentary, this tour is more about the scenic drive and photo ops than extensive sightseeing.

Real Reviewer Insights

Alexandra loved the “lot of fun” and the “beautiful” car, emphasizing how smooth and stylish the ride was. Conversely, Elizabeth was less satisfied, citing a “completely waste of time” due to a guide who didn’t seem well-informed and a tour that didn’t meet her expectations for landmark viewing. This highlights the importance of managing expectations — this is a tourist-centric experience with a focus on aesthetics and quick sightseeing rather than an educational deep dive.

Practical Details

The tour starts at Concorde and ends back at the same point, making it convenient for travelers based around central Paris. Pickup is offered, which adds a layer of comfort. The private nature means your group is exclusive, and prices are per group, not per person, making it more economical for small parties.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re seeking a stylish and personalized way to see Paris’s highlights, especially if vintage cars and photography excite you. It’s ideal for couples wanting a romantic drive, friends looking for a fun day, or small families wanting a private, engaging tour. If you appreciate knowledgeable guides who take great photos, this tour offers excellent value.

It’s less suited for travelers who prefer longer, in-depth visits or inside museum tours. Similarly, if you’re sensitive to fast-paced sightseeing or are traveling in extreme weather, consider the timing carefully.

Final Thoughts

We find this vintage Citroën tour a captivating way to experience Paris’s most famous sights with a splash of style and a lot of personality. The private setting, combined with friendly guides and stunning cars, creates an experience that’s both fun and memorable. It’s not just about seeing Paris — it’s about feeling Paris in a timeless way.

For travelers craving a luxurious, photo-friendly, and personalized tour — perhaps during a special occasion or just to indulge your love of vintage design — this experience hits the spot. The combination of knowledgeable guides, eye-catching cars, and iconic landmarks makes it a worthwhile addition to your Paris itinerary.

FAQ

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

How long does the tour last?
The duration varies from 1 to 3 hours, depending on your choice, allowing flexibility based on your schedule.

What landmarks are included?
Stops include the Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, Moulin Rouge, Sacré-Cœur, Notre-Dame, the Palace, and more, with explanations and photo opportunities at each.

Are admission tickets to landmarks included?
No, entry to landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Sacré-Cœur is not included, as the tour focuses on driving past and explaining these sites.

Does the tour offer hotel pickup?
Pickup is available, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing and possibly sunglasses or hats for sunny days. Bring your camera or phone for photos.

Can this tour accommodate elderly travelers?
Yes, many reviews mention that the tour suits elderly guests, especially since it’s a comfortable ride with brief stops.

What if it rains?
The experience can still be enjoyed in the rain, but be prepared for potential discomfort. Some reviewers still found it delightful despite weather challenges.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not part of the package, so plan to eat before or after your ride.

How do I book or get in touch with the provider?
You can book through Viator, and the provider’s contact info is Vintage Traction, +33612047035, or via email at [email protected].

This vintage car tour offers a distinctive way to capture the essence of Paris in style. Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, it’s a charming, photo-ready experience that blends classic design with Parisian history.