Paris & Versailles Private & Premium Bespoke Tour on Sidecar

Discover Paris and Versailles in Style: A Deep Dive into the Private Sidecar Tour

Imagine cruising through the streets of Paris in a vintage motorbike sidecar, with the wind in your hair and some of the world’s most famous sights just a glance away. That’s exactly what this 7-hour private and bespoke tour promises—a blend of fun, personalization, and unforgettable photo opportunities. Offered by RETRO TOUR Paris, this experience combines the thrill of riding in a retro vehicle with the intimacy of a private guide, making it ideal for couples, friends, or adventurous solo travelers looking for a unique way to see the City of Light and its surroundings.

What we particularly love about this tour is how flexible it is. Not only can you customize your route, but the entire experience is centered around your interests. Plus, the opportunity to visit the majestic Versailles adds a regal touch to your day. That said, one thing to keep in mind is the price—at just over $1,000 for two people, it’s an investment, but for the charm and exclusivity, many find it well worth it. This tour suits those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing with a dash of vintage adventure, and who aren’t afraid to step outside the usual bus or walking routes.

Key Points

Personalized Experience: Fully private and customizable, tailored to your interests.
Unmatched Views: Capture stunning photos of iconic landmarks and scenic Seine river views.
Expert Guide: Knowledgeable local guide shares stories, tips, and fun anecdotes.
Comfort & Safety: Includes helmets, gloves, and goggles for a secure ride.
Flexible Itinerary: Pickup from your hotel in Paris, with the option to visit Versailles or Giverny.
Value for Money: Combines private tour intimacy with the thrill of vintage transportation.

Exploring Paris on a Vintage Motorbike Sidecar

This tour provides a truly different perspective on Paris. Instead of the typical walking or bus tour, you’re riding in a vintage motorbike sidecar—a charming, open-air experience that allows you to feel the city’s energy up close. We loved the way this method brings a sense of freedom and adventure, especially when crossing bridges over the Seine or cruising along the river banks. It’s the kind of experience that turns sightseeing into a story you’ll tell for years.

The guide, a local with deep knowledge of Paris’s highlights, will navigate through the city’s streets, sharing anecdotes and legends that bring landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and Île de la Cité to life. The guide’s enthusiasm and insights are frequently mentioned in reviews, with many appreciating how friendly and informative guides like “Marie” or “Jean” make the experience richer.

Itinerary Breakdown

Pick-up and Orientation

After being collected from your hotel, the first moments set the tone—comfortably seated in your sidecar, ready for a day of discovery. The guide usually begins with a quick overview of the plan, but since this is a bespoke experience, you can express a desire to focus more on certain areas or landmarks.

Iconic Landmarks and Scenic Drives

The route often takes in Paris’s most recognizable sights. Riding past the Eiffel Tower, you’ll love the low-angle perspective, perfect for photographs. The guide might point out lesser-known stories behind the Eiffel’s construction or tell you about the history of the Champ de Mars. From there, you’ll cross the Seine’s bridges, marveling at the view from the water’s edge, a must-have photo opportunity.

Cruising along the Seine riverbanks, you’ll see the city’s historic facades, floating houseboats, and the bustling quays. The guide’s local tips will help you understand the significance of neighborhoods like Saint-Germain or the Latin Quarter, making the ride both scenic and educational.

Outside Paris: Versailles or Giverny

One of the most appealing aspects of this tour is its flexibility. You can stay within the city, but many opt to venture out to Versailles, just a short drive away, to admire the Château and its manicured gardens. Alternatively, some may choose to visit Giverny, famous for Monet’s gardens. This option requires some extra planning but is seamlessly incorporated into the tour for those interested.

End of the Tour

The 7 hours fly by as you soak up the atmosphere, take photos, and enjoy the personalized commentary. The guide will drop you back at your hotel or a preferred location in Paris, leaving you with a memorable, one-of-a-kind experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Paris, a private guide, helmet, gloves, and goggles if needed—so safety and comfort are well taken care of. The price of around $1,087 per group (up to two people) reflects the exclusivity and personalized nature of the experience.

It’s important to note that food and drinks aren’t included, so plan to bring some snacks or plan for a meal afterward. The flexibility to drop off in Versailles offers an added convenience if you’re planning a day trip or exploring the area afterward.

The Real Value of This Experience

Looking beyond the sticker price, this tour offers a blend of adventure, exclusivity, and personalized storytelling that’s hard to match with traditional sightseeing options. You’re not stuck in a crowd or following a scripted route; instead, you’re experiencing Paris from a rare vantage point that can make even the most familiar sights seem fresh.

The knowledgeable guides are often praised for their friendliness and storytelling prowess, enriching your understanding of the city’s history and legends. The stunning photo opportunities—from the Seine’s bridges to the Eiffel Tower’s different angles—are an added bonus, especially for those wanting to capture the essence of Paris from a unique perspective.

While the price might seem high, consider the value of creating personalized memories in a small, private group, especially when traveling with a partner or close friend. The experience isn’t just about seeing sights; it’s about feeling the city’s spirit, with a touch of vintage flair.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous couples looking for a romantic, memorable outing, or small groups of friends eager to add a touch of thrill to their Paris trip. It also suits travelers who value local insights and want to avoid crowded tourist spots, opting instead for an intimate exploration.

If you’re someone who loves photography or wants to capture Paris from a different angle, this tour will offer countless opportunities. However, if you prefer a more relaxed or slower pace, or if budget constraints are a concern, you might want to explore other options. But for those craving a unique, lively, and personalized experience, this sidecar adventure hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This private sidecar tour offers a delightful mix of thrill, personalized storytelling, and iconic scenery. You’ll be whisked around Paris in a vintage vehicle, with a knowledgeable guide bringing the city’s legends to life. The flexibility to include Versailles or Giverny makes it especially appealing for those wanting to see beyond the city’s core.

While the cost isn’t pocket change, the exclusivity, fun factor, and photo opportunities make it a worthwhile splurge for travelers who want more than just the standard sightseeing experience. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, adventurous travelers craving a memorable story, or anyone who loves a different way to explore a city as captivating as Paris.

If you’re after a blend of adventure, intimacy, and insider knowledge, this tour will leave you with photos, stories, and memories that stand out long after your trip.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Paris.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, this is a fully bespoke experience, allowing you to tailor the route based on your interests and preferences.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It’s designed for adults, and the use of helmets and safety gear makes it a secure option. Not ideal for very young children or those unable to sit comfortably in a sidecar.

What landmarks will I see?
Expect to see the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, Île de la Cité, and enjoy cruising along the Seine river. Optional stops include Versailles or Giverny.

Is it safe?
Yes, safety gear is provided, and the guide is experienced. The tour is conducted in a controlled manner, keeping safety a priority.

Will I get good photos?
Absolutely, the open-air sidecar offers great angles for photos, especially of the Eiffel Tower and river views.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

What is the price for?
The $1,087 fee covers the private guide, vehicle, safety gear, hotel pickup, and drop-off, making for a personalized and intimate experience.

To sum it up, this Paris & Versailles private sidecar tour offers a distinctive way to see the city with a personal touch. It’s perfect for those craving a fun, authentic, and memorable adventure, especially if they’re fans of vintage vehicles and insider stories. While it requires a bit of a splurge, the combination of stunning views, expert guides, and the thrill of riding in a classic sidecar truly makes it a standout experience for your Paris trip.