Paris Vintage Private City Tour on a Sidecar Motorcycle

This Paris Vintage Private City Tour on a Sidecar Motorcycle offers a fresh, fun perspective of the City of Light. Instead of walking or traditional bus tours, you’ll be riding in a vintage motorcycle sidecar, feeling the breeze and hearing the sounds of Paris up close. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this tour promises a blend of sightseeing, local stories, and a good dose of adventure—all in around 90 minutes.

What really sets this experience apart is its private nature, ensuring undivided attention from your guide and a tailored experience. It’s a chance to see both the famous landmarks and some lesser-known spots, all while enjoying the thrill of riding in a vintage sidecar. A key highlight is the chance to cruise through Montmartre, passing the basilica, and catching stunning views of the Eiffel Tower and grand Parisian architecture.

One thing to consider is that this tour doesn’t include entry tickets to museums or monuments, so you’ll want to plan additional visits if you wish to explore inside. The tour is perfect for those seeking an active, memorable way to see Paris that combines sightseeing with a sense of fun and freedom. It suits adventurous travelers, couples, or small groups who want a personalized, offbeat experience in the city.

Key Points

• Unique Transportation: Riding in a vintage motorcycle sidecar offers a different way to see Paris, feeling the wind and hearing the city’s sounds.
• Short but Sweet: At 90 minutes, it’s a quick yet comprehensive introduction to Paris’s top sights and hidden corners.
• Private Tour Advantages: Personal attention from guides like Emanuel and Max ensures a more tailored, engaging experience.
• Great Value: The price of around $164.52 per person includes hotel pickup, helmet, gloves, goggles, and rain gear—making it a hassle-free adventure.
• Photogenic Stops: Spot iconic landmarks like the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, and Sacré-Cœur, with stops for memorable photos.
• Authentic Local Insights: Guides share interesting facts and stories that add depth beyond just sightseeing.

We loved how this tour combines exhilaration with education. Riding in a vintage sidecar through Paris’s streets feels like stepping back in time, with the added bonus of a local guide sharing insights into the city’s history and culture. The guides, like Emanuel and Max, are praised for their friendliness, humor, and knowledge, making the experience both fun and informative.

The itinerary covers many of Paris’s most recognizable sights—like the Louvre Museum, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Eiffel Tower—while weaving in visits to charming neighborhoods like Montmartre. The ride through Montmartre is especially memorable, with the guide pointing out the village-like atmosphere, the basilica, and the view of the city skyline. Reviewers note that guides are very skilled at maneuvering through Paris’s busy streets, which can be tricky even for seasoned drivers, but the guides’ expertise ensures safety and comfort.

On the practical side, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, which makes it very convenient—especially if you’re staying centrally. The use of helmets, goggles, and rain gear, plus the availability of gloves and blankets, means you’re protected against the elements, whatever the weather.

The value for money is notable. For $164.52, you get a personalized, memorable experience that’s hard to match with traditional tours. Many reviewers mention that it’s a perfect way to start a trip, helping orient visitors and giving them ideas for the rest of their stay.

Each stop on this tour offers something special, combining visual grandeur with fascinating history or local flavor. The tour begins at the Place Saint-Michel, a lively hub on the Seine’s Left Bank, where your guide will likely orient you to the city’s layout. From there, you’ll glide past the Louvre Museum, the world’s largest art museum, with its iconic glass pyramid and historic architecture. Though you won’t go inside, the exterior alone makes for impressive photo opportunities.

Next, the tour takes you to Place Vendôme, famous for its elegant architecture, luxury hotels, and the Vendôme Column, erected by Napoleon. The guide will probably stop here for a quick photo, giving you a chance to appreciate its symmetry and historical significance.

The Palais-Royal offers a glimpse into Paris’s royal past with its cloistered gardens and arcades. The guide often points out the flanking columns of the Galerie d’Orléans, which once housed high-end shops—perfect for architecture buffs.

The Galerie Vivienne, a cozy covered passageway, surprises many with its vintage charm and quaint shops. It’s a lovely spot to imagine Parisian life from a bygone era, even if just for a moment.

Visiting the Palais Garnier (the Paris Opera House) is a highlight. The guide stops for photos in front of this opulent building, famous for its grand staircase and lavish interior. Its architecture alone sparks admiration, and many reviews mention how magical it looks from the outside.

For a splash of cabaret history, your guide may point out the Moulin Rouge and the birthplace of the can-can dance, giving you some cultural context along with the visual.

The tour also includes a stop at Fédéric Baron’s “I Love You” wall, a mosaic of “I love you” in over 300 languages, adding a romantic touch to your ride. From there, you’ll wind through Montmartre’s quiet streets, with its artists’ cafés and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica — a favorite for its stunning white dome and panoramic views of Paris.

The Arc de Triomphe at the western end of the Champs-Élysées is another iconic sight. The guide explains its history and significance, and you’ll get some great angles for pictures.

Finally, the tour concludes at Les Invalides, with its impressive golden dome and military museums, ending on a high note with a blend of history, architecture, and stunning vistas.

This tour isn’t just about the landmarks. Many reviewers comment on the less touristy parts the guides manage to include, like the peaceful Rue Orchamps leading to the Moulin de la Galette. It’s a quiet alley that offers breathtaking views over Paris—an insider tip that helps you see the city’s more tranquil, authentic side.

The guides’ deep knowledge shines through when they share stories about the sites, often highlighting details visitors might miss on their own. For example, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier beneath the Arc de Triomphe or the stories behind the Palais-Royal gardens.

One reviewer mentions that the guides are very attentive, even accommodating a 91-year-old passenger with a smile and helpfulness, making sure everyone feels comfortable and included.

The private nature of this tour means you won’t be part of a large group, which tends to make for a more relaxed experience. The small group size (1-2 passengers per sidecar) allows for personalized attention and easier maneuvering through busy streets. The use of helmets, goggles, and rain gear adds to safety and comfort, especially on unpredictable weather days.

The price point of approximately $164.52 per person is reasonable considering what’s included—private transportation, guides, safety gear, and hotel pickup/drop-off. The reviews indicate that many find this to be excellent value, given the fun factor and the personalized insights.

Booking usually opens about 48 days in advance, which is handy for planning ahead. The tour can be canceled for free if done more than 24 hours beforehand, providing flexibility if weather turns bad.

This vintage sidecar motorcycle tour is a fantastic choice for travelers seeking something different from typical Paris sightseeing. It combines adventure, iconic sights, and local stories in a fun, intimate setting. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy active experiences, small-group tours, and vintage vehicles.

Couples and small groups will appreciate the personalized touch and the chance to create unique memories. The scenic route and informative guides make it ideal for first-time visitors wanting an overview, while seasoned travelers might enjoy the rare perspective and hidden alleyways.

Though it’s a brief tour, many reviewers say it feels like a highlight of their trip—a perfect blend of thrill, culture, and photo-worthy moments. Just make sure to dress for the weather and bring your camera; you’ll want to capture every moment.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from your Paris hotel, making it convenient and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, covering many key sights and neighborhoods.

Are helmets and safety gear provided?
Yes, helmets, goggles, gloves, and rain gear are included to ensure safety and comfort during your ride.

Can I participate if I’m a solo traveler?
The experience is designed for 1-2 passengers per sidecar, so solo travelers can join but will be paired with a guest or guide.

What sights will I see?
Expect to pass top landmarks like the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Cœur, and hidden gems like Galerie Vivienne and Montmartre.

Are entrance tickets to attractions included?
No, entrance tickets to monuments are not included; this tour focuses on sightseeing from the outside.

What is the minimum age to join?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable on a motorcycle and able to sit securely.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

For those wanting a memorable and engaging way to see Paris, this vintage sidecar motorcycle tour hits the mark. It offers a personalized, fun, and photogenic experience that’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone craving a bit of adventure. The guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge ensure you won’t just see the sights—you’ll understand them better and remember the journey for years to come.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager for a quick overview or a seasoned traveler wanting a different perspective, this tour provides excellent value. It combines iconic landmarks with hidden corners, all wrapped in a vintage, adventurous package. Just remember to dress appropriately, bring your camera, and get ready for a truly unique Parisian experience.