Private Tour of Bordeaux in a Sidecar 1h30

Discover Bordeaux in a Whole New Way: Private Sidecar Tour Review

If you’re seeking a unique perspective of Bordeaux, a city famed for its architecture, history, and wine, then a private sidecar tour might be just the ticket. This 1.5-hour journey promises an intimate, fun, and informative ride through some of Bordeaux’s most iconic landmarks and hidden corners. What makes this experience stand out is not only the quirky mode of transportation but also the personal touch of a knowledgeable guide who shares tales often overlooked in typical sightseeing trips.

One of the best aspects we loved about this tour is the flexibility and personal attention offered by a private guide—no crowds, no rushed schedules. Having the entire vehicle to yourselves means you can customize your experience, switch places during the ride, and truly soak in the sights at your own pace. Also, the stunning views from the sidecar are hard to beat, especially as the guide navigates narrow streets and scenic routes that cars often cannot access.

A potential consideration is the duration—just an hour and a half—meaning this tour is best suited for those with a tight schedule or as a perfect intro to Bordeaux. If you’re looking for an in-depth exploration of the entire region or a longer experience, this might feel a bit fleeting. But for a first taste of the city’s charm and atmosphere, it hits the mark.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a fun, engaging, and personalized way to see Bordeaux’s highlights, especially if you enjoy a bit of adventure and storytelling. It’s great for couples, friends, or solo travelers eager for a memorable ride with a friendly guide.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: You’re the only group, with a guide tailoring the tour to your interests.
• Unique Transportation: Riding in a sidecar provides a fun, accessible, and nostalgic way to explore.
• Expert Local Guides: Guides like Arnold and Alex bring a wealth of knowledge, sharing anecdotes and history often missed by typical tours.
• Convenient Pickup: Hotel pickup makes the start seamless, especially if you’re staying centrally.
• Flexibility & Comfort: Switch between sidecar and backseat, and enjoy the open-air experience with helmet protection.
• Quick Snapshot: Perfect for a quick yet rundown of Bordeaux’s top sights.

A Deep Dive into the Bordeaux Sidecar Experience

How the Tour Works and What to Expect

Starting at 12 Cr du 30 Juillet, this private tour is designed to be intimate, fun, and packed with local insights. The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, which means you get a solid overview without feeling rushed. The driver/guide will be your narrator, sharing lively commentary and fascinating stories about Bordeaux’s landmarks.

The sidecar, which fits two people, allows one to sit in the sidecar basket and the other behind the driver—conveniently switch during the ride if you want to experience both perspectives. Reviewers consistently mention the friendly and knowledgeable guides, like Arnold and Alex, who ensure you feel safe and well-informed. As one reviewer commented, Arnold was “very personable, considerate, and knowledgeable,” turning what could be a simple ride into a memorable local experience.

Tour Itinerary Breakdown

Esplanade des Quinconces

This massive square is one of Bordeaux’s most famous landmarks. It features impressive monuments, broad spaces, and lively street scenes. Visitors often note how the guide’s stories add depth to what might otherwise be just a large open space.

Place de la Bourse and the Water Mirror

These linked sights are a highlight. The Place de la Bourse is renowned for its stunning classical architecture, while the Water Mirror creates mesmerizing reflections of the buildings—perfect for photos. Reviewers have raved about the spectacular views from the sidecar, a perspective that allows close-up admiration of the intricate facades.

Porte Cailhau and Rue Notre Dame

The Porte Cailhau is a medieval gate with a commanding presence, and Rue Notre Dame offers a lively street scene filled with shops and cafes. The guide’s anecdotes make each stop more engaging, often sharing stories about Bordeaux’s evolution from medieval to modern times.

Pont de Pierre and Basilica Saint-Michel

Crossing the Pont de Pierre gives you a sweeping view of the Garonne River, while the Basilica Saint-Michel boasts stunning Gothic architecture. The guides highlight the history and significance of these sites, making the ride more meaningful.

Grosse Cloche and Bordeaux Cathedral

The Grosse Cloche is one of the oldest belfries in France, and the Cathedral Saint-André stands as a testament to Bordeaux’s religious past. Many reviews emphasize how close access in the sidecar allows for detailed viewing and storytelling.

The Value of a Private Tour

At $130.34 per person, this experience offers significant value—especially considering it’s private, includes hotel pickup, and comes with a helmet for safety. Most travelers book about two months in advance—an indicator of its popularity and the planning needed to secure a spot.

Authenticity and Special Touches

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Arthur, Alexandre, and Lucio go beyond simple narration—they inject personality, humor, and local knowledge. One traveler mentioned their guide was “full of trivia, history, and tips” that helped them enjoy the rest of their trip even more.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

• The ability to access narrow streets and hidden corners that larger vehicles cannot reach.
• The small group size ensures a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
• Safety and comfort: Guides prioritize rider safety, checking comfort levels and making adjustments.
• The speed and maneuverability of the sidecar mean you cover significant ground in a short time—something that’s often appreciated by those with limited time or a desire for a quick city overview.

Review Insights

Many guests found the experience fun, engaging, and educational. Jessica N. called it “a must-do in Bordeaux,” emphasizing how the experience was “exceptional” thanks to guides like Lucio. Others appreciated the local stories and insider tips provided, which enhanced their overall understanding of Bordeaux beyond the usual sightseeing.

Practical Tips for Future Riders

• Be prepared for an open-air ride, so dress accordingly, especially on cooler days.
• If you’re traveling with a partner, decide who rides in the sidecar and who rides behind—most find switching during the tour easy and enjoyable.
• Book well in advance, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot.
• Remember that food and drinks are not included, so plan to grab a bite before or after if you want a full-day experience.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This sidecar adventure is ideal if you crave a personalized experience with local stories, enjoy quirky transport, and want to see Bordeaux from a new angle. It’s especially well-suited for those who:

• Want a fun, memorable way to explore without the stress of driving themselves
• Value guided insights that enrich their understanding of the city’s landmarks
• Are seeking a brief but impactful sightseeing experience
• Love the idea of narrowing down sights in a short time, capturing perfect photos and stories

It’s less suitable if you prefer long, in-depth tours or are traveling with very young children (due to safety considerations), but overall, it offers great value for a unique city introduction.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, providing a quick but thorough overview of Bordeaux’s most notable sights.

What does the tour include?
A private guide, live commentary, helmet, hotel pickup, and the sidecar experience.

Can I switch between the sidecar and the backseat?
Yes, guests can switch during the ride, which many find fun and convenient.

What landmarks will I see?
Highlights include Esplanade des Quinconces, Place de la Bourse, Water Mirror, Porte Cailhau, Rue Notre Dame, Pont de Pierre, Basilique Saint-Michel, Grosse Cloche, and Bordeaux Cathedral.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup from Bordeaux hotels is included, making it easy to start your adventure stress-free.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and most travelers can participate. Service animals are also permitted.

How far in advance should I book?
Most guests book about 63 days ahead, indicating it’s popular and best secured early.

What if my plans change?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Solo travelers will enjoy the private setting and expert guidance.

What’s the price for this experience?
It costs around $130.34 per person, which is reasonable considering the private, personalized nature and inclusion of hotel pickup.

Final Thoughts

This private sidecar tour of Bordeaux offers a quirky, personal, and engaging way to see the city. It combines the thrill of riding in a classic vehicle with the richness of local stories and the beauty of Bordeaux’s landmarks. The guides’ knowledge, coupled with the ability to access narrow streets and hidden spots, makes this a memorable experience for those wanting a quick yet meaningful intro.

If you’re after a fun, authentic, and customizable way to explore Bordeaux’s highlights, this tour hits the spot. It’s perfect for couples, friends, and solo travelers eager for a blend of adventure and education wrapped into a compact package.

For anyone looking to add a bit of joy and personality to their city sightseeing, this sidecar adventure is an excellent choice—just remember to book early, dress comfortably, and get ready for a ride full of stories and scenic surprises.