Explore Paris in 3 Hours: Authentic 2CV or Traction Tour

Imagine cruising through the streets of Paris in a vintage French car, feeling the breeze and soaking up the city’s atmosphere—this is what makes the Explore Paris in 3 Hours tour truly special. Although I haven’t personally taken this ride, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s a memorable way to see Paris differently than in a typical bus or walking tour.

What we love about this experience is how it combines personalized sightseeing with a nostalgic journey in a classic vehicle, ensuring you’re not just another tourist with a selfie stick. The second highlight is the fabulous views of iconic sights, particularly from places like the Trocadéro gardens and Montmartre, which are perfect for photos and awe.

A potential consideration is the price, at over $560 per group. While it’s a premium experience, it’s designed for small groups (up to three people), meaning you’ll get a very intimate, customized tour—something worth the cost if you value comfort and exclusivity.

This tour is ideally suited for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a romantic, luxurious, yet authentic way to explore Paris’s landmarks in style. If you’re a fan of vintage cars or seeking a more personalized experience, this will likely hit the mark.

Key Points

• Authentic Vintage Experience: Classic French cars like the Citroën 2CV or Traction provide a nostalgic, stylish ride through Paris.
• Fully Customizable Itinerary: The route and stops are tailored to your interests, with key sights included.
• Expert Drivers and Guides: Friendly drivers share anecdotes, legends, and insights that enrich your understanding of the city.
• Excellent Photo Opportunities: Stops at major viewpoints like Trocadéro and Montmartre offer stunning backdrops.
• Comfort and Privacy: Small group size ensures a personal, relaxed atmosphere.
• Convenience: Pickup is offered from central Paris, and the ticket is mobile for easy access.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Vintage Car Ride with a Personal Touch

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the vintage French vehicle, whether a charming Citroën 2CV or a Traction. These iconic cars instantly evoke images of Parisian charm and make your journey uniquely memorable. It’s a small-group experience, with up to three participants per vehicle, which means you’ll enjoy a very personalized ride.

The fully customized itinerary means you can prioritize your interests—whether that’s seeing the Eiffel Tower up close, exploring historic neighborhoods like Montmartre, or marveling at grand monuments. The driver is more than a chauffeur; they’re a local guide sharing anecdotes, legends, and insights, making the experience both fun and educational.

The Itinerary: Landmarks with a Personal Touch

The tour features eleven stops, each designed to showcase Paris’s most famous sites while allowing ample time for photos and appreciation. Each stop lasts about five minutes, giving you a quick but meaningful glimpse of the location.

• Eiffel Tower: The tour begins at the most recognizable symbol of Paris. While you won’t go inside (admission is not included), you’ll get to admire its grandeur from different angles—possibly the most photographed monument in the world.
• Le Trocadéro: Just across the Seine, this lush garden offers a spectacular view of the Eiffel Tower, perfect for snapping memorable photos.
• Arc de Triomphe & Champs-Élysées: These iconic landmarks are best appreciated from the comfort of your vintage car, with the driver providing context on their history and significance.
• Invalides & Place de la Concorde: These historic sites give you a sense of Paris’s royal and revolutionary past.
• Place Vendôme & Notre-Dame: The elegant square and the world-famous cathedral highlight Paris’s architectural grandeur.
• Pantheon & Luxembourg Gardens: Offering insights into French history and culture, these stops add depth to your experience.
• Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur: Concluding the tour in this bohemian neighborhood offers stunning views from atop the hill, with the basilica’s white dome visible from afar.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Multiple reviewers have praised the stunning views and the unique perspective offered by traveling in a vintage car. One reviewer noted, “We did this twice—once during the day and once at night. The night ride with champagne was particularly special.” The intimate setting and the cozy, classic car make all the difference, turning a sightseeing trip into a memorable experience.

Practical Details

The meeting point at the Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel is centrally located, making it easy to access via public transportation. The tour lasts roughly three hours, enough time to see many highlights without feeling rushed. The inclusion of bottled water adds to the comfort during the ride.

The price, approximately $566 for a group of up to three, might seem high at first glance. However, considering the private nature of the tour, the vintage vehicle, and the personalized experience, many travelers will find it offers good value—especially if they’re celebrating a special occasion or want a romantic way to see Paris.

Authenticity and Value

This experience isn’t just about ticking landmarks off a list; it’s about living Paris in a more intimate, stylish way. The driver’s stories and the ride in a historical vehicle elevate what could be a standard sightseeing tour into something truly memorable.

The reviews also reflect high satisfaction, with travelers noting the surprise and delight at the views and the personal attention they received. The tour is flexible and can be tailored further, making it a good choice for those seeking a more bespoke experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for couples seeking a romantic adventure, small groups wanting a luxurious, private experience, or vintage car enthusiasts. If you enjoy authentic, immersive experiences that combine sightseeing with storytelling, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more active, less personalized approach, this might not be the best fit. It’s also worth noting that the tour doesn’t include entrance fees to the sights—so plan accordingly if you want to go inside certain monuments.

The Sum Up

The Explore Paris in 3 Hours tour offers a unique, stylish way to see Paris’s most iconic landmarks in a small, private setting. Traveling in a vintage Citroën or Traction, with a friendly guide sharing stories along the way, turns sightseeing into an authentic, memorable experience.

While the cost might be higher than standard tours, the private, customizable nature, combined with stunning views and charming vehicles, makes it well worth considering for those looking to add a touch of elegance to their Paris trip. This experience is especially suited for lovers of vintage cars, small groups, or anyone wanting a personalized, immersive way to explore the City of Light.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, provided they are comfortable sitting in a vintage car for three hours.

Does the tour include entrances to landmarks?
No, admission tickets to attractions like the Eiffel Tower or Notre-Dame are not included, but the tour offers external views and photo opportunities.

Is pickup offered from my hotel?
Yes, pickup is available from central Paris; check with the provider to confirm your location.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is fully customizable according to your expectations, allowing you to focus on specific sights or interests.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and consider the weather—since part of the experience is outdoors, layers are recommended.

Is bottled water provided?
Yes, bottled water is included for your convenience.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 3 hours, covering major landmarks with brief stops at each site.

Can I book this tour for a special occasion?
Absolutely. The private nature makes it a great choice for celebrations or romantic outings.

What if I want to see more sights?
You can discuss additional stops or extensions with your driver, as the route can be tailored.

This vintage ride through Paris isn’t just sightseeing; it’s a charming, personal embrace of the city’s essence. Whether you’re marking a special moment or simply want to see Paris from a more intimate perspective, this tour delivers a memorable experience that combines style, stories, and stunning views.