Paris: Private Vintage Sidecar Tour with Pick-Up at your Hotel

Imagine zipping through the streets of Paris on a vintage motorbike with a sidecar, capturing photos of world-famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame. This tour offers an exciting way to see the city’s top sights, with the added charm of a classic vehicle and a private guide. With a high overall rating of 5.0 from 34 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this experience both fun and memorable.

Two things we particularly love about this tour are the personalized attention from a private guide and the stunning photo opportunities that come from riding a vintage motorbike amidst Parisian landmarks. That said, it’s worth considering that the tour lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, which is a quick peek rather than an in-depth exploration—ideal for those wanting a taste of Paris rather than a deep dive.

This experience suits travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of adventure and fun. It’s especially perfect for first-timers, those short on time, or anyone eager for a unique way to see Paris away from the usual bus routes or walking tours. A good sense of adventure and comfort with open-air rides will make the most of this memorable journey.

Key Points

• Unique Vintage Experience: Ride in style on a classic motorbike with a sidecar.
• Private Guides: Enjoy personalized commentary without the crowds.
• Photo Opportunities: Plenty of stops for iconic photos of Paris landmarks.
• Hotel Pick-Up: Convenient door-to-door service from your accommodation.
• Short and Sweet: About 1 hour 30 minutes, perfect for a quick overview.
• Great for all ages: Suitable for most travelers, including families and teens.

Experience Overview: A Ride Through Paris

This tour offers a fresh way to see Paris—on a vintage motorbike with a sidecar. The tour is designed to be both sightseeing and photo-friendly, allowing you to glide past the city’s most famous sites while your guide shares stories and insights. The pick-up service makes it straightforward; the guide will come to your hotel, vacation rental, or even a restaurant, saving you the hassle of navigating public transport or taxis.

The ride lasts around 90 minutes, which balances a thorough overview with enough time to enjoy the sights comfortably. It’s a private experience, meaning only your group will be on the bike—this makes for a more relaxed and flexible experience, perfect for asking questions and customizing your stops.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Eiffel Tower

Expect a quick but iconic photo shoot in front of the Eiffel Tower. According to reviews, this is a highlight, with many travelers mentioning how close and personal the experience feels. It’s a great chance to snap some photos before moving on. The tour does not include admission tickets here, but the view from close up is enough to leave a lasting impression.

Stop 2: Arc de Triomphe

Riding around this legendary monument is a thrill, especially on a vintage bike. The short 5-minute stop allows you to appreciate its grandeur and take some memorable shots. The reviews highlight how much fun it is to see Paris’s most famous roundabout from this unique perspective.

Stop 3: Champs-Elysees

Cruising along the world’s most famous avenue is a treat. You’ll get a sense of Paris’s vibrant street life and luxury shops, all from the comfort of your sidecar. The brief stop is perfect for a quick photo or just soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Stop 4: The Paris Catacombs

You pass by the legendary entrance to the Catacombs. While admission isn’t included, viewing the site from the outside adds a layer of mystery and history to your tour. Some reviews note that passing through this area feels like stepping into a legendary Parisian story.

Stop 5: Le Trocadéro and Esplanade

Enjoy a panoramic view of the Eiffel Tower from this elevated spot. It’s an ideal place for photos, especially as the sun begins to set or if you’re visiting in the late afternoon. Many travelers mention how this stop offers the best angles for capturing the landmark.

Stop 6: Louvre Museum

Riding past the Louvre Pyramid provides an impressive backdrop for photos. The guide will share interesting tidbits about the museum, making this a visually and intellectually stimulating moment during your ride.

Stops 7–11: Cultural and Historic Landmarks

You’ll pass by the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, Pere-Lachaise Cemetery, Notre-Dame, Les Invalides, and the Musée d’Orsay. While these stops are short, the guides’ stories and commentary help you appreciate their significance. The views of Notre-Dame and Les Invalides, in particular, get rave reviews for their photogenic qualities and historical weight.

Stop 12: Paris Rive Gauche

The tour concludes on the Left Bank, giving a taste of Paris’s bohemian, artistic side. Many reviews mention how this area feels different from the busy city center and offers a peaceful, charming vibe to end your ride.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—many mention how much they learned about Paris’s landmarks, often saying the guides shared stories they hadn’t heard before. Several mention that the guides were friendly, patient, and good at making everyone feel comfortable, even those who might be nervous about riding in a sidecar.

The photos taken during the tour are another highlight. Many travelers report how the vintage vehicle makes for stunning shots, with some quoting how they appreciated guides taking pictures of them with the landmarks. One reviewer mentioned, “Raphael was very knowledgeable about Paris and its history. I was able to get closer to the popular monuments with his bike. He takes amazing pictures too.”

The ride itself draws high praise for being safe, fun, and surprisingly comfortable—even for those who initially doubted how they’d handle the open-air experience. Several mention riding at sunset or late in the evening, which adds a magical touch to the experience.

Possible Drawbacks

One consideration is the duration—at just 1 hour 30 minutes, this is more of a quick overview than a comprehensive tour. If you’re interested in detailed visits or lengthy explorations, this might not be enough. Also, since the trip depends on good weather, rain or wind could cancel or limit the experience, though the company offers rescheduling or refunds for poor weather.

The Practicalities

Pricing at $139 per person offers good value considering the private guide, the exclusive vintage vehicle, and the hotel pick-up. That convenience is especially valuable in a busy city like Paris, where navigating public transport or taxis can be time-consuming. Most travelers find the cost justified by the unique opportunity to ride in a vintage sidecar and see many landmarks in a short time.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families, couples, or small groups. It’s especially appreciated by those looking for an active, photo-worthy experience that combines sightseeing with a sense of adventure. The comfort of helmets and gloves, along with the private setting, helps make everything feel safe and special.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a memorable, fun way to see Paris, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those wanting an authentic vintage experience, with personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide. Travelers who enjoy iconic photo opportunities will find plenty of Instagram-worthy moments. The private nature of the tour makes it flexible and personalized, which is a big plus for many.

Families or teens will enjoy the relaxed, engaging ride, especially if they’re comfortable with open-air experiences. It’s also well suited for first-time visitors wanting a quick but rundown of major sights.

For travelers interested in combining sightseeing with a fun, unusual activity, this sidecar tour offers a delightful twist on exploring Paris.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel, vacation rental, or even a restaurant, making it highly convenient.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, providing a quick yet thorough overview of key landmarks.

What landmarks will we see?
Expect to see the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysees, Notre-Dame, Louvre, and many more from a unique vantage point.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?
No, the stops are mostly photo stops; you don’t need to pre-book tickets for these landmarks.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention families and teens enjoying the experience, especially since the guides are attentive and friendly.

What should I wear?
It’s advisable to wear comfortable clothing and bring along some layers, especially if riding in the evening when it may get cooler.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Getting in and out of the sidecar may be challenging, but the guide will assist. It’s best to contact the provider beforehand if you have specific concerns.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private guided ride, helmet, and gloves. It does not include entrance fees for sites like the Catacombs or Musée Yves Saint Laurent.

Is the experience weather dependent?
Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or wind, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I customize the tour?
The private nature allows for some flexibility, and the guide can tailor your experience based on your interests during the ride.

Final Thoughts

This vintage sidecar tour offers a lively, authentic way to see Paris’s most famous sights. It combines the thrill of riding a classic motorbike with engaging storytelling from a friendly, knowledgeable guide. For those seeking a memorable, photo-friendly adventure that’s both fun and convenient, this experience delivers plenty of value.

While it’s not a comprehensive city tour, it’s perfect for a quick, stylish overview of Paris’s highlights. The flexibility of hotel pickup and the intimate setting make it especially appealing for first-timers, couples, or families looking for something different.

Ultimately, if you love the idea of exploring Paris in a fun, vintage way—without sacrificing comfort or insight—this tour is worth considering. Just remember to come with a sense of adventure and a camera ready to capture the magic.