Private Vintage Car Tour of Paris in a Citroën DS – 2H

Exploring Paris in a vintage Citroën DS is one of those experiences that immediately transports you to the glamorous 1950s. This private, 2-hour tour offers a tailored journey through the city’s most famous sights, with the added bonus of being driven in one of the most stylish and comfortable vintage cars around. Priced at $153, it’s a pretty decent value considering the personalized service, the ability to start right from your hotel, and the opportunity to snap pictures in a classic car in the heart of Paris.

What I especially appreciate about this tour is the intimate nature of the experience. You’re not just riding along on a crowded bus but enjoying personalized attention from your guide, who pairs fascinating insights with casual friendliness. Plus, the Citroën DS itself is a real eye-catcher—sleek, smooth, and a genuine conversation starter with its distinctive curves and fold-back sunroof. As several reviews noted, guides like Fred and Benjamin go beyond just pointing out sights; they stop, help you with photos, and even play French music, adding an extra layer of charm. The second thing that stands out is how well-planned the stops are—covering everything from the Eiffel Tower to Montmartre—giving you a comprehensive yet relaxed overview of Paris.

However, one consideration for travelers is the fixed timing and weather dependency. Since the tour is only 2 hours, it’s best suited for those with limited time or as a highlight, not an exhaustive exploration. Also, it’s a private tour only for your group, which means a more personalized, albeit slightly pricier, experience than a group bus tour. Weather can always be unpredictable in Paris; while the experience is enjoyable in good weather, rain might cut into the sightseeing or photo opportunities.

Key Points

Personalized experience with a private guide ensures tailored attention and flexibility.
Unique vintage car adds style and comfort, making it memorable and photogenic.
Prime Paris sights included, from the Eiffel Tower to Montmartre, all with minimal waits and plenty of photo time.
Good value considering the private aspect, guide expertise, and the nostalgia factor of a classic car.
Weather considerations are worth noting, as rain could impact the open-air experience.
Excellent reviews highlight friendly guides, beautiful views, and the charm of the vintage vehicle.

A Detailed Look at the Vintage Paris Tour

If you’re craving a stylish way to see the City of Light, this private Citroën DS tour ticks many boxes. It’s a 2-hour jaunt that makes the most of Paris’ iconic highlights, guided by someone who knows how to blend information with friendly banter. I’ll walk you through what you can expect at each stop and why they matter.

The Pickup and Initial Drive

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or location inside Paris. That’s a nice touch—no worries about transportation to the starting point—especially helpful if you’re staying in central Paris. Once settled into the comfortable vintage car, you’ll feel an immediate sense of occasion; the Citroën DS is a beauty, often described as a ‘flying saucer’ due to its sleek, futuristic design of the 1950s.

Your guide—like Fred or Benjamin—will steer you through the city’s streets, starting with the classic views of Tour Eiffel and Les Invalides. You’ll get about 15 minutes here, enough time to take some stunning photos of the Eiffel Tower and the nearby military museum, with no rush. Reviewers appreciate how guides stop and even help with snapping good pictures, which can be tricky in busy settings.

Exploring Paris’ Icons

Next, the tour moves along the Champs-Elysées for about 10 minutes. Here, you’ll be on France’s most famous avenue, lined with shops, theaters, and the Arc de Triomphe at its western end. Your guide will point out the history and significance of these landmarks, though the focus remains on enjoying the ride and snapping shots.

Seeing the Arc de Triomphe is a highlight, especially with the guide ensuring you get a good photo. The monument costs extra to enter if you wish to go up, but most opt to view it from outside, making the 10-minute stop perfect for a quick look and a few more photos.

The tour then heads to the historically rich Saint Germain des Prés quarter and Notre-Dame de Paris, both having long-standing cultural and religious importance. Ten minutes in each spot are enough to appreciate their architectural beauty and take memorable pictures. Several travelers mention how the guides take time to ensure they get good shots, making the experience more personal.

The Elegant and Artistic Areas

Next up, your vintage car takes you through Place Vendôme, known for luxury shopping, and the Quartier de l’Opéra, famous for its impressive architecture and lively atmosphere. These stops are brief but visually impactful, giving you a sense of Paris’ elegance and history.

A real treat is heading to Montmartre, the artist’s enclave. While the guide won’t be able to let you hop out and explore in detail, you’ll enjoy a 20-minute window to soak in the village’s artistic vibe and get some photos of the basilica and the charming streets. As one review mentioned, being in the car with the sunroof open or the windows down allows for an engaging view of this bustling neighborhood.

End with Artistic and Cultural Highlights

Finally, the tour takes you to the Louvre Museum, the world’s most visited museum, where you get a quick 10-minute glimpse of its grand facade. Though you won’t go inside (ticket not included), it’s a fantastic photo opportunity. The tour wraps up at Les Invalides again, where Napoleon’s tomb resides, giving you a poetic bookend to your Parisian adventure.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Beyond just being a sightseeing trip, this experience offers authentic charm. The guides receive glowing reviews for their friendliness, knowledge, and willingness to take photos—one reviewer even called Fred a “gentleman” who “played wonderful French music.” That personal touch transforms an ordinary city tour into a memorable, fun outing.

The vintage Citroën DS itself is a major draw. Travelers love how comfortable and stylish it is, and some reviews mention the fold-back sunroof, which makes it feel like you’re flying through the city. The car’s timeless design gives your photos a vintage flair and makes for a fantastic conversation starter.

While the tour is perfect for those short on time or seeking a unique way to see Paris without the crowds, a few considerations are worth noting. The 2-hour duration means it’s a highlight reel rather than an exhaustive exploration. Weather can also affect the experience—rain might limit your open-air photo ops or make certain stops less enjoyable. Since the tour is private, it’s best suited for travelers who want a personalized, relaxed experience with plenty of photo opportunities and engaging commentary.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Paris’s most famous sights with a vintage flair. It’s also perfect for romantic couples, small groups, or families looking for a fun, intimate way to explore. If you’re a vintage car enthusiast or simply want a unique photo story of your trip, this is a memorable choice. It’s also suitable for travelers with limited time who still want a rich, aesthetic experience.

Final Thoughts

Traveling in a vintage Citroën DS as a private tour offers a relaxed, stylish, and genuinely memorable way to see Paris’s most iconic sites. It combines aesthetic pleasure, personalized service, and an authentic vintage vibe—all at a reasonable price when you consider the privacy and attention to detail. The fact that guides like Fred and Benjamin go the extra mile with photos, music, and local insights makes it even more worthwhile.

For travelers craving a distinctive experience that balances sightseeing with comfort and charm, this tour stands out as a delightful option. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate good storytelling, great views, and the chance to glide through Paris in style. Just remember to check the weather forecast and be ready for the short, sweet nature of this adventure.

FAQ Section

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the guide offers pickup from your hotel or any other location inside Paris, making it convenient to start your experience without extra logistics.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, covering many of Paris’s most famous sights.

Can I cancel the tour if needed?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Are tickets to attractions included?
Some stops, like Eiffel Tower and Montmartre, include admission or photo opportunities, but for places like Arc de Triomphe and Louvre, tickets are not included. You’ll see these from outside.

Is this tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Mostly yes, but weather can influence the experience—rain might impact photos or the outdoor stops. The tour is weather-dependent, and cancellations due to poor weather offer the chance to reschedule or get a full refund.

How many people can join?
This is a private tour for your group only, with a maximum of four travelers, ensuring personalized service.

What makes the Citroën DS special?
The car is a genuine vintage marvel, known for its innovative design, comfort, and style. Many reviews mention how comfortable and photogenic it is.

Can I get good photos during the tour?
Absolutely. Guides are happy to stop for photos and even help with framing, making it a great opportunity for memorable pictures.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Most travelers say yes, especially if you’re interested in a relaxed, fun overview of Paris. Kids and teenagers often enjoy the vintage car experience.

Whether you’re after a romantic ride, fun photos, or just want to see Paris in a different light, this private vintage car tour offers a distinctive and delightful way to experience the city’s highlights without the hassle of navigating busy streets on your own.