Lille: Private 2CV City Tour & Old Town Highlights

Summary

Vintage 2CV ride through Lille’s old streets with local stories and city icons

You’ll hop into a classic 2CV with a local guide and cruise through Lille’s old town, passing landmarks like the Belfry and Cathedral. Expect stories you wouldn’t find in a guidebook, time for photos, and that feeling of being both part of the city and just passing through. It’s quick but leaves you wanting to wander more.

What’s the experience like?

We squeezed into this little blue 2CV just outside Place Rihour — I’d never actually sat in one before, so the first thing you notice is that springy seat and the faint whiff of old leather mixed with rain. Our driver, Camille, waved away my awkward attempt at French (I tried), then started telling us about the square as we rattled off. The engine’s putter made it feel like we were in some old film. I kept catching glimpses of people smiling at us from cafés — maybe because it’s not every day you see these cars weaving through Lille’s narrow streets.

Camille pointed out details I’d have missed on my own — like the odd mix of Flemish and French architecture around Vieux Lille. We rolled past the Hospice Comtesse Museum and she told a story about nuns who ran it centuries ago, which made me look at the building differently. The cobblestones made everything shake, but in a way that felt kind of fun. At one point we stopped near the Town Hall Belfry; she let us hop out for photos and to stretch our legs (my knees thanked her). There was this moment when the bells rang out — not loud, but enough to make everyone pause for a second.

I didn’t expect to get so caught up in the little things: how light bounced off the Cathedral’s weirdly modern facade, or that smell of fresh bread drifting from somewhere near Place de la République as we passed by. Camille laughed when I tried to pronounce “Porte de Paris” — probably butchered it, but she seemed genuinely happy to explain its history anyway. The whole hour went by faster than I thought; I kept wanting to ask more questions about Lille’s old chocolate shops (next time, maybe).

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Discover Lille's old town and landmarks

• See old town and streets
• View major city buildings
• Visit Place Rihour and Palace
• Pass Town Hall Belfry
• Pass Lille Cathedral
• Pass Hospice Comtesse museum
• Pass Porte de Paris
• Pass Place de la Republique

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included on this Lille 2CV tour?

No, hotel pickup isn’t included; tours start from a central meeting point in Lille.

How long does the private 2CV city tour last?

The tour lasts approximately one hour through central Lille.

Are stops for photos or walking included?

Yes, there are flexible stops during the tour for photos or short walks at key sites.

Can infants join this Lille city tour?

Yes, infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap or use a stroller/pram.

What main sights are visited on this tour?

You’ll see Vieux Lille, Place Rihour, Town Hall Belfry, Cathedral de la Treille, Hospice Comtesse Museum, Porte de Paris and Place de la République.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels since most time is spent riding in the car.

What’s included

Your ride includes private transportation in a vintage 2CV with a local driver-guide who shares stories along the way. Stops are built in for photos or stretching your legs at places like the Belfry or Old Town squares—no entry fees required. Public transport options are nearby if you need them after your hour is up.