Paris Landmarks: Vintage Sidecar Tour with Local Guide & Pickup

Summary

Vintage sidecar ride through Paris with local stories & champagne

You’ll ride through Paris in a vintage sidecar with a local guide who shares quirky stories and legends as you pass landmarks like Montmartre and the Eiffel Tower. There’s time for photos, an impromptu champagne stop, and plenty of chances to ask about real Parisian life—leaving you with memories that stick around long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I was a little nervous when the vintage sidecar pulled up outside our hotel in Paris — it looked straight out of an old movie, and I wasn’t sure if I’d feel ridiculous or just really lucky. Our guide, Antoine, handed me a helmet (with a tiny scratch on the side — he said every mark has its own story) and grinned, “Ready to see Paris differently?” The engine had this low, friendly rumble as we set off, weaving through traffic in a way that made me feel both exposed and weirdly safe. The air smelled faintly of fresh bread from some bakery we passed — it’s Paris, so that’s probably always true.

We zipped past the Louvre before I could even process how close we were to all that history. Antoine pointed out little things you’d never notice from inside a bus — like the way locals lean against the Palais-Royal columns or how the light hits Place Vendôme at certain times of day. He told stories about Napoleon (some probably true, some maybe not), and when we stopped for photos at the Eiffel Tower, he insisted on taking one of us in the sidecar. There was this moment near Montmartre where everything just slowed down; artists setting up their easels, someone playing accordion nearby. It felt less like sightseeing and more like being let in on a secret.

At one point we switched seats so my friend could try riding behind Antoine — honestly, it’s hilarious how different it feels back there (windier too). We made an “epicurean stop” for champagne and snacks at this tiny spot near Sacré-Coeur. The bubbles tasted sharper than usual after all that wind. Antoine answered every question we threw at him about Parisian life — even gave us his favorite cheap bistro recommendation (which I wrote down but probably lost). I didn’t expect to laugh so much on what’s technically called a “Paris private vintage half day tour,” but here we are.

I keep thinking about that view from Montmartre — rooftops stretching out forever, with the city humming below. If you want something more than just ticking off monuments, this is it. The ride itself is half the adventure.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Paris Iconic Landmarks Tour

• Visit Louvre Museum
• Photo stop at Place Vendôme
• Explore Palais-Royal
• Visit Galerie Vivienne
• Photo stop at Palais Garnier
• See Wall of Love
• Walk Place du Tertre
• Visit Basilique du Sacré-Coeur
• Photo stop at Eiffel Tower
• Visit Arènes de Lutèce
• Explore Île de la Cité
• Pass by Moulin Rouge
• Drive through Montmartre
• Pass by Arc de Triomphe
• Pass by Les Invalides
• Cruise Latin Quarter
• Pass by Notre-Dame Cathedral
• Pass by street Orchamps

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for the Paris sidecar tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your tour.

How many people can ride in the vintage sidecar?

The sidecar fits two passengers: one in the sidecar itself and one behind the driver.

Does the tour include stops for photos?

Yes, there are several stops for photos at major landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Montmartre.

Is there food or drink included during the tour?

An “epicurean stop” with appetizers and champagne is included if you choose it.

Are helmets provided for riders?

Yes, helmets (and gloves/goggles if needed) are provided for all guests.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

The tour is wheelchair accessible and service animals are allowed.

Can I ask my guide questions about Paris during the trip?

Absolutely—guides encourage questions about Parisian lifestyle or recommendations.

What main attractions do we see on this day trip?

You’ll see places like Notre-Dame Cathedral, Montmartre, Sacré-Coeur, Moulin Rouge, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, and more.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off by your local guide-driver in a vintage sidecar motorcycle; use of helmet (plus gloves or goggles if needed); plenty of photo stops; stories along iconic routes; plus an optional champagne-and-appetizer break before heading back to your hotel feeling windblown but happy.