There is no doubt that the most recommended way to see Paris is on foot (and for that we have walking routes on the blog). However, sometimes it is worth trying to get to know the city from a different angle – motorized, higher, and most importantly – less tiring.
Why is it worth it? (or: When will your back thank you)
- After a few intense days of walking, when your feet are asking for freedom.
- If age (or knees) do not allow you to walk dozens of kilometers a day.
- If you arrived in Paris for a very short time (“blitz”) and you want to have time to see all the icons.
- When the sky decides to pour down a sudden Parisian rain on you.
- A tourist bus in Paris often has an open second floor – a perfect Instagram photo angle.
- An ideal solution for families with children who tire quickly.
So if you've decided to give your feet a rest, I've gathered the best ways to discover the Paris “On wheels” (or in the air):
🚌 Affordable buses and deals
A tourist bus is a classic option using the Hop on, Hop off method – the ticket allows you to get on and off as much as you want at the central stations.
Classic tourist bus
Dinner on the bus
Bus with instruction for children
Deal: Bus + Eiffel
Deal: Bus + Moulin Rouge
Deal: Bus + Louvre
🚗 Private car and rickshaw (Turtle)
Looking for a more intimate experience? A ride in a vintage car (like in the movies) or an electric bicycle taxi (Turtle) will provide you with a different, more romantic and personal perspective on the city.
Turtle: Saint-Germain and Notre Dame
Turtle: Eiffel region
Turtle: Napoleon Tour
Vintage: Night Tour
Vintage: Secret Paris
🚁 Flight in the city skies
Want to see the City of Lights like the birds? Here are some exciting options for flying in the skies of Paris and the surrounding area.
Helicopter flight
Hot air balloon in Paris
Hot air balloon at EuroDisney
Questions and answers about tourist transportation in Paris
Is it worth taking a tourist bus in Paris in winter?
Did you come to Paris in the winter? Great! There aren't many tourists, and you also have the opportunity to enjoy the city in true European weather. The big advantage in the winter is that the bus is closed and heated on the lower floor (and sometimes there is a roof on top as well). It's a great way to see the monuments without getting wet or freezing, and to spend rainy days pleasantly.
How does a Hop-on Hop-off ticket work?
The method is simple and ingenious: You buy a ticket for one, two, or three days. As long as the ticket is valid, you can get on and off at any of the stops on the route without any restrictions. Want to stop at the Louvre for two hours? Get off, walk around, and get back on the next bus that comes (usually every 10-20 minutes).
What do you see on the bus tour?
The classic tour encompasses all of Paris' "Greatest Hits": the Eiffel Tower, Champs Elysees, the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre Museum, Notre Dame, the Opera, and more. The trip is accompanied by an audio guide in a variety of languages, so you also learn about history along the way.
Is there a tourist bus that also includes food?
Absolutely! The Bustronome offers an experience that combines a city tour with a gourmet meal. There are options for lunch or dinner (including champagne), a vegetarian menu, and even dishes adapted for children.
Even if you’re in top shape, don’t rule out the bus outright. I recommend using it on the first day of your trip to get a “mental map” and understand where everything is, or on the last day – when you don’t have the energy to walk anymore and just want to say goodbye to the most beautiful city in the world with one last look.
Zvi Shalom
Is the Paris Tour in a Citroen 2CV no longer available? At least that's what the link to the tour's website says.
with gratitude
Amnon Neumark
Hi Amnon.
These tours are not currently for sale. I am looking for another company that does them and as soon as I find one I will include the relevant links.
Sorry for the delay.
deer