Funky bus
This wild-looking vehicle is the Citroën U55 Cityrama Currus.
It was a special double-decker sightseeing bus used in Paris during the 1950s.
Here are a few cool things about it:
• The Design: It was built by a company called Currus on a Citroën truck frame.
They wanted it to look futuristic, like something out of a sci-fi movie.
• The Glass: It had huge windows and a clear roof so tourists could see all the tall buildings and monuments in Paris without leaning out of their seats.
• The Roof: On nice days, the top glass part could actually be taken off to make it an open-air bus.
• The Look: People often call it one of the most unique buses ever made because of that giant glass "bubble" on the front and top.
It definitely looks like a spaceship on wheels!
Having had the chance to see the Citroën U55 Cityrama Currus in person, I can truly appreciate how revolutionary its design was for the 1950s. Unlike typical buses from that era, this model offered an unprecedented sightseeing experience thanks to its panoramic glass roof and expansive windows, which made every tour through Paris feel like a dynamic adventure. What I found especially fascinating was the removable glass roof, allowing the top deck to transform into an open-air platform on sunny days—perfect for capturing stunning photos of landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame without obstruction. Moreover, the bus’s futuristic look—with its giant glass bubble shape—made it seem more like a vehicle from a science fiction film than a conventional city bus. This unique aesthetic definitely drew attention from locals and tourists alike, turning each ride into a memorable journey. The craftsmanship by Currus, combining innovative design with a sturdy Citroën truck frame, was impressive and showed a blend of form and function rarely seen in public transportation at that time. For anyone interested in vintage cars, historic vehicles, or Parisian culture, the Citroën U55 Cityrama Currus represents an iconic piece of automotive history worth exploring. It’s a great example of how creativity in transport design can transform practical city travel into an extraordinary experience. If you ever get a chance to visit a transport museum showcasing this model, I highly recommend it—you’ll come away with a renewed appreciation for the evolution of sightseeing and public buses.