River Seine Sightseeing Cruise: Two Convenient Departures

Why We Think It’s Great:

We like these tours because they are a convenient and comfortable way to sightsee along the Seine. They’re an excellent option if you’re short on time in Paris or want to kick back, take in the views, and take a break from walking.

The audio guides provide a lot of historical information, facts, and context to what you’re seeing.

We went on the tour departing from the Eiffel Tower. It was great for our kids as it’s short (1 hour) and entertaining! Not to mention, having the option to take any tour throughout the day made it very convenient.

Taking this tour at night gives you an excellent view of the Eiffel Tower lit up against the night sky.

I’ve noticed a theme for travel influencers to tease touristy activities and things Parisians would NEVER do.

I’m not a local when I travel. I am a visitor. Perhaps I want to take the kids to the top of the Eiffel Tower because it is incredible and memorable. Maybe a Seine Dinner Cruise is what I need for a nice dinner out in a city that is best experienced from its grand river.

Erica and I call these tourist trap-labeled activities bucket list experiences. We don’t believe folks should do them as we know folks will do these activities. Getting a picture in front of Arc de Triomphe is part of the vacation. That is how I feel about these Seine historical tours. They are bucket list experiences that make a great way to see Paris!

Seine Sightseeing Cruise VS Seine Dinner Cruise

These two Seine sightseeing tours are far less expensive than a Seine dinner cruise, but we had a great time on the dinner cruise. Watch our video below as we compare these two Seine river cruises. See if the dinner cruise is a better fit for your romantic vacation to Paris.

Learn more about the Seine Dinner Cruise here.

River Seine Sightseeing Cruise Highlights:

There are only slight differences in the offerings between these two tours and a $1 price difference, so pick the one closest to your accommodation, and you’re all set! If you have mobility aids, opt for the Eiffel Tower departure.

Both tours offer the following:

• Pass by famous landmarks such as:
  • Eiffel Tower
  • Notre Dame
  • The Louvre
  • Ile de la Cite
• Commentary during the cruise, either recorded or live.
• Opt for sitting up top (outdoor) or on the lower deck (indoor). Many of the boats have heating in their indoor area.
• You’ll book your ticket for the date you’d like to go, but you do not have to book a time slot. You can show up for whatever timeslot best suits you that day.
• Departure times are available throughout the day and evening, so you can opt to go when the Eiffel Tower is lit.

Eiffel Tower Departure

• Get the audio guide on your phone in 14 different languages.
• This boat accommodates up to 400 passengers.
• This tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
• Departures every 30 minutes or every hour seasonally.

Pont Neuf Departure

• Live commentary is provided in French and English.
• This boat accommodates up to 200 passengers.
• This tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it is stroller-friendly.
• There are fewer operating hours year-round compared to the Eiffel Tower departure.

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