The Batobus or water taxi on the Seine river is a unique way to discover Paris. The hop on hop off boat takes you via the Seine to the main sights of Paris. With the Batobus you can enjoy peace and a beautiful view of the capital. This Batobus actually works like the hop on hop off bus in Paris, but on the water. You can get on and off wherever you want.
The river taxi on the Seine is also an eco-friendly way to get around Paris and offers a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere. The boats have glass roofs, giving passengers a beautiful panoramic view of the city and the Seine. The Batobus offers different types of tickets, depending on the duration of use.
The hop on hop off boat is a lot less popular among tourists, but especially appreciated by the Parisians. The Batobus has 9 stops close to the famous monuments in Paris, such as Notre-Dame, Musée d’Orsay, Louvre, Eiffel Tower and many more. In this blog article everything about the hop on hop off boat in Paris, route map in pdf , stops and boarding points, opening hours and where to buy tickets.
• Fun to do: Tickets Cruise on the Seine by Bateaux Mouches (1h) →
• Nice combo: Tickets Louvre Museum + Eiffel Tower 2nd Floor or Summit →
1. Batobus or Paris water taxi: exploring the city via the Seine
The Batobus has existed since 1989 and has been used by thousands of Parisians and tourists over the years. With 9 strategic stops in and around central Paris, the Batobus provides a convenient year-round service for exploring the city via the Seine. You can choose to get on or off at any of the stops along the route. In the outdoor area at the back of the boat taxi you have an unobstructed view of the banks of the Seine.
Each Batobus or Seine river water taxi is named after a famous landmark in Paris (Vendôme, Trocadéro, …) and offers excellent comfort for an unforgettable cruise on the Seine. There is also a special area for bicycles at the front of the hop on hop off boat.
2. Handy map and full route of the Seine river taxi (+ pdf)
The Batobus or water taxi therefore stops at 9 different stops during the route. You can hop on and off at any of these stops whenever you like, as long as your ticket is valid. View a map of the route & stops below in a Google Map or download the pdf.
3. Stops, boarding points & opening times for the Batobus
Along the route of the Batobus in Paris you will pass the famous sights. The times of the hop on hop off boat in Paris? The Batobus usually sails from 10 am to 7 pm and this approximately every 25 minutes. Please note: opening times are changed regularly depending on the weather and season. Visit the official website for current times. The full course takes 1 hour and 36 minutes.
• These are the stops and boarding points of the Batobus in Paris:
1. Eiffel Tower | 2. Notre Dame | 3. Champs-Elysees | 4. Louvre | 5. Jardin des Plantes | 6. Saint-Germain-des-Pres | 7. Musée d’Orsay | 8. Hotel de Ville | 9. Invalides
4. Tickets & prices for the Batobus on the Seine in Paris
You can buy tickets for the Batobus for 1 day, 2 days or for a whole year. The price of a ticket for 2 days is very affordable. For a 1-day pass you pay 23€ and for 2 days 27€. With this ticket you can make unlimited use of the Batobus. Discover Paris at your own pace from the Seine. Buying tickets for the Batobus in Paris is best done online in advance to avoid queues.
5. Also discover the hop on hop off bus in Paris
Do you want to travel through Paris with the famous hop on hop off bus? The hop on hop off bus Paris is a good option, especially if it is your first time to Paris. See the top sights of Paris from an open-top bus and hop off whenever and wherever you like. Enjoy stunning views of Paris along the bus route and capture unique photo opportunities.
If you have never visited Paris, using the Batobus or hop on hop off boat can definitely be worthwhile. The water taxi on the Seine is a great way to get an overview of the city and discover the most beautiful sights of Paris. Also fun? A cruise or boat trip on the Seine in Paris.
FAQ about the Batobus in Paris or water taxi on the Seine
1. What exactly is the Batobus or Seine water taxi?
The Batobus is a hop-on, hop-off boat service that glides along the Seine River, stopping at major attractions in Paris. Think of it as a water bus or taxi, but way more scenic.
2. How many stops does the Batobus have?
There are 9 stops in total, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and Saint-Germain-des-Prés. It’s like sightseeing on a boat with a view at every turn.
3. Can I use the Batobus as regular public transport?
Sort of, but it’s mainly for tourists. It doesn’t run as frequently as a city bus or metro, but it’s a relaxed, fun way to move around central Paris.
4. Is it included in the Paris public transport pass?
Nope! The Batobus is a separate service and has its own tickets. But they’re reasonably priced and valid for 1 or multiple days, so you can float as much as you like.
5. How often do the boats run?
Every 20 – 30 minutes, depending on the season. In the warmer months, service is more frequent. Keep an eye on the schedule so you’re not left waving from the riverbank.
6. Is the Batobus a guided tour?
No audio guide or commentary here, it’s transport and not a tour. But that means no cheesy jokes over the speakers. Just peaceful cruising and amazing views.
7. Do I need to book in advance?
You can buy tickets online or at the docks. That said, during peak travel seasons (spring/summer), booking ahead can save time and stress.
8. Is the Batobus suitable for kids and families?
Absolutely! It’s stroller-friendly, fun, and lets little ones see Paris without too much walking. Plus, who doesn’t love a boat ride?
9. What’s the best way to plan a day using the Batobus?
Pick a few key stops, like hopping off for a museum, grabbing lunch in Saint-Germain, and watching sunset near the Eiffel Tower. It’s a laid-back way to explore without rushing.
10. Can I sit outside on the boat?
Yes! There’s an open-air section at the back where you can feel the breeze and snap those classic Paris river shots. Just don’t forget your sunglasses and scarf (à la Parisienne, of course).
Bonus tip: The Batobus isn’t just transport, it’s an experience. Grab a croissant, hop on, and let the Seine show you the soul of Paris, one stop at a time.
