A Seine river cruise is one of the most iconic things to do in Paris. As you glide along the water, you’ll see famous sights like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame from a whole new perspective. With your loved one, with friends or as a family with children (discounted rate), a cruise on the Seine never disappoints. The tour boats or ‘Bateaux-Mouches’ sail every day of the year and there are various boarding points.
There are many types of Seine cruises to choose from: quick sightseeing tours, romantic dinner cruises with live music, or magical evening rides when the city is beautifully illuminated. But which boat tour is the best for your trip? In this guide, we compare the most popular options so you can easily pick the perfect Seine experience.
Did you know that the official Paris city pass also includes a 1-hour cruise on the Seine? And also discover the Batobus or water bus on the Seine.
• Fun to do: Tickets Cruise on the Seine by Bateaux Mouches (1h) →
• Nice combo: Tickets Louvre Museum + Eiffel Tower 2nd Floor or Summit →
1. The best Seine river cruises in Paris compared: which one to choose
When it comes to choosing the best Seine River cruise in Paris, it really depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. If you want a classic sightseeing tour at a good price, Bateaux Mouches and Bateaux Parisiens are the most popular, offering frequent departures and great views.
For something more romantic and upscale, dinner cruises with companies like La Marina de Paris combine fine dining with the city’s sparkling lights. And if you’d prefer a flexible hop-on hop-off option, the Batobus is perfect for exploring at your own pace. In short: there’s no single best cruise, just the one that matches your mood and budget!
2. Tickets for a 1-hour Seine river boat cruise in Paris
A cruise on the Seine is one of the best ways to explore Paris. Enjoy unique views of landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and the Musée d’Orsay. You can choose a standard cruise (with aperitif) during the day or in the evening.
• What tickets are available for a cruise in Paris?
– Standard cruises: usually last an hour and are perfect for a quick introduction to the highlights of Paris.
– Evening cruises: the illuminated monuments along the Seine make for an unforgettable experience at night.
– Combination tickets: combine the cruise with admission to other popular attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower.
– Dinner cruise: combine the cruise with a dinner or lunch on board. Ideal for a romantic evening or a special occasion.
• Where can you buy tickets for a boat tour in Paris?
Tickets are easily available online via the link below. You can of course also buy tickets on site, but booking in advance is recommended (especially during high season).
3. How much does a cruise on the Seine in Paris cost (+ discount with children)
The price of a Seine River cruise in Paris, day, evening, or night, can vary depending on several factors. The duration of the cruise, the type of boat, whether it includes an aperitif or not, the season, and the operator are all factors that can influence the price. How much does a cruise in Paris cost? A ticket for a basic 1-hour cruise is quite reasonable, costing around €17 (there are often discounts). Children receive a reduced rate of up to 50%.
Some cruises are offered on traditional open-deck boats, while others have covered glass roofs for better views. Boats with meals and drinks on board are also available, and these tours can be more expensive than standard tours. Tip: buy your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line.
4. Popular boarding points from the Eiffel Tower and Pont Neuf
Popular departure points are at the Eiffel Tower and Pont Neuf. The Bateau-Mouches usually sail from the Eiffel Tower to Île Saint-Louis and back. They generally all follow roughly the same route and have the same departure points. Paris has many well-known operators of Seine River boat tours, such as Bateaux Mouches, Bateaux Parisiens, and Vedettes du Pont Neuf.
• These are the main departure points and operators:
– Port de la Bourdonnais (at the foot of the Eiffel Tower): departure point for Bateaux Parisiens
– Port de l’Alma: departure point for Bateaux Mouches cruise boats
– Port de Solférino (near the Musée d’Orsay): for Paris Seine cruises
– Pont Neuf (Square du Vert-Galant): departure point on the Île de la Cité for Vedettes du Pont Neuf
– Quai Anatole France (near the Assemblée Nationale): for smaller or private cruises
• Departure times:
– Departures between 10:00 AM and 10:00 PM (departures every 30 minutes) from April to September.
– Departures between 10:30 AM and 9:00 PM (departures every hour) from October to March..
5. How long does a boat trip on the Seine take
The standard cruise lasts approximately 1 hour and the route takes you past some of the most beautiful sights. From the water, you’ll have truly stunning views of the famous bridges and historic buildings of the City of Light. It’s also a great option in less favorable weather, as you can simply take a seat in the covered area.
• The duration of a Seine River cruise varies depending on the type of cruise you choose:
– Short cruise without dinner: approximately 1 hour, ideal for a quick sightseeing tour with an audio guide
– Dinner cruise: usually 2 to 2.5 hours, including a multi-course dinner and a leisurely pace to enjoy the views
– Lunch cruise: approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, similar to the dinner cruise but during the day
– Private or themed cruises: can range from 1 to 3 hours, depending on the package and route
6. Which sights do the tour boats pass by
A Seine River cruise takes you past some of Paris’s most iconic sights. Soon after departure, you’ll see the imposing Eiffel Tower looming, followed by the elegant Palais de Chaillot on the opposite bank. The boat glides under magnificent bridges, including the gold-adorned Pont Alexandre III and the historic Pont Neuf.
On the banks, you’ll see the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay, and, further along, the impressive façade of Notre-Dame Cathedral on the Île de la Cité. You’ll also pass the charming Île Saint-Louis and the modern building of the Institut du Monde Arabe.
7. Enjoy a romantic and culinary evening
A Seine River cruise with lunch or dinner in the evening is and remains a unique experience in Paris. A relaxing trip on the Seine while enjoying French cuisine. You simply must do it! Experience the magic of Paris while savoring a gourmet dinner and stunning views.
Paris is simply breathtaking in the evening and at night. The prices for a Seine River cruise with a meal? They’re quite reasonable, ranging from €70 to €120. Good to know: champagne and live music are included with an 8:30 pm departure.
8. Enjoy a wonderful boat trip in Paris with these tips
• Book your tickets in advance: especially at popular times like sunset or during the holidays
• Choose the best spot: the best views are from the upper deck of the tour boats
• Check the weather in advance: for a great experience, a tour in sunny weather is ideal
• A boat tour in Paris is also an excellent choice with children
A Seine River cruise is one of the best ways to experience the city. It’s also great with kids! Cruising the Seine is a lot of fun, especially if you’re visiting the City of Light for the first time and can spot the Eiffel Tower. A cruise with an aperitif in the evening or at night is also a unique experience.
FAQ about the best Seine river cruises in Paris
1. Why should I take a Seine River cruise?
Because it’s one of the best ways to see Paris! From the water, you’ll pass iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre, all while relaxing on deck. It’s sightseeing with zero effort.
2. How long does a Seine River cruise usually last?
Most cruises last about 1 hour, which is perfect for seeing the highlights. Dinner or lunch cruises are longer, usually 2 to 3 hours, with meals and music included.
3. Where do the cruises start and end?
Most boats depart from central locations near the Eiffel Tower, Pont Neuf, or Musée d’Orsay. Return points are usually the same, making it easy to plan your day.
4. Do I need to book tickets in advance?
It depends. For standard daytime cruises, you can often buy tickets on the spot. For dinner cruises or special evening sailings, advance booking is strongly recommended.
5. What’s the difference between a daytime and evening cruise?
Day cruises are great for seeing details of the city’s architecture. Evening cruises, especially after sunset, let you experience Paris illuminated, the Eiffel Tower sparkle show is pure magic.
6. Are Seine cruises expensive?
Not necessarily! Simple sightseeing cruises start around €15–€20. Dinner cruises are pricier, usually €70–€150, depending on the menu and style.
7. Can I eat or drink on board?
Yes! Many sightseeing boats sell snacks and drinks. On dinner or lunch cruises, you’ll enjoy a full multi-course French meal with wine, often accompanied by live music.
8. Are Seine cruises suitable for families?
Absolutely. Kids love the boat ride and the sights. Some companies even offer family-friendly deals or shorter tours.
9. What’s the best time of year for a Seine River cruise?
Cruises run all year. Summer evenings are gorgeous, but winter cruises are cozy too, with heated cabins and fewer crowds. Sunset cruises in spring and autumn are especially romantic.
10. Can I use my Seine cruise ticket as public transport?
No, regular sightseeing cruises are not part of public transport. However, there are special Batobus boats that work like a hop-on hop-off service along the river, perfect for sightseeing at your own pace.
