Paris, the City of Light, captivates visitors with its iconic landmarks, charming streets, and romantic atmosphere. However, there is no better way to admire the beauty of the city than from the water. A boat tour or cruise is an excellent way to experience Paris’s magic and capture stunning views of the monuments and bridges. In this post, we’ll take a look at the best boat tours and cruises in Paris, from leisurely sightseeing trips to evening dinner cruises on the Seine River. So, if you’re planning a trip to Paris and want to add a unique and unforgettable experience to your itinerary, keep reading to discover the top boat tours and cruises the city offers.

The 5 Best Boat Trips in Paris

1. Paris Private Boat Tour
2. Paris in a Day Including Notre Dame and the Louvre and Eiffel Tower and Seine River Cruise
3. Paris City Tour With Seine River Cruise and Eiffel Tower Lunch
4. Eiffel Tower Experience and Dinner Cruise With Moulin Rouge Show and Champagne
5. Skip the Line Eiffel Tower 2nd Level Tour Louvre Museum and Cruise

The 5 Best Boat Trips in Paris

1. Paris Private Boat Tour

Experience Paris from the Seine River and enjoy a private boat tour with scenic views. The meeting point is at the Port de Javel Bas where you will find the boat located 50 meters from Rosé Piscine. During this boat tour, you will pass by well-known landmarks such as the Statue de la Liberte and the Eiffel Tower. In addition, there are six more stops along the way. Bottled water and all fees and taxes are included in the experience. Please note that this activity is not recommended for travelers with walking difficulties or back problems and is not wheelchair accessible. However, service animals are allowed. The tour can be cancelled up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. The tour ends back at the meeting point.

2. Paris in a Day Including Notre Dame and the Louvre and Eiffel Tower and Seine River Cruise

Experience the best of Paris in just one day with this small-group sightseeing tour. Visit highly sought-after attractions such as the Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower with skip-the-line access. Admire panoramic views of the city from the second level of the Eiffel Tower and take a leisurely Seine River cruise. With a local English-speaking guide leading the tour, participants get to explore Paris on foot and via metro, providing a more stunning and active journey. The package includes a gratuity, expertly guided walking tour, and a skip-the-line ticket for the Orsay Museum. Meet your group at Anvers Metro Station in front of the information kiosk labeled “Paris Tourisme” across from the staircase down in. Don’t miss the chance to see many famous Parisian attractions in one day with this incredible tour.

3. Paris City Tour With Seine River Cruise and Eiffel Tower Lunch

The Paris City Tour with Seine River Cruise and Eiffel Tower Lunch is a popular combo tour that offers travelers a chance to experience the history and gastronomy of Paris. This family-friendly tour includes a panoramic coach tour of Paris’ hotspots with multilingual commentary, a scenic cruise along the Seine River to admire landmarks such as the Louvre and Notre-Dame, and a French style gourmet lunch on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower. Priority access drinks and views are included in the lunch package. As an added benefit, this tour is available for both morning and afternoon departures. The tour also includes a multilingual tour escort, gratuities, and hotel pickup and drop-off. This combo is sure to be a highlight of any visitor’s trip to Paris.

4. Eiffel Tower Experience and Dinner Cruise With Moulin Rouge Show and Champagne

One of the best ways to see the illuminated city of Paris at night is on a river cruise along the Seine. The Eiffel Tower Experience and Dinner Cruise With Moulin Rouge Show and Champagne is an extraordinary three-in-one experience that combines a gourmet 3-course dinner with live entertainment and a scenic river cruise. Starting from a central Paris location, you will sail along the Seine passing by iconic landmarks including the Musée d’Orsay and Place de la Concorde. During the cruise, you can enjoy a glass of Champagne before indulging in a 3-course meal accompanied by the sounds of live music. This unique experience offers a special Parisian ambiance and a new perspective of the city. The package includes pick-up from your hotel, dinner, a glass of Champagne as an aperitif, live music, and gratuities. The meeting point for this experience is at 1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 75007 Paris, France.

5. Skip the Line Eiffel Tower 2nd Level Tour Louvre Museum and Cruise

Follow your guide through a dedicated access point to skip the long queues and gain admission to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower. As you ride the elevator to the second floor, your guide will provide you with humorous commentary about the city’s famous landmark, as well as insights into the history, culture, and people of France. From the second floor, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Paris and plenty of opportunities to snap memorable photos. After your tour ends, feel free to continue exploring the second floor at your leisure, or opt to purchase an additional ticket for access to the top of the tower. This skip-the-line pass is an excellent way to save valuable vacation time in Paris while experiencing the city’s most iconic monument.

Frequently Asked Questions about Paris

Paris is undoubtedly one of the most visited cities in the world. As a result, tourists have numerous questions regarding their trip to the city of love. We have compiled a list of the most commonly asked questions about Paris to help you prepare for your trip.

1. When is the best time to visit Paris?

One of the most frequently asked questions by tourists is the best time to visit Paris. Paris is a year-round destination, but the peak tourist season falls between June and August. The shoulder months of April to May and September to November are ideal because of the smaller crowds and better weather conditions. Moreover, Paris is particularly enchanting during winter, which runs from December to February. You can experience snowfall and fewer crowds during this period.

2. How can I navigate Paris using public transportation?

Paris’ public transportation system is dependable, efficient, and cost-effective. The city’s metro system is the fastest way to navigate Paris, with 16 lines across the city. The train service runs from 5 am to 1 am approximately the following day, and the ticket fare is €1.90 for a single journey when buying a pack of ten, which is called a “Carnet,” they’re a little cheaper. Additionally, the bus service is another convenient and scenic mode of transport when travelling shorter distances. It’s always recommended to use an offline map application like Citymapper or Google Maps to plan your route and simplify the process.

3. Do I need to learn French before I visit Paris?

Knowing French before visiting Paris is beneficial but not mandatory. Many people in Paris speak English to some extent, particularly in tourist-friendly regions. However, it’s always appreciated by the locals when foreigners show an effort to communicate in French. You can start with some basic French phrases such as “Bonjour” (hello), “Au revoir” (goodbye), and “Merci” (thank you).

4. What popular landmarks should I visit in Paris?

Paris is famous for its landmarks that symbolize France’s rich and diverse culture. Some of the top attractions include:- The Eiffel Tower

– The Louvre Museum

– The Notre-Dame Cathedral

– The Palace of Versailles

– The Arc de Triomphe

– The Champs-Elysées

– The Seine River

– Montmartre

– The Centre Pompidou

5. What are some great places to eat in Paris?

Paris is renowned for its delectable cuisine, and it offers a variety of options for dining. Some great dining suggestions include:- Café de Flore for a classic Parisian café experience.

– L’As du Fallafel for authentic Middle Eastern cuisine.

– Le Comptoir du Relais for a one-of-a-kind Parisian bistro experience.

– Ladurée for some of the best macarons in France.

– Le Jules Verne for a Michelin-starred fine dining experience with a view of the Eiffel Tower.

6. Is it customary to tip in Paris?

Tipping in Paris is not mandatory or expected, but it’s appreciated when you receive excellent service. It’s customary to tip around 5-10% of the total bill as a gesture of appreciation. However, it’s always best to verify if a service charge is already included in your bill before tipping.

7. How can I avoid pickpockets in Paris?

Like any big city, Paris has its fair share of petty theft incidents. To avoid falling victim to pickpockets, follow these tips:- Keep your belongings close to you and never leave them unattended.

– Avoid crowded areas, especially those where people bump into you frequently, such as metro stations, tourist spots or busy streets.

– Wear a crossbody bag instead of a backpack or purse.

– Consider a small amount of cash in your pockets and keep the rest concealed in your clothing or your bag’s hidden compartments.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Paris

Paris, the city of lights, is a top tourist destination for people all over the world. And for a good reason, with its charming cafes, ornate architecture, and world-renowned museums; Paris has something to offer for everyone. But with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. In this guide, we’ll cover some of the best things to do in Paris, to help you make the most of your trip.

1. Visit the Iconic Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is undoubtedly one of the most recognized structures in the world. It was built for the World Exposition in 1889 and has been a symbol of Paris ever since. Make sure to take a photo from Trocadéro, a nearby hill that offers the best view of the tower. If you want to save time, book your tickets in advance and don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the view from the top.

2. Explore the Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum is the most visited museum in the world, and it’s easy to see why. It has a vast collection of art, including the famous Mona Lisa painting. Plan for a whole day to explore the museum, and don’t forget to check out the Egyptian and Greek Antiquities sections. To avoid the long queues, book your tickets online before you go.

3. Stroll Along the Seine River

The Seine River flows through the heart of Paris, and walking along it offers many scenic views of the city. During the summer months, take a sunset river cruise and enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the stunning views.

4. Visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral

The Notre-Dame Cathedral is a Gothic masterpiece that has been standing for over 800 years. The cathedral’s interior is just as impressive as its exterior, with intricate stained glass windows and a massive organ. Take a tour and learn more about its remarkable history.

5. Shop at the Champs-Élysées

The Champs-Élysées is a 2-kilometer-long avenue filled with luxurious stores, high-end boutiques, and charming cafes. Strolling down the avenue and taking in the sights and smells is an excellent way to spend an afternoon. Don’t forget to stop at Ladurée, the legendary patisserie, for some delicious macarons.

6. Explore Montmartre

Montmartre is a quintessential Parisian neighborhood with a bohemian vibe. Visit the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur, enjoy street performances and artists, and soak up the atmosphere in this charming area. The Place du Tertre, in the heart of Montmartre, is a square filled with artists and their work.

7. Enjoy the View from the Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is a famous monument that honors those who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. The view from the top is breathtaking, with panoramic views of the city. Don’t forget to take a photo of the Champs-Élysées from the top!

8. Visit the Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is a stunning example of French architecture and artistry. With its vast gardens, ornate design, and historical significance, it’s no wonder it’s one of the most visited tourist attractions in France. Plan a whole day to explore the palace, its gardens, and the Petit Trianon.

9. Try the Delicious French Cuisine

Paris is famous for its delicious food, and trying it should be on your to-do list. Apart from the famous croissants and baguettes, make sure to try escargots, coq au vin, and the French classic, ratatouille. For dessert, don’t miss out on the crème brûlée or mille-feuille.

10. Attend a Cabaret Show

A cabaret show is a perfect way to experience the Parisian nightlife. Enjoy a glass of champagne while watching talented dancers and performers entertain you. The iconic Moulin Rouge is a top choice, but there are other cabaret options available.

Final Thoughts

Paris is a city that has something to offer for everyone, and this guide covers only a few of the many attractions and activities available. Remember to plan ahead, book tickets in advance, and take your time to enjoy the city at your own pace. With some careful planning and creativity, you’re sure to have a memorable time in Paris!