batobus river cruise paris

Paris Batobus

The Batobus is a boat shuttle that travels down the River Seine, stopping frequently at the city’s top attractions . One could call it a " floating tour bus ".  

The Batobus has the following 9 stops :

• Eiffel Tower
• Musée d’Orsay
• St Germain des Près
• Notre-Dame Cathedral  
• Jardin des Plantes
• Hôtel de Ville
• Champs-Elysées
• Beaugrenelle

The batobus works very similarly to any tour bus, you can hop off and hop on as many times as you want and you can either get a one-day or two-day pass.

Schedules & timetables

The schedule and timetable of the Paris Batobus depend on the time of year:

• Monday – Thursday: 10 am – 5 pm (a boat leaves every 45 mins )
• Friday – Sunday: 10 am – 7 pm (a boat leaves every 30 mins )

*Children up to 15 years old can take advantage of this rate. **To benefit from the reduced rate you must present a student card or the Passe Navigo .

Where to buy the ticket?

You can buy 24 or 48-hour tickets at any of the stops on the route, or buy in advance from our website:

• Buy Paris Batobus Tickets

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Batobus Paris water taxi: Seine boat stops, map & tickets

The Batobus (Seine river taxi) is a unique way to discover Paris. The Batobus or 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 Batobus or water 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 water taxi in Paris 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 you will learn everything about the hop on hop off boat in Paris, the route, stops and boarding points, opening hours and where you can buy tickets online.

• Fun to do:   Batobus Paris + Generali Balloon Flight Open Ticket →

1. Batobus Paris or hop on hop off boat: river taxi on the Seine

The Batobus in Paris 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. There is also a special area for bicycles at the front of the hop on hop off boat.

Nice to know: 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.

• Tickets & prices Batobus Paris →

2. Price & tickets 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 19€ and for 2 days 21€. 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.

3. Stops, hours, 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. Musee d’Orsay | 8. Hotel de Ville | 9. Invalides

4. Map of the Seine river water taxi in Paris

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.

5. Also discover the hop on hop off bus 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.

• Best hop on hop off bus tour in Paris: tickets & prices →

If you have never visited Paris, using the hop on hop off boat in Paris can be well worth it. The water taxi is a great way to get an overview of the city and discover the most beautiful sights of Paris. Also nice? A 1-hour cruise on the Seine.

Faq about the batobus, hop on hop off boat on the seine or paris river taxi.

The price of a ticket for a 1-day pass is 19€ and for 2 days 21€. With this ticket you can make unlimited use of the Batobus in Paris. Buy your ticket online in advance to avoid queues.

Buying tickets for the Batobus or hop on hop off boat in Paris is easy online.

The water taxi in Paris has 9 different stops. You can get on and off at these pick-up points at any time, as long as your pass is valid. The stops and pick-up points of the Batobus in Paris: Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, Champs-Elysées, Louvre, Jardin des Plantes, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Musée d'Orsay, Hôtel de Ville and Invalides.

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.

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CRUISE ON THE SEINE

The ultimate guide to seine river cruises in paris.

Cruises on the Seine » The Cruises » Batobus Paris – The Complete guide to the popular Cruise in Paris!

Batobus Paris – The Complete guide to the popular Cruise in Paris!

With 9 location stops in central Paris and frequency of every 20 minutes, Batobus Paris is the best Seine River Cruise you can get when traveling Paris. So what is the tickets Price? Where you can buy tickets? How do you find the map and the Route? and Where is the stations? Check this Ultimate Guide for Batobus Paris!

• By: Ryan Mitchell

Reserve your Batobus Tickets!

Batobus stops - what is batobus 9 stations.

As mentioned, Batobus offers 9 stops where you can hop-on and hop-off at your own pace and in your own free time. These 9 stops are located in central places around Paris, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and more

Here are the Batobus 9 stations:

• Jardin des Plantes
• Hôtel de Ville
• Place de la Concorde
• Tour Eiffel
• Musée d’Orsay
• Saint-Germain-des-Prés

How long does Batobus route take?

The Batobus route takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete, from start to finish. There is en approximate 10 to 15 minutes between each stops.

Here is a table of the approximate travel times between each stop:

What is Batobus Frequency?

Here is a table of the Batobus frequency by time of year:

What is Batobus tickets price?

The price of Batobus tickets is not too expensive with 19€ for the cheapest option (Tickets for 1 day). Please note that tickets prices may change depending on the time of year. Also, Children under the age of 3 can get free access.

Here is a full list table of the Batobus ticket prices:

Batobus Tickets - Where should you buy tickets?

Batobus route map.

Batobus Paris FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Batobus in Paris:

Batobus operates from morning until late evening allowing you to enjoy the beautiful city lights once the sun sets.

Batobus stops running at 7:00 PM during the summer season (April to October) and 6:00 PM during the winter season (November to March). The last boat leaves from the Eiffel Tower stop at 6:45 PM during the summer season and 5:45 PM during the winter season.

More useful information about Seine River Cruise in Paris

•  Going to Paris with kids? here are the best Seine River Cruises with Kids !
• Having a Low-Budget? Here are some Cheap Seine River Cruises with deals and discounts!
• Paris hop-on hop-off river cruise – The best way to travel in Paris!
• What is Seine Cruise Tickets Prices ?– The best Guide!

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Paris By Boat: Batobus Paris Stops & Things To Do At Each In 2024

One of my favourite things to do in Paris, and something I have recommended in every Paris itinerary I have written so far is ride on Batobus Paris . I love this hop-on hop-off Seine river bus service! So, it’s fitting that I share with you some details about where Batobus Paris stops. And, because this is a travel blog, I’ll share lots of ideas of what to do at each stop.

Read on for an overview of how the Batobus works, some tips for using it, and inspiration about what to do at the stops. I’ve also included a map of the stops and the things to do near them.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. These are links to products or experiences I recommend and if you were to buy something after clicking on them, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Any earnings go towards the upkeep of this blog, which I appreciate.

Table of Contents

What Is The Batobus In Paris?

Batobus Paris is the name of a river bus service that runs on the Seine in Paris, France

The French word for a boat is ‘Bateau’ and a bus is ‘bus’, so put them together and it sounds like Batobus. And it works like a bus service: it has a set route with stops along the way and a series of boats run along the route continuously throughout the day.

It’s a hop-on hop-off Paris boat service that you can use from any stop to any stop. It is different to Seine River cruises, which typically depart from and return to the same place without stopping.

If you’ve ever been to London, Batobus Paris is somewhat similar to the Thames Clipper river bus service we have (and which I also love!).

Why Use Batobus Paris?

Batobus Paris is a flexible way to explore the Seine and a scenic way to get around the riverside areas of Paris.

It’s also better value than many Seine river cruises. With Batobus tickets , for not much more than a basic 1-hour Seine River cruise (and less than many other cruises), you can ride the Batobus as many times and for as long as you like all day.

Batobus Paris Pros

In my experience, the best things about Batobus Paris are the following:

• Panoramic views of the Seine River and all the gorgeous architecture along it
• Great stop locations : Batobus Paris stops include many of the major landmarks along the Seine, so you can see a lot of Paris using the Batobus
• Hop-on-hop-off tickets mean you can use the Batobus as often as you like during the time your ticket is valid. And you can get close to the attractions you pass, rather than simply viewing them from the river.
• No rigid timetables : bus-style service means you don’t have to book a specific boat – you can jump on any Batobus that comes.
• Good value for money , especially for the 2-day pass
• All-season boats : rooftop windows can open in good weather, or close. Heating is available, when it’s cold.

Batobus Paris Cons

I like to keep it real, so you should know there are some down-sides to using Batobus Paris, including:

• No commentary from a guide. You’ll see the sights, and there are announcements of Batobus Paris stops, but there’s no tour guide telling you all about all the Seine landmarks, like on an actual tour.
• Few refreshments are available on board . There are vending machines that have some food & drink, but they’re fairly limited.
• No toilets on board . This one could be tough if you want to ride the entire route of the Batobus in one go because the full route takes around 2 hours.
• Open-air standing only. There’s plenty of seating inside and the ceiling windows open to allow air in, but the side windows don’t open, so if you sit, you’ll be looking through glass. The fully open-air part, which is at the back of the boats, is standing only.

I personally think the pros outweigh the cons, but hopefully, this list helps you make up your own mind.

Batobus Paris Stops: Route Overview

The route is an anti-clockwise loop that runs continually between nine Batobus Paris stops, in this order:

• Eiffel Tower
• Museé d’Orsay
• Saint-Germain-des-Prés
• Jardin des Plantes
• Hôtel de Ville
• Place de la Concorde

Boats run along the left bank heading eastwards (upriver) from the Eiffel Tower to Jardin des Plantes, and along the right bank heading westwards (downriver) the other way.

I’ve marked these Batobus Paris stops on the map a little lower down in this article.

How To Recognise Batobus Paris Stops

The first time I took a Batobus, I was worried I wouldn’t be able to tell where the stops were. In London, our Thames river buses (Thames Clipper) operate from piers, so they’re impossible to mistake. But in Paris, the Batobus simply pull up to the banks of the Seine.

However, if you know the area of the river bank to look at, the Batobus Paris stops are actually hard to miss. They are well-signposted with tall signs clearly saying ‘Batobus’ and consistent blue branding.

Batobus Paris Stops With Details

OK, I’ll go through each stop, telling you exactly where the Batobus Paris stops are, what to do at each one, and where the nearest Metro stations are, in case you want to continue from there.

1. Eiffel Tower Batobus Stop

Although you can join the Batobus at any stop, this might technically be the start of the route because the last boat of the day departs from here for the final loop.

In any case, for many, their Batobus journey begins at this stop. Taking a boat on the Seine follows quite nicely after climbing the Eiffel Tower (in fact, I suggest this in my Paris 4-day itinerary ). For this reason, it can be a busy Batobus stop, so bear that in mind.

Where Is The Eiffel Tower Batobus Stop?

It is at Port de la Bourdonnais , which is on the same side of the river as the Eiffel Tower, next to Pont d’Iena on the northeast side.

What Is There To Do Near The Eiffel Tower Batobus Stop?

Well, the main thing to do looms over the Batobus Paris stop as you approach in the boat!

The Eiffel Tower is of course the major attraction here. It’s arguably the emblem of Paris and its most famous landmark. You could walk up the tower, take the lift to the second or top floor , or even combine it with lunch on the tower (I haven’t tried this last one yet myself, but another blogger recommended it and the reviews are good).

Or, you could simply wander the Champs de Mars enjoying the free view from the gardens. Spring is an especially nice time to do that, when you might catch the cherry blossoms in Paris .

You’re also near the Trocadéro , which is on the other side of the river and offers more views of the tower from its terrace and gardens.

If you want to get away from the crowds, there are some attractive Paris streets nearby, including Rue de l’Université (which, admittedly will likely have some crowds because it’s a photo hotspot); Avenue Rapp , which has a wonderful example of Art Nouveau architecture at 29 Avenue Rapp and Square Rapp; Rue Cler , a lovely market street with lots of terrace cafes, making it a good place to eat.

What Is The Closest Metro Station To The Eiffel Tower Batobus Stop?

Champ de Mars Eiffel Tower (RER route C, with a connection to Metro line 6) and Pont de l’Alma (also RER Route C) are nearly equidistant from the Batobus stop, in opposite directions.

2. Invalides Batobus Stop

It’s very fancy in this part of Paris! Get off here if you like decorative architecture and gold leaf.

Where Is The Invalides Batobus Stop?

It’s on the left bank, right next to the Pont Alexandre III bridge, on the east side.

What Is There To Do Near The Invalides Batobus Stop?

You could wander through the long Esplanade des Invalides gardens to Les Invalides itself, which is a complex of military museums and a church which contains the tombs of Napoleon Bonaparte. The church here has the most elaborate gold dome!

You could also cross the equally fabulous-looking Pont Alexandre III bridge, which has several Beaux-Arts-style statues and figures along the way – with a mix of black and gold treatment. It’s very extra.

On the other side of the river, you’ll find two Art Nouveau architectural gems: Grand Palais , which is currently closed for renovation, and the Petit Palais , which is a free art gallery in a gorgeous building. The central garden is really lovely!

What Is The Closest Metro Station To The Invalides Batobus Stop?

Invalides station (lines 8, 13 and RER route C) is very close to the Batobus stop.

3. Museé D’Orsay Batobus Stop

Museé D’Orsay is possibly my favourite museum in Paris – I love it! But it’s popular and you’ll need to book tickets in advance . So if you want to take the Batobus and get off here to go into the museum, make sure you allow plenty of time before your timed entry. 

Where Is The Museé D’Orsay Batobus Stop?

It is directly in front of Musee D’Orsay, in between the footbridge Passerelle Léopold-Sédar-Senghor and Pont Royal .

What Is There To Do Near Museé D’Orsay Batobus Stop?

The main thing is the Museé D’Orsay itself, which is a really great art gallery in what was originally intended to be a grand train station.

There’s a wide variety of art to be seen here, including temporary exhibitions, and an extensive permanent collection of sculptures and paintings, including many impressionist masterpieces on the top floor (my personal favourite part of the museum).

The large clock windows are a novel treat, too.

Other than the museum, you could cross the Seine here to explore the Jardin des Tuileries , which are lovely in Spring. They’re surrounded by Paris landmarks and overlooked by the grand mansions of Rue de Rivoli. Well-to-do Angelina Café is a bit of a tourist favourite here, but it gets busy (and I haven’t been tempted to go back since my first visit to Paris many years ago).

At the west end of Tuileries, there’s another of my favourite art galleries in Paris: Museé de l’Orangerie . Here the space is mainly dedicated to exhibiting eight waterlily paintings by Monet. It’s quite different to the experience of other galleries, where you walk by hundreds and hundreds of works. Here, you have the opportunity to really immerse yourself in the small number of huge paintings, to feel the atmosphere Monet wanted to create (he helped design the light, open space they’re exhibited in).

What Is The Closest Metro Station To The Museé D’Orsay Batobus Stop?

Museé D’Orsay has its own station right next to the museum. It is on RER route C.

4. Saint-Germain-des-Prés Batobus Stop

A heads-up: the name for this Batobus Paris stop is technically correct: it is near the vibrant area of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. But you have to walk for ten minutes to get to the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

Where Is The Saint-Germain-des-Prés Batobus Stop?

It is on the left bank, just a little to the west of Pont des Arts .

What Is There To Do Near The Saint-Germain-des-Prés Batobus Stop?

If you want to explore Saint-Germain-des-Prés , head past the sweet Square Gabriel-Pierné (another of the great places to see cherry blossoms in Paris ) and down Rue de Seine for the lively café bars around Rue de Buci .

Alternatively, walk down Rue Bonaparte to get to the grand literary cafes of Saint-Germain-des-Prés : Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore . These cafes were the epicentre of the philosophical & artistic community that formed around Saint-Germain in the 1960s. Here’s where Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone DeBeauvoir used to meet, drink and discuss.

The oldest church in Paris is also here: Église de Saint-Germain-des-Prés .

One thing I did when I got off the Batobus at the Saint-Germain-des-Prés stop is cross the very scenic pedestrian bridge Pont Des Arts . This is the bridge that was once where people attached ‘love locks’. But there were so many of them, they were all taken away and the railings have been replaced with un-padlock-able glass.  

It’s a great bridge to cross the Seine because it has views towards Pont Neuf and the pointy Square du Vert-Galant on the tip of Île de la Cité . And on either side of the bridge, you have the magnificent Louvre buildings and the domed Institute de France .

There are also some Bouquinistes along this part of the Seine: those charming green riverside stalls selling books, prints and vintage posters.

What Is The Closest Metro Station To The Saint-Germain-des-Prés Batobus Stop?

There are none very close – it’s a bit of a Metro black spot. But there are Metro stations 11 minutes walk away at Saint-Germain-des-Prés (line 4) and 8 minutes away (across the bridge) at Louvre-Rivoli (line 1).

5. Notre-Dame Batobus Stop

Another popular stop on the Paris Batobus is Notre-Dame, as it’s close to another iconic Parisian landmark and there’s lots to do here.

Where Is The Notre-Dame Batobus Stop?

It’s on the left bank of the Seine, just east of the pedestrian bridge Pont au Double .

What Is There To Do Near The Notre-Dame Batobus Stop?

The most obvious is, of course, the Cathedral of Notre Dame – and it’s right there, visible when you get off the boat. Enjoy the imposing Gothic architecture of this 13 th -century cathedral and find ‘Paris Point Zero’, the exact point from which all distances from Paris are measured.

Oh, and there’s a decent toilet here if you need it! It costs a couple of euros, but it’s been clean whenever I’ve used it.

If you’re happy to explore Île de la Cité further, you might check out Sainte-Chapelle , which has possibly the most beautiful church interior I’ve ever seen, and La Conciergerie , a former medieval prison, where Marie Antoinette was imprisoned before her beheading. It’s possible to get combined Sainte-Chapelle and Conciergerie tickets .

On the left bank of the river, you have the famous Latin Quarter of Paris, named for the language spoken by scholars here in the middle ages.

Close to the river, there are some of the most beautiful streets in Paris , including Rue Galande , where the impossibly quaint Odette café is located, Square René Viviani and Rue de la Bucherie , where you’ll find the famous English language bookshop, Shakespeare & Company .

If you’re into books, not far away, there’s another cute old bookshop, Abbey Bookshop . And this one is less likely to have a queue, as it’s somewhat more off the beaten path in Paris (relatively speaking, anyway).

If you wanted to go deeper into the Latin Quarter, you could check out the Gothic architecture at College des Bernardins and the immense church where novelist Victor Hugo is buried, Pantheon .

What Is The Closest Metro Station To The Notre-Dame Batobus Stop?

This Batobus stop is not too far from both Saint-Michel Notre-Dame (line 4 and RER routes B & C) and Cité (line 4).

6. Jardin Des Plantes Batobus Stop

The Batobus turnaround stop is Jardin Des Plantes. This is where the boats change direction and head westwards along the right back of the Seine.

Where Is The Jardin Des Plantes Batobus Stop?

It is on the riverside park area called Jardin Tino Rossi , west of Pont d’Austerlitz .  

What Is There To Do Near The Jardin Des Plantes Batobus Stop?

Well, you could have a little wander along the Jardin Tino Rossi , which has some nice plants and a weeping willow tree.

But the main thing is to explore Jardin des Plantes , which is an extensive park and botanical garden. There are all sorts of plants and flowers here, as well as a menagerie and a small zoo area.

In the park is Paris’s Natural History Museum, with the main building being the Grande Galerie de l’évolution .

And if you wanted to go further into the Latin quarter from here, you could visit the Grand Mosque of Paris . Even further is Rue Mouffetard , a narrow old Roman road now lined with eateries and market stalls.

An alternative, if you don’t mind a bit of a walk, is to cross the Pont Austerlitz to the right bank and explore a bit of the cool Bastille area north of the river. Some pleasant spots include Rue Cremieux , a pretty, colourful street; Promenade Plantee , a raised garden walkway that may have inspired the High Line in New York (it came first, at least) and the many cute passageways in this area. A favourite of mine is Passage l’Homme .

What Is The Closest Metro Station To The Jardin Des Plantes Batobus Stop?

There’s a Metro station at Austerlitz (lines 5 & 10 and RER route C).

7. Hôtel de Ville Batobus Stop

Paris’s City Hall is quite the show-off and this chateau-like municipal building has its own Batobus stop.

Where Is The Hôtel de Ville Batobus Stop?

The Batobus stop at Hôtel de Ville is located on the right bank in between Pont Louis-Philippe and Pont D’Arcole , not far from some public toilets.

What Is There To Do Near The Hôtel de Ville Batobus Stop?

From here, you could easily explore the islands in the Seine: Île de la Cité , which I’ve already mentioned in relation to the Notre-Dame Batobus stop, and also Île Saint-Louis , the smaller, quieter island. If you want a pretty Parisian café, Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole is really sumptuous.

And of course, the place the stop is named for: Hôtel de Ville is on the right bank. It’s still the city hall of Paris, so I’ve only ever admired it from the outside – but it is worth a look: its chateau-style architecture is quite fancy!

It’s next to one of the grands magasins of Paris, BHV Marais . This isn’t the best Parisian department store in Paris, in my opinion. Samaritaine is grander and more impressive, but it’s a bit more of a walk from here.

Otherwise, you could walk a little further away from the river to see the Pompidou Centre , the famous inside-out building, which wears its tubes and ducts on the exterior. It’s an art gallery, with an amazing rooftop restaurant.

Alternatively, you could veer slightly more northeast into the chic and artsy Marais district, or west to check out another striking Gothic landmark: Tour Saint-Jacques , which has a nice park around it (great for taking a break from exploring).

What Is The Closest Metro Station To The Hôtel de Ville Batobus Stop?

There’s a Metro station at Hôtel de Ville on lines 1 and 10.

8. Louvre Batobus Stop

Of course, the most famous museum in Paris has a Batobus stop!

Where Is The Louvre Batobus Stop?

It is located on the right bank in between Pont Royal and Pont du Carrousel .

What Is There To Do Near The Louvre Batobus Stop?

Obviously, you could go to Musée du Louvre ! Famous for Michelangelo’s Mona Lisa, but packed with thousands of works of art and artefacts, you could spend days exploring the Louvre!

And the buildings themselves are also lovely to wander around, even if you don’t go inside. The contrast of the old Renaissance palace with the modern glass pyramid doesn’t get old for me. And I love the view from Passage de Richelieu .

As with Museé D’Orsay, if you want tickets for the Louvre , you should book them in advance.  

And of course, as mentioned when I discussed the Museé D’Orsay Batobus stop, Tuileries Gardens are especially lovely in Spring.

Beyond the Louvre, I like the stretch of Paris just north of here. Cross Rue de Rivoli, past Place Colette and go to the Palais Royal , once a royal palace, now a government building. The grounds are open to the public, including the courtyard full of stripey columns and long gardens. Along the sides, under the porticoes are some cafes, if you need a sit-down.

And beyond that, you’ll find three interesting covered passages : one very small ( Passage des Deux Pavilions ), one grand but somewhat lacking atmosphere ( Galerie Colbert ) and another that is just beautiful ( Galerie Vivienne ).

What Is The Closest Metro Station To The Louvre Batobus Stop?

There are two, both on line 1: Tuileries and Palais Royal-Museé du Louvre.

9. Place De La Concorde Batobus Stop

Place de la Concorde might not seem like the most exciting Batobus stop, because Place de la Concorde itself is both beautiful and ugly at the same time (ugly because of the many cars!). But this is a convenient spot for some top attractions in Paris.

Where Is The Place De La Concorde Batobus Stop?

It’s almost directly opposite the Invalides Batobus stop on the right bank, close to Pont Alexandre III .

What Is There To Do Near The Place De La Concorde Batobus Stop?

I already mentioned the Grand Palais and Petit Palais , which are right here near the Batobus stop. I personally don’t recommend Place de la Concorde given how busy it is with traffic. I find it hard to enjoy, but it’s there if you want to check it out.

You could then walk beyond it to Avenue des Champs-Élysées , the famous boulevard that connects Place de la Concorde with the Arc de Triomphe.

I’m personally not a fan of the Champs-Élysées, but the huge, celebratory Arc de Triomphe is pretty cool. And if you don’t want to walk all the way along the boulevard to the arch, you could jump on the Metro instead.

It is possible to get tickets to the open-air terrace on top of the Arc de Triomphe . And I do recommend it. It’s especially special around sunset, so you can see the sky change colour and witness the lights of Paris some on. I did this on a solo trip to Paris , but it could definitely also be a romantic thing to do in Paris .

In fact, I recommend this sunset Arc De Triomphe experience even if you’re only in Paris for one day !

What Is The Closest Metro Station To The Place De La Concorde Batobus Stop?

Either Invalides, across the river, or Champs-Elysees-Clemenceau (lines 1 & 13).

Map: Batobus Paris Stops

Here’s an annotated, interactive map showing exactly where the Batobus Paris stops are. I’ve also annotated some of the things I’ve recommended near each stop.

How To Use This Map : Click the tab in the top left-hand corner of the map to view the layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each one.  If you click the star next to the map’s title, it will be added to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu, go to ‘Your Places’ or ‘Saved’, then click Maps and you will see this map in your list.

Batobus Paris FAQs

Where can i buy batobus paris tickets.

You have a couple of options. There are ticket booths at some (but not all) of the Batobus Paris stops, specifically the following:

• Tour Eiffel
• Jardins des Plantes

If the ticket office is closed, there should be a QR code to scan, to take you to their website to buy from there.

However, you can easily book the tickets online in advance, without having to worry about the ticket office. You can do this on the Batobus Paris website directly, or via a trusted ticket site like Get Your Guide.

I personally bought my Batobus tickets from Get Your Guide rather than buying directly because I figured it would be easier to deal with them should anything go wrong.

How it works is: once you select the date and duration of your pass and pay for it, you’ll be emailed the ticket with a QR code, which you then show to the Batobus staff when you get on. They scan it and is as easy that!

Oh, and the price is the same regardless of whether you buy it direct or from Get Your Guide.

2024 prices (correct at the time of publishing):

• Adults €23 for a one-day pass / €27 for a two-day pass
• Children’s passes are: €13 for a one-day pass / €17 for a two-day pass
• Toddlers go free!

Get Batobus Paris tickets now on Get Your Guide – I’m using affiliate links, which means I receive a bit of commission on tickets, at no extra cost to you.

Batobus Paris Schedule: How Frequent Is The Batobus In Paris?

There is no Batobus Paris timetable as such. Ie, the boats aren’t scheduled to depart at 15:33, for example. They just depart every 15-20 minutes.

They say the full loop takes an hour and 42 minutes, but it can be close to 2 hours in my experience.

What Time Is The Last Batobus In Paris?

The hours of operation do vary by season. Times refer to the first and last departing boats:

• The longest hours are in Spring, Summer and Autumn (Fall) (10 am to 7 pm)
• Shorter hours in Winter (10 am to 5 pm or 7 pm on the weekends). And I have seen closures in January before.
• NB. There can be shorter hours in July/August also – including later starts over the Paris 2024 Olympics.

The best place to get the latest times and details on the Batobus is the official Batobus Paris website . 

Are There Toilets On Batobus Paris?

Nope! Bear this in mind when using the Batobus for a long period of time.

However, there are paid-for toilets near some stops, such as Tour Eiffel (there are paid-for toilets on the other side of the Pont d’Iena bridge to the Batobus stop – but still on the same side of the river) and Notre-dame (next to the Cathedral). It’s best to have cash for these (I don’t think either of these accept cards).

Some stops also have free public toilets near them – like Invalides and Hôtel de Ville. However, be warned, the condition of these can be less than desirable.

Tips For Using The Batobus Paris

• Keep an eye on river traffic : if you’re walking to your stop, have a look at the boats coming and going on the river. You can recognise the Batobus by their domed glass shape. If you see a Batobus has just departed, you know you have some time before the next one; if you see one coming, you might want to make a dash to catch it.
• Bring water & snacks with you: what’s on offer on board is limited.
• Stand at the back for the best views (if the weather is good enough).
• Don’t assume all attractions at Batobus Paris stops are open every day: some will be, but it’s not unusual for Paris attractions to close on Sundays, Mondays or Tuesdays.

Alternatives To The Paris Batobus

Of course, Batobus Paris is not the only boat from which you can see the Seine. I’ve done other Seine cruises, and there’s nothing wrong with them.

If it’s your first time in Paris especially, a guided tour with commentary could be good, to help you understand everything you’re seeing from the river.

There are plenty of other Seine River tours including short, simple Seine sight-seeing cruises , which I’ve done before, and more special tours, including dinner cruises .

The Last Word       

I hope this has been helpful in showing you why and how to take a Seine River bus – and inspiring you about what there is to see at each of the Batobus Paris stops.

For more information and the latest updates on the Batobus, check the official Batobus website . 

And for more inspiration about Paris, check out some of my other Paris posts, including Paris off the beaten path , Paris in Winter and my walking tour of Montmartre .

And maybe give my post on Paris Syndrome a read: it might help you avoid disappointment in Paris.

Bon Voyage!

If you like this article, I'd be delighted if you shared it!

About The Author

Martha Knight

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4 thoughts on “paris by boat: batobus paris stops & things to do at each in 2024”.

Great Batabus itinerary and details. Thanks for Paris April 7th-9th!

Thanks for your feedback! Enjoy the Batobus!

Dear Martha thank you very much for all your valuable information. I am bringing my 83 year old uncle to Paris for the day on 24/4. He has never been abroad and wants to see the Eiffel Tower. I plan to do as you suggest and try the batobus. However it does get alot of terrible reviews mainly saying how rude and unhelpful staff are and how cancellations occur with no warning and that getting a refund or up to date information from the company is very difficult. With that in mind I plan to go to the ET by metro from gare de Nord and take my chances on it running and being able to get tickets to board. Is there anything you can suggest to make this process less stressful as I’m in my 60’s and I know it’s going to be charged with much anxiety! Many thanks from susan

Hi Susan! Yes, sometimes the boats do get cancelled or have problems. So you could wait until you’re there and buy a ticket on the day if you want to wait to be sure they’re running first. You can also check the live updates section on the Batobus Paris website, which is available in English: https://www.batobus.com/en

If you do need help from Batobus staff, I’ve found in general, that some French people are happy to speak in English and some are less so (or they might be unable). So if you try to speak French (even if it’s imperfect), I think that will help get people on side. If not, Google Translate helps me out a lot! And always start with ‘Bonjour’. ‘Excusez moi, s’il vous plait’ seems super polite to native English speakers, but in France, if you skip Bonjour (or Bonsoir, if it’s evening), it’s quite rude, no matter what else you say. So you can start off on the right foot by greeting the person before asking anything of them.

A general travel tip to help reduce stress is to pad your plan in terms of both time and money. So allow extra time to get everywhere – more than you think you need. And have some slush in your budget, in case things are more expensive than you expect. Sometimes we get over-charged; sometimes the trains run slow. If our plan needs everything to run perfectly, it could fall apart. But if the plan has flex, it’s more likely to work out and to be less stressful for you.

Finally, I was just at the Eiffel Tower last week and there were lots of temporary fences up in the gardens around it (Champ des Mars). I think it might be part of their Olympics prep – and it might be that it’s gone by the time you’re there, but I wanted to give you the heads up that it could still be there. With the fences up, currently you can walk the gardens and enjoy the views of the Tower, but you can only walk the main pathways – some of the smaller pathways and access to the lawns and some of the trees was blocked off.

Anyway, enjoy your trip to Paris! Have you read my post about Spring in Paris?

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Savvy Travel Advice

Seine River Cruises in Paris: How to Choose the Best Seine Cruise Boat Tour

Last updated: February 17, 2024 - Written by Jessica Norah 103 Comments

A Seine river cruise is a very popular way to see Paris, and one we always recommend to visitors to the city. These short river cruises allow you to take in many of the highlights of the city—the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, the Musée d’Orsay, Notre Dame Cathedral, etc.—as you float along the Seine River.

Many of Paris’s most famous and important buildings, bridges, and attractions can be seen from the river. The river viewpoint also allows you to gain some good insight into the city’s history, evolution, and architecture. In fact, the banks of the Seine in Paris were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.

We have taken many Seine river cruises over the years on multiple visits to Paris with a lot of different companies, and we always recommend one to friends and family when visiting Paris.

However, deciding on the right cruise may be difficult as there are several companies that provide similar tours along the Seine River.

In this article, we’ll give you the details on the most popular sightseeing boat tours in the City of Light and help you decide which one might be best for you. We’ll also provide you with a list of Seine dinner cruises and companies offering private Seine river cruises for those looking for a special evening out. We’ll also let you know which ones we chose and why for our own Seine river cruise experiences.

Table of Contents:

Seine River Cruises: Main Paris Sightseeing Boat Companies

There are a lot of similarities in many of the Seine river boat cruises that offer larger scale cruises along the Seine.

First, most Seine cruises last about an hour in duration and stop and end at the same point unless otherwise noted. They also all complete approximately the same circuit although you can check for the exact map for each by going to the companies’ websites. Most companies operate sightseeing river cruises in Paris year-round.

In addition to regular sightseeing cruises, the majority of these companies also operate dinner cruises on the Seine (as well as other meals and special event cruises) if you are looking for a meal on board.

While you can buy tickets for most cruises the same day in-person near the dock, you may be able to save money by purchasing in advance. Often tickets are valid for 3 months to 1 year following purchase allowing you to choose the time and date of your Seine cruise. If you purchase a ticket or voucher online, be sure to print it out and take it with you to claim your ticket at the dock.

Some of the companies offer cruises seasonally whereas others operate year-round. Those that operate year-round often offer less frequent cruises in the low season. High season is generally from April to September and low season is from October to March.

Below we summarize the departure points, type of commentary or narration provided, cost of tickets, how to buy the tickets, and other points of interest about each company that offers Seine cruises. This list is in alphabetical order: 

1. Bateaux Mouches Seine Cruise

This is the oldest company operating cruise boats on the Seine River, starting service after World War II, and these boats have become somewhat of a symbol of Paris. Bateaux Mouches has some of the biggest boats which are easy to spot because they are big, double-decker open-top boats with orange seats.

The sightseeing cruises last approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Departure Points(s)

Leaves from Pont de l’Alma (right bank) in the 8th arrondissement.

Pre-recorded narration is provided in several languages, including English, over the boat speaker system. They also provide printed handouts in 22 languages.

Pricing & Tickets

Current prices (as of June 2023): adults are 15 euros, children age 4 to 12 are 6 euros, and children under age 4 are free.

You can buy tickets online (use our link for a small discount) , by phone, or at the dock. If you purchase your ticket online, you can collect your ticket before boarding at the Pont de l’Alma at the Compagnie des Bateaux-Mouches kiosk. You will just need to present your transaction number and proof of booking.

Accessibility

Step-free access is available and the bottom floor of the boats is wheelchair accessible. The boat configurations vary, but there are approximately 10 stairs to access the second floor and it is not accessible to wheelchairs.

Access to toilets on board the boats requires navigating stairs, but there are wheelchair-accessible toilets available near the docking area. Priority access for disabled guests is available.

Other Points

• Website: https://www.bateaux-mouches.fr
• Also provide lunch, dinner, and special events cruises.

These boats are probably the most popular on the Seine as they are the biggest and you don’t usually need a reservation to get on them. However, this makes them very popular with tourist groups so be prepared to share the boat with hundreds of other visitors.

The open-top is great in good weather and provides unobstructed better views than some of the other boats operated by other companies without the extra deck. However, in bad weather you’ll be forced into the glassed-in bottom half of the boat.

Narration is provided but it can be difficult to hear if the boat is busy or the weather is bad. 

2. Bateaux Parisiens Seine Cruise

Bateaux Parisiens have a large fleet of medium-sized boats. Most of the boats they use for sightseeing cruises have lower enclosed decks and an upper uncovered deck. This is probably the second most popular company on the Seine.

The sightseeing cruises last approximately 1 hour.

Leaves from the Port de la Bourdonnais (near the Eiffel Tower, on the left bank) in the 7th arrondissement -OR- from Quai de Montebello (near the Notre Dame) in the 5th arrondissement.

If you depart from near the Eiffel Tower , narration is provided through individual audio devices available in 14 languages on the lower part of the boat. A live guide is also available for questions.

If you sit on the upper part of the boat, the boat has recently started asking customers to download a free audioguide app on their smartphones rather than giving out individual audio devices. The app commentary is available in multiple languages, but you will need a smartphone and set of headphones or earbuds to listen.

If you depart from near Notre Dame then there is live commentary provided by a live guide in 3 languages (including French and English).

Current prices (as of June 2023) are 18 euros for adults, 9 euros for children age 4-13, and children under age 4 are free. 

Tickets can be purchased online , by phone, or at the ticket offices near the boats.

** DISCOUNT : If you plan to depart from the Eiffel Tower, you can save an extra 2 euros off your ticket price for any trips departing from the Eiffel Tower by booking your ticket online here .**

Note for PARIS PASS holders: Currently, a free Bateaux Parisiens Seine river cruise is included as part of the Paris Pass . Check the website or guidebook for most up-to-date info but Paris Pass holders can currently collect their free ticket by presenting their Paris Pass at the ticket window at Pier 3 at the Eiffel Tower departure port.

Read our review of the Paris Pass for more information, and take a look at our suggested 3 day Paris itinerary that includes this ride.

Step-free access via a ramp is available at the Eiffel Tower stop, and the bottom floor of the boats is wheelchair accessible. Access to toilets on board the boats requires going up and down stairs, but there are wheelchair-accessible toilets available at Le Bistro Parisien, the company’s restaurant near their Eiffel Tower dock.

• Website: https://www.bateauxparisiens.com/
• They offer lunch, dinner, and special events cruises. They also offer a special family-oriented cruise (offered in French only) that includes music and children’s activities.

If you choose Bateaux Parisiens and don’t have a strong preference regarding boarding location, I would choose the Eiffel Tower departure point as you’ll save with our discount , making this what we think are some of the best value Seine River cruises available.

If you plan to sit on top, be sure to download the cruise app onto your smartphone and bring your headphones or earbuds if you want to listen to the commentary.

3. Batobus Seine Cruise (well, sort of…)

These are hop-on/hop-off boats that make a circuit with 9 separate stops, all near major tourist destinations (e.g., Notre Dame, Eiffel Tower, Louvre). The Batobus is not really intended for a sightseeing cruise but can still be a good economical choice if you also want to use the Batobus for transportation.

If you use the boat to do a sightseeing tour, the full circuit takes about 2 hours. It stops about every 15 minutes.

Departure Point(s)

Boats leave from 9 different stops near the following sites: St-Germain-des-Prés, Notre Dame, Jardin des Plantes, Hôtel de Ville, Louvre, Champs-Elysées, Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, and Beaugrenelle.

The boats stop at each stop every 20 to 25 minutes depending on the season.

There is no narration during these boat tours as they are designed as a boat taxi service rather than an actual cruise. Staff members are on board, however, and can answer questions in both English and French.

For a 1-day pass current prices (as of November 2022) for adult passes (age 16+) are 20 euros and child (age 3 to 15) passes are 10 euros. Children under age 3 ride for free. For a 2-day pass, adult passes are 22 euros and child passes are 11 euros.

Tickets can be purchased online , at any of the 9 Batobus stops, tourist information offices, or at the Paris L’Open Tour Boutique (3 rue Auber, 75009 Paris).

Step-free access via a ramp is available only at the Eiffel Tower stop, and the bottom floor of the boats is wheelchair accessible. However, many of the other stops require steps or have cobbled walkways. There are no toilets on board these boats. Wheelchair accessible toilets are available near their Eiffel Tower dock.

I would not recommend Batobus for those in a wheelchair unless you plan to stay on the boat for a round trip ride as only the Eiffel Tower stop is easy to access for wheelchair users. Since there is no guided commentary on board, you are probably better off choosing another boat company.

Other Notes

• Website: https://www.batobus.com/
• There are no toilets on board these boats.

While these boats are meant to function as water buses they can still be a good choice for some views of Paris from the river. For some people who don’t want to use the bus system or metro, these can be an especially great and economical option.

For instance, a 1 day pass allows for unlimited transportation for an entire day and you can use the Batobus as a bus during the day and then sit back and enjoy the full circuit at night. Just note that if crowded these boats can get quite hot in the summer heat, but can be nice and warm on cool days as they are heated.

Please note that depending on where you want to go, there may be some walking involved to get there from the port stop. For instance, the stop closest to the Eiffel Tower requires a 15-minute walk to get to the monument from the boat stop.

4. Canauxrama Seine Cruise 

Canauxrama is one of the top companies for providing canal tours around Paris , but they also provide scenic tours along the Seine River as well as a combined canal and river cruise. The Canuaxrama boats vary a bit but all have a closed bottom deck and an open-top deck.

The main Seine River sightseeing cruises are 2 hours long and combine a canal cruise with a Seine River cruise.

There are a number of departure points depending on which cruise you take, so it is important to check which is right for the cruise you choose.

Some cruises, specifically the combined Seine River and Canal St. Martin cruises for example, departs from the intersection of Rue Jean Poulmarch and Quai de Valmy.

Specific Seine River cruises leave from Ile de la Cité near 19 Quai de l’horloge in the 1st arrondissement.

Canal cruises leave from the intersection of Rue Jean Poulmarch and Quai de Valmy .

Live narration on board by guide in French and English.

The 2 hour combined Seine River and Canal St. Martin cruise tickets are currently (as of June 2023) 22 euros for adults, 10 euros for children age 4-12, and free for children under 4. 

It is recommended that reservations should be made in advance for all cruises.

Tickets can be purchased online in advance , or at one of their two ticket offices at the Marina Arsenal or Bassin de la Villette.

Access to the Canauxarama boat boarding points require going up or down several steps and sometimes cobbled walkways. There are also steps (up to 6 steps) on some of the boats that passengers would need to be able to climb.

There are no ramps for wheelchair accessibility. However, some people with greater mobility who are in manual wheelchairs and have a person accompanying them to help them navigate the stairs and walkways, may be able to do these cruises. Mobility scooters are usually too heavy to be moved onto the boats.

There are no wheelchair-accessible toilets on board or near where the boats are docked.

• Website: https://www.canauxrama.com/en/
• The cruise described is generally only offered in the evening.
• Snacks and drinks (including alcohol) are available for purchase at the onboard bar.
• The company offers a wide variety of different types of cruises that include the Seine as well as a number of other waterways (mainly canals) in or near Paris, however, some of these cruises are not available year round.
• If you are interested in learning more about taking a Paris canal tour, check out our experience taking a Canauxrama cruise on the Canal Saint-Martin .

Canauxrama is better known for its canal cruises than Seine cruises; however, the company was purchased by Vedettes du Pont Neuf in 2007 which operates Seine cruise boats. If you are looking for a longer cruise (1.5 hours and longer) that does not include dinner, this is a good price.

The cruises that combine the Seine River and Canal St. Martin includes the unique experience of learning a bit about locks as the boat passes through a lock as transitions between the canal and the Seine River. Many people also appreciate the option to purchase snacks or drinks during the cruise. 

However, if you are looking for just a 1-hour, less expensive tour of the Seine, try another company. The longer cruises may be too long for younger children.

Also be sure to note the departure points and arrival points for the cruises as some leave from central Paris near the Notre-Dame Cathedral whereas others leave from the 12th arrondissement. Some cruises also do not have the same start and finish points. The Port de Paris-Arsenal is a bit further from the center of Paris than most of the other companies, but this may end up being great for those staying closer to the 12th arrondissement.

Another option if you are interested in combining a Seine River cruise and Canal Saint-Martin cruise is this 2.5 hour cruise with Paris Canal that includes a 1-hour Seine River cruise and then 1.5 hour canal ride. It departs from near the Musée d’Orsay (ends at Parc de la Villette).

5. Vedettes de Paris Seine Cruise

Vedettes de Paris operates smaller sized boats along the Seine River. The boat configurations differ a bit but each holds approximately 250 people for the regular Seine cruises.

The regular sightseeing cruises are 1 hour in length. They also offer short 30 minute stopover cruises that go between the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral, as well as longer round-trip cruises that last approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

The company also offers a special family-friendly cruise that is geared specifically to children and families.

Boats for the 1 hour cruise leave from Port de Suffren (near Eiffel Tower) in the 7th arrondissement.

Most boats now include an audio guide that will play in several languages including Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish. But some boats still have live narration on-board by guides in French and English on some cruises.

The 1-hour non-stop Discovery sightseeing cruise is currently (as of June 2023) 20 euros for adults, 9 euros for children age 4-11, and free for children under 4. 

There is also an evening aperitif cruise , including a choice of a glass of wine (€24.5) or glass of champagne (€29). It’s also available without a drink for €20.

There is also a 1-hour family cruise offered that is geared to children and families, with a live guide in both French and English.

Tickets can be booked in advance online here , or purchased at the Port de Suffren port office.

Access to the Vedettes de Paris boats are now wheelchair accessible since they got a new pontoon platform in 2020. Those in wheelchairs can now embark and disembark with step-free access. On board, passengers can sit in a regular seat or move around the boat in their own wheelchair.

Wheelchair-accessible toilets are available on board the boat and in the boarding area. There is a dedicated disabled parking space.

• Website: https://www.vedettesdeparis.fr/
• Paris de Vedettes offers dinner and themed cruise options with snacks. They also offer a special children’s cruise.
• Snacks and drinks (including alcohol) are available for purchase onboard. You can also eat at the affiliated seasonal restaurant near the boat dock called Le Cafe des Vedettes. Sometimes there is a special deal if you combine a menu and a sightseeing cruise.
• The boat configurations differs depending on the boat, but all appear to have some indoor and outdoor seating. You can see some photos of each boat on the website.

Paris de Vedettes offers pretty much the same standard 1-hour cruise of the Seine as most of the other companies; however their boats are smaller than many of the other companies.

Boats with top decks allow for better viewing and pictures, but during cold weather everyone will be forced into the covered spaces. Live narration can be difficult to hear, especially near the engine and on top deck if crowded.

6. Vedettes du Pont Neuf Seine Cruise

Les Vedettes du Pont Neuf operates a small fleet of small and medium sized boats and have been operating tourist cruises since the 1960’s. The company offers some of the least expensive Seine River cruises. 

The basic sightseeing cruises are 1 hour in length.

Boats leave from the Square du Vert Galant near the Pont Neuf on the tip of the Île de la Cité (within walking distance of Notre Dame)

Narration is provided by live guides who give commentary in both French and English. You can also download the company’s free app that provides commentary in French, English, Spanish, Italian, German and Portuguese.

The website says the tickets (as of June 2023) are regularly 15 euros for adults and 9 euros for children 4-12. However, they often have a discount if you purchase the tickets online from their website . 

Tickets can be purchased online or at the port in person before the cruise.

The Vedettes du Pont Neuf boats have a ramp for access and can accommodate step-free access and passengers with wheelchairs and mobility scooters. The access ramp is located a little further beyond the stairs and staff can help assist in finding the best place to board and exit.

However, it is advised that you call in advance before booking if you need the ramp to ensure access on your planned date of travel.

There are no wheelchair accessible toilets on board or near where the boats are docked.

• Website: http://www.vedettesdupontneuf.com/
• Two of the boats currently have two decks with an open upper deck, but all boats allow for open-air and inside covered seating.
• Vedettes du Pont Neuf bought Canauxrama in 2007, so you may see boats with signage from both companies.
• The company now offers lunch and dinner cruises as well

If you are looking for the cheapest Seine River tickets, Vedettes du Pont Neuf is probably the best choice if you take advantage of their online deals. They also offer a great central location if you are going to be near Notre Dame.

If you choose this company, take some time to explore the Square du Vert Galant before or after your cruise as it can be a peaceful little green patch on the tip of the island.

Live narration is provided by real guides; however, both sound quality and guide quality can vary. You also have the option to download the commentary in advance and listen to it during your trip with your own smartphone and headphones.

7. Bateaux de Paris Seine Cruise

Bateaux de Paris is the newest company to offer regular Seine River cruises. Although the company primarily does private events, one of its smaller boats is used for seasonal tourist sightseeing cruises. The boat is one of the smallest boats offering regular cruises and easy to spot with its bright orange color.

The company only operates cruises between April and September and does not offer them daily.

The sightseeing cruises are 1 hour and 15 minutes long. They also offer shorter one-way cruises and cruises that include stopovers at the Eiffel Tower.

Leaves from near the Pont Saint-Michel (12 Quai des Orfèvres) in the 1st arrondissement in Paris.

No narration or commentary is offered on the basic cruise. However, you can add a handheld audioguide with commentary for 3 euros.

Current prices (as of June 2023): adults are 15 euros, children age 4 to 12 are 7 euros, and children under age 4 are free.

Tickets are also available for half cruises and cruises that do stopovers at the Eiffel Tower.

You can buy tickets online . Be sure to bring your booking confirmation to the cruise departure point.

Boat access requires being able to climb up and down a set of stairs so you need to be at least somewhat mobile to do the ride. There are approximately 30 steps from the dock to the boat. For those who can handle the steps, wheelchairs and walkers can be accommodated on the boat and there is a wheelchair-accessible toilet aboard the boat.

• Website: https://www.bateauxdeparis.net/
• Snacks and drinks are available for purchase on board the boat
• Sightseeing cruises only operate between April and September

Bateaux de Paris is the newest company to begin operating regular sightseeing tourist cruises on the Seine. It currently has only one boat that offers these cruises and it only operates seasonally.

The boat is one of the smaller boats on the Seine and also one of the least known, so it can be a good one if you are looking for a cruise with fewer people. The prices, if you don’t want the optional commentary, are some of the lowest.

The boat is covered on top but open on the sides to allow for good viewing. Because the chairs are set up facing one direction, we’d definitely recommend taking the full cruise so you get a chance to fully see both sides of the river bank. You can also walk along the deck.

If you want commentary during the cruise, you can hire the optional audioguide. We recommend bringing along your own headphones or earphones so you can better listen to the commentary.

Seine River Dinner Cruises in Paris

If you are looking for a special way to experience Paris, you may want to consider a Seine River dinner cruise. Many visitors want to see Paris at night from the river while having dinner on a cruise.

These cruises typically take place on boats that have a special glass enclosed restaurant area, so you can watch the scenery but are protected from the wind and rain. Some of the cruises are only for those dining onboard and some also carry regular sightseeing guests as well.

In addition to dinner cruises, some cruise companies offer brunch, lunch, and special themed cruises that also serve food. During holidays (e.g., Christmas, New Year’s, Valentine’s Day, Bastille Day), you’ll find a number of special cruises and menus being offered. The cost of a meal cruise generally ranges from about 50 € to 200 € per person. Lunch and brunch cruises are usually less expensive than dinner cruises and specialty themed cruises.

Some Seine River cruises packages are sold that include a Seine River cruise plus other attractions such as a visit to the Eiffel Tower , a private car tour, or the Moulin Rouge . These can be group experiences or, more commonly, private experiences. For example this evening tour (choice of dinner at Eiffel Tower or on the cruise) includes a Seine dinner cruise, Eiffel Tower visit, and Moulin Rouge show.

Note that almost all the cruises can accommodate vegetarians. But if you have a more specialized dietary preferences or allergies (e.g., gluten-free, vegan, etc.), you will want to check in advance to make sure it can be accommodated.

There are over a dozen companies offering Seine River cruises with dinner, but we’ll provide a list of some of the best-rated ones to help you narrow down your search. Be sure to read recent customer reviews to find the one that is the best cruise for you. We also have a complete guide to our favourite Seine River dinner cruises to help you choose one.

Seine River Lunch Cruises

If you’d rather have a meal in the daytime (better for sightseeing), there are several Seine lunch cruises to choose from, here are the ones we’d recommend checking out:

• This 2 hour lunch cruise by Bateaux Parisiens offers 3-course à-la-carte meal (choice of dishes), live music, wine and coffee, and choice to upgrade food and drink options. Vegetarian option available. Cruise departs from Port de la Bourdonnais (near Eiffel Tower).
• This 2 hour lunch cruise aboard La Marina de Paris offers a 3-course à-la-carte lunch  and coffee aboard boats with large panoramic windows for great views. Wine package (“drinks package) can be added for extra 10 euros per person. Vegetarian options available. Departs from Port Solferino (near the Musée d’Orsay).
• This 1.5 hour Sunday champagne brunch cruise is provided on Captaine Fracasse which is a company that specializes in meal cruises on the Seine. Brunch includes a mix of sweet (e.g., croissant, pain au chocolat , apple turnover, crepes, fruit) and savory items (e.g., eggs Benedict) that are freshly made on board to eat while enjoying the scenery . A 1/2 bottle of Champagne plus fruit juice and hot drinks (coffee, tea, hot chocolate) are also included. Only available on Sundays. Departs from Ile aux Cygnes, just off Bir-Hakeim bridge (near Eiffel Tower).

Seine River Dinner Cruises

Dinner is the most popular time to eat on a Seine River cruise and there are a lot of options out there. Here are the ones we’d recommend checking out:

• This dinner cruise by Bateaux Mouches is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes long and provides a 4-course meal and live music. Two menu choices offered with 1 glass of champagne and 1/2 bottle of wine per person. Vegetarian option available. Smart dress code enforced. Wheelchair accessible. Tours depart from Port de la Conférence (5 minute walk from Pont de l’Alma).
• The well-rated dinner cruises by Bateaux Parisiens offer different cruise lengths, seating options, and menus (choice of dishes) across different price points. There is an early evening cruise that is 1 hour and 15 minutes (least expensive option) and a longer evening cruise that is 2.5 hours long that includes live music. Vegetarian option available. Smart casual dress code. Cruise departs from Port de la Bourdonnais (near Eiffel Tower).
• This 2 hour dinner cruise aboard La Marina de Paris offers a 3-course à-la-carte dinner with option to add a glass of champagne and 1/2 bottle of wine per person. Vegetarian options available. Departs from Port de Solferino, 1 rue de la Légion d’Honneur 75007 (near the Musée d’Orsay). We have done this dinner cruise and enjoyed it.
• This 2 hour dinner cruise by Captaine Fricasse offers a 3-course meal that is freshly cooked onboard the boat. Plant based menu available on request. Upgrades are available to add Champagne and drinks to the reservation or can order from the beverage menu. Tours depart from Île aux Cygnes, middle of the Bir-Hakeim bridge in the 15th arrondissement. We really enjoyed this dinner cruise when we did it.
• This 1 hour 45 minute dinner cruise by Paris en Scène serves a 3 course dinner (choice of main) in a casual bistro-like setting with all dinner chairs facing windows for a good view. Meals are freshly prepared on board. Champagne and wine options available. Vegetarian option available. Cruises  depart from Île aux Cygnes, middle of the Bir-Hakeim bridge in the 15th arrondissement.

Seine River Cruises: Private Boat Cruises

Most visitors to Paris want to join one of the regularly scheduled group Seine river boat cruises from one of the companies above. However, if you are looking for a special private or semi-private Seine cruise, this can also be arranged.

Most of the previously mentioned companies offer either a semi-private cruise option (e.g., a private area, restaurant, room, or terrace of a boat) or a fully private cruise option (an entire boat just for the exclusive use or you and your group).

Private Seine river cruises are great options for special celebrations, weddings, marriage proposals, large families, holiday parties, tour groups, or corporate travel events. Meals, drinks, and entertainment can also be arranged on most semi-private and private Seine cruises.

Costs for a fully private cruise generally start at about 200 € for an hour for 2 persons or a family and can go well above 2,000 € depending on the duration and type of cruise experience you want.

Here is a list of companies that offer semi-private or private boat tours along the Seine. First, here are those companies which specialize in private Seine cruises which are probably the best fit for those looking for a private experience as a couple, family, or small group.

• Lakana Paris Cruise – This company offers a 2.5 hour private boat cruise on the Seine for up to 4 guests. It is small company run by Gaël and Raphaël. This is the private cruise company Laurence and I have personally used and can recommend. Note that the cruise departs from outside central Paris (easily accessible from central Paris by bus and metro).
• Green River Cruises – This company offers boats that can accommodate 1 to 11 persons, and have set prices for cruises from 1 hour to 3 hours in duration. This is perfect for couples, families, and small groups. 
• River Limousine – This company offers private boat rides in a custom-designed Venetian boat for small groups of 1 to 6 persons. Perfect for couples and families. 

The rest of the cruise companies (most of which also offer regular sightseeing cruises) specialize in renting for private hires for larger groups, weddings, and corporate events.

• Bateaux Mouches – This famous Seine river boat company offers a variety of private hire options for up to 350 guests for personal or corporate events.
• Bateaux de Paris – This company currently has 3 boats and rents 2 out for exclusive use and can accommodate up to 250 people.
• Bateaux Parisiens   – Bateaux Parisiens offers semi-private experiences to smaller groups (2 to 50) as well as entire private boat hires for larger groups that can accommodate over 100 people.
• Batobus – A Batobus boat can be hired for private use and can seat up to 180 persons. These hires are geared towards shorter corporate hires.
• Canauxarama – This company offers boats for private use along both the Seine River as well as the Canal St Martin. Boats can accommodate between 50 to 200 guests.  
• Vedettes de Paris – This company offers boats that can accommodate 30 to 250 persons for events, cocktail hours, and sit-down meals and can do a variety of semi-private (part of a boat or lounge) to private options. 
• Vedettes du Pont Neuf – This company offers various options and can accommodate 30 to 200 people depending on the boat and type of event.
• Yachts de Paris   – This company operates a fleet of yachts and barges for private use in Paris which range from small to large boats, which can arrange sailings for groups from 2 to 800 people!

How to Choose Your Seine Cruise

So there you have it, the details of seven different companies that operate Seine river cruises in Paris, plus a list of companies that offer dinner cruises and private Seine River cruises!

Summary of Seine River Cruise Factors to Consider 

So how can you use all the above information to decide which Seine cruise might be the best for you? This is a matter of deciding on what is most important to you regarding the cruise. Main factors you probably want to consider:

• Location of port departure
• Price of tickets
• Narration type and languages
• Accessibility (for those with physical mobility limitations)
• Length of trip
• Size of boat
• Do you want to pay extra for a meal, themed cruise, or private cruise?
• Do you plan to purchase a pass, such as the Paris Pass , that includes a Seine cruise?

If you are short on time in Paris and interested in seeing a lot of highlights in one day (and do a Seine River cruise), we recommend this full day walking tour . It includes a Louvre tour, visit to Eiffel Tower, Seine River cruise, view of Notre Dame, and visit to Montmartre.

Best Time of Year to Take a Seine River Cruise in Paris

Most companies operate Seine River cruises year round. The high season for the companies is generally April to September with these being the most popular times to take a river cruise in Paris. Most companies have more frequent departures and more boats operating during the summer months.

Obviously the cruises are more pleasant, especially if you want to sit or stand outside, during the warmer months. It can be too cold or windy to sit outside during the winter months. If you have a flexible schedule, I’d try to go on a day without rain forecast.

The boats can become crowded, especially in the summer months and around school holidays. The first and last cruises of the day are often less crowded. If you are in Paris during a busy time of year, we recommend making sure you go to the port well in advance of your desired cruise departure to get your ticket and be among the first in line to get aboard.

Note that the cruises cannot operate in severe weather so during storms they are often canceled. They also cannot operate if the river levels get too high or low. Between November to April in particular, the water levels can often get too high making it difficult or impossible for them to go under some of the bridges, causing cruises to either stop operating or modify their sailings.

Seine River Cruise Tips

Once you know the cruise you want to take and have booked your tickets, here are some things to remember:

• We recommend booking your ticket in advance for any of the Seine cruises as the prices online may be discounted. However, for most of the general sightseeing cruises you can normally buy same day tickets in person at the dock. But for the meal cruises and any special event cruises, it is generally necessary to book in advance and have a reservation.
• Many of the Seine River cruise companies have very similar names. Be sure you know the exact name of the company you book your ticket with so you don’t get confused when trying to find the departure point. Even if you book the ticket through a third-party seller like Viator, you’ll want to know the boat company’s name.
• Make sure you know the location of the departure point and leave some time to find it. Many people have difficulty finding the cruise departure points since they are often not at an exact address. Most of the ticket kiosks are located along the riverside quays so you will need to be looking right along the river. You will often need to walk down a set of stairs to reach the riverside quays and find the boat docking location.
• Most boat companies ask that you be at dock and get your ticket at least 30 minutes before your departure. But this varies by company and the type of cruise.
• Many of the boat companies offer smartphone applications that you can download with the cruise commentary in various languages. If you wish to do this, be sure you bring your fully-charged smartphone and have headphones with you . You can download the app before your cruise or once you are there. In some cases, this is now the only option on some cruises for commentary.

Our Seine River Cruise Experiences in Paris

For my first Seine River boat tour in 2012 with then partner Ethan, we prioritized location, followed by price, and then narration. After researching the options ourselves, we personally chose Vedettes du Pont Neuf for an evening cruise along the Seine for a few reasons.

First, it was within a 5-minute walking distance of where we were staying in Paris. Second, it provided the best prices and we booked tickets in advance online for only 16 euros total for the two of us. These tickets also gave us a lot of flexibility regarding when we used them as they were good for one year following purchase.

Third, the live narration was preferred by us over pre-recorded narration although honestly it rained (unfortunately!) and it was difficult to hear the guide during parts of our cruise because of the rain. Finally, we were not interested in any sort of meal or specialty cruise and the no-frills cruises provided by this company was a good fit for us.

Overall, we were very satisfied with our choice as the only major problem was that it started to rain during our cruise. I would definitely recommend trying to do the cruise when you have good weather if you can.

Then in 2017 I decided to do another Seine river cruise with Laurence as he had never done one before. This time we chose the Bateaux Parisiens. Our decision was made simple on this visit as we were traveling with the Paris Pass and we were able to get free tickets with our pass for this cruise.

The main departure point for this cruise is next to the Eiffel Tower which is convenient if you are planning to do a cruise before or after a visit there. See our Eiffel Tower tips for making the most of your visit to the Tour Eiffel!

This time the weather cooperated and we were able to sit outside and enjoy the views. Towards the end we also moved inside and listed to the commentary. The Bateaux Parisiens boats are larger than those by the Vedettes du Pont Neuf and it was more crowded than my first experience but there was plenty of space to sit and move around. 

Hope this guide was useful in helping you select the Seine cruise that was the best fit for you during your trip to Paris. Essentially no matter which Seine cruise you choose, you are going to see the same scenery!

If you are planning to travel to Paris in the future, you might want to save this article by pinning it to Pinterest to read again later:

Have you taken a Seine cruise during a trip to Paris? Let us know what company you chose and let us know your feedback and tips for other readers trying to decide on a boat tour.

Have a question about taking a Seine River cruise or another question about traveling in Paris? As always, all questions and comments are welcome.

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BabaWaga Post author

May 19, 2023 at 5:26 am

Hi Jessica and Laurence, just wanted to send a little message of thanks: randomly found your blog post whilst researching Seine cruises for an approaching visit to Paris and can honestly say I didn’t need to go any further, your wonderfully informative article covered it all. Thank you so much! We have opted for the Vedettes de Paris sightseeing tour with our children as nice & close to the Eiffel tour where we are booked in to visit later that same day (I ordered the onboard champagne as a surprise for my hubs!)

As we will have a bit of time between disembarking and the Eiffel visit we’re looking for somewhere to stop by for lunch? Is there anywhere you would recommend nearby – cafe’s, restaurants all considered. Many thanks and warmest regards.

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

May 21, 2023 at 9:46 am

Hi BabaWaga,

So happy to hear that our Seine River cruise post was helpful in choosing a cruise company and booking a cruise. I am sure you will have a good time.

Yes, the locations near the Eiffel Tower make it really convenient to visit the tower afterwards. The Champagne I am sure will be a nice surprise. On tip is that I would recommend being early to make sure you locate the correct boarding spot (a few cruise companies board near there so it can be a bit confusing) and to be near the front of the line for your booked or preferred cruise time so you have more choice of seating.

So to be honest, there is not a lot of places I would really recommend there. But one nice (and inexpensive & kid-friendly) experience if the weather is nice is to get sandwiches or buy ingredients for a picnic (or buy them before your cruise) and have a picnic lunch on the Champs de Mars with a grand view of the Eiffel Tower. There are some benches there as well as areas of the grass that you are allowed to sit on (parts were closed when we were last there a couple of weeks ago but there was still plenty of space open). Just be sure to bring something to sit on and something to pack away your rubbish until you find a bin. I did this with my own family a couple of weeks ago and it was really nice.

Hope that helps and wishing you and your family a lovely trip to Paris!

Best, Jessica

Okon Post author

November 9, 2022 at 7:06 am

Great information at one spot! My spouse and I are planning a first-time Paris tour in the Spring, 2023, the tour that will include a dinner cruise on the Seine. Some of the luxury tour boats we see in pictures look like cattle boats. We’d like a boat which is less cram and with a seat/table choice. What interests us most in your presentation is the mention that Bateaux Parisiens Dinner Cruise has seat/table choice options. I wonder if there are other companies with that offer. Any more information in this regard will be highly appreciated.

November 10, 2022 at 10:23 am

So glad that you and your spouse are vising Paris for the first time in the Spring. Such a wonderful city 😉

So yes, the Bateaux Parisiens dinner cruises on the Seine do offer you a seating/table choice. But so do most of the other dinner cruises. I would recommend trying to get a table for 2 persons only with a window view. Some boats only have window views, but many have a middle row of tables as well.

Captaine Fracasse is another company that focuses only on lunch and dinner cruises and is often rated as having some of the the best food on the Seine.

But if you are really wanting a true luxury cruise and want a more private experience, you’ll probably want to book a private cruise if you have that kind of budget. In all the cruises they do try to pack in tables to get in the most guests for the given floor space.

As all the main companies are serving 50-100 guests a 3-course meal in a 1.5 to 2.5 hour period on a boat. The food and service was good in our experience and we enjoyed the dinner cruises we’ve taken, but it is not necessarily a luxury experience. All the dinner cruises are fairly similar. So you’ll want to go in with realistic expectations I think to enjoy the cruise as you are paying for being able to enjoy dinner while floating on the Seine.

Hope that helps, and just let us know if you have any further questions as you plan your trip to Paris.

jeff cabine Post author

April 6, 2022 at 4:37 am

I found it interesting when you said the boat layouts vary, but there are around 10 stairs to the second story, which is not wheelchair accessible. I used to think differently and now it makes more sense my disabled friend should love this trip to have fun. What you said about seine tours was really interesting to me.

April 6, 2022 at 7:19 am

Yes, I think you are referring specifically to the Bateaux Mouches boats as their boats are wheelchair accessible to get onto and the ground floors are accessible. But as you note, many of their boat have a second story which requires going up a set of stairs so are not accessible for those in wheelchairs or mobility scooters.

There are a few different Seine River cruises that are wheelchair accessible which is great. It is always a good idea to double check with any of the boat companies in advance of your visit as sometimes construction, docking, etc. issues can temporarily impact accessibility even if the boat itself is accessible.

Wishing you and your friends a great trip to Paris, Jessica

Jenn Post author

February 16, 2022 at 6:59 am

I just wanted to say thank you for including detailed accessibility information on your blog post. It is so helpful to me and almost no one includes actionable accessibility information. Thank you so much!!

February 16, 2022 at 7:05 am

You are very welcome, and I hope the information is helpful in choosing a Seine boat cruise company in Paris. The information was accurate pre-COVID so you may want to double check before booking with any company if the info is not noted when booking as I know some companies are running fewer boats now and have had to make some changes. But I think most of the information should still be valid.

Wishing you a great trip to Paris and just let us know if you have any questions!

SA NY Post author

November 11, 2021 at 12:22 am

Awesome info! Thanks for sharing this information on Paris cruises with us.

November 11, 2021 at 4:07 am

You’re welcome SA, and just let us know if you have any questions about choosing or booking a Seine cruise in Paris!

Jessica Post author

October 25, 2021 at 7:06 pm

Thank you for your helpful guidance! We will be in Paris for Bastille Day on July 14, 2022. Any suggestions for a Seine river boat cruise where we can watch the fireworks?

October 26, 2021 at 6:37 am

Hi Jessica,

Yes, Bastille Day is a great time to be in Paris if you enjoy celebrations and festivities. A couple of the cruise companies usually offer Bastille Day cruises in the evening, such as this particular dinner cruise which includes a special 6-course dinner with wine and Champagne.

I haven’t seen an announcement about the specific plans for Bastille Day in 2022, but the river is typically an excellent place from which to watch the illuminations and fireworks in central Paris. Normally the main fireworks are shot off from the Eiffel Tower and you get a wonderful view of the Eiffel Tower from the river. There will be both tourist cruises out as well as lots of small private boats to watch the fireworks.

Just note that for a holiday like this prices are going to be higher both for Seine cruises but also for dinner around that time period because of the holiday as many restaurants will be serving special menus. But it is a great time to be there. Just be sure to book well in advance for any cruises, activities, or dinners!

Mel Danbrook Post author

August 31, 2021 at 10:42 pm

Hello! We will be arriving in Paris on September 18/21. (arriving around 12:30pm) We only have that afternoon and evening to try and see a few sights (taking the train the following morning to Switzerland). Seeing the Eiffel Tower is on our list – the idea of a short Seine River cruise to try and see a little more of the city is intriguing! What would be a good river cruise option that leaves/returns close to the Eiffel Tower – probably one with a meal option as we would be looking to have dinner somewhere anyway. Any suggestions on options that will allow us to see a little more of the city in a short time frame would be wonderful! Cheers

September 1, 2021 at 11:56 am

Yes, it would be pretty easy to combine a visit to the Eiffel Tower and a Seine River cruise into one afternoon/evening. A few of the cruises leave near the Eiffel Tower. So one good option is the Bateaux Parisiens (listed above) which leaves from the Port de la Bourdonnais (a 5 minute walk or less from the Eiffel Tower). There is a discounted ticket for that one available here .

Another option might be take the Batobus hop-on hop-off boat cruise as that will allow you to get on and off the cruise as you wish. The Eiffel Tower is one of its stops. You can see more about it here .

But there are a few options. Most of the normal sightseeing cruises lasts about 1 hour. There are also dinner cruise options available as well which will be longer and in the evening. But since you are wanting to see the city, I’d probably recommend taking a sightseeing one in the daytime so you can more clearly see the landmarks along the river.

Hope that helps! Jessica

Tavish Post author

July 17, 2021 at 9:06 pm

Could you suggest the best option for a longer night time dinner cruise. My daughter just graduated and has never been to Europe, I had hoped to do this on our first evening, but the cost for a nice meal and a window seat seems to be in the 500$ range, and the reviews of the meals are awful, they say there is no customer service, and that many times the boats did not leave the dock without being offered a refund either. Time is not an issue, budget is, but mostly I want to start off her adventure with a really positive experience. The alternative idea was to try to get an earlier dinner at a really good restaurant (I dont know where), and then a nighttime cruise to see the lights and sites. I worry dinner would be too slow, and we would be pressured to get to the boat on time and it would ruin the meal. I would appreciate any guidance/suggestions. Thanks so much.

July 18, 2021 at 4:20 am

For the dinner cruises, you do need to get to the boat on time. You actually need to get there a bit early to make sure you have time to check-in and board. If you miss the boat, you simply miss it. Many people who leave poor reviews had trouble finding the boat, so I’d leave plenty of time for this as if you are not used to looking for addresses along the river, it can take awhile to find the correct spot.

Almost all the dinner cruises last about 2 hours and this was more than enough time for us to enjoy 3 courses. So I don’t think you’d feel rushed in terms of eating. But you do of course do some of the sightseeing while seated and eating your meal.

I am not sure how many people you are booking for but you should be able to easily find an option for $100 per person or less. You do have to pay more for extras like a guaranteed window spot, flowers, Champagne, etc. But for 2 persons on the cruise we did , seem to be currently ranging from $150 to $250 for 2 persons, depending on the extras.

Some of the dinner cruises and regular Seine river cruises are currently not running due to the pandemic so that is something to keep in mind as well as there are fewer choices at the moment than 2 years ago.

Captaine Fracasse is probably the cruise best known for having better food. But I would recommend not booking for the meal itself but for the overall experience, we had good food on our cruises but it was not amazing. Most of their evening cruises are 2-hour dinner cruises.

But if you are looking for the option to order what you want à la carte and the level of service that you can get at a nice restaurant on land, you may be better suited to do the dinner at a restaurant and then get a regular evening cruise to see the sights at night. If you go that route, I’d consider what cruises can work and then find a restaurant within walking distance, a short metro, or taxi ride away from the departure point. If doing a regular sightseeing cruise, your ticket is usually good all day so you have the flexibility of when you get to the boat, you just need to get there well before their final departure time.

Sarah Post author

November 26, 2020 at 5:29 am

Oh, you know, once l used the service of Bateaux Mouches Seine Cruise. Water and everything that connected to it is my passion, even in Amsterdam l was sailing on a boat 3 times during 1 week of stay. Enjoyable. Thank you, guys, for this article!

November 26, 2020 at 6:35 am

Glad you enjoyed your Bateaux Mouches cruise on the Seine while you were visiting Paris — sounds like you really enjoy river cruises!

Nancy Post author

February 15, 2020 at 2:53 pm

We will be in Paris June 8, 2020. We are coming in for the afternoon from Charles De Gaulle Airport. We would like to take the evening cruise at 21:00. Since we aren’t staying in Paris and need to get back to the airport after the cruise, what cruise line and departure point would you recommend? We would also like to sit on the top deck outside. Thank you so much for any information you can give us!

February 16, 2020 at 3:24 am

I think the best cruise probably depends on what else you plan to do in Paris and how you plan to return to the airport. So for instance if you plan to visit the Eiffel Tower (or something nearby), you could do that, and then walk from the tower to a boat departure point. Two of the main places where the Seine River cruises leave (and return) are near the Eiffel Tower and near Notre-Dame.

Most of the cruise companies will have a 21:00 (9:00pm) departure time in June as that is a very popular time of year for the cruises. Many of the cruise companies depart every 30 minutes. Most cruises are 1 hour in duration. You have many choices for cruises.

I would suggest maybe checking out Vedettes de Paris or Bateaux Parisiens as they both leave from near the Eiffel Tower and I think most (if not all) of their boats have top decks with outdoor seating. They normally have departures every 30 minutes in the summer. If you buy a voucher online, it is good for the full day and then you can exchange it at the company ticket booth for when you want to take the cruise.

Note that all of the boat companies have multiple boats and the boats can have different deck and seating configurations so you can’t guarantee a particular boat. It also might not be possible (or desirable) to sit outside if the weather is bad. If there is a type of seat you want, I’d get into line early to be among the first to board for your departure.

If you are planning to go directly to CDG airport after the cruise, you could then walk to the metro station, take Line 6 to RER B. RER B will take you directly to the airport. Or, of course, you could catch a taxi to the airport.

February 16, 2020 at 12:11 pm

Thank you so much! We will take your advise. You have a lot of good information on your web site! Nancy

Davina Cipriano Post author

January 3, 2020 at 5:47 pm

My daughter and I will be coming to Paris in March. When we purchase the ticket do we have to purchase for the exact date we plan on using it? We are going to be in Paris for a little over a week. Or do can we purchase the ticket and use it on the day that works best for us? I notice online it make you pick a day but then says its good for like 6 months.

January 3, 2020 at 6:57 pm

Hi Davina, Sounds like a great trip. For the Seine river cruises, it depends on the cruise company and which cruise you want to take. But yes some of the companies that have the regular daily sightseeing cruises allow you to buy a ticket and then use it for any date and time for a certain period of time (6 months, 1 year). So I am not sure which company you are referring to specifically, but if the ticket says it is valid for 6 months, then I am sure it is valid. Feel free to follow-up with the cruise company and I’m happy to double-check for you. Best, Jessica

Lauren Levy Post author

December 14, 2019 at 5:51 pm

HI! We’ll be in Paris in December and want to take a river cruise with teenagers. Thinking we’ll do an evening cruise sans the food. But we want to take a boat out and around the sister of the US Statue of Liberty. What cruise do you suggest? Is it pretty to see this at night or should we regroup and do this during the day instead? Thank you!!

December 15, 2019 at 10:33 am

Yes, unfortunately, many of the boats do turn around near the Pont d’Iéna after passing the Eiffel Tower, which is just before they get to the Liberty of Statue replica statue. For instance, the Bateaux Parisiens course map shows that its longer lunch, dinner, and festive cruises go past it but not the regular 1 hour sightseeing cruises.

The 1.5 hour Canauxarama sightseeing cruise does go there, probably because it is a bit longer, so that might be the best cruise for you if you don’t want a meal.

From the boat, you can see if just after you go under the bridge Pont de Grenelle, it is located just at the tip of the Île aux Cygnes (Island of the Swans). The statue is probably easiest to see and photograph during the day, but they do light it up at night so you can see it at night as well. When you view the front of it from the boat, you can also see the Eiffel Tower in the background.

You can also walk over by bridge to the Île aux Cygnes as well if you find yourself in that area and want to see the statue up close.

Celeste Post author

December 8, 2019 at 3:35 pm

My daughter and I will be in Paris in late December. Given that it will be cold and possibly rainy, do you have a recommendation? We simply want to see the sites (no meal necessary). Also, are the river cruises impacted by the current strikes? Thank you!

December 9, 2019 at 6:56 am

Hi Celeste,

Yes, I think all the regular Seine cruise boats have ample enclosed/covered as well as open-air space, so any of them should be OK in case of rain/cold. But definitely dress warmly as the air moving through the boats will make them feel a bit colder. We’ve personally used Bateaux Parisiens and Les Vedettes du Pont Neuf and I’ve sat inside on both (once during rain).

I’d recommend going during the day as it will be warmer and you can see more – at night you can see the lights and the Eiffel Tower lit up, but you can’t see the rest of the sites very well.

I don’t believe the Seine River cruises are being affected by the current strikes in Paris, but the strikes are having a huge impact on the metro, suburban trains, and traffic. Hopefully they will end before your trip, but if not, you’ll need to allow more time to get around.

Hope that helps, and just let me know if you have further questions.

Cindy Post author

October 16, 2019 at 3:06 pm

I’m so confused. 2 of us will be travelling to Paris in May 2020, which Seine River cruise would you recommend for us and which canal cruise would you recommend? Is a canal cruise worth doing? Thank you

October 17, 2019 at 10:47 am

It really depends on the type of cruise you are looking for and I review all the major companies that offer Seine cruises above. Do any sound better to you than the others?

If you are just wanting a sightseeing cruise (no meal) and don’t have a particular price point or concern for where it departs, I would say Bateaux Parisiens is a good one to consider. We’ve done it and it is a standard and popular sightseeing cruise that offers daytime and evening cruises. Cruises last about 1 hour. It has both covered and open seating and you can listen to narration on your phone (pre download app to phone) or in the bottom part of boat using wired in wands. You can read more and book ahead here .

If you are interested in also doing a canal cruise. I would consider combining a Seine River cruise and Canal Saint-Martin cruise, you might consider t his 2.5 hour cruise with Paris Canal that includes a 1 hour Seine River cruise and then 1.5 canal ride. It departs from near the Musée d’Orsay and ends at Parc de la Villette (it is NOT a round-trip cruise).

If you have limited time in Paris and are not overly interested in the canal, then I’d say to just do the Seine River cruise. I’ve done the canal cruise and enjoyed it but the canal section is much slower as it has to slowly go through each lock and there are no major attractions to see unlike the Seine River portion which goes past places like Notre Dame, Musee d’Orsay, and the Eiffel Tower.

BTW, if you plan to purchase the Paris Pass , then a Seine River cruise is included so don’t book separate tickets.

Hope that helps, Jessica

October 17, 2019 at 5:10 pm

Thank you for the great advice.

Cassim Degani Post author

May 25, 2019 at 8:23 am

Will like to take the Siene cruise on the historical boat on June 5th during midday

May 25, 2019 at 8:29 am

Hi Cassim, Which cruise company do you plan to take? You can book your ticket online in advance or just show up a little early and buy it at the dock. You can often save a few euros by booking in advance, depending on the cruise company, so that is generally what we recommend. Also in summer, although boats have large capacity they can sometimes book out in advance. Enjoy your Seine cruise. Best, Jessica

Patty Post author

May 10, 2019 at 1:10 pm

Thank you for this review. We will be in Paris in two weeks and wanted to take an anniversary dinner cruise. This will help me out a lot to make a final decision.

May 12, 2019 at 11:58 am

Hi Patty, Glad you found our article helpful, and I’d read over the reviews for the dinner cruises and pick one that sounds like a good fit. Wishing you a wonderful anniversary in Paris 😉 Best, Jessica

Bob Post author

February 25, 2019 at 7:24 pm

Excellent info, thank you so much for sharing a great article. We are in Paris for a week (first time, probably only time) and we having a hard time deciding between day and night. Do you think it would be worth it to take a day and evening Seine cruise? Thanks for any input.

February 26, 2019 at 6:49 am

Hi Bob, Yes, I think that if you want to see the views from the river both during the day and night, then taking two cruises may be a good choice for you since you have a full week in Paris. I would not recommend this if you had only a few days. You might consider doing one of the cruises as a meal cruise (lunch or dinner) and then one just as a sightseeing cruise to change it up a bit. Enjoy your time in Paris. Jessica

Peter Post author

February 20, 2019 at 6:52 am

Great advice. I’ve had the pleasure of staying at a hotel near this river where I could jog from Notre Dame to the Eifel Tower. It was a wonderful trip.

February 20, 2019 at 7:23 am

Hi Peter, Yes the area along the Seine River in central Paris is great and you are able to see a lot of the most notable attractions from a Seine River cruise which is nice! Best, Jessica

jdawg Post author

January 29, 2019 at 11:51 am

Thanks you for the comprehensive article.

Trying to narrow down and decide which to take. My wife and I will be traveling with out 7 & 9 year old kids.

Would you recommend an evening / nighttime cruise or daytime?

Also thinking that the 2 hour tour might be too long for the kids?

Thanks again!!

January 29, 2019 at 12:31 pm

Hi there, Yes, I agree that I would choose one of the 1 hour cruises as 2 hours may be too long for the kids (and perhaps some adults).

If looking for a cruise (not a hop on hop off) I’d skip Batobus. If cost is a factor Vedettes du Pont Neuf usually offers the lowest priced online tickets. But I’d also let location guide you if none stand out to you and a few of the companies leave from the Eiffel Tower and a couple from Notre Dame so that might help narrow down which might fit better into your itinerary.

Day or night is hard and we’ve done both. Both are enjoyable in different ways. The highlight of the evening cruises for most is seeing the illuminated monuments, particularly the Eiffel Tower sparkling but you can see a bit more in the day time. If traveling in winter, I’d definitely make sure you have a boat with indoor seating. I’d maybe ask your kids opinions and let them choose between night and day 😉

Enjoy your Seine cruise and time in Paris! Jessica

Marlene Post author

December 15, 2018 at 11:45 pm

I just wanted to let you know simply how much I appreciated the time you took to write this useful post on Paris cruises. It is so complete and helpful, and as my father travels with either a cane or wheelchair, the accessibility information was essential and something we did not find elsewhere. Thanks so much for your excellent travel blog!

December 16, 2018 at 5:23 am

Hi Marlene, Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a comment and we are so happy to hear that you found our information helpful. We hope that it has helped you decide which Seine river boat cruise is best for you. Yes, it can be difficult to find a river cruise that is accessible but there are a few boat companies that make this possible for those using canes or wheelchairs. Wishing you a wonderful trip to Paris! Best, Jessica

Sharon Post author

October 22, 2018 at 11:05 pm

This article was very helpful! It really narrowed down the options. Thank you!

October 22, 2018 at 11:07 pm

Hi Sharon, Thanks so much for taking the time to comment, and we love to hear our post was helpful. Just let us know if you have any questions about Seine cruises in Paris! Best, Jessica

Ro Post author

October 21, 2018 at 3:30 am

Any offer vegan food on the dinner cruises?

October 21, 2018 at 8:34 am

Hi Ro, Most offer meat options as mains, but most also offer a vegetarian option. A few can do vegan options by request. I know Paris en Scene offers the option for a vegan menu on their Seine dinner cruises, but you need to make the request to the company after you make a dinner cruise reservation. Here is an example of one of their dinner cruises. Best, Jessica

Bill Post author

August 6, 2018 at 1:35 pm

Can you provide any information on wheelchair accessibility? There is a lot of very general information available on the cruise websites but very little specifics. My wife travels in a wheelchair buy is able to manage a few steps. Are there steps to board the boat? (and how many?) Is there a lift to the top deck? Are toilets available and are there steps involved? Thank you for any information you can provide.

August 6, 2018 at 2:13 pm

Yes, the cruise boat operators unfortunately do not share much info on accessibility (France is notoriously bad about this). I don’t know a lot about the accessibility of the boats but many do have stairs and I doubt any of them have lifts. The other issue is that most companies have several boats, and not all are of the same design.

I actually researched this a bit for another reader who emailed last week which Seine cruises were wheelchair accessible. It seems like the best chance is going to be from one of the cruises that leave from near the Eiffel Tower as these are the most popular and appear to have the most services and there is at least once access ramp here.

I would recommend calling the company you are most interested in to check specifically about accessibility and the specific needs you may have, but here is the info I found on the main Paris Seine River cruise company websites:

-Here is what the Bateaux Parisiens website says: “Bateaux Parisiens welcomes people with reduced mobility. For safety reasons, the number of seats may be limited depending on the configuration of the boat. Access to toilets on our boats is only by stairs. PMR toilets are available at Bistro Parisien, our restaurant dock, pontoon n ° 2.”

-Here is what Batobus website says: “Can disabled people in wheelchairs board the Batobus? Because of the many steps leading to the quays and/or the boats, only the Eiffel Tower stop has wheelchair access. NOTE: access to this stop is via a ramp that is also used by vehicles.”

-Here is what Canauxrama says: “The access to the boats is problematic for people with wheelchairs, especially at the Marina Arsenal since it is entirely paved. Plus there are stairs on some of our boats. Only the persons with manual wheelchairs can do the cruise on the Saint-Martin Canal if they are accompanied with people who can help them. It is the same problem for the cruise on the Marne River, because there are stairs at the landing stage in Joinville le Pont.”

-I could not find NO accessibility information on the Vedettes de Paris , Bateaux Mouches , or Vedettes du Pont Neuf websites.

I would love to know what you find out if you contact the companies about this and I would love to hear about your experiences to update this article and better help future readers. I will note that the other reader I was talking to said that the company he contacted did not respond to his email, so calling is probably the best way to get an answer from some of them.

Hope this helps! Jessica

Regina Post author

June 21, 2018 at 8:25 am

What is the temperature month of October ? What would be a nice romantic dinner an Eiffel dinner or Seinne river cruise ?

June 25, 2018 at 1:19 am

In October the weather in Paris is often cool but not cold, although it can be warm. Rain is definitely a possibility. I’d check the forecast closer to the time. I’d just check the forecast that morning and dress appropriately. You’ll be covered and warm at a Eiffel Tower restaurant or a Seine River dinner cruise (just make sure it offers indoor or covered dining area) so the weather should not matter too much. I think both would be nice. I have eaten in the Eiffel Tower and most tables have a nice view over the city (I’d request one when you make your booking). But on the boat you are on the water with the ever-changing scenery of Paris and you have the Eiffel Tower as a beautiful backdrops.

There are a few restaurants on the Eiffel Tower (e.g., 58 Tour Eiffel and Le Jules Verne) and the most well known is probably Le Jules Verne which offers fine dining. Note that the prices here are high as you are paying more for the location and view than the food here. It is a nice experience but expensive.

The Seine River dinner cruises are likely going to be less expensive than a dinner at the Eiffel Tower but may not offer as many options or be as nice as a restaurant. You can check out compare some of the dinner cruise options here .

If budget is a factor, I’d consider visiting the Eiffel Tower first and then doing a dinner boat cruise in Paris. Many of the cruises leave near the Eiffel Tower. That sounds like a very nice romantic evening that combines both the Tower and the cruise 😉 But either way, I am sure you’ll have a wonderful evening, just be sure to book in advance.

Hope this helps, and wishing you a romantic trip to Paris! Jessica

Mae Post author

June 5, 2018 at 9:29 am

Hello there. I’m so thankful I found your blog. This is very helpful. It’s my first time visiting Paris this July. I was wondering if you think it will be a good decision to do the cruise in the evening. I have a Paris Pass, btw. Will the ticket for the cruise that’s included in the Paris Pass allow me to do the Seine cruise in the evening? How long does the cruise take?

June 6, 2018 at 3:28 pm

Glad you found our articles helpful in planning your Paris trip 😉 A night cruise can be nice, we particularly like getting on the boat just before sunset. But we’ve also done them during the day and at night to see the lights – any time is nice really as long as the weather is good 😉

Currently, Paris Pass holders can claim a free ticket for a Seine River cruise with Bateaux Parisiens. The cruises take approximately 1 hour. The current schedule shows that these tours depart every 30 minutes between April-September from 10:00 to 22:30. So yes you can definitely do a night cruise if you wish.

But you can consult the Bateaux Parisiens website or this page for the Paris Pass information on the cruise for more details and the latest updates before your trip.

Hope this helps and wishing you a wonderful trip to Paris!

Laura Post author

April 15, 2018 at 6:36 pm

Very helpful article! Thank you! I think I would looking at Vedettes du Pont Neuf due to location. I leave in may, can’t wait!

April 17, 2018 at 10:49 pm

Hello Laura, Thanks so much for taking the time to comment and enjoy your trip to Paris and your Seine river cruise!! Best, Jessica

Michael Barnes Post author

April 15, 2018 at 12:09 pm

Hi – great blog, so thanks for the time you’ve taken to share what you’ve learned. Question, though – in this page about the river cruises, you mention that the Paris Museum Pass included a particular sightseeing boat tour, but your page about the Museum Pass says that no boat tours are included. Looking at the Museum Pass’ own website, it looks like there is no longer a boat tour included. Is that now correct?

April 15, 2018 at 12:12 pm

I think I just answered my own question – here you’re referring to the Paris Pass, not the Paris Museum Pass. Thanks.

April 17, 2018 at 10:47 pm

Hi Michael, Yes, the Paris Pass and Paris Museum pass are separate passes although the Paris Pass includes the Paris Museum Pass as well as several other attractions, including the Seine cruise. Best, Jessica

April 17, 2018 at 10:46 pm

Hi Michael, Glad you found the post helpful. Yes it is the Paris Pass (not the Paris Museum Pass) which includes a Seine River cruise and the information is still correct as of today. Enjoy your time in Paris! Best, Jessica

Norma Post author

March 23, 2018 at 5:54 am

Amazing post here, Thank you so much for taking the time to write about and compare all the Paris river trips. I think I am going to do a dinner cruise on the Seine!

March 23, 2018 at 7:00 am

Hi Norma, Great, glad you found it helpful and wishing you a lovely dinner river cruise in Paris 😉 Best, Jessica

Philippe Post author

March 7, 2018 at 2:53 am

Your article was very helpful! Thank you so much! 🙂

March 7, 2018 at 7:45 am

Hi Philippe, You’re very welcome 😉 Enjoy your trip to Paris. Best, Jessica

hind idris Post author

March 4, 2018 at 1:24 am

thank you for the kind info on seine river boats really thank u

March 4, 2018 at 6:03 am

Hi Hind, You are very welcome 😉 Hope you have a fantastic time in Paris. Best, Jessica

Chartres Post author

January 17, 2018 at 11:29 pm

Thanks for this amazing blog about boat cruises in Paris. Very helpful!

January 18, 2018 at 6:31 am

Glad you found it helpful, wishing you a wonderful trip to Paris!

Andrew Drogby Post author

December 1, 2017 at 4:55 am

Hi thanks for this article about the river cruises in Paris . I tried Bateaux Parisiens after reading your article. My experience was great. And I wanted to share it with you… If you go in Paris in winter especially I advise you the illumination cruise. It s cold during the winter but you will be able to feel all the romanticism of Paris city. After 5 pm the darkness come over the city and the buildings around the Seine river are illuminated. This emphasizes the character of the city . Be sure to bundle up otherwise you will be a Mr Freeze!

December 2, 2017 at 12:37 pm

Hi Andrew, Glad that this article helped you choose a Seine river cruise, and glad you had a great time with Bateaux Parisiens. Yes, warm layers are definitely a must on river cruises, especially in the winter, when it can get pretty cold outside in Paris!! Stay warm and enjoy the rest of your winter trip to Paris! Best, Jessica

Sacha Post author

June 22, 2017 at 1:25 am

Good & helpful information on Seine river boats!!!

June 22, 2017 at 10:19 am

Hi Sacha, Glad you found our Paris article on Seine river cruises helpful, and thanks so much for taking the time to leave us a comment 😉

John Post author

June 14, 2017 at 8:38 am

I have a few safety tips for the Seine river boat cruises. Watch out for your stuff at all times. Check whether all your bags are present throughout the entire trip. Be extra vigilant when changing locations and boats to avoid loss or theft. While these tips are important, there’s nothing like experience to help ensure a safe voyage.

June 15, 2017 at 10:19 am

Hi John, Thanks so much for sharing these safety tips for the Seine Cruise boat tours in Paris! Best, Jessica

Nicolleen Post author

May 5, 2017 at 6:40 am

I really thank you for your amazing write- up. It really did helped in making my mind up with regards to the Seine river boat company that I needed, You should write more since you are doing such an impressive job!!! Thank you once again

May 5, 2017 at 12:55 pm

Hi Nicolleen, Thanks for taking the time to comment and glad that our article helped you choose the Seine cruise tour that was a best suited for you! Enjoy your trip to Paris. Best, Jessica

alicia Post author

May 2, 2017 at 8:32 pm

FYI all the children’s cruises are in French

May 4, 2017 at 1:50 pm

Hi Alicia, Thanks for this information!

Note: She is referring to the fact that Vedettes de Paris have recently introduced special children’s boat cruises on the Seine for children (mostly for school groups, reservation required) and they are currently only available in French as of May 2017.

sai kapoor Post author

February 1, 2017 at 8:21 am

We are planning for a short trip to paris, your article was very helpful in planning our trip. Thank you

February 2, 2017 at 4:25 am

Hi Sai, Glad to hear this and thanks for taking the time to comment. I hope you found the perfect Seine Cruise boat for you and that you have a lovely trip to Paris! Best, Jessica

Mohammed Post author

July 19, 2016 at 8:51 pm

I really thank you for your amazing write- up. It really did helped in making my mind up with regards to the Seine river boat company that ! needed, You should write more since you are doing such an impressive job!!! Thank you once again

travelcats Post author

July 21, 2016 at 4:49 am

Hi Mohammed, glad the post was useful to you and thanks for taking the time to leave us a comment. Enjoy your trip to Paris! ~ Jessica

Gulzar Post author

June 25, 2016 at 5:49 am

Thank you for the write up. This really made it easier choosing the Seine cruise for my upcoming trip to Paris.

June 25, 2016 at 8:02 am

Hi Gulzar, Great, glad this was information was helpful in helping your choose the best Seine river cruise for you. Have a great trip to Paris! ~ Jessica

Shannon Post author

May 27, 2016 at 3:58 pm

Wow, I am planning our 21 day European vacation and know that I want to do a cruise on the Siene River. I have been overwhelmed at the choices and trying to figure out which company to go with. Thanks for writing this article! It includes all of the major companies that have come up during my research. Since we are staying near the Eiffel Tower, I will take location into consideration, however I do like the idea of a live guide.

May 27, 2016 at 6:43 pm

Hi Shannon, Thanks for taking the time to write a comment, we greatly appreciate it and it makes our day to know we are providing useful and helpful travel info! I hope you have a great European vacation and best of luck on choosing a Seine river cruise; I am sure you’ll enjoy any cruise on the Seine. Paris is a wonderful city! Happy travels, Jessica

Ginn Post author

January 21, 2016 at 5:26 am

Very good info, im glad that i found your blogpost here. I was trying to google which boat offer an open deck

January 21, 2016 at 6:13 am

Hi Ginn, Glad you found the post on Seine river cruises helpful. As you can probably see by looking at the photos, almost all of the boats have some open deck seating. I would just avoid the Batobus as it is not very open and is not really designed for sightseeing (it is a hop-on/hop-off boat). I think you should be fine with any of the other companies, and just try to get in line early to make sure you get the type of seat on the boat you want. Enjoy your time in Paris! ~ Jessica

Devon Post author

November 7, 2015 at 10:55 am

This is a great post. I’ve been writing similar one during my trip around the world and I’m happy to use yours. I’ll be on the Seine tomorrow!

November 8, 2015 at 3:35 am

Hi Devon, glad you liked the post and hope it helped you choose a Seine cruise in Paris that is right for you. You are happy to link to our post in your own post about the Seine. Enjoy Paris, I look forward to visiting again next month! ~ Jessica

Mike Post author

October 15, 2015 at 7:03 am

Hey, yes cruising in the Seine river certainly one of the best thing to do in Paris. I have tested many of them. I think the best one certianly the cruise between Normandy and Paris. (the impressionist road by the river). I also like dinner cruises in Paris, it’s a good way the visit the French capital. We I have some visit (familly or friends) I generally book a simple cruise with bateau. For originality ,you can also try the canauxama in the Canal St Martin.

October 24, 2015 at 7:08 am

Hi Mike, yes, I also really enjoyed the cruise on the Canal Saint Martin which is a nice thing to do if you have already done a Seine river cruise in Paris. You can read about our experience on the canal cruise here:

https://independenttravelcats.com/2014/02/16/canal-cruises-paris-boat-ride-canal-saint-martin/

Meghan Post author

October 16, 2013 at 12:10 pm

I wish I could remember with which company I went on a boat cruise when I was in Paris. But I do remember it was a great way to rest our feet after tromping around the city and up the Eiffel Tower!

October 16, 2013 at 4:55 pm

Yes, it is definitely great to get an hour or two off your feet after a lot of walking!

MOl S Post author

October 16, 2013 at 4:28 am

Excellent! I’ll definitely take a cruise on the Seine the next time I’m in Paris

October 16, 2013 at 5:19 pm

Yes, hope you enjoy it!

Missy Homemaker Post author

October 12, 2013 at 9:44 am

I am just loving reading about your travels! I’ve nominated you for a Sunshine Award. You can read about it on my post today 🙂

Vanessa Morgan Post author

October 7, 2013 at 3:45 am

Beautiful photos of Paris and great information.

October 7, 2013 at 8:44 am

Thanks Vanessa!

Kate Post author

October 6, 2013 at 11:59 pm

I never took advantage of a boat tour on the Seine because I used to walk past it so frequently and saw a lot of parts of it in my time living in Paris. I had some friends that did and said they enjoyed it. But I think it’s different when you are just visiting I guess, less time to see things.

October 7, 2013 at 8:43 am

Yes, what I think is interesting about the cruises is they give you a different perspective of the buildings and scenery from the water than from the banks.

Miwa Post author

October 6, 2013 at 4:00 pm

New follower! Your blog is amazing! Such great photos and detailed info. I will definitely keep this post bookmarked for the next time I’m in Paris. (Not sure when that’ll be but hopefully soon!)

October 6, 2013 at 4:09 pm

Thanks for stopping by, glad you enjoyed the post. Paris is a special place for us as it was my first international trip when I was 16 and about 10 years later the first place Ethan and I visited together as a couple. Look forward to checking out your blog as well.

Suzanne Lucas Post author

October 5, 2013 at 8:02 am

Although I’m sure the rain wasn’t the greatest for your cruise, I must say the picture of the Eiffel tower through the rainy window is stunning. Paris is definitely on my must-see list. Thanks for the insight.

Stopping in from the Happy Kids Blog Hop.

October 6, 2013 at 12:06 pm

Yes, between the rain and having to keep the windows closed during about half the cruise, it did put a bit of a damper on the cruise but we came prepared with a travel blanket, jackets, and rain ponchos and made the best of the trip. We’d love to do it again with the rain!

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• What to see and do
• Cruise on the Seine

River cruise - Batobus

Until 31/03/2025 / ARRÊTS BATOBUS

Description

Take an original way of getting around Paris during your stay! Embark on a cruise on the Seine with the panoramic boats of Batobus and visit Paris at your own pace.

The boats stop at 9 stations in the very heart of Paris to visit the tourist areas on the bank of the Seine and Paris's must-see monuments :

• Eiffel Tower
• Orsay Museum

Saint Germain des Près

• Notre-Dame de Paris
• Jardin des Plantes**
• Hôtel de Ville**
• Louvre Museum

Champs-Elysées

The Batobus pass allows you to get on and off where and when you want for the validity of the ticket (1 day or 2 consecutive days, depending on your choice).

There are many advantages in choosing Batobus :

• Service open all year long,
• Stations ideally located on the banks of the Seine ,
• Optimum comfort on boats that are fully glassed and heated in winter,
• Tickets in the form of a Pass for hops and offs as you please ,
• Boat every 12 to 25 minutes on average,
• AFNOR-certified service.

Don't wait any longer to book your tickets to discover or rediscover the capital on the water, with your family, friends or loved ones!

Useful information

Opening days and times.

• Wednesday to Thursday : 10am to 5pm.
• Friday to Sunday from 10am to 7pm.
• Exceptional closure on 14 July 2023.

Pricing and conditions

• Free for children under 3

1 day pass - Adult ticket (from 16): € 23 - Child ticket (3 to 15): € 13

2 day pass - Adult ticket (from 16): € 19 - Child ticket (3 to 15): € 9

Ticket validity

• Ticket valid for the selected date.
• Tickets cannot be changed, exchanged or refunded.

Prepare your visit

• Scan your ticket directly on a Batobus at one of the following stations: Tour Eiffel / Musée d'Orsay / Notre Dame / Hôtel de ville / Jardin des plantes / Louvre / Place de la Concorde / Invalides / Saint-Germain-des Prés
• This is not a guided tour
• Disabled access limited to the Tour Eiffel station

Get to the Batobus stops

Tour eiffel.

• Port de la Bourdonnais
• Metro: line 6 - Bir Hakeim; lines 6 and 9 - Trocadéro
• RER: line C - Champ de Mars - Tour Eiffel

Musée d'Orsay

• Quai de Solférino
• Metro: line 12 - Assemblée Nationale
• RER: line C - Musée d'Orsay
• Quai Malaquais
• Metro: line 4 - Saint-Germain-des-Près
• Quai de Montebello
• Metro: line 4 - Saint Michel; line 10 - Maubert-Mutualité
• RER: lines B and C - Saint Michel

Jardin des Plantes

• Quai Saint Bernard
• Metro: lines 7 and 10 - Jussieu; line 10 - Cardinal Lemoine
• RER: line C - Gare d'Austerlitz

Hôtel de Ville

• Quai de l'Hôtel de Ville
• Metro: lines 1 and 11 - Hôtel de Ville
• Quai du Louvre
• Metro: lines 1 and 7 - Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre
• Port des Champs-Élysées
• Metro: lines 1 and 13 - Champs-Elysées Clémenceau; lines 1, 8 and 12 - Concorde

Choose your tickets

• Copyright image:
• © JARRY-TRIPELON/CRT Paris IDF

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• WHERE TO STAY
• Charles de Gaulle Airport
• Orly Airport
• Beauvais Airport
• Paris public transport
• CDG Airport transfers
• Orly Airport transfers
• Hop on/off sightseeing buses
• Getting to Disneyland
• Getting to Versailles
• Louvre Museum

Eiffel Tower

• Disneyland Paris
• Palace of Versailles
• Sightseeing passes
• Paris tours
• COVID-19 INFO

Paris Batobus hop-on, hop-off river bus

River seine service stops at eiffel tower, louvre and notre dame.

The Paris Batobus River Bus hop-on hop-off service is aimed at tourists, taking advantage of the fact that many of the biggest visitor attractions of Paris are next to or close to the River Seine.

The Batobus operates a hop-on hop-off shuttle service up and down the River Seine and you use it like a bus service. You purchase a pass for unlimited rides in a time period, (1 or 2 days).

Batobus is not quite the same as a river cruise operator; it is unique in that it is the only company to offer the hop-on-hop-off experience. You can enjoy fantastic views all around the Seine from the open back terrace at the back of the boat in fine weather. The boat is heated in the winter and has an open rooftop in the summer.

Batobus represents great value with unlimited journeys for one or two days. Batobus does not however offer a commentary. If this is something you are interested in there are many Seine river cruise operators including Vedettes de Paris (combined with Tootbus Paris ) and Les Bateaux Parisiens (Big Bus Paris).

Route stops   Tickets and timetables   Bateaux Parisiens 1-hr sightseeing   Big Bus and Les Bateaux Parisiens   Night, dinner & combination cruises

Batobus route stopping places

There are nine landing stages on either side of the river. Running west to east the stops are:

The most western landing stage where the Batobus hop-on hop-off service turns around. The Eiffel Tower is on the other side of the road from the landing stage.

You can walk up to the Palais du Trocadero on the opposite bank housing museums and gardens for a great view down onto the Eiffel Tower.

Invalides / Pont Alexandre III bridge

The entire Les Invalides complex, including the Hôtel des Invalides residence, soldiers' church and large Dôme des Invalides church, was originally built to accommodate injured and disabled soldiers.

Today, you can visit the Musée de l’Armée, an army museum which retraces the life of the Les Invalides complex under the old regime, and hosts an exhibition.

Champs-Elysees

It's a short walk to the famous Champs-Elysees, one of the most famous streets in the world.

The avenue is lined with cinemas, cafés and restaurants, most notably Fouquets, and luxury speciality shops. The Champs-Elysees ends at the Arc de Triomphe, built by Napoleon Bonaparte to honour his victories.

Musee d'Orsay

The Musee d'Orsay, or Orsay Museum, is a museum housed in a grand railway station built in 1900. Home to many sculptures and impressionist paintings, it has become one of Paris's most popular museums.

About a 300m walk to the famous glass pyramid within the Louvre itself. now one of the largest and most visited museums in the world, is a must-visit for anyone with a slight interest in art.

Some of the museum's most famous works of art are the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.

Saint Germain

Located on the left bank, probably the bank's most colourful neighbourhood. It's also the heart of France's publishing world, a great mix of artist sensibility and upscale living.

Many good shops can be found in the small streets of Saint Germain as well as second-hand book stalls.

Landing stage is next to the famous Notre Dame Cathedral located on the Ile de la Cite, a small island in the heart of the city. Notre Dame is closed due the fire that nearly destroyed it, so it is covered in scaffolding. It has been confirmed that sadly it will not be rebuilt in time for the Paris Olympics 2024 - the current estimate is a finished Notre Dame by December 2024.

Hotel de Ville

Jumping off point for the Pompidou Centre and atmospheric unspoilt Marais district of Paris.

Jardin des Plantes

The eastern terminus of Batobus. The Jardin des Plantes, a centuries old botanic garden in Paris, is a popular destination not only because of its beautiful gardens but also thanks to the small zoo, the Natural History Museum and the labyrinth of gardens that are located here.

Top of the page

Batobus tickets and timetables 2024.

In the summer period, March - July Batobus runs between 10 am and 7 pm, Friday - Sunday, and between 10 am and 5 pm Monday - Thursday - every 25 minutes.

There are various other timetables running through the rest of the year. For more details see the official Batobus website .

With your ticket, you can remain on the boat for an entire loop (roughly 1.5 to 2 hours) or you can hop on and off at any of the nine stops along the Seine River to explore Paris.

There is no commentary on this service and the ticket doesn't include any admissions to attractions.

You can ride the buses as much or as little as you require for the days your ticket is valid. A child ticket is valid for children aged between 3 to 15 years. Children under 3 years may travel free.

On ordering you will be e-mailed a voucher which is exchanged for a ticket on first use in Paris.

BATOBUS RIVER BUS PARIS

Seine River Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruise in Paris

• Multiple departure times and locations • Perfect introduction for first-time visitors • Flexibility to customize your itinerary to your own preferences

Bateaux Parisiens 1-hour luxury sightseeing cruise of Paris

The Bateaux Parisiens one hour tour covers the same ground as the Batobus hop on, hop off service but instead of stopping at the landing stages provides a non-stop tour returning back to the departure point half way.

Meet by the Eiffel Tower and hop on board your Bateaux Parisiens sightseeing boat to cruise down the famous River Seine.

Its riverbanks in Paris have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are dotted with iconic Paris attractions like Musee d'Orsay, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Louvre.

Plug in your audio guide and listen to captivating commentary about the sites you're cruising past, including stories of famous lovers who met in riverside town houses, and hear the history of Paris top attractions.

Glide under beautiful bridges like Pont Neuf and see houseboats and even floating restaurants all of which add to the character of the Seine River.

After cruising for half an hour down the river, your boat will turn around, and start meandering its way back to the Eiffel Tower where your tour ends.

BATEAUX PARISIENS 1-HOUR RIVER CRUISE

Batobus 1-hour Seine river cruise tickets

• 1-hour comprehensive tour of the city • Great overview and orientation of the city • Recorded commentary by audio headphones • Starts and finishes by Eiffel Tower

Big Bus Paris hop on hop off bus & Les Bateaux Parisiens combination ticket

Combine the Big Bus Paris hop on/off bus pass with the Les Bateaux Parisiens   river boat shuttle service.

Available as a one-day pass, you have access to more than 10 stops and two different routes, with a live guide on one route, plus the addition of a one hour river cruise.

Enjoy the exceptional views of the monuments of Paris and the Seine river from the rear terraces of the boats and the top decks of the buses.

PARIS BIG BUS AND RIVER TOUR

Paris Big Bus and river cruise tickets

• Hop-On Hop-Off Tour with Seine River Cruise • Audio commentary • Free Wi-Fi • Free rewards voucher book

Paris night, dinner and combination cruises

Taking advantage of the fact that many of the biggest visitor attractions of Paris are next to or very close to the River Seine, cruising the River Seine through the heart of Paris is a popular activity for visitors by day or night.

There is perhaps a bewildering choice, for all budgets. There are daytime cruises, night time cruises, dinner cruises, hop-on, hop off cruises and combination cruises with some of the iconic sights of Paris or a show.

The link below brings to your attention the most popular river opportunities that operate on a regular basis.

PARIS RIVER CRUISE TOURS AND COMBINATIONS

Paris cruises, sailing and water tours

• River Seine dinner cruises • Paris in one day • Cruise with Louvre, Eiffel Tower and many more

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Seine River Hop On Hop Off Cruises

What is a seine river hop-on-hop-off cruise.

The Seine River Hop-On-Hop-Off Cruise is a unique and exciting way to explore Paris. It offers a fully narrated tour around the Seine River, providing stunning views of the city's iconic landmarks and historical sites. The cruise is famous for its panoramic views, natural beauty, and access to one of the busiest shipping ports in the West Coast. The cruise combines sightseeing with the convenience of hopping on and off at various points along the river, allowing passengers to explore the city at their own pace.

Read on to know why you should take the Seine River Hop-On-Hop-Off Cruise, the iconic landmarks you can see, timings, departure points, and more.

Why should you take a Seine River Hop-On-Hop-Off Cruise?

• A sail to remember: The cruise offers stunning panoramic views of Paris' iconic landmarks and historical sites, providing a unique perspective of the city's beauty and history. Catch a glimpse of famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre Dame Cathedral from a unique river perspective.
• It’s in your hands: This tour is perfect for spontaneous travelers and anyone who wants to avoid rigid schedules. Unlike traditional cruises, you can hop on and off at various stops along the Seine, allowing you to customize your itinerary and spend as much time as you would like at each landmark.
• Easy on the bucks: The cruise is a cost-effective way to explore Paris, offering affordable tickets and multi-day pass options that give you access to nine iconic landmarks.
• Best way to avoid crowds: The cruise is a great way to avoid crowds and enjoy the city's landmarks without the hassle of navigating busy streets.

What can you cover on your Seine River Hop-On-Hop-Off Cruise?

Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is a wrought iron lattice tower on the Champ de Mars in Paris. It is named after the engineer who designed it, Gustave Eiffel. The tower is 324 meters tall, and was the tallest structure in the world from 1889 to 1930. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, and a popular tourist destination.

Musée d'Orsay

The Musée d'Orsay is a museum in Paris, France, that showcases an extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, including works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Renoir; paintings, sculptures, drawings, and photography. It is located in the 7th arrondissement on the left bank of the Seine River. The museum opened in 1986, and is housed in a converted railway station.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

The Notre-Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture, was constructed between 1163 and 1345 on the Île de la Cité. It features stunning stained glass windows and intricate sculptures. It holds significant historical and cultural importance in Paris. It is one of the most famous cathedrals in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum is one of the world's largest and most famous museums, housing iconic artworks like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory of Samothrace. It boasts an extensive collection spanning various artistic periods and cultures. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was founded in 1793, and is housed in a former royal palace.

Les Invalides

Founded in the 17th century, Les Invalides is a complex of buildings housing museums and monuments relating to France's military history. This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte, a military hospital, and various military artifacts. It is located in the 7th arrondissement on the left bank of the Seine River.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a historic neighborhood in Paris, France, located in the 6th arrondissement on the left bank of the Seine River. Known for its intellectual and artistic atmosphere, the district houses several literary cafes, art galleries, and boutiques. It exudes a bohemian charm, has been home to many famous writers, artists, and philosophers, and houses landmarks like the Sainte-Chapelle chapel.

Jardin des Plantes

Located in the 5th arrondissement on the left bank of the Seine Rive, Jardin des Plantes is a botanical garden with a rich history dating back to the 17th century. It offers a serene escape with beautifully landscaped gardens, greenhouses, and a zoo. It is one of the largest botanical gardens in the world, housing over 10,000 species of plants.

Hôtel de Ville

The Hôtel de Ville is the city hall of Paris, known for its striking architecture and cultural events. It serves as the administrative center of the city and a venue for exhibitions and receptions. Located in the 4th arrondissement on the right bank of the Seine River, the current Second Empire-style building was built between 1874 and 1882.

Place de la Concorde

Located in the 8th arrondissement on the right bank of the Seine River, Place de la Concorde is a historic square in Paris known for its Egyptian obelisk and ornate fountains. It holds symbolic significance as the site of many notable events in French history. The square was created in the 18th century, and is named after the Concord of 1814, which ended the Napoleonic Wars.

Plan your Seine River Hop-On-Hop-Off Cruise

The Seine River Hop-On-Hop-Off Cruise operates daily:

Departures: Every 30 minutes

Timings: From 10am to 10pm

Best time to visit: With clear skies and little rain, the June to mid-September and mid-to-late December months are ideal for outdoor dining and sunset views on the cruise.

The cruise departs from the foot of the Eiffel Tower, located at 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France.

Find on Maps. 

• Via Metro: Take the metro line 6, 9, or RER C to Bir-Hakeim station, which is a short walk from the Eiffel Tower.
• Via bus: Take bus numbers 30 or 82 to the Tour Eiffel stop. The departure point is a quick 5-minute walk from there.
• Via Batobus Service: Utilize the Batobus service, offering a Hop-On-Hop-Off boat cruise on the Seine with stops near the Eiffel Tower.

The following facilities are available on the Seine River Hop-On-Hop-Off Cruise:

• Heated Boats
• Vending Machine with snacks & drinks
• Seine River cruise: Audio guide in 14 languages (French, English, Hindi, Arabic, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Polish, Dutch, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean)
• Live commentary in English and French

• While the cruise is wheelchair accessible, the only stop that provides a ramp is at Eiffel Tower.
• Pets and guide dogs are allowed on board. 

Book Seine River Hop On Hop Off Cruise tickets

Visitors tips.

• If you want to take in Paris’ city lights, we recommend booking a sunset cruise which is best known for its breathtaking views and magical atmosphere. 
• If you want to avoid peak crowds, you can opt for a morning or late afternoon cruise.
• Paris weather can vary, so dress in layers and bring a light jacket or sweater, especially for evening cruises when it can get cooler on the water.
• Opt for comfortable shoes as you may need to walk short distances between hop-off points or explore nearby attractions.
• Consider bringing a guidebook or map to learn more about the landmarks you'll see along the cruise route.
• Research the cruise schedule and plan your hop-off points in advance to make the most of your time exploring Paris.
• Take advantage of the audio guide available in 14 languages (French, English, Hindi, Arabic, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Polish, Dutch, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean) to learn interesting facts and historical insights about the sights you pass.

Frequently asked questions about Seine River Hop-On-Hop-Off Cruises

The Seine River Hop-On-Hop-Off Cruise is a boat tour in Paris that allows passengers to hop on and off at various stops along the Seine River, offering a unique, flexible, and scenic sightseeing experience.

On a Seine River Hop-On-Hop-Off Cruise, you can see iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Musée d'Orsay, Notre Dame Cathedral, Parisian bridges, UNESCO World Heritage riverbanks, and more.

Sunset cruises offer breathtaking views as Paris lights up, creating a magical atmosphere. Aim for late afternoon departures

Yes, it offers a unique way to explore Paris at your own pace, providing access to major landmarks and scenic views along the Seine River.

The departure point for the Seine River Hop-On-Hop-Off Cruise is located near the Eiffel Tower.

Yes, the cruises are wheelchair-accessible for passengers with mobility needs.

Yes, it's advisable to carry water and snacks for your journey along the Seine River.

No, there are no toilets available on board the Seine River Hop-On-Hop-Off Cruise.

The time between the spots during the Seine River Hop-On-Hop-Off Cruises is approximately 15 minutes. You can find more information here .

As the stops on the Seine River Hop-On-Hop-Off Cruise include picturesque locations and iconic landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral, Louvre Museum, Orsay Museum and Palais Chaillot, you can click Instagram-worthy pictures at any of these spots.

No, the Seine River Hop-On-Hop-Off Cruise tours are not guided. However, there are audio guides available in 14 languages that you can use for an immersive experience.

Popular currencies

More currencies, batobus: 24/48-hour hop-on hop-off seine river cruise tour of paris.

• Instant confirmation

Take in the beauty of Paris on a Seine River cruise tour with 9 perfectly placed stops along Hôtel de Ville, Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and more.

Soak in the beauty of Paris from the perfect vantage points along the Seine River on a 24/48-hour hop-on hop-off cruise tour.

Enjoy complete freedom to hop on or off at any of the 9 stops, whenever and how many ever times you want.

Hunger pangs? Worry not as the boat is equipped with a vending machine loaded with local snacks and drinks.

All boats come heated, along with open-air decks for a breathtaking panorama of riverside Parisian landmarks.

Cross popular landmarks like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Invalides, Orsay Museum, and more.

24/48-hour unlimited hop on hop off river cruise pass

Seine River cruise: Audio guide in 14 languages (French, English, Hindi, Arabic, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Polish, Dutch, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean)

Entry tickets to attractions

Cancellation policy

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Ratings & Reviews

Routes & Schedule

Seine river cruise route.

Hop on and off at one of the 9 stops along the Seine River. Catch glimpses of incredible spots like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame. The buses are scheduled approx every 2 mins and the time between each stop is about 15 mins.

Please click here for a detailed route map and its boarding points.

Aug 16 to 20:

First cruise at 12:30pm from Eiffel Tower

Last cruise at 7pm from Eiffel Tower

Frequency: Every 2 hours

Popular stops: Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Orsay Museum

Aug 21 to Nov 12:

First cruise at 10am from Eiffel Tower

Nov 13 to Dec 31:

Mon to Thu:

Last cruise at 5pm from Eiffel Tower

Fri to Sun:

Know before you go

What's not allowed.

• Note that the following are not allowed on this tour: suitcases, large bags, and alcoholic drinks.

Accessibility

• The only wheelchair-accessible stop is the Eiffel Tower. However, the wheelchair access at this stop is a ramp also used by vehicles.

Additional information

Facilities: Heated Boats, Vending Machine with Snacks & Drinks.

Dogs wearing a muzzle and on a leash and small dogs in a carrier/bag are allowed on board.

Compact luggage, Baby carriages, and Bicycles are allowed depending on how crowded the boat is.

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the boarding point.

Please arrive at the boarding point 15 minutes before the scheduled time of your visit to avoid any delays.

Boarding Point

Board your cruise at Bateaux Parisiens.

Address: Port de la Bourdonnais, 75007 Paris, France.

Get Directions to the Boarding Point

Getting There

The closest bus stop is Marceau - Pierre 1er de Serbie - Place de Beyrouth. It is a quick 7-minute walk to the meeting point.

Board buses 32 to get you there.

The closest metro station is Bir-Hakeim. It is a quick 3-minute walk to the meeting point.

Board metros 6 to get you there.

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Home > Paris Attractions > Paris River Cruise Guide – What is the Best Seine River Cruise in Paris?

Paris River Cruise Guide – What is the Best Seine River Cruise in Paris?

Glide by the famous sights of paris on a river seine cruise.

The Seine River (La Seine in French) winds its way through the heart of Paris, bisecting the city from east to west. The Seine River is the origin of Paris , and its development is uniquely tied to the River.

If you visit Paris for the first time , book a Seine River cruise to experience the city from a different perspective and spot some of the most famous landmarks in Paris along the waterway. This is especially beautiful on a Seine River night cruise, when the historical monuments are lit up: the Eiffel Tower , the Musée d’Orsay , the Conciergerie ,  Notre Dame , and more.

There are many Seine River cruises in Paris. Some of these Paris River cruises are only for sightseeing, while others come with dinner and music for an all-included magical experience. You can even craft your own River Seine cruise by chartering a boat for you and your crew! Go on reading for the best Seine River cruises Paris has to offer, with our best tips to help you decide.

Best Seine River Cruises Overview

Day river seine cruises, private seine river tours, seine river dinner cruises, seine sunset cruises, seine river cruises for families.

Table of Contents:

Paris River Cruise – How it Works

Seine river cruises in paris – itinerary & map.

• Best Seine River Cruise Paris (Sightseeing Only)

Best Private Seine River Cruise

Best seine river dinner cruise.

• Best Seine Sunset Cruise ( Seine River Night Cruise Without Dinner)

Best Seine River Cruise for Families

Seine boat tour – best tips.

A Seine River cruise is one of the top attractions in the city. We recommend taking a Paris River cruise in the following Paris itineraries:

• 1 day in Paris itinerary
• 2 days in Paris itinerary
• 3 days in Paris itinerary
• 4 days in Paris itinerary
• 5 days in Paris itinerary
• 6 days in Paris itinerary
• 7 days in Paris itinerary

Many boat companies are working on the River Seine, and they all cover the same itinerary, more or less. The difference between them remains in the starting point, the options, and of course, the experience onboard.

Seine River cruise times are more or less the same for all companies, from 10 am to 10.30 pm.

All the boats are adapted to disabled visitors (wheelchair accessible).

A Paris Seine River cruise (only sightseeing) usually lasts from 60 minutes to 90 minutes, and they are available every day of the week. Some of these cruises offer a glass of champagne, other drinks, and snacks as an option.

A Seine night cruise can be with or without dinner. A Seine River dinner cruise usually lasts from 1hr 15 min to 3 hours, and it comes with or without music. Most of these River Seine cruises with dinner offer different menus with vegetarian and vegan dishes, and this is something that you need to specify during the booking process.

With few exceptions, the itinerary is very similar to all the Seine River cruises in Paris, covering the part of the Seine River that goes through the central Arrondissements of Paris , from the Eiffel Tower in Paris 7 to Ile de Saint Louis in Paris 4.

Boats go downstream following the Seine’s Left Bank, and they turn after Ile de Saint Louis to go upstream following the Seine’s Right Bank.

Along the way, visitors can admire the following top sights: the Eiffel Tower, Assemblée Nationale, Musée d’Orsay, Institut de France, Cité de la Mode, Hôtel de Ville, Notre Dame, Conciergerie, Concorde, Grand Palais, and Palais Chaillot.

With some companies, and usually with the Seine River dinner cruises, the boats sail further to the Statue of Liberty on the Ile-aux-Cygnes.

The map below shows the point of departure of the best Seine cruises, Paris.

Click here to view this Seine River Cruises Map on Google

• Yellow: Bateaux Mouches
• Red: Bateaux Parisiens
• Green: Vedettes de Paris
• Purple: Batobus Paris
• Black: Paris en Scène
• Light Green: Paris Duck Tour (tour on an amphibious bus)
• Blue: Paris Canal (Seine River + Canal Saint-Martin)
• Brown: Trattoria On Seine (Italian meal + panoramic rooftop)

Best Seine River Cruise Paris ( Sightseeing Only)

Best combo tickets with a paris seine cruise (sightseeing only).

Save money with a Paris combo ticket! Combo tickets usually include 2 or 3 top attractions in Paris at a discounted price (usually 10-15% off).

1. Bâteaux Mouches

The company Bateaux Mouches has been operating on the Seine River since 1949! The iconic Bâteaux Mouches is today the 4th most visited paid attraction in Paris, only after the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Centre Georges Pompidou.

The Bâteaux Mouches can transport up to 600 passengers. They are the big double-decker boats with orange seats sailing on the River.

With this Seine River cruise, Paris’ top landmarks won’t have more secrets for you as the cruise is complemented by a pre-recorded narration in multiple languages. You can also book a glass of champagne.

• Duration:  1 hour 10 minutes
• Departure /arrival point: Pont de l’Alma Rive Droite – Port de la Conférence, Paris 8 Right Bank
• Adapted toilets on the pier, a removable ramp for access from the pier to the boat, and no steps on board. No adapted toilets on board.

Click here to Book this Seine River Cruise

2. Bâteaux Parisiens

The Bateaux Parisiens propose similar boat tours to the Bâteaux Mouches. The fleet consists of fully glazed boats for an amazing panoramic view, and they can transport up to 250 passengers. Visitors can also stay outdoors on the deck, but space is limited.

Starting from the Eiffel Tower, this Paris Seine River cruise comes with an individual audio guide that is available in 13 languages. The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour, and there’s the option to book it with a glass of champagne.

• Duration: 1 hour
• Departure /arrival point: Port de la Conférence, Paris 7 Left Bank
• Adapted toilets on the pier. Some boats have wheelchair access on the main deck and inside, while others can be accessed through a temporary wheelchair ramp. For adapted toilets also onboard, ask for “Juliette Greco” or “Brigitte Bardot” boats.

TIP: This Seine cruise is included in the Paris City Card . If you are considering buying this fantastic card, this is an extra reason to get it now!

3. Vedettes de Paris

The Vedettes de Paris are elegant and smaller boats that transport fewer people. During the 1-hour Seine River tour, learn about the history of Paris and the sights along the cruise with audio commentary.

This is the best Seine River cruise Paris has to offer to avoid crowds. The onboard bar offers interesting French-inspired apéritifs and snacks. If you already know that you will fall into the temptation of trying some, we recommend booking them online with your ticket: usually, they are more expensive if paid onboard.

TIP: This Seine boat tour is included in the Paris Seine Pass . If you are considering buying this fantastic card, this is an extra reason to get it now!

• Departure /arrival point: Port de Suffren, Paris 7 Left Bank (see our Google map)
• Options: sightseeing cruise, sightseeing cruise + glass of champagne, sightseeing cruise + drink and /or snack
• Passengers with wheelchairs can be accommodated with the help of a staff member if passengers are able to climb the 3 steps. There are adapted toilets at the embarkation point and on the boats Paris Etoile, Paris Iéna, and Paris Trocadéro

4. Batobus Paris (Seine River Cruise Hop-On Hop-Off)

This  Seine River cruise hop-on, hop-off is the less touristy option available on the Seine River, without audio commentary. It is a great alternative to the classic Paris hop-on hop-off bus because it avoids the traffic jams on the streets of Paris.

This is the best Paris River cruise for a more local experience. It is possible to get on the Batobus Paris as often as you want over a specified period of time without buying new tickets.

Batobus is the Seine River tour that we know best because years ago, it was included in the monthly Navigo Pass Metro ticket. It was fun to sail the River Seine from time to time!

• Duration: 1 day or 2 days, with unlimited trips
• Departure /arrival point: passengers can hop on and hop off the boat from any of its 9 different stops: Eiffel Tower, Invalides/Pont Alexandre III, Musée d’Orsay, St Germain des Prés, Notre-Dame, Jardin des Plantes /Cité de la Mode, Hôtel de Ville, Louvre, Champs-Elysées.
• Only the Eiffel Tower and Louvre stops are accessible to those in wheelchairs. The other stops have too many steps for wheelchairs.

5. Paris Duck Tour (Tour on an Amphibious Bus)

The Paris Duck Tour is the latest addition to this list of Seine River cruises in Paris. This small bus, for only 35 people, can also navigate along the Seine River, so you have a bus tour and a Seine boat tour for the price of one! Actually, the splash!, when the bus enters the water is one of the highlights of this unique Seine boat tour.

The itinerary is also different from the other Seine cruises. On the bus, you will pass by iconic sites like the Eiffel Tower, the Invalides, the Alexandre III Bridge, the Petit Palais and Grand Palais, the Champs-Elysées, the Arc de Triomphe, and more.

The splash! takes place on the outskirts of Paris, where you can discover the Seine Musicale, the Parc de Saint-Cloud, and the Bois de Boulogne. Count on sailing about 20 minutes of the 1 hr 45 min that lasts the full tour.

Another (big) difference is the guide, who was hand-picked for his humor and passion to make this tour fun and memorable.

• Duration: 1 hr 45 min
• Departure /arrival point: Place Vauvan, in Paris 7 (see our Google map)
• Options: sightseeing cruise only (no food or drinks)
• No toilets onboard

This is a new and unique tour much coveted by tourists and locals (yep, we also like trying new experiences!). Because of the small capacity of the bus, the Paris Duck Tours sold out very fast, so it is usually necessary to book many weeks in advance. If you don’t find this Seine River tour available for your dates, consider this Seine River + Canal Saint-Martin Duck Tour or this Paris to Versailles Duck Tour also with their unique amphibious bus.

Click here to book this Seine River Cruise

6. River Cruise Paris with Champagne Tastings (Maxim’s + Ô Château)

This 1.5-hour Cruise with Champagne Tastings with a Professional Sommelier is the perfect combo for a unique afternoon in Paris. Board Maxim’s Bâteau Ivre , decorated in the Art Nouveau style, and enjoy the tastings of three champagnes carefully selected by the chef sommelier of Ô Château .

This is a more intimate and fun Paris Seine cruise, and it is set in a Belle Epoque atmosphere. Your sommelier will also share stories about the monuments you see along the cruise while you enjoy the breathtaking view of Paris from the water’s edge.

• Duration: 1 hr 30 min
• Departure /arrival point: Le Bon Port, at the foot of Notre Dame, in Paris 4 (see our Google Map)

Click here to Book this Seine River Cruise with Champagne Tastings

7. Canal Saint-Martin + Seine Cruise

This Paris River cruise navigates the waters of the Seine River and Canal Saint-Martin. Admire classics of Paris, like the Orsay Museum, the Louvre, and Notre Dame, before heading to the tunnels and locks of Paris’ most picturesque Canal.

This is a one-way cruise that starts at the Orsay Museum (Paris 7) and ends at Parc de la Villette in Paris 19. Then, you can take the opportunity to explore this less-touristy district of Paris, with interesting sights like the Parc de la Villette, Parc Buttes-Chaumont, and the banks of the Bassin de la Villette. If you prefer, you can sail from La Villette to the Orsay Museum in central Paris by booking this tour .

• Duration: 2 hrs 30 min
• Departure /arrival point: Port de Solferino, in Paris 7 Left Bank /La Villette or vice-versa (see our Google map)
• Options: sightseeing cruise only

Click here to book this Seine River + Canal Saint-Martin Cruise

Craft your own experience and book a private cruise on the Seine River. Admire Paris’ most beautiful avenue while sipping a glass of wine or enjoying a picnic onboard.

There’s no best private Seine River cruise; it depends on what you are looking for! You can book this private Seine boat tour which follows a similar itinerary to the other Seine boat tours, or choose another boat more adapted for you and your cruise (the map on this page shows where the boats are moored).

Most of the boats for rent in Paris come with a skipper, so let him do the hard work while you sit back, relax, and have fun with your partner, family, or group.

With this kind of river cruise, Paris will delight you. You can bring your own food and wine for a picnic or a French apéritif . Sometimes, you can purchase them as an add-on during the booking process.

Click here to book a Private Seine Boat Tour

A Paris night cruise with dinner is one of the best things to do in Paris at night . Enjoy the views and some of the famous foods in Paris while sailing through the city’s most beautiful avenue.

Some boat companies offer two Seine River dinner cruises a day, the first starting around 6 pm and the second starting at 8.30 pm or later.

The first Seine River dinner cruise is usually less expensive. This is because the menu options are more limited, and the cruise is shorter. The second dinner cruise is fancier and usually features live music.

For some people, 70 minutes is long enough to have their meal while enjoying some of Paris’s most beautiful sights. Others will find that it is a bit rushed.

Another important thing to consider is the time of the cruise, especially during the summer . If you want to do this Seine cruise at night, check out the Paris sunset times and plan your Seine night cruise accordingly:

• The 6 pm Seine River night cruise finishes around 7.10 pm. This means that during the summer, you will be sailing in daylight.
• With the 8 pm Seine night cruise, you can be sure to enjoy the Paris illuminations during the tour, at least for the last part of the cruise.

The dress code for a dinner cruise in Paris is usually smart casual (check what to wear in Paris here ), but nobody will complain if you wear your best dress or suit!

Find the best dinner cruise in Paris for you from the options below.

1. Bateaux Parisiens Dinner Cruise

Bateaux Parisiens offers a Seine River cruise, a night option with dinner, starting at 8.30 pm.

In general, this Seine River dinner cruise gets good reviews for its food, drinks, and kind staff. The 3-course meal comes with different starters, main dishes, and dessert options, and all the proposals include a glass of champagne. There is also a vegetarian option available.

This Seine River dinner cruise features live music and lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes. The price varies depending on the menu and the placement of your table.

MAKE IT SPECIAL: we suggest paying a little extra to be seated along the windows (Service Privilege) or at the bows of the boat (Service Premier). It is well worth it! 

Click here to Book this Seine River Dinner Cruise

2. Paris en Scène Dinner Cruise

Paris en Scène is perhaps the lesser-known boat company proposing Seine River dinner cruises in Paris. However, their proposal is very attractive, flexible, and definitely one of the best Paris River cruises with dinner.

First of all, the boats are imagined like a theatre where the Seine River is the main stage.  All the seats are arranged in front of the view to admire the Seine River and all the monuments illuminated along the way. The passengers are comfortably seated in large club chairs, and they dine side by side on tables specially designed to enjoy both the view and the meal. Boats also have a bar and a huge open sky terrace so visitors can get the most out of the Seine River during the cruise.

With prices starting at 59€, this is definitely the least expensive dinner cruise in Paris. The meals are Parisian bistro-style, all cooked on-site, and with fresh and seasonal produce. Enjoy a 2-course menu starter, main, and dessert at your window-facing table, and upgrade it with wine or champagne.

3. Bateaux Mouches Dinner Cruise

Bateaux Mouches offers a River Seine cruise with dinner starting at 8.30 pm. In general, this river cruise gets good reviews for food, wine, and entertainment.

The all-inclusive menu offers 3-5 different options (depending on the chosen menu) of starter, main dish, and cheese or dessert, and there’s always at least one vegetarian option for each course. Beverages and coffee or tea are included.

Bâteaux Mouches offers a romantic dinner cruise lulled by the sound of the piano and violin. Enjoy a three-course menu designed to bring you the best of French cuisine and good live music with your best company in the City of Light.

Best Seine Sunset Cruise (Seine River Night Cruise Without Dinner)

For those who wish to cruise along the Seine River at sunset – at night, admiring Paris illuminated, without having dinner, there are a few options competing for the best Seine River night cruise without dinner.

An important thing to consider for a Paris night cruise is the sunset time, as the sunset in Paris in summer is quite late. If you want to take a Seine sunset cruise – night cruise, check out the Paris sunset times and book accordingly.

Both the Happy Hour Evening Cruise on the Seine and the Apéritif Cruise on the Seine are mid-size boats that come with music and a bar onboard. The difference between these two Seine cruises is the duration of the cruise, with a longer itinerary for the Happy Hour Evening Cruise. This Happy Hour Evening Cruise also offers the option to buy some food.

TIP: Save money with the Paris Seine Pass , a combo ticket that includes the Apéritif Cruise on the Seine mentioned above, access to the Sainte-Chapelle and the Orsay Museum , and a 10% discount on other Paris attractions.

What is the best Seine River cruise in Paris for families? There are a couple of Paris River cruises especially designed for families with children. They both last 1 hour, and the commentaries are more adapted for the little ones.

The Paris Cruise for Kids (with Quiz) comes with a booklet – a Paris quiz for children, but it is in French.

The best Seine River cruise for families is, in our opinion, the Family Cruise on the Seine . This Seine River tour comes with a funny guide (English & French) specialized in capturing the imagination of the little ones.

»  While you can buy tickets for most of the sightseeing cruises the same day at the dock, you may be able to save money by purchasing it online in advance. Be sure to print the confirmation email out and take it with you to claim your ticket at the dock.

»  First arrived, first served! Tickets for sightseeing cruises do not have a seat assigned, so try to arrive well in advance to find a good seat to admire the Seine River.

»  On a Seine night cruise with dinner, it is worth paying a little extra to be seated by the window and enjoy a better view.

» The Paris City Card tourist card includes a Seine River cruise. If you are considering buying this fantastic card, this is an extra reason to get it now! Find all the Paris City Card benefits here .

» Seine cruises might be canceled if the water level is too high or too low to operate. In this case, you will be given a couple of options, including a full refund.

So there you have it, our selection of the best Seine River cruises in Paris, so you can find the best River Seine cruise for you and your crew. Which Paris Seine cruise would you like to take right now?

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Quirky parisian explorers with a preference for lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about us ., i am elisa, the travel blogger behind world in paris. quirky explorer with a preference for the local side of my city and its lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & my best tips learn more.