Things to do · Paris
Seine river cruise: how to choose the right one
The boat slides under a stone bridge and someone on the quay waves. Behind you the Eiffel Tower lights up, ahead of you Notre-Dame appears on its island. Paris was built facing the river, and from here you see why.
In short: Seine river cruises
A standard sightseeing cruise takes about an hour and passes most of the famous buildings along the Seine. Bateaux Parisiens leaves from the foot of the Eiffel Tower, Bateaux Mouches from Pont de l'Alma. Go at dusk if you can. A dinner cruise takes the whole evening and should be booked well ahead.
How to choose the right Seine cruise
First time in Paris: an hour-long sightseeing cruise. The city from the water, with commentary on the way.
With children: the same trip, by day. An hour is just right.
A special evening: a dinner cruise with live music. You eat while the city drifts past.
Three Seine cruises
Choose by time of day and budget.
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Worth knowing
Best time
Dusk, when the lights come on. In summer it gets dark late.
Sit outside
Take the upper deck if the weather allows. Bring a jacket, it is breezy on the river.
Pair it with the tower
Do the Eiffel Tower in the afternoon and the boat straight after, they are next to each other.
Getting there
Metro to Bir-Hakeim for Bateaux Parisiens, Alma-Marceau for Bateaux Mouches.
Time
A sightseeing cruise takes about an hour. Dinner cruises often last two hours or more.
How Picolo chooses
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Stay near the river
Near Pont de l'Alma
Hôtel Plaza Athénée
- Palace hotel
- Dorchester Collection
Red awnings, fashion houses on either side and a short walk down to Pont de l'Alma. Many street-side rooms catch the top of the Eiffel Tower.
Best for: For Avenue Montaigne
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More things to do in Paris
Seine river cruise: FAQ
How long is a Seine river cruise?
A standard sightseeing cruise takes about an hour. Dinner cruises last longer, often two hours or more, and usually run in the evening. Start with a sightseeing cruise if unsure, and save dinner for another evening.
Where do Seine cruises leave from?
Bateaux Parisiens leaves from the quay at the foot of the Eiffel Tower. Bateaux Mouches leaves from Pont de l'Alma, a little further east. Reach the quay 15 minutes early for a good seat.
When is the best time for a Seine cruise?
At dusk, when the city lights up. Daytime trips suit children and give the best photos of the façades. In summer it gets dark late, so choose a late departure if you want the lights. In winter an afternoon cruise works well.
Do I need to book a Seine cruise in advance?
Sightseeing cruises can often be booked on the day, but a ticket gives you a fixed time. Dinner cruises should always be booked well ahead. If you only have one evening in Paris, book ahead.
Where should I stay near the Seine?
Saint-Germain, Le Marais and the area around the Louvre are all close to the river. Hôtel Plaza Athénée is a few minutes from Pont de l'Alma, where Bateaux Mouches departs.
Updated 5 Nov 2026All articles