Paris: Arc de Triomphe Entry with Seine Cruise

If you’re planning a trip to Paris and want a well-rounded experience in just a few hours, a tour combining entry to the Arc de Triomphe with a Seine River cruise might be just what you need. We’ve looked into this popular combo — rated 4.5 out of 5 from hundreds of reviews — and here’s what you should know before booking.

What we really like about this experience is how it offers a mix of spectacular views from the top of the Arc and a relaxing cruise that glides right past the city’s most famous landmarks. Plus, the convenience of pre-purchased tickets means less time waiting in lines, which is a real plus in busy Paris.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the timing and logistics can sometimes be a bit tricky — especially if you’re rushing to fit both into one day. Also, since the Seine cruise can get crowded during peak season, it’s worth being prepared for longer wait times or busy boats.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a snapshot of Paris’s highlights without spending an entire day on multiple tickets and lines. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for a cost-effective, efficient way to see the city’s top sights from above and along the river.

Key Points

• Panoramic views from the Arc de Triomphe make for a memorable photo opportunity.
• Pre-purchased tickets save you from long lines and streamline your visit.
• The Seine River cruise offers a relaxing view of Paris’s iconic architecture.
• The audio guide enhances the cruise experience with insights in 13 languages.
• The duration of around 3 hours makes it manageable for a half-day outing.
• Keep in mind peak season crowds and timing considerations for a smoother experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Arc de Triomphe: Views and Accessibility

We loved the way the Arc de Triomphe combines history, architecture, and incredible views in one spot. For around $46 per person, you get access to the monument’s top platform, which rises 50 meters above the bustling Champs-Elysées. It’s a climb of 284 steps, which might sound daunting, but the payoff is worth it. If stairs aren’t your thing, don’t worry — there’s a lift for visitors with reduced mobility, making this accessible for many.

From the top, you get a sweeping view of Paris’s most famous streets and landmarks. You can see the entire city laid out in front of you — a real treat for photography lovers. Some reviews mention that the views are “amazing” and highlight how the city’s layout is stunning from this vantage point. One reviewer even noted that the detail and design of the Arc are impressive, making the climb worthwhile.

A small but noticeable drawback is the crowd, especially during peak hours or busy seasons. Lines can be long, and sometimes visiting early or later in the day helps avoid the biggest crowds. Also, the lighting of the eternal flame at 6:30 pm adds a special touch to evening visits, and witnessing the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a poignant reminder of history.

The Logistics and Timing

Booking your tickets in advance is a real time-saver, as many travelers have pointed out. Debra, for instance, mentioned that “I didn’t enjoy the Arc because I was rushing to the river cruise,” which underscores the importance of planning your time well. The combination ticket allows you to choose when to visit each part — either early or later — which provides some flexibility.

The Seine River Cruise: A Relaxing Perspective

After your ascent, you’ll head to Pier Number 3 at Port de la Bourdonnais for your Seine cruise. The cruise lasts about an hour, and you’re given an audio guide in 13 languages. This feature helps you identify landmarks like the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Notre-Dame, and even the Eiffel Tower from the water.

Many reviews highlight how spectacular the views are during the cruise, especially at night when Paris’s lights sparkle. Bala from India loved the “fantastic” experience of seeing the city at night from the river, despite some issues with seating and crowding on the boat.

However, some travelers (like Emeli from India) found the Seine cruise “complicated” due to queues and waiting times, with some boats being missed. The queues can be long during high season, so arriving early or being patient might make your experience more enjoyable.

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Value for Money and Practical Tips

At $46 for both activities, this combo is generally seen as good value, especially when you consider the cost of individual tickets for the Arc or a Seine cruise alone. Reviewers confirm that it’s easy to purchase tickets on the go — a big help in a busy city.

One tip from reviewers is to download the app or be aware of the schedule for the Seine cruise, as boats depart roughly every half-hour. This helps avoid unnecessary waiting, especially if you’re on a tight schedule.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews support that the experience is smooth and straightforward, with some mentioning how easy it was to navigate the locations. For example, Scott appreciated the “smooth process”, and others like Abbie found it “very easy to access”.

Some reviews also point out that the views and photo opportunities are fantastic, with Donna and Holly both raving about the “incredible” views from the top and the cruise.

On the flip side, a few reviews mention that crowds can be intense, and the long queues at the Seine cruise can be frustrating. Emeli shared that her queue lasted about an hour, which might be something to keep in mind during busy periods.

Accessibility and Additional Considerations

For those with mobility issues, the Arc de Triomphe does offer a lift for reduced mobility visitors, which is helpful. Otherwise, the climb can be quite demanding.

Since the tickets are free for certain groups (like those under 18, EU citizens aged 18-25, and some professionals with ID), planning ahead can save money if you qualify.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This combo experience offers a balanced glimpse of Paris’s grandeur — from the panoramic views atop the Arc to the scenic, peaceful cruise along the Seine. It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their short time in the city without feeling rushed.

If you enjoy photo opportunities, history, and waterside views, this tour will hit the mark. Keep in mind, if you’re visiting during busy seasons, expect some queues and crowds, especially for the river cruise.

This experience also suits those who prefer flexibility — you can visit the Arc at your convenience and hop on the cruise when it suits you, making it a manageable addition to a broader Paris itinerary.

However, if your trip is very tight or you’re looking for a more in-depth experience, you might want to consider spreading out these activities or choosing fewer locations.

FAQ

Do I need to reserve my tickets in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended. It helps you skip long lines and organize your day more smoothly.

Can I visit the Arc de Triomphe in the evening?
Yes, the Arc is open until 10:30 pm from October to March and until 11 pm from April to September. Evening visits can be beautiful, especially if you catch the sunset.

Is the Seine cruise suitable for children?
While not explicitly marked as family-oriented, most reviews suggest the cruise is a relaxing way to see the city — just be mindful of queues and the boat’s capacity during peak times.

How long does each activity take?
The entire combo lasts about 3 hours, with the Arc visit and the 1-hour Seine cruise fitting comfortably into that window.

Are there free options for visiting the Arc de Triomphe?
Yes, tickets are free for those under 18, EU citizens aged 18-25, and certain professionals with ID — but you must collect these free tickets at the monument.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must, especially for the climb. A jacket or layers are helpful if you’re visiting in cooler weather, and don’t forget your camera!

In The Sum Up

This combined tour of the Arc de Triomphe and Seine River offers a practical way to see some of Paris’s most iconic sights in a manageable timeframe. You’ll get breathtaking views from the top of the Arc and a peaceful cruise with plenty of photo opportunities. It’s particularly good value considering the convenience and the insights from the audio guide.

While crowds and queues can be a concern during busy seasons, many travelers find the overall experience very worthwhile. It’s a smart choice for those who want a balanced, accessible, and scenic overview of the city — especially if you’re on a tight schedule or visiting Paris for the first time.

If you’re looking for a city highlights tour that combines history, vistas, and waterside views, this one’s worth considering. Just plan your timing well, and you’ll be able to enjoy a memorable slice of Paris without feeling overwhelmed.

You can check availability for your dates here: