Paris is famous for its stunning architecture, iconic landmarks, and most of all, its location along the Seine River. No matter whether you’re after a quick one-hour trip or a luxurious dinner cruise, a boat tour offers a unique perspective of the City of Light. We love how many of these experiences combine sightseeing with cultural moments—imagine sipping champagne while passing the Eiffel Tower illuminated at night or marveling at Mona Lisa from the water. One standout is the 3-Course Dinner Cruise on the Seine with live music, which blends fine dining and scenic views seamlessly. Parisian boat tours are perfect for capturing extraordinary photos and discovering hidden corners you might miss on foot.
From quick hour-long trips to all-day combined experiences, Paris offers a broad variety of boat tours and cruises that suit every taste and schedule. Whether you prefer a simple daytime cruise, a romantic evening sail, or a gourmet dinner on the water, this list covers options that balance value, atmosphere, and memorable sights.
Below, you’ll find an in-depth look at the 15 best boat tours & cruises in Paris, with practical details, what makes each unique, and tips to help you choose the right one for your trip.
1. Paris: 1-Hour Seine Cruise departing from the Eiffel Tower
At number 1, this hour-long Seine cruise is the quintessential Paris experience. Launching right at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, it offers stunning panoramic views of Paris’ most famous monuments, including Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Grand Palais. Available for just $20 per person, the tour provides audio commentary in 14 languages and an interactive web app in 11 languages, making it accessible for international travelers. The top deck is a real highlight for photography, giving you an all-around view of the city’s skyline. This cruise is perfect for those short on time but eager to see key sights from a different perspective. The comments and interactive features make the experience engaging, especially for first-time visitors.
Bottom Line: An affordable, quick introduction to Paris from the water, ideal for those with limited time who want the best photo opportunities and basic sightseeing.
2. Paris: Louvre Museum Entry Ticket and Seine River Cruise
This tour combines a reserved entrance to the Louvre with an optional 1-hour Seine cruise. For around $54, you get priority access to one of the world’s most famous museums, where you’ll see masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. After exploring the vast collections, you can relax with a water cruise that offers commentary on Paris landmarks. The boat cruise’s highlights include views of the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre itself. Guests often appreciate the flexibility of this combo, especially since the museum alone is worth the price. The cruise offers a relaxing way to see Paris from the water, and the multilingual commentary enriches the experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for art lovers who want a seamless day combining culture and scenic water views, with the advantage of skip-the-line Louvre access.
3. Paris: Evening River Cruise with Music
Number 3 on our list is a 1-hour evening cruise that captures Paris’ magic after sunset. Departing from the foot of the Eiffel Tower, this noiseless, gas-free electric boat provides a serene ride through illuminated landmarks like Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Grand Palais. The background music creates a relaxed atmosphere, and you’ll hear stories about Paris you might not know. It’s an ideal way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. With over 20,000 reviews and a 4.3/5 rating, travelers love the peaceful ambiance and stunning nighttime views. It’s a great option for couples or anyone wanting a romantic, relaxed way to experience the city lights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a peaceful, scenic evening with a musical backdrop, especially if you prefer quieter, eco-friendly boats.
4. Paris: 3-Course Dinner Cruise on the Seine with live music
For a more indulgent experience, the 3-course dinner cruise stands out. Priced at around $135, this 2.5-hour journey offers an all-inclusive à la carte menu on a glass-boat, with live entertainment. Starting from the iconic Eiffel Tower, you’ll glide past illuminated Parisian landmarks, enjoying gourmet food and drinks onboard. Many reviews highlight the cozy atmosphere and the chance to see the city lit up at night. The dinner is a real highlight, and it’s suited for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a luxurious evening afloat. The boat’s panoramic windows and outdoor terrace provide excellent photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: A romantic, dinner-focused cruise perfect for celebrating or simply indulging in Parisian cuisine with a view.
5. Paris: Louvre Reserved Access and Boat Cruise
This combination tour offers a reserved entry to the Louvre and a seine river cruise, lasting about five hours. For $32, it’s a budget-friendly way to combine art and scenery, with the flexibility to explore the Louvre’s vast art collections and then relax on a boat cruise with commentary. If you want a well-rounded day without rushing, this option is ideal. You can upgrade with an Eiffel Tower visit too, making it a versatile choice. The quick reservation saves waiting time, and the cruise provides a peaceful break from museum halls.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a full day experience with cultural highlights and scenic water views on a budget.
6. Paris: Tootbus Hop-on Hop-off (Optional River Cruise)
Number 6 offers flexibility with a 1-3 day open-top bus and optional river cruise. Starting at around $42, you can hop on and off at Paris’ top sights like the Champs Élysées and Notre Dame. The buses come with audio guides, making it easy to learn about Paris history. The optional cruise adds a relaxing hour on the Seine, perfect for sightseeing without extra walking. This is a solid choice for travelers who want to see Paris at their own pace and enjoy some water scenery without committing to a full-day tour.
Bottom Line: Ideal for flexible travelers who want sightseeing, transportation, and a quick scenic cruise all in one package.
7. Paris: 2-Hour River Seine Lunch Cruise with 3-course-menu
Number 7 features a luxury lunch cruise for about $92. Over two hours, you’ll enjoy a 3-course à la carte meal while floating past Paris landmarks like Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower. The glass-enclosed boat offers panoramic views, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for a special lunch. Reviews mention the excellent service and stunning scenery. This cruise suits travelers looking for a leisurely meal with a scenic backdrop, ideal for celebrating an anniversary or simply enjoying a relaxing day.
Bottom Line: A refined way to combine delicious French cuisine with sightseeing during a laid-back daytime cruise.
8. Paris: Eiffel Tower Access by Elevator & Seine River Cruise
This experience combines a trip up the Eiffel Tower’s second level with a one-hour Seine cruise. For about $90, you skip the long lines with elevator access and enjoy unbeatable views from one of Paris’ most iconic landmarks. Afterward, you can relax on a scenic cruise around the city’s illuminated monuments. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive Paris experience in a half-day. The views from the Eiffel Tower are often highlighted as breathtaking, especially at sunset or at night.
Bottom Line: A smart combo for those wanting a quick elevator ride on the Eiffel Tower plus a relaxing water tour.
9. Paris: Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour with Optional Cruise
Number 9 offers a 24 or 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus plus the option of a seine river cruise. With over 12,000 reviews and a 4.3/5 rating, it’s one of the most flexible options. You can explore top sights like the Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, and Notre Dame at your own pace. The cruise, added optionally, provides a peaceful hour of sightseeing on the water. This combo is best for travelers who want to maximize their time and see Paris from multiple perspectives.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a comprehensive, flexible sightseeing package with an optional water cruise.
10. Paris: Seine Cruise & Crepe Tasting near the Eiffel Tower
This laid-back experience combines a river cruise with a local crepe tasting. For about $23, you’ll cruise past major sights like Notre Dame and the Louvre while enjoying a delicious sweet or savory crepe. Departing hourly from the foot of the Eiffel Tower, it’s a relaxed, tasty way to see the city. Travelers love the casual atmosphere and the opportunity to indulge in authentic French food while taking photos of Paris’ iconic landmarks.
Bottom Line: A delightful, budget-friendly option for travelers who want a quick cruise with a taste of French cuisine.
11. Paris: Seine River Panoramic Views Dinner Cruise
Number 11 features an elegant dinner cruise with panoramic views and outdoor terraces. For $76, you enjoy traditional French “Cocotte” cuisine while passing illuminated landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame. The glass boat allows you to take photos without missing any sights. With a 4.2/5 rating and memorable scenery, it’s suited for travelers seeking a romantic dinner experience with the city as a backdrop.
Bottom Line: An elegant way to enjoy an evening meal with spectacular views of Paris’ illuminated monuments.
12. Paris: Hop-On Hop-Off Seine Cruise Pass with 9 Stops
This flexible 24 or 48-hour seine riverboat pass lets you hop on and off at nine stops. Starting at around $27, you’ll see top sights like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Notre Dame at your own pace. The covered boat with a terrace offers great photo ops and an interactive web app enhances the experience. If you’re keen to explore several neighborhoods and landmarks, this pass is a smart choice for a full day or two of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want to explore Paris from the water on their own schedule.
13. Paris: 4-Course Dinner Cruise on Seine River with Live Music
This luxurious 4-course dinner cruise costs around $152 and offers live music to enhance your meal. Starting from Port de la Conférence, you’ll glide past major sights like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, enjoying gourmet French dishes in a cozy setting. Guests praise the high-quality cuisine and romantic atmosphere. With 2.5 hours onboard, it’s a fine way to celebrate a special occasion or indulge in Paris’ culinary scene from the water.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a high-end, romantic dining experience on the Seine.
14. Paris: Seine River Sightseeing Cruise by Bateaux Mouches
A classic since 1949, this Bateaux Mouches cruise offers a 70-minute ride through Paris for just $20 per person. Departing every 30 to 45 minutes, it’s a popular, reliable choice for sightseeing. The upper deck provides 360-degree views, and the state-of-the-art audio guide on your smartphone makes it easy to learn about the landmarks passing by. It’s a straightforward, affordable way to see Paris’ major sights from the water.
Bottom Line: An iconic, budget-friendly cruise perfect for first-time visitors seeking a quick, scenic overview.
15. Paris : Seine River Bistronomic Dinner Cruise
Last on our list is a bistronomic dinner cruise for around $69. Savor authentic French bistro dishes while gliding past illuminated Paris landmarks. The boat departs from the Alexandre III Bridge, and friendly staff serve you at your table. It combines good food, a friendly atmosphere, and views of the Eiffel Tower at night, making it a popular choice for couples celebrating or travelers wanting a relaxed, authentic experience.
Bottom Line: A cozy, delicious dinner cruise that balances affordability with a memorable meal and scenic views.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Paris
When selecting among these options, consider your priorities. If you’re short on time, the 1-hour Seine cruise offers a quick overview. For art lovers, pairing a Louvre visit with a cruise provides cultural richness. Couples seeking romance might prefer the evening cruise with music, while foodies will enjoy the dinner cruises. Budget travelers can opt for the Bateaux Mouches or the Seine cruise & crepe tasting. For multi-day exploration, the hop-on hop-off passes provide maximum flexibility.
Think about how much time you want to spend on the water, your budget, and the type of experience you crave—whether it’s sightseeing, dining, or simply soaking in the nighttime glow of Paris.
In summary, Paris offers an impressive variety of boat tours—each with its own charm and appeal. For quick sightseeing, the hour-long Seine cruise is hard to beat, but if you’re celebrating a special night, a dinner cruise might be more your style. For those wanting flexibility and multiple sights, the hop-on hop-off passes are excellent. Whichever you choose, booking early guarantees your place—Paris on the water is popular for a reason.
