Eiffel Tower Access to 2nd Floor with Summit Option, Seine Cruise

Exploring the Eiffel Tower & Seine Cruise Combo: An Honest Review

If you’re planning a trip to Paris, chances are the Eiffel Tower is on your radar. This tour offers a chance to skip the long lines and get up close to this iconic landmark, with options to reach either the second floor or the top (summit), plus a scenic Seine river cruise. We haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, but based on the details and reviews, it offers a pretty solid way to experience some of Paris’s most famous sights without too much hassle.

What we like about this experience is how straightforward it is—prebooking means no waiting in those notoriously long queues, and the combination of the Eiffel Tower with a Seine cruise gives you two perspectives on the city, all in a manageable time frame. On the flip side, a key consideration is that during peak times, security checks can still take some time, and the tours may not be as private or intimate as some travelers might hope. This tour is well-suited for visitors who want a balanced, guided approach to Paris’s top attractions without breaking the bank or spending hours waiting.

If you’re someone who appreciates efficient planning, clear guidance, and memorable views, this experience could fit well into your itinerary. It’s especially good for those who want to avoid the hassle of last-minute ticket purchases and prefer having a guide to enrich the experience. Travel with kids? Not specifically tailored for families, but older children who enjoy sightseeing and city views should find it engaging.

Key Points

• Prebooked tickets help avoid long lines, saving precious sightseeing time.
• Guided experience makes navigating the Eiffel Tower easier, especially for first-time visitors.
• Panoramic views of Paris, including landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe and Montmartre, are a highlight.
• Seine river cruise adds a scenic, relaxing element and is included with your ticket.
• Group size is limited to a maximum of 20, which helps keep the experience manageable and less crowded.
• Price point of around $63.62 per person makes it a decent value for the convenience and views offered.

What the Tour Includes and How It Works

Starting at a meeting point just five minutes’ walk from the Eiffel Tower, you’ll be greeted by a guide and check in for your tour. The key here is that the ticket you’re given grants unlimited time inside the Eiffel Tower, letting you explore at your own pace after the initial guided part. You’ll also receive your skipped line ticket—a real relief in peak season when queues can stretch for hours.

Depending on your selection, you’ll access either the second floor or the summit. It’s worth noting that the summit isn’t wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility needs should plan accordingly. Once inside, expect sweeping views over Paris’s most famous landmarks—a breathtaking sight, especially from the top levels.

After you’ve enjoyed your time at the Eiffel Tower, you’ll make your way to the Bateaux Parisiens meeting point for your Seine river cruise. This cruise lasts about an hour and offers a different perspective of Paris—glittering lights, illuminated bridges, and beautiful architecture along the riverbanks. The audio guides available onboard help you understand what you’re seeing, making it a relaxing way to wrap up your sightseeing.

The Highlights of the Experience

The main draw is, of course, the chance to go up the Eiffel Tower—something many travelers dream of doing. The views from the second floor are impressive, but if you’ve opted for the summit access, you’ll get an even more spectacular 360-degree panorama of Paris. Many reviews highlight the ease of getting tickets and the helpfulness of guides like Jacopy and Santiago, who keep things light and informative.

The Seine cruise is the perfect accompaniment. As one reviewer put it, “Seeing the sparkling lights at night from the cruise was a bonus,” and it’s a lovely way to see Paris from a different vantage point. The boat cruise, with multilingual audio guides, complements the Eiffel Tower experience perfectly, giving a relaxing end to a busy morning.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Stop 1: Eiffel Tower

Your adventure begins at a meeting point on Avenue de la Bourdonnais, just a short walk from the Tower. Here, a guide will check you in and hand over your tickets for both the Tower and the Seine cruise. While it’s a straightforward process, be aware that security checks can take some time during busy periods—so arriving early is wise.

Once checked in, your guide will lead you toward the Eiffel Tower, offering some quick insights about its history and structure. You’ll then gain access via a dedicated entrance, avoiding the general queues. This part of the tour is about getting you close and personal with the Tower without the frustration of waiting in lines.

Accessing the Tower: Second Floor or Summit

Your chosen option determines how high you’ll go. The second floor still offers stunning views, and many suggest it’s enough for a memorable experience. However, if you want the full Paris skyline, the summit is the way to go. Keep in mind that the summit is not wheelchair accessible, which could be a factor for some travelers.

Once inside, you’ll have ample time to explore. Reviewers mention that unlimited time inside the Tower allows for flexible pacing, so you can linger at viewpoints or take photos without feeling rushed.

Transition to the Seine Cruise

After your Eiffel Tower visit, you’ll walk to the Port de La Bourdonnais, where your boat tickets are ready. Show your ticket, and you’ll board the Bateaux Parisiens for your one-hour cruise. The boat departs regularly, so you’ll have some flexibility with timing, but most find it convenient to go shortly after their Tower visit.

The Seine Experience

Onboard, you’ll enjoy beautiful panoramic views of Paris’s bridges and quays, with the option of listening to audio guides that explain the history and architecture. Many reviews rave about how nighttime cruises with sparkling city lights are among the most memorable parts of their visit.

What Past Travelers Say

Most reviews are positive, often highlighting knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics. For example, one reviewer said, “Our guide Samy was excellent and taught us interesting facts in a fun way,” showcasing how guides can really enhance the experience.

Others emphasize the value for money—combining Eiffel Tower access with a Seine cruise at around $64 is seen as a good deal, especially compared to buying tickets separately. Many comments mention how easy it was to get tickets and avoid lines, which is a huge plus during peak season.

However, not all reviews are glowing. Some travelers have faced long lines even with skip-the-line tickets due to crowds, or experienced poor communication from the tour operator during unexpected events like street races blocking access. One reviewer even called it a “rip-off,” citing the non-refundable nature of the ticket, which highlights the importance of arriving on time and understanding the booking conditions.

Practical Details to Keep in Mind

• Price of $63.62 is quite reasonable for the combined experience, but it’s not a bargain if you’re only interested in one part; it’s the convenience and guided element that add value.
• Booking 23 days in advance is typical, so plan ahead if you want to secure your preferred time slot.
• Expect security checks at the Tower, especially during peak times; arriving early helps.
• No food or beverages are included, so consider grabbing a snack beforehand if you’re hungry.
• The tour does not include hotel or airport transfers, so plan your transportation accordingly.
• Late arrivals won’t be refunded, so punctuality is key.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users for summit access but may be fine for the second level.
• For bad weather, the top levels may close for safety reasons, so check the forecast.
• The group size is limited to 20, which keeps things manageable and less crowded.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a straightforward, guided way to experience the Eiffel Tower and enjoy a scenic Seine cruise, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s particularly appealing for first-time visitors who want to skip the lines and have some guidance while exploring the Tower. The inclusion of a river cruise adds a nice touch, providing a relaxing break and a different perspective on Paris.

However, if you’re a traveler who prefers a more intimate or self-directed visit, or if you’re looking for a very flexible or private experience, this may not be your best pick. The crowds and security checks can sometimes slow things down, and the non-refundable policy means you’ll want to be sure of your timing.

This experience offers good value, especially considering the convenience of combined tickets and guided support. It’s ideal for those who want a solid, no-fuss way to see Paris from above and along the river, without the hassle of planning every detail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose to go to the second floor or the summit?
Yes, your tour ticket includes either access to the second floor or the summit, depending on your selection at booking.

Is the summit accessible for wheelchairs?
No, the summit is not wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility needs should opt for the second-floor option.

How long do I have inside the Eiffel Tower?
You have unlimited time inside once you enter, allowing you to explore at your own pace after the guided portion.

Does the tour include food or drinks?
No, food and beverages are not included. You might want to eat beforehand or bring snacks.

What should I arrive early for?
Arrive about 15 minutes early at the meeting point to check in—this helps you avoid missing your scheduled time due to security lines or crowding.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Bad weather or maintenance may cause the top level of the Eiffel Tower to close for safety reasons. The tour provider recommends checking the forecast and being prepared for possible changes.

In the end, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to see two of Paris’s most beloved sights — the Eiffel Tower and the Seine River — with the added bonus of skipping long lines. It’s best suited for travelers who value convenience, guided expertise, and great views over private or highly flexible touring styles. If these aspects match your travel style, it’s worth considering for your Paris adventure.