Paris: Seine Cruise and Macaron Tasting by the Eiffel Tower

If you’re visiting Paris and want a simple yet charming way to soak in some iconic sights while indulging in a sweet treat, this tour might catch your eye. It combines a 1-hour Seine River cruise with a tasting of two authentic French macarons, all within a budget-friendly price point of around $23.

What makes this experience appealing? For starters, the glide along the Seine offers a peaceful pause in the bustling city, providing views of landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre from a different perspective. Plus, the macaron tasting adds a touch of Parisian gourmet culture that most travelers cherish. On the flip side, it’s a short experience, and if you’re after a deeper dive into Paris, this might feel a bit surface-level.

This experience is best suited for those wanting a quick snapshot of Paris with minimal hassle—perhaps if you’re tight on time or prefer a more relaxed, sit-back approach. It’s also a fun choice for first-timers who want to see top sights and enjoy good food without committing to long tours or multiple activities.

Key Points

• Simple and affordable: At just $23, this tour offers good value for a quick Parisian fix.
• Iconic views: The Seine cruise showcases major landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre.
• Gourmet experience: Tasting two authentic macarons adds a delicious, indulgent touch.
• Flexible timing: Available daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., fitting into most schedules.
• Self-guided entry: No dedicated meeting point; you visit the attractions on your own.
• Highly rated: With a 4.7/5 from 186 reviews, most travelers find it worthwhile.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

The Seine River Cruise

When we think about Paris, the Seine often comes to mind as the city’s heartbeat. This 1-hour cruise by Bateaux Parisiens offers a gentle way to see the city’s most famous sites. You’ll find the boat hosts up to 300 people in good weather—so it can get crowded, especially during peak seasons. Keep in mind, long queues are common, with some reviewers mentioning over an hour wait to board, so arriving early or during less busy hours might save you some frustration.

The boats are non-smoking, but some outdoor terraces let you breathe freely while enjoying the views. When the boat departs, you’ll see the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and other treasures drift past your window—each one more breathtaking in the soft light of the day or evening.

Many reviews mention that sitting inside on the far side when you board yields the best views. If the weather is clear, a seat on the outdoor deck would be even better for photos and fresh air, especially if you want to enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere.

The Macaron Tasting

After the cruise, you’ll head to 13 Rue de Monttessuy for your macaron tasting. The vouchers are valid anytime during the shop’s hours, which run from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., so you can choose a time that suits your day.

The two macarons you’ll taste are described as assorted and authentic—a small but sweet highlight of the experience. Many travelers have praised the macarons’ quality, calling them “delicious” and from a small neighborhood bakery, which often adds an extra charm compared to mass-produced confections.

One reviewer specifically mentioned the macarons as “very good quality,” suggesting that this part of the tour is worth the price. It’s a simple indulgence, but one that captures the essence of Parisian pastry craftsmanship.

What It Really Means for You

This tour strikes a balance between sightseeing and tasting, making it a diplomatic choice for those with limited time. It’s a relaxed, no-fuss way to enjoy some of Paris’ most famous sights and flavors without the need for complicated itineraries or multiple bookings.

While the experience is not guided, you’ll have plenty to see and enjoy during both parts of the tour. The reviews reveal that knowledgeable guides aren’t part of this package, but the views and food compensate for that.

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Practical Considerations

• Timing: The cruise departs at various times, with boats leaving every 30 to 60 minutes, so plan to arrive a little early.
• Queues: Expect lines, especially in peak season—early booking helps.
• Weather: The boat size varies with weather conditions, and rain can mean smaller boats, so dress accordingly.
• No extra food or drinks are allowed on the cruise, so consider bringing a small bag if needed.
• No animals allowed, except for service animals, so if you’re traveling with a furry friend, check in advance.

Value for Money

At just $23, you’re getting a nice taste of Paris—both visually and gastronomically. Many reviews emphasize the good value, especially given the quality of the macarons and the scenic views. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly activity that still hits the highlights, this ticks the box.

However, it’s worth noting that the experience is quite short, and some might find it too rushed if they want to see a lot more of Paris. Also, since it’s self-guided, you’ll need to handle logistics on your own, including arriving at the right times and navigating queues.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect if you’re short on time but want a memorable taste of Paris. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want a quick orientation, couples looking for a romantic outing, or solo travelers wanting a relaxed way to enjoy the city.

It also suits those who are interested in sampling authentic French treats and enjoy scenic views without the fuss of multiple reservations. If your main goal is to see Paris from the water and indulge in some macarons, this is a solid choice.

However, if you’re after a more comprehensive or guided experience, or want to explore more neighborhoods or landmarks beyond what the Seine offers, you might prefer to seek out other options.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for families?
This tour is straightforward and gentle, but it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly. Kids who enjoy boat rides and sweets will like it, but be aware of the queues and timing.

Can I do the cruise at night?
Yes, the cruise is available during the day and evening hours, but the macaron tasting has limited hours (up to 6:30 pm). If you’d prefer a night cruise, check the times, but the tasting might not align.

How long does the entire experience take?
The cruise itself lasts about 1 hour, plus additional time for travel to the shop and tasting. It’s designed as a half-day activity but flexible enough to fit into a relaxed schedule.

Are there options for dietary restrictions?
The tour provides two macarons, but there’s no specific mention of dietary accommodations. If you have allergies or restrictions, consider your needs before booking.

Do I need to print my voucher?
No, you just need your smartphone or reservation confirmation, as vouchers are valid during the shop’s opening hours.

What should I bring?
Bring headphones if you want to listen to any commentary, and ensure your smartphone is charged—some reviews mention using it for photos and navigation.

Is the meeting point provided?
There’s no fixed meeting point; you go directly to the cruise pier (Port de la Bourdonnais, Pier 3) and the shop at the specified addresses.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance.

Is there a guide or commentary during the cruise?
The reviews suggest that the audio commentary can sometimes be out of sync, making the narration less useful. It’s mainly about the views.

Are pets allowed on the cruise?
Only animals accompanying visitors with disabilities are permitted; pets are generally not allowed.

All in all, this tour offers a nice, uncomplicated way to enjoy a slice of Paris—great views, delicious treats, and a relaxed pace. It won’t replace a full-day tour or guided adventure but works wonderfully as a quick, budget-friendly add-on to your Paris itinerary. Perfect for those who value scenic views and a bit of sweet indulgence without fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: