Paris: The Rodin Museum and Seine River Cruise

If you’re planning a trip to Paris and want a blend of art, history, and iconic views, this tour offers a compelling package. It combines a visit to the famous Rodin Museum with a relaxing Seine River cruise, giving you a taste of both the city’s artistic soul and its breathtaking landscape. While it isn’t the most comprehensive tour you’ll find, it hits some of the major highlights without breaking the bank.

What we particularly like about this experience is how accessible and straightforward it is—perfect for first-timers or anyone who wants a relaxed, manageable day. The museum’s collection and sculpture garden are engaging enough to fill a good chunk of your day, and the Seine cruise adds that dreamy Parisian atmosphere. On the flip side, the cruise might feel a bit crowded or commercial if you’re hoping for a romantic, quiet boat ride, especially during busy seasons. Still, if you’re after a balanced taste of art and scenic views, this tour could be just right, especially if your time in Paris is limited but you want a bit of everything.

Key Points

• Cultural immersion with a focus on Auguste Rodin’s works, both in the museum and sculpture garden
• Stunning views along the Seine River, including a close-up of the Eiffel Tower’s base
• Affordable price point at $39 per person, offering good value for a full day
• Knowledgeable audioguide enhances the museum visit and helps you understand the art better
• Flexible cancellation policy allows peace of mind with full refunds if plans change
• Limited transfers, so plan your logistics accordingly

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Rodin Museum: Art, Gardens, and Quiet Contemplation

The Rodin Museum is a key highlight of this experience. Located in Paris, it’s a treasure for anyone interested in sculpture and French artistry. The museum not only showcases Rodin’s renowned works but also features some lesser-known pieces that reveal a different side of this prolific artist. We loved the way the museum presents its collection—organized to give visitors deep insight into Rodin’s creative explosion.

The sculpture garden is equally compelling. Spanning three hectares, it’s divided into a rose garden and an ornamental garden, with a terrace perfect for a moment of pause. The gardens are a delightful place to stroll and appreciate the outdoor sculptures in natural light, which really brings out their textures and details. Several reviews mention the garden’s peaceful atmosphere, some saying, “The garden was a highlight—beautiful, calm, perfect for a break.” Be aware, though, that part of the garden might be inaccessible during certain times due to ongoing installations, so check ahead if specific sculptures are must-sees for you.

Inside the museum, you’ll find over 200 paintings accumulated by Rodin, providing a broader perspective on his influences and interests. The museum’s interior spaces are well curated, with guides and staff offering insights that enhance your visit. Visitors have consistently described the experience as “very pleasant,” appreciating the chance to see Rodin’s lesser-known works in detail. But note that during busy periods, there might be a wait at security—up to 20 minutes during peak seasons—so plan your arrival accordingly.

Seine River Cruise: Scenic, but Not Quite Romantic?

After the museum, the tour transitions to the Seine River cruise. The boat departs from Port de la Bourdonnais, close to the Eiffel Tower, making it a convenient stop. The cruise takes you past some of Paris’ most iconic sights, culminating with a view of the Eiffel Tower’s base. For many, this part of the tour is the highlight, offering unique perspectives and great photo opportunities.

The audioguide included on the boat helps you identify landmarks and learn some tidbits about the city’s history. The views are genuinely stunning, and you’ll love the way the city’s architecture reflects in the water. However, some travelers have expressed that the cruise can feel crowded and less romantic than expected. One review mentions, “It was too big, very crowded, no music, no romance,” which might disappoint those seeking a serene, intimate experience on the water.

Timing is also important—during peak seasons, lines can be longer, and waits might extend up to 20 minutes. The cruise itself is relatively short, so if you’re after a leisurely, intimate boat ride, you might find this experience more commercialized than romantic.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The cost of $39 per person for this combined experience is quite reasonable considering what’s included. The museum entrance ticket and Seine cruise with audioguide are bundled, so you won’t need to worry about separate bookings or extra costs for guides. Keep in mind, transfers between the museum and cruise departure points are not included, so plan your route carefully—most visitors use the metro or walk, as both locations are centrally situated.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a plus for travelers with mobility needs, and the museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM, with the last rooms closing at 6:15 PM. It’s free to visit on the first Sunday of the month between October and March, which can be a bonus if your schedule aligns. However, avoid visiting during major holidays like January 1 and December 25, as the museum will be closed.

For those interested in extras like an audio guide at the museum, there’s an option at checkout. The groups are likely to be sizable, especially during peak season, so be prepared for some crowding, particularly on the boat.

What Reviewers Say

Feedback from travelers offers a realistic picture. One person from France shared, “Everything was just as I expected,” indicating a straightforward and reliable experience. Another reviewer from Romania found the Seine cruise disappointing, describing it more as a “bus traveling on the water” rather than a romantic experience, citing the lack of music or ambiance. Interestingly, multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides at the museum and the stunning views along the Seine, which truly are the tour’s standout features.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience best suits those who want a taste of Parisian art and scenic beauty without the fuss of separate tickets or complicated plans. It’s ideal for first-time visitors, couples, or anyone short on time but eager to see some of the city’s most famous sights. If you’re an art lover wanting to dive deeper into Rodin’s work or someone looking to enjoy a relaxed yet enriching day, this package offers a good balance.

However, if you’re after a romantic, quiet boat ride or prefer more personalized guided experiences, you might find the cruise somewhat commercialized. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the included tickets, but those seeking a premium or intimate experience might want to explore additional options or upgrade to private tours.

The Paris: The Rodin Museum and Seine River Cruise offers a reliable, enjoyable way to see some of the city’s artistic and scenic highlights for a modest price. It combines cultural discovery with iconic views, making it an efficient choice for those who want a well-rounded day in Paris. The included audioguide and the gardens make the museum visit engaging, while the Seine cruise offers memorable perspectives of the city’s famous landmarks.

If you’re looking for a tour that balances value, beauty, and ease of planning, this one ticks the boxes. Just be ready for some crowds, and consider your expectations for the Seine cruise—it’s more about the views than the romance for most visitors.

FAQ

Is transportation between the museum and cruise included?
No, the tour price covers only the museum entrance and the Seine cruise. You’ll need to plan your own transport between the two locations.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Is the Seine cruise suitable for families?
The tour doesn’t explicitly mention family-friendly features, but children can attend as long as they’re accompanied by an adult. Be mindful that large crowds and busy boats might not suit very young kids.

Are there options for audio guides?
Yes, you can select an optional audio guide for the museum at checkout, available in several languages.

What are the opening hours of the museum?
The Rodin Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM, with last rooms closing at 6:15 PM.

Is there any time limit for the museum visit?
The ticket includes entrance to the museum, sculpture gardens, and temporary exhibitions—plan for at least a couple of hours to enjoy everything comfortably.

Will I experience a romantic atmosphere on the Seine?
Some reviews note the cruise can feel crowded and less romantic than expected, especially during busy seasons. Manage your expectations accordingly.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking in the gardens and museum, a bottle of water, and perhaps a camera to capture the views. Check the weather for the cruise, as it’s outdoors.

Is this experience accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but always double-check with the provider if you have specific needs.

To sum it up, this dual experience offers a straightforward, enjoyable day out in Paris, balancing cultural exploration with scenic views. It’s particularly suited to those wanting an efficient, budget-friendly way to see a slice of what makes Paris special—art, gardens, and the river that runs through its heart.

You can check availability for your dates here: