Private Tour, Eiffel Tower Lunch, Summit & Seine Cruise Options

Planning a trip to Paris often means dreaming of iconic views, memorable dining, and romantic cruises. This tour package promises all that—a private experience that combines a delicious lunch at the Eiffel Tower, stunning panoramic views from the summit, and a leisurely cruise along the Seine, complete with champagne. It’s a curated way to see the city’s highlights while enjoying some luxurious touches.

What makes this experience stand out is the attention to detail—skipping lines at the Eiffel Tower means more time soaking in the views, and the option to upgrade for a VIP dinner adds a special touch. Plus, the Seine cruise gives you that quintessential Parisian vibe from the water, a view that’s hard to beat.

That said, there are some considerations. The experience isn’t cheap, and the cost per person hovers around $355, but for many travelers, the convenience and inclusivity justify the price. Also, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan how to get to the Eiffel Tower, and the Seine cruise operates on a schedule that may or may not perfectly sync with your meal.

If you’re someone who loves combining sightseeing with fine dining and a bit of luxury, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s especially suited for visitors who want a curated, hassle-free way to experience Paris’ top sights without spending hours waiting in lines or piecing together separate tickets.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines Eiffel Tower access, optional summit, Seine cruise, and meal.
• Skip-the-line Tickets: Saves you precious time, allowing more sightseeing.
• Guided Tour: Personal English-speaking guide enriches the experience with insights.
• Luxurious Touches: Champagne on the river cruise and VIP dinner options elevate the outing.
• Flexible Planning: Lunch times are set for 11:30 or 1 pm, with options for cruise before or after.
• No Transportation Included: You’ll need to arrange your own transfer to the Eiffel Tower.

A Close Look at the Experience

Arrival and Eiffel Tower Visit

Most travelers begin their adventure with skip-the-line tickets to the Eiffel Tower, which is a smart move. Waiting in long queues can really eat into your sightseeing time—something that can be a real downer if you’re on a tight schedule. Once you arrive, you’ll ascend in an elevator, accompanied by a dedicated English-speaking guide who makes the experience informative yet relaxed.

Reaching the second floor, you’ll be treated to some of the most breathtaking views Paris offers—from the Seine to the historic rooftops and landmarks. For those who upgrade to access the summit, this is where you’ll get the full panoramic experience, looking out over the city from above.

The Private Guided Tour

Having a private guide on the ground floor really helps contextualize what you’re seeing. As one traveler put it, the guide was “very knowledgeable and made the experience enjoyable.” It’s these personal touches—tailored explanations and insider tips—that can turn a standard visit into something memorable.

Lunch at Madame Brasserie

The scheduled lunch at Madame Brasserie offers a convenient, sit-down experience at the Eiffel Tower’s own restaurant. Reservations are usually for 11:30 or 1 pm, giving you a taste of French cuisine under the glass canopy of this iconic structure. This is a highlight for many, especially because it’s not just a quick meal; it’s an opportunity to enjoy authentic French dishes with a view.

The Seine River Cruise

After lunch, the tour often moves on to the Seine cruise, which is where the experience truly glows. Watching Paris drift by from the water—while sipping Champagne—is, as many say, “an indulgent and very French experience.” The cruise offers a different perspective of the city’s landmarks, from Notre-Dame to the Louvre, all lit up at night (if you do this in the evening).

While the cruise is not guided live, audio commentary usually accompanies the ride, giving you context and stories about the sights passing by. Several reviews mention how the champagne adds a special touch, making the whole cruise feel like a celebration.

Considerations: Timing and Flexibility

Timing can be a tricky part. You might find that you have to choose whether to do the cruise before or after your lunch, depending on the reservation slot you get. This flexibility is helpful but requires some planning. Also, note that no hotel transfers are included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from the Eiffel Tower.

The Cost and Value

At a little over $350 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but it offers a curated experience that’s hard to replicate on your own without hours of planning and booking separate tickets. Reviews indicate that many guests find the guides knowledgeable and the views spectacular, which adds to the value.

One reviewer pointed out a rare downside: a boat cancellation due to operational issues, which can happen, so it’s worth having a backup plan or being flexible. But overall, most comments are positive, emphasizing the quality of the guides and the memorable views.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Eiffel Tower Ground Floor & Summit (if upgraded)

Starting with priority access, you skip the long lines that can frustrate visitors. The ground floor tour includes interesting insights from your guide, making the ascent more meaningful. Reaching the second floor, you’ll get a sweeping view of Paris’s iconic landmarks, with the option to go even higher to the summit for an extra fee.

The summit access is a big plus for those wanting that true bird’s-eye view. Expect to see Paris laid out before you, with landmarks like the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Sacré-Cœur all within reach.

Lunch at Madame Brasserie

The reservation at 11:30 or 1 pm allows you to enjoy French cuisine in one of the city’s most famous settings. The restaurant offers a comfortable, elegant ambiance with views of the tower’s structure—an experience that pairs well with the sightseeing.

Seine River Cruise with Champagne

Typically, the cruise lasts about an hour and offers a relaxed way to see the city from a different angle. Many reviews highlight how the champagne elevates the experience, making it feel like a celebration. If you’re traveling with a companion or group, this can be a truly special part of your day.

Additional Tips

• Timing is everything: Be sure to coordinate your lunch and cruise timings, especially if you’ve upgraded for the summit or want to do the cruise before lunch.
• Transportation: Since it’s not included, plan your route to the Eiffel Tower ahead of time. Many travelers arrive via public transport, which is convenient near the tower.
• Weather considerations: The Seine cruise is outdoor, so check the forecast and dress accordingly.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Many guests praised the guides, with comments like “Yemisi was super sweet and knowledgeable,” and “Obinna was personal, helpful, and quite informative.” These guides seem to make a real difference, transforming a standard tour into a memorable experience.

Others appreciated the ambiance—one reviewer mentioned that “Paris by night on the Seine is awesome,” emphasizing how magical the experience can be, especially when the city lights are twinkling.

However, not everyone had a perfect experience. One reviewer shared a less happy story about a canceled cruise and difficulties with refunds, highlighting that operational hiccups can happen. It’s a reminder to stay flexible and understand that some factors outside the provider’s control might affect your plans.

Final Thoughts

This private tour package offers a compelling way to enjoy Paris’s highlights with a touch of elegance. Combining skip-the-line Eiffel Tower access, a gourmet lunch, and a champagne cruise provides a seamless, luxurious experience that’s well worth the price for many travelers.

The guides’ knowledge and the special touches—like Champagne on the Seine—add to the overall appeal. It’s particularly suitable for visitors who are willing to invest in a curated experience that minimizes waiting and maximizes enjoyment.

That said, it’s not ideal if you’re on a tight budget or prefer independent travel. Planning your transportation and being flexible with timing are key to making the most of this experience.

In the end, if you’re looking for a memorable, hassle-free way to see Paris from top vantage points and enjoy some indulgence, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the tour’s focus on sightseeing and dining might appeal to older children. Keep in mind that the experience is more adult-oriented, especially with champagne and private guides.

Are hotel pick-up and drop-off included?
No, transportation to and from the Eiffel Tower is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transfer, whether by public transit or taxi.

What are the lunch times available?
Reservations are typically for 11:30 am or 1 pm, so plan accordingly. The cruise can be scheduled before or after lunch depending on your preference and availability.

Can I access the Eiffel Tower summit?
Yes, you can upgrade to include summit access for an additional fee, which offers the best panoramic views of Paris.

What if the Seine cruise gets canceled?
Operational issues can happen—some reviews mention cancellations. The experience provider states that rescheduling options are available, but refunds are not offered if you choose to cancel.

Is the experience worth the price?
Most reviews suggest yes, especially considering the skip-the-line access, guided insights, and added luxury of dining and champagne. It’s a premium experience that packs many highlights into a short time.

If you’re after a well-rounded, stress-free way to indulge in Paris’s sights and tastes, this tour could give you just that. Keep your plans flexible, and you’ll likely leave with a lot of wonderful memories from your Paris visit.