The Best Experiences Along the Seine River

Paris is known for its beautiful architecture and its romantic atmosphere. The Seine River threads these elements together, allowing the opportunity to admire stunning riverside buildings while wining, dining, and romancing. If you are heading to Paris, these are the best experiences along the Seine River. 

River boat tours on the Seine 

The best way to experience the Seine River is by taking a cruise. These run during the day and at night with the option to book a sightseeing tour or upgrade to a culinary excursion. The shortest boat tours take around an hour and concentrate on the main stretch between the Eiffel Tower and the Latin Quarter. There are private boat tours available for those seeking something more special. The most luxurious dinner cruises typically include four courses with wine and Champagne served to a backdrop of twinkling city lights and live music. These are perfect for an anniversary trip or honeymoon in Paris. 

Explore the riverside on foot

A walk along the Seine is still a must, regardless of whether or not you take a cruise. Starting in the Jardins du Trocadéro on the Left Bank, you will earn a marvelous view of the Eiffel Tower. Following the path eastwards brings you past a sequence of photogenic bridges before reaching the Jardin des Tuileries. The walk may be continued at the Île de la Cité and complemented with a picnic in one of the waterside parks. There are a handful of local companies who curate luxury picnic hampers stuffed with artisanal products, fine wines, seasonal fruits, and dessert platters to suit your tastes. 

Expedition cruises on the Seine River

A small number of companies run multi-day expedition cruises on the Seine River. These usually depart from Paris and journey north to the region of Normandy. A typical itinerary will include a stop at Giverny to see the gardens that inspired the watercolors of Monet, a second stop at the medieval city of Rouen, and a third at the beaches of Normandy. Cycling tours, wine tastings, and farm visits are also popular components of a multi-day river cruise on the Seine. Select operators focus on history and culture while others spotlight modern French gastronomy. Cruises vary from three to eight days and offer a unique perspective on the rural landscape of France. 

Seine and Versailles in one day

Although the commune of Versailles is not located on the banks of the Seine, several operators run packages whereby you will start the day by cruising the Seine in central Paris before being whisked away to see the Palace of Versailles in the afternoon. This is a wonderful way to maximise your time in Paris as part of a shorter city break. You will take in the main landmarks of Paris and then immerse yourself in the glorious history of Versailles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Contact Darby at Darby’s Destinations to design your bespoke trip to Paris or to explore options for an overnight cruise on the Seine River.