The Seine River in Paris is a sight to be seen especially when looking across it at the Eiffel Tower and other Paris landmarks. But there is an even better way to view Paris’s famous architecture and attractions.
The Seine River flows through the heart of Paris and past many of these locations. Why not take a cruise down the Seine River and enjoy champagne, a delicious meal, or both as you glide gently past some of the most well-known sites in Paris?
However, there are tons of different options to choose from in this top tourist destination. That’s why I’ve decided to carefully curate a guide to the 5 top Seine River dinner cruises available, that are well worth your time and money. Let’s get started!
Be sure to see our reviews of Day Trips to Normandy, Louvre Guided Tours and Paris Catacombs Tours.
Best Paris Dinner Cruises
| Evening Cruise with Dinner on River Seine | 3-Course Gourmet Dinner Cruise on Seine River | 2-Hour River Seine Lunch Cruise | |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Dinner Cruise | Best Evening Cruise | Best Lunch Cruise | |
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|  |  | |
| Departure: | Meeting point varies depending on the option booked | Port de Solférino - Promenade Edouard Glissant 75007 Paris | Meeting point varies depending on the option booked |
| Start: | 6:15 PM & 8:30 PM | 6:45 PM or 9:15 PM | 12:45 PM |
| Duration: | 2.5 hours | 75 minutes - 2 hours | 2 hours |
| Includes: | 3-course dinner with either wine or champagne, cheese board, a glass of champagne with dessert and a mini-sweet selection with coffee | Cruise on a glass-enclosed boat, 3-course dinner, coffee or tea, glass of Champagne (if option selected), 2 glasses of Champagne (if option selected) | 3-course lunch, with appetizer, white and red wine, mineral water, and coffee, cheese course ("Service Privilège" and "Service Premier" options), cruise through the heart of Paris |
Quick Answer: The 5 Best Rated Seine River Dinner Cruises in Paris
- Best Dinner Cruise: Dinner Cruise on the Seine River
- Best Evening Cruise: 3-Course Gourmet Dinner Cruise on Seine River
- Best Lunch Cruise: 2-Hour River Seine Lunch Cruise
- Best Champagne Cruise: Champagne Tasting Cruise Departure from Eiffel tower
- Best Value Cruise: Early Evening Dinner Cruise on the River Seine
We’ve chosen these Paris river cruises because they offer a wide range of experiences and will fit into everyone’s budget.
Seine River Dinner Cruise Reviews
1. Best Dinner Cruise: Dinner Cruise on the Seine River
- Departure Point: 300 Port de la Bourdonnais, 75007 Paris
- Departure Time: 8:30 PM
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Includes: 3-course dinner with either wine or champagne, cheese board, a glass of champagne with dessert and a mini-sweet selection with coffee
This first tour is the most complete of any, where you’ll get to not only soak in panoramic vistas of Paris at night, but a delicious à-la-carte dinner and live entertainment.
I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a romantic night out on the town, or a unique way to have fun with friends or the entire family. The Evening Cruise with Dinner on River Seine is the perfect alternative to going to a nice restaurant, and the views will be much better, too!
The first thing you should know is that there are 4 different service options available: Premier, Privilège, Découvert, and Etoile. Each one includes slightly different food and drink options, as well as seating in different parts of the vessel for better views.
The meeting spot that your tour will start from is also dependent on which tour service option you select, so make sure to take a look at that beforehand.
However, no matter which option you book, you’ll meet up with the crew and be escorted onboard a panoramic sightseeing boat made specifically for the purpose of enjoying Paris’ beauty in comfort.
The walls are basically entirely glass, offering great views of the bigger landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame, as well as the detail of gilded bridges, historic quays, and much more.
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We selected the Premier service option, which includes seating right at the front of the boat, along with a glass of champagne to start off, which I highly recommend in terms of views and service.
The starter was delicious, as well as the main course, though I’ll admit my favorite part of the meal was the cheese platter along with the delicious dessert!
The servers were so attentive, it’s like they read our minds, and the live entertainment in the background made it that much more magical. Overall, it was an amazing night and I’d recommend this tour to anyone visiting Paris.
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
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2. Best Evening Cruise: 3-Course Gourmet Dinner Cruise on Seine River
- Departure Point: Port de Solférino – Promenade Edouard Glissant 75007 Paris
- Departure Time: 6:45 PM or 9:15 PM
- Duration: 75 minutes – 2 hours
- Includes: Cruise on a glass-enclosed boat, 3-course dinner, coffee or tea, glass of Champagne (if option selected), 2 glasses of Champagne (if option selected)
Imagine gliding past the Gothic spires of Notre Dame soaring high into the sky as the sun is setting while dining on some of the best food in the city, and that’s only the beginning.
If you want a little itinerary recommendation from me, I’d say you should spend the afternoon at the Orsay Museum exploring the Impressionist masterpieces and finish up a bit before dinnertime.
This cruise starts right at the Paris Seine La Marina Port de Solférino which is right next to the museum, and easy to access by simply heading down the stairs to where the river is.
By that time, you’re sure to have worked up an appetite walking around, so this is your chance to kick back, relax, and enjoy breathtaking Parisian views while enjoying a delicious 3-course dinner.
This boat is very similar to the other, in that it’s completely glass-enclosed which is essential for the best views along the Seine. After all, many of the sights you’ll want to see are very tall – even more so when you’re down on the river, which sits significantly lower than the river banks.
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As we cruised along, our guide told us some interesting facts about the different landmarks, pointing them out so no one missed them. The meal will vary a bit, depending on if you decide on the 6:45 pm sailing or the 9:15 pm sailing – mostly the main course.
For the earlier sailing, you’ll have the delicious seared salmon and leek compote (what I had), and for the later option, either seared sea scallops with leek compote or lightly-cooked foie gras with grape compote and orange marmalade.
Honestly though, I would’ve been perfectly happy just enjoying our fresh coffee and dessert while floating along the misty green river.
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
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3. Best Lunch Cruise: 2-Hour River Seine Lunch Cruise
- Departure Point: Meeting point varies depending on the option booked
- Departure Time: 12:45 PM
- Duration: 2 hours
- Includes: 3-course lunch, with appetizer, white and red wine, mineral water, and coffee, cheese course (“Service Privilège” and “Service Premier” options), cruise through the heart of Paris, toilets on board
Experience Parisian elegance with a Bateaux Parisiens lunch cruise along the legendary River Seine. The 2-Hour River Seine Lunch Cruise is the perfect way to break up a day of trekking around the city by relaxing on an iconic riverboat while enjoying a delicious meal and wine!
This is one of my favorite tours, because it always seems to time itself perfectly around when my feet start to get a little sore from our morning sightseeing.
While the evening tours are also something special, I do think that it’s a whole different experience during the daytime as you’ll get to see the city in literally a different light.
I’d recommend taking this cruise tour if it’s your first time in Paris and would like to get a “lay of the land” as to where the main sites are before really jumping in. In fact, if you can time it to where you need to fill your time before checking in to your hotel your first day there, do that.
Similar to the first tour on this guide, there are 3 different service options which will change your seating and included drinks and appetizers.
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However, generally speaking, everyone will get to enjoy a tasty 3-course lunch à-la-carte, an array of different cheeses, along with some white and/or red wines. Boarding was a very easy process, and the staff was so friendly and welcoming from the very beginning.
I should note that this is more of a “self-guided” experience, so we did have a bit of an idea of what was where but the guides weren’t there to give us a full “tour” if that makes sense.
However, it was a nice way to get to know the area while feasting on some delicious French food (the included bottle of white wine and bottle of red was very welcomed!). It definitely makes for a memorable first impression of Paris, perfect for travelers of all ages and interests.
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
More Information & Tour Booking
Related: See the World Famous Louvre Museum – Skip the Lines – Find the Best Tour for Your Money.
4. Best Champagne Cruise: Champagne Tasting Cruise Departure from Eiffel tower
- Departure Point: Les Vedettes de Paris, Port de Suffren
- Departure Time: 6:00 PM
- Duration: 1 hour
- Includes: English-speaking server, private salon and deck at the front of the boat, 3 good wines from boutique wineries, information about Paris monuments and wine
No matter if you’re on a budget of either money or time, this next tour will be absolutely perfect for your needs.
The Champagne Tasting Cruise Departure from Eiffel Tower is a seamless transfer option after seeing the world-famous structure, taking you away from the crowds and onto the calm waters of the Seine.
If you’d like all that rush to melt away and just soak in the city’s manmade and natural views without spending a bunch of cash, take a look at this one.
This is a bit of a little secret, but it’s also a great tour if you’re into wine and would like a nice intro to French wines in one of the most romantic settings possible.
Starting out at Les Vedettes de Paris, it’s a super convenient location but I suggest getting there at least half an hour early to find the right boat and have your tickets ready. If you can, get your voucher beforehand, as the ticket booths can also sometimes get quite busy.
As we stepped onboard the glass-enclosed vessel, we were greeted by the friendly staff and escorted to our seating where we received some coffee and tea as we set sail.
Once underway, we were able to indulge in a curated wine tasting experience led by expert sommeliers who guided us through a selection of handpicked French wines.
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We tasted 3 different champagnes (one Brut, one Extra-Brut, and one Rose, which was a great way to get to learn about Champagne.
As we sipped, the gentle pace of the cruise set the ideal backdrop for chatting with others in our group as well as other passengers from around the world!
As it’s only an hour, it’s very easy to fit into even the busiest of schedules, while still fitting in so much sightseeing, tasting, and learning.
Should you have any, make sure to ask any questions about winemaking, differentiating and pairing, or even recommendations for Parisian activities!
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
More Information & Tour Booking
Related: Skip the Lines and See the Catacombs – Find the Best Tour for Your Money.
5. Best Value Cruise: Early Evening Dinner Cruise on the River Seine
- Departure Point: Port de Solférino – 1 rue de la Légion d’Honneur 75007
- Departure Time: 6:45 PM
- Duration: 75 minutes
- Includes: 3-course dinner, coffee or tea, night-time views of the Paris skyline, live music
Last, but certainly not least, is the Early Evening Dinner Cruise on the River Seine tour. This tour is just a little bit longer than an hour, but it’s a beautiful journey that seamlessly combines gourmet cuisine, breathtaking views, and the timeless allure of Paris!
This evening tour was one of my favorites, and the tour that I select whenever I’m bringing people to the City of Light for their first time.
It’s an opportunity to see the city come alive with a kind of golden glow, further solidifying this kind of untouchable magic that I always feel every time I’m here.
It’s a feeling that, when you’re on the river that so many countless icons throughout history have also traveled on, seems to feel like time and space all meld into one.
Just like with the others, your cruise will take place on a glass-enclosed vessel that allows for unobstructed views of all of the most impressive landmarks.
While our seats were actually quite good, I’ll say that the only thing I wasn’t full on board with was that the window seats are extra – so prepare for that!
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You’ll still have good views of everything no matter where you’re sitting, due to the glass enclosure, but if that’s important to you keep it in mind with your budget.
We then enjoyed a delicious dinner featuring a gourmet menu inspired by French culinary traditions with a few modern twists.
The staff was very attentive, to the extent that I’d say I received better service here than at the majority of fine dining restaurants I’d tried in the city. It makes for an excellent celebration with a loved one, or just a great way to sightsee while relaxing and enjoying the riverboat ambiance.
Pair that all with some top-notch live music, and you have a romantic atmosphere that’s truly unforgettable!
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
More Information & Tour Booking
Your Guide to Visiting Paris
While visiting the City of Lights may not be just as you expect after watching An American in Paris, a vacation in Paris is like nothing else. With so many tourist spots to explore, you may find it difficult to plan everything you’d like to see and experience into just one vacation. I guess that just means you’ll have to come back to see this beautiful city again.
Our travel guide below can help you plan a vacation to Paris whether you are staying for 2 days or 10 and whether it’s your first visit or fifth.
Airports & Entry
When headed to France, you won’t need to apply for a visa so long as your expected stay is less than 90 days. You also need to have at least three months before your passport expires past the date you expect to leave the country.
An emergency passport will not be accepted unless you also have an approved visa, no matter the length of your stay. There should be at least one page available for a stamp when you arrive.
There are three major airports in the area of Paris, France. The one you fly into will most likely be determined by the airline you are using. That airline will fly into the airport it is contracted with. With that in mind, when flying to France you will most likely land at one of the following airports:
- Paris Beauvais Airport
- Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
- Paris Orly Airport
Planning Tips
Paris is unlike most other vacation destinations. The French, especially Parisians, live life a little differently. This means that while you’re there, you may have to get used to eating at different times and you may need to plan your attire.
These are our top 5 tips for visiting Paris. Have you been there and have tips of your own? Let us know!
Tip #1: Stay in a Central Location
Everywhere you’re going to want to go as a tourist in Paris will be centrally located or have provided travel that leaves this area. Most of the hotels, many museums, and a lot of restaurants are all centrally located.
You’ll also find that the pickup and drop-off locations for many tours are located here. It makes things much easier if you find accommodations close to central Paris.
Tip #2: Always Have Euros on Hand
There are many stores and even restaurants that don’t accept debit or credit cards. Some taxis won’t accept plastic either. If an establishment does accept a card, they often won’t allow you to leave a tip on your receipt.
This means it’s important to always have a few euros on hand. Many ATMs in the city will allow you to use a foreign card to withdrawal euros.
Tip #3: Have Snacks on You
Parisians often eat their dinner very late. While you may be used to a dinner time of between 4 and 6 pm, it’s not uncommon for those in Paris to eat as late as 9 or 10. You’ll want to keep this in mind when making reservations, but you should always have a small snack with you just in case you get hungry and it’s still a few hours to dinner.
Tip #4: Avoid Traveling to Paris in August
Most Parisians are used to taking off the entire month of August. This means that while you will most likely be able to find accommodations, many restaurants and attractions will not be open. If you’re traveling to Paris in August, this can be a very quiet time to visit the city. However, if you’re looking forward to seeing the sights, it’s best not to travel to Paris in August.
Tip #5: Dress Appropriately
While those in Paris can still be found wearing sneakers, most dress in a business casual or a simple but chic style. Most attractions and restaurants will frown on those wearing beat up shoes, blue jeans, and other very casual clothes. Some places will even require a more elegant or fancy appearance, such as certain high-end restaurants.
Bringing a set of casual clothes might not be a bad idea but be sure to bring enough clothes you can wear while out and about. If you don’t have much in the way of the chic style that Paris requires, at least you’re in the perfect place to go shopping to stock up on some.
Restaurants & Eating Out
The Ciel de Paris is one of the most romantic restaurants in the city. It is located in the Montparnasse Tower with beautiful views of the city. You’ll also find a well-stocked champagne bar available to you. The Polidor is one of the oldest restaurants in Paris.
It dates back to 1895 and the interior decor hasn’t changed much since. This is one of those restaurants that only take cash, so have a few euros on you.
In Paris, it’s hard to find a truly casual restaurant. Because of this, you’ll want to make sure that you’re dressed for the occasion. If you’re not sure what you could or should wear to a particular establishment, some will list their dress code online or you can always give them a call.
Nightlife & Entertainment
Harry’s New York Bar was actually once located in New York City. The entire bar, just as it was, was moved over to Paris in the early 1900s. This bar is credited with inventing some of the most popular cocktails we know today, including the Bloody Mary and the Sidecar.
Wine and champagne are something most Parisians are very proud of. If you’re looking for an upscale wine bar, you’ll want to try out Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels. You’ll be able to try nearly every wine and champagne local to Paris. However, there are wine bars located in nearly every corner of the city.
From backroom speakeasies to modern nightclubs, Paris has a little bit of everything for everybody when it comes to nighttime entertainment.
Getting Around
There’s no shortage of ways to get around in Paris. The most popular, effective, and affordable way is the Metro. You may find it a bit intimidating at first due to the sheer number of lines and routes, but after a few trips to an attraction or restaurant, you’ll be riding the Metro like a pro.
You can purchase single ride tickets or a batch of 10. If you’re going to be in Paris longer there are also ride passes.
While traditional taxis can be quite expensive in the city, Uber offers some fairly inexpensive ways to get around town if traveling by car is best.
Walking between destinations is very doable in Paris but if you’d like to ride a bike instead, there’s plenty of kiosks that rent them. In fact, this can be a great way to tour the city and do some sightseeing on your own.
Accommodations
You’ll find everything from small and inexpensive hostels too large, luxury resorts in Paris. There are even small boutique hotels with spas and other amenities. Where you decide to stay while visiting Paris will largely depend on the type of experience you’re looking for.
If you wish to spoil yourselves, the Le Roch Hotel & Spa is perfectly located between restaurants, the Louvre Museum, and many tourist pick up spots. If you’re looking to meet other tourists, learn more about the city from those who’ve been here several times, and have a quieter stay, one of the many hostels around town are ideal. We recommend The Generator Hostel Paris.
Weather
On average, July is the warmest month in Paris. While the weather is much better during the summer months, there are usually more crowds. If you don’t want to have to fight the crowds and don’t mind cooler weather, traveling in late winter or early spring might just give you the blend of comfortable weather and fewer crowds. January is the coldest month, on average, with temperatures in the low 40s Fahrenheit.
Attractions
Paris is full of attractions. The Louvre Museum is a popular stop for tourists. The Mona Lisa exhibit here can be quite busy, however. Use your limited time at this world-famous museum by taking in the many other exhibits, many of which are quite interesting and just as important to French history.
If you like to visit museums, you might want to try the Musee d’Histoire de la Medecine. You might just learn more about how modern medicine came to be. The Museum of Modern Art is a popular stop as well.
Thinking of taking some day trips?
If you enjoy Champagne, then do yourself a favor and take a day trip to Champagne and do some tastings while exploring the countryside.
Visiting the Palace of Versailles, exploring the Paris catacombs, taking a river cruise down the Seine River, and making it to the top of the Eiffel Tower usually top most tourist’s lists of attractions. Remember that traveling to or visiting these places can be much easier if you go as a group on a tour.
You may get priority access, free souvenir photos, and more, just for traveling with a tour group. This is often the most affordable way and makes it easier to plan the days you’re planning to spend in Paris.
Last but not least, while you are in the city of lights be sure to take a walking tour and do a wine tasting tour!
Sites Seen
Tour Quality
Value
The Bateaux Parisiens is our top choice for the best Seine River cruise with its combination of dinner, sites seen and quality of the tour.
