River Seine

One of the best ways to see the Seine is to walk along it, particularly on the central stretch from Les Invalides to Île Saint-Louis. There, zigzag across the river on the Pont Alexandre III, Pont Royal, and Pont des Arts to see some of the most elegant and well-known architecture in France.

Alternatively, a Seine River cruise allows you to rest your legs and enjoy panoramic views. Book a brunch, lunch, or dinner cruise to combine your sightseeing with a French meal, or opt for a River Seine tour and Eiffel Tower combo to enjoy two of Paris' most popular activities in one tour.

• Running through Paris' main tourist areas, the river's hard to miss; you won't have to go far to find it.

• More than 30 bridges span the Seine within Paris city limits.

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the banks and bridges.

• Be prepared for crowds on popular bridges like Pont des Arts.

Bordering 10 of Paris' 20 arrondissements, the Seine is within walking distance of many of the city's most popular neighborhoods. By Metro, get off at Alma-Marceau, Invalides, Pont Neuf, or Saint-Michel--Notre-Dame station to reach the most central stretch of the river.

For a tranquil walk, head to the river in the early morning hours before most of the crowds and commuters arrive. Or go for an after-dinner stroll, and take in the reflections of the City of Light on the water.

In northeast Paris, the Canal Saint-Martin district is home to smaller waterways where footbridges, crossed by trendy locals, replace the Seine's traffic and tourists. Enjoy a more laid-back atmosphere and watch boats on the locks with a wander along the tree-shaded paths.

You will pay around €15 (US$16) for a sightseeing cruise on the River Seine ticket, often including an audio guide. To enjoy included food or drinks and a boat tour, plan on spending around US$80 to US$100 per person for a sit-down lunch or dinner paired with wine and music.

It depends. You can book a sightseeing cruise either online or directly from the ticket office before departure time. But it’s always better to reserve in advance to avoid last-minute sellouts. And if you’re joining a dinner or lunch cruise on one of the restaurant boats, book ahead of time.

A typical Seine River sightseeing cruise starts from the Port de la Bourdonnais and lasts between 60 and 90 minutes. You can also find longer itineraries of 2.5 hours. Lunch or dinner cruises are longer, typically between 2.5 hours and three hours—giving you time to indulge in four courses and enjoy live accordion or piano music.

Many top attractions are situated alongside this river that cuts through the heart of Paris. You’ll have front-row seats to some of the city’s biggest blockbusters on the right and left banks of the Seine. A few Paris icons include the Eiffel Tower and the Invalides, Ile de la Cité island, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Louvre Museum.

Seine River cruises are available year-round, but the most popular time is roughly April–September, when the days tend to be warm and sunny. But that’s also when you’ll find the biggest crowds. Cruises are partially enclosed, making the festive wintertime an option as well.

There are plenty of cruise options, so do your research before deciding on the right one for you. In addition to lunch and dinner cruises, you'll find combined tickets that include a cruise and entry to other attractions, such as the Louvre Museum or a Moulin Rouge show.