Cruise on the Seine: The 5 Most Beautiful Cruises to See Paris Differently

Whether you’re looking for a day trip to enjoy a panoramic brunch, or a multi-day cruise immersing yourself in the history of Normandy, cruises on the Seine promise to offer a unique perspective on Paris and its surroundings. Seeking river adventures? Here are five to book now.

The Panoramic Brunch Cruise on the Seine is a unique experience offering a breathtaking view of some of Paris’s most beautiful monuments. Departing from the Pont de Bir-Hakeim, just a stone’s throw from the Eiffel Tower, this hour-and-a-half escapade takes us to Bercy before returning to the starting point, offering a complete tour of the City of Light’s most emblematic monuments. The Eiffel Tower, the Pont de l’Alma, the Musée d’Orsay, the Louvre… It’s all there! With its vast windows, the boat offers breathtaking views from both the air-conditioned lounge and the panoramic terrace.

On board, you can indulge in delicious pastries (un pain au chocolat, s’il vous plait!) and savory snacks, while enjoying a hot drink, orange juice or half a bottle of champagne.

Offering an unrivalled gastronomic and cultural experience, the Lunch Cruise with Meals on the Seine lets you savor a three-course à la carte lunch while admiring the iconic Parisian panorama. Depending on whether you choose the Premier, Privilège or Étoilege Services package, lunch can include fine cheeses and champagne.

Departing from the Port de la Bourdonnais, this cruise passes through the heart of Paris, offering spectacular views of monuments such as Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. After the meal, don’t hesitate to opt for a cup of tea or coffee to prolong the moment of relaxation, while taking in the breathtaking views of the Bibliothèque nationale de France, the golden dome of Les Invalides and the majestic French Parliament, to name but a few.

The Dinner Cruise with live music promises to showcase Paris in all its nocturnal glory. Departing from the Eiffel Tower, this cruise on an all-glass boat allows you to admire the City of Light illuminated for the night, while enjoying a three-course à la carte dinner. Depending on the formula, dinner can even be accompanied by champagne.

The cruise takes in the Seine as well as some of Paris’s finest monuments, including the historic quays of the Seine, the gilded dome of Les Invalides and the Gothic facade of Notre-Dame. The warm ambience is enhanced by live music, creating a romantic and convivial atmosphere.

The 150 Years of Impressionism Cruise on the Seine, organized by Croisieurope, offers a unique cultural experience retracing the history of this revolutionary artistic movement.

The itinerary begins in Paris aboard the MS Seine Princess, a ship that can accommodate 138 guests in 67 cabins on two decks. After a first night strolling through Paris, the cruise heads for Poissy, with an excursion to Giverny, where Claude Monet lived and worked for 43 years. This picturesque village is a veritable sanctuary for art lovers, home to the artist’s famous house and garden, where light and nature combine to create an atmosphere of striking beauty.

The journey continues to Honfleur, cradle of Impressionism, where artists gathered to capture the subtle nuances of the Seine estuary, then on to the Côte d’Albâtre, whose white limestone cliffs were immortalized by Monet and other painters.

Finally, the cruise reaches Rouen, a city that had a profound influence on the Impressionists. A guided tour reveals the emblematic places where Monet painted his famous series on Rouen cathedral. The cruise concludes with a return to Paris, with passengers immersed in the colors and atmospheres that have shaped modern art.

To find out more about CroisiEurope, read our reviews and guide on this company:

Croisieurope‘s eight-day Seine Valley: art, history and nature cruise takes us on a long journey along one of France’s most emblematic rivers, where each stop reveals a new aspect of French heritage.

Departing from Paris, the adventure begins with a night cruise through the capital, offering a breathtaking view of the illuminated monuments of Paris. On the following days, the cruise continues to La Roche-Guyon and Vernon, where a must-see visit to Claude Monet’s house in Giverny immerses us in the world of the famous Impressionist painter.

History buffs will appreciate the stopovers in Honfleur and Rouen, two Normandy towns marked by centuries of history and art. In Honfleur, passengers can explore the Côte Fleurie or hike the cliffs of the Côte d’Albâtre, immortalized by the greatest artists. In Rouen, the guided tour reveals the architectural and artistic treasures that have inspired painters such as Monet.

Optional excursions, such as the D-Day landing beaches or the Château de Martainville, add a historical dimension to the trip.

At the same time, life on board is punctuated by refined French cuisine, lively evenings and impeccable service. With its varied landscapes and numerous opportunities for discovery, the cruise is an invitation to fully immerse yourself in the history, art and nature that line the Seine.

For Canadian residents, there are many loyalty programs and credit cards that allow you to reduce or reimburse the total price of your cruise using points. Be sure to read our guide to cruising with points to determine the best strategy for you.

These cruises on the Seine offer an immersive experience combining cultural discoveries and gastronomic delights. Whether it’s a brunch getaway, a refined lunch or a romantic evening, each cruise unveils a unique facet of Paris, inviting you to appreciate the City of Light from its most enchanting angles.