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France River Cruises

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10 best river cruises through France

Compiled by

Steff France travel expert at TourRadar

The finest and most picturesque ports of call in the Seine valley (port-to-port cruise)

Treasures of burgundy and provence: rhône & saône (lyon - lyon), paris to normandy 2024, rhône route classique 2024 - a-rosa stella (20 destinations), the loire valley, a royal legacy (port-to-port cruise) (8 destinations), paris & normandy (2024) (paris to paris, 2024) (10 destinations), la belle france: paris, normandy and the river seine (paris - paris), brilliant bordeaux (2024) (bordeaux to bordeaux, 2024) (9 destinations), rhône route classique 2024 - a-rosa stella (18 destinations), burgundy & provence for wine lovers (northbound) 2024.

“Excellent choice for us.” simon dunstone, traveled in June 2017

• River Cruise
• Tour Honfleur and Rouen with our guide
• Board and enjoy a 'Titi Parisien' themed night
• Visit Château de Martainville and cruise

“The cruise boat accommodation is very comfortable. You will cruise without feeling that you are in sailing.” Maria Chin, traveled in October 2019

• Sightseeing
• Experience the wild beauty of the Camargue Park
• Discover Lyon's landmarks and local flavors
• Tour the historic Chalon-sur-Saône and taste wines

“Wonderful, efficient employees. Best food ever!” Therese Calovini, traveled in July 2016

• Visit historic WWII Normandy beaches
• Tour Giverny and Monet's gardens
• Walk through Van Gogh's Auvers-sur-Oise

“Great cruise, ship, crew and good. Exceeded expectations.” David Duffie, traveled in September 2022

• Discover Mâcon's Mediterranean charm
• Cycle through the scenic Saône region
• Visit Avignon's historic Palais des Papes

• Taste wine at Brissac Castle cellars
• Explore the Escal'Atlantic museum
• Cruise on the beautiful Erdre River

“Amazing to experience the Normandy Beaches with Uniworld. They certainly did it the best, with lovely local food & wine to boot.” MarijaTolj, traveled in June 2023

• Reflect at Normandy's historic D-Day beaches
• Attend a private concert in Rouen Cathedral
• Explore Monet's iconic gardens at Giverny

“The food was excellent. The tours were well planned, and even though there were a few technical problems, the staff worked very hard to make things go as smoothly as possible.” Kimberley Brantley, traveled in April 2023

• Walk the cliff paths of Étretat for stunning views
• Explore Paris, the romantic City of Light
• Tour Van Gogh's inspirational Auvers-sur-Oise

“Staff on the boat were always polite, helpful and accommodating. Excusions were fun.” Marta Hoetger, traveled in October 2023

• Wine tasting
• Walk through medieval Saint-Émilion with wine
• Tour Château Royal de Cazeneuve with wine
• Drive the Médoc wine route and taste wines

• Visit the Roman ruins in historic Arles
• Bike through scenic Chalon-sur-Saône
• Explore Lyon's UNESCO-listed old town

• Explore Arles and visit the Roman Amphitheater
• Tour the Palace of the Popes in Avignon
• Discover Lyon’s Old Town and Fourvière Hill

More about France

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CroisiEurope ~ Great Value Cruising through France River Cruise Fleet

This thoroughly French river cruise-line pioneered river cruising in Europe and is the largest of all the river fleets. And, as you might expect, gastronomy plays an important role on a CroisiEurope cruise, so you can expect classic French haute cuisine .

CroisiEurope River Cruise Highlights

• Modern, stylish cabins & suites (most with balconies)
• Fine French  haute cuisine
• Three course lunches and dinners every day
• Wines, beers and soft drinks included
• Choice of excursion packages
• Wireless audio system for self-guided touring
• Daily programme of entertainment
• Panoramic sundeck with sun loungers
• Swimming pool

Our expert partners at Panache Cruises will find you the perfect river cruise in France

CONTACT US 0044 161 513 8208

Our expert partner Laurie Reitman will find you the perfect river cruise in France

469-269-3763

CroisiEurope River Cruise Routes

CroisiEurope offers a full programme of itineraries and a good choice of durations, with Seine river cruises providing a delightful introduction to Paris and the charming countryside of Normandy. Cruising the Loire Valley , meanwhile, takes you past many of France’s most impressive chateaux. You can taste wine from some of France’s most revered vineyards, by exploring the wonders of Bordeaux on the Garonne, or cruising through Burgundy and Provence on the Rhône. Or choose a Rhine cruise and discover truly fascinating medieval history and the superb wines of Alsace.

Seine Cruising  >    Rhine Cruising  >    Rhone Cruising  >    Bordeaux Cruising  >    Loire Cruising  >

In line with CroisiEurope’s ethos of providing great value for money, cabins and suites aren’t the largest, but they are still comfortably sized and most have balconies. Décor is modern European in style, the newer ships being the most luxurious. There’s an average of one crew member per three passengers, so service levels are very good.

Ambience & Cuisine

The ambience on board is most definitely French, from the modern European décor to the French speaking staff (although all speak English too). Service is attentive, but the real star of the show is the cuisine. CroisiEurope’s head chef was recently inducted into the esteemed Maître Cuisiniers de France , who number only 250 worldwide. The accent is on classic French haute cuisine and standards are consistently high for all three course lunches and dinners. Drinks are included with lunch and dinner.

CroisiEurope offers plenty of options when it comes to excursions. Choose between the Classic Package for the traditional cultural and historical tours, while the Discovery Package offers out of the ordinary experiences like tastings and gourmet tours, hikes and expeditions.

A selection of CroisiEurope cruises

Showing 6 of 636 cruises

The romantic Rhine Valley and the rock of… ABOARD MS L'Europe

The romantic Rhine Valley and the rock of… ABOARD MS Gérard Schmitter

Holland and the romantic Rhine valley (port-to-port… ABOARD MS Mona Lisa

Alsace: land of tradition and gastronomy (port-to-port… ABOARD MS Modigliani

From the Heart of Alsace to Summits in the… ABOARD MS Douce France

River Cruises in France Amadeus – AmaWaterways – A-Rosa – Avalon – CroisiEurope – Emerald – Riviera – Scenic – Uniworld

french-waterways.com is the most comprehensive and authoritative online source of inspiration and information about enjoying the rivers and canals of France – on the water or by the water.

french-waterways.com (founded 2003) is independent and impartial. It is not connected with VNF Voies Navigables de France, the national waterways management authority.

Cruise Lines International

Inland Waterways Intl – Barge Assocn

The information published here results from more than ten years personal experience cruising the waterways from north to south and east to west.

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River Cruises in France

Seducing travelers by its first-class culture, food, art and undeniable joie de vivre, it’s hardly surprising that France attracts more than 80 million visitors a year, making it the world’s top tourist destination. From the quiet rural beauty of Normandy to the vibrant bustle of Paris, from the cool serenity of its mighty rivers like the Rhone to the dry heat of historic Provence and from the picturesque vine-clad slopes of Burgundy to the soaring majesty of the French Alps, it hardly seems possible that such rich diversity could be contained in one relatively small country.

The French love of food and wine is beyond comparison and it boasts a cuisine that’s widely acknowledged as one of the very finest in the world, with more Michelin starred restaurants than any other country. Every town and village seems to have its own unique gastronomic specialty whilst evocative names like Champagne, Calvados, Bordeaux, and Beaujolais carry their reputation before them. French cheeses are equally famous too - just think of Brie, Camembert, and Roquefort for starters.

Culturally too, there can be no disputing France’s staggering achievements: from Roman temples to Renaissance chateaux, its outstanding museums and world-class galleries, from its invention of cinema and “haute couture” the list goes on. So with all this on offer and more, there can be fewer destinations more appealing. Allez!

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France River Cruises

Inspiring with a rich procession of cultural, artistic and historic treasures, our France river cruises evoke a sense of place around every bend. In Paris, the River Seine bridges images of life past and present in the iconic sites that line its banks while the Rhône River takes you to timeless landscapes where you're welcomed in cities, towns, villages and vineyards along the way.

• ITINERARIES
• FEATURED TOURS

River Cruising Along The Rivers of France

Whether the Seine, the Saône or the Rhône, on a river cruise with Tauck you'll feel it the moment you step ashore in village and towns – that palpable realization of the true meaning of joie de vivre , enjoyment of life. And that is the very essence of our France river cruises...

See it light up painted Impressionist landscapes during visits to the famed museums of Paris, checking out their real-life counterparts in the gardens at Giverny and the villages of Provence. Discover it in culinary treats chef prepared at cooking demonstrations and during exclusive dinners at elegant châteaux open just for Tauck. Savor it in award-winning wines locally produced at vineyards and wine estates family owned for centuries. And indulge in personal discoveries authentically French, uniquely irresistible and all included as you experience the joys of France firsthand onboard and ashore.

The Seine River

The River Seine is born in Burgundy and runs through the heart of Paris before flowing onward to the Normandy Coast where it meets the English Channel. On a French river cruise on the Seine, you'll discover the treasures along its banks in destinations that include Paris, Duclair, Caudebec-en-Caux in the Normandy region, Monet's Giverny, Versailles and more. You'll see how the changing light of day inspired artists, giving them a dynamic sense of movement to their masterpieces and the settings behind their work as you cruise to places immortalized in art… the medieval streets and oft-painted cathedrals and churches of Rouen… the palace of Versailles… during an exclusive dinner at a regal château… as you sip cider and Calvados at a country farm… on D-Day Beaches steeped in history… and on walking tours rich with culture.

The Rhône RIver

The Rhône River is an Alpine beauty, beginning in the Swiss Alps, passing through Lake Geneva, southeastern France, and sun-kissed Provençal villages, until it reaches the mesmerizing Mediterranean Sea. Experience the stuff of dreams in Paris, Lyon, Viviers, Avignon and beyond as you savor local specialties on a private ranch in la Camargue with Provençal cowboys… discover France's epicurean heart in a famous market in Lyon… explore the gilded playground for jet setters in Monte-Carlo… walk through the picturesque and vibrantly colored town of Arles – where Van Gogh found inspiration… taste chocolate, pastries and Côtes du Rhône vintages at the source, in one of the greatest wine-growing regions on Earth… what river cruising on the Rhône is all about.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine country

In avignon along the rhône, a professional sommelier guides you through a tasting and pairing of châteauneuf-du-pape wines.

The popes who reigned over the Roman Catholic Church in Avignon during the 14th century enjoyed not only their formidable lodgings in the fortress-like Palais des Papes, but also the fruit of the vine; they are credited with cultivating the local wine industry widely recognized today by the appellation, Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Today the life of this region still centers around growing, producing and enjoying wine – as you'll see for yourself when a professional sommelier guides you through a tasting and pairing of fine Rhône Valley wines that go perfectly with the unforgettable midday meal you helped prepare… truly an experience to remember!

Les Halles de Lyon

Tasting your way through a culinary icon in lyon.

Lyon is considered the "culinary capital of France" – quite a compliment in a country famed for its cuisine and fine vintages. You'll discover why during a tasting at the famous Les Halles de Lyon, the celebrated indoor food market that's been a fixture in Lyon since 1850. It offers an unbelievable array of breads, cheeses, fresh fruits and vegetables, sausages, wines, chocolates... the list goes on. Everything is fresh and delicious, and it's said that the best chefs in Lyon shop here… so enjoy!

Truffle hunting in the Rhône Valley

Trained dogs and "black diamonds" – truffles – in grignan along the rhône.

The Italians call them tartufo, but to the French and much of the rest of the world, they're known as truffles. But whatever you call it, this rare, pungent (and highly perishable) fungus that grows under the ground in certain parts of Europe is one of the most expensive foods on Earth, highly prized by chefs and gourmets around the globe. Centuries ago, early truffle-hunters used pigs, with their keen sense of smell, to root these treasures out of the ground… but the piggies usually ate the truffles as soon as they found them! So they began training dogs to sniff them out... like the pooches you'll meet and go truffle-hunting with today at a truffle farm in Grignan… followed by a tasting of products made with this precious ingredient.

Tauck Exclusive – Evening at the Duché d'Uzès

Our exclusive gala evening at the duché d'uzès.

The Duke of Uzès kindly requests your presence at his family castle for dinner. Expect to be wined and dined at a grand château that architecturally chronicles its history, from its foundation on the site of a Roman governor's home in the first millennium to its role as the medieval residence of an exiled 9th-century Duchess, the first woman in the Occident to write a book, to its Renaissance renovation, its languish in the Revolution, its 19th- and 20th-century reincarnation as a school to its meticulous renovation in 1954 by the influential Marchioness of Crussol who reacquired the family home. Her vision comes to life in treasured keepsakes and a resplendent décor that provide a stunning setting for Tauck's exclusive gala evening.

Experiencing Paris

Paris is....

Its unique arrondissements, brimming with character, like the Marais – home to trendy cafés, galleries and boutiques… the River Seine, winding its way through the city… the Eiffel Tower, one of the world's most recognizable icons… the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, needing no introduction… Rue Montorgueil, lined with produce stands, boulangeries, cheese shops, wine stores, and fishmongers… Les Invalides, the palatial complex housing the monumental tomb of Napoleon… Place de la Bastille, site of the infamous fortress where the French Revolution began… And that's just the beginning…

Ranch life in la Camargue

An exclusive provençal experience on a family owned ranch in la camargue.

Drive past marshy fields of grazing bulls and white horses to a privately owned ranch in la Camargue, where the Rhône meets the sea, and experience a different taste of Provençal life for Tauck guests only. It begins with a horseback welcome by the warm-hearted family who lives here, continues with a farm-fresh feast of locally produced fare and a heartfelt guitar serenade, and culminates in a display of skill by Provençal cowboys (known as gardians) that will have your heart racing at every turn.

Tauck Exclusive – Early-opening visit to Monet's Giverny

Our exclusive early-opening visit to claude monet's home and gardens in giverny.

In springtime, the famous villa and gardens in the village of Giverny is awash in pink and green, adorned in wisteria, azalea and water lilies, and basked in dappled sunlight reminiscent of the works of its 43-year resident, painter Claude Monet. Our exclusive early-opening visit to the pioneer Impressionist's retreat shows you the artist's home as he lived it and painted it. Monet's pink stucco house gives the impression that his family of 10 still lives there; its rooms showcase private furnishings, and his collection of Japanese prints adorn walls throughout. Walk along pathways bordered with nasturtiums, hollyhocks, hybrid lilies or snapdragons, and go through the tunnel that leads to the Water Garden and the Japanese Bridge.

Journey Collection

France River Cruises with Tauck

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Inspired by the Destination

For 90+ years, the Tauck family has had a passion for sailing — aboard small ships and yachts at sea, riverboats along great inland waterways, and at home on the rivers and lakes of Connecticut and New York. When we began blending our land experience with our strong passion for cruising in our first European river cruise back in 1992, we knew that no "ordinary" river cruise experience would do for our guests. We wanted them to travel Europe's rivers in the same beyond-the-ordinary Tauck style they experienced on our land trips. With that in mind, we searched to find a company to partner with that would share our values and our commitment to "do the right thing" by our guests... and found it in another family-owned company, Scylla. Together, we crafted a river cruise experience that was ahead of its time and inspired by the destinations we explore.

Guest Favorite France River Cruises

"This was our first Tauck river cruise; we were truly overwhelmed with the Tauck experience. We write this letter to express our deep appreciation for the outstanding Tauck experience on our French river cruise. The ship staff, Cruise Director, and Tour Directors were wonderful. Our excursions and special events went off seamlessly, and the 'extras' throughout the itinerary made our travels that much more memorable. The local guides throughout France were all extremely knowledgeable, personable, and very accommodating. Many thanks for our wonderful Tauck adventures… we were made to feel like we were part of a big, happy family." Peter and Sandra B., LA

Savoring france: paris, lyon & provence, bon voyage france family river cruise, traveling with tauck, uncommon access.

Unmatched destination knowledge and land expertise maximize your time ashore, connecting & inspiring

Travel In Good Company

3 Tauck Directors and 1 Tauck Cruise director onboard every cruise – highest director-to-guest ratio in the industry

Sophisticated, Intimate Atmosphere

Tauck's Destination Fleet is custom-designed for comfort – guests enjoy a relaxed, congenial atmosphere

Distinctively Inclusive

No options sold; all gratuities to Tauck Directors & Cruise Director, ship staff local guides included

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5 Best Seine River Cruise in Paris: Your Ultimate Guide

Searching for the perfect Seine River Cruise in Paris, but overwhelmed by the choices? You’re not alone. Paris offers a smorgasbord of cruising experiences, from quick one-hour sightseeing jaunts to luxurious evening sails complete with Champagne and gourmet dinners .

Deciding on the best Seine river cruise can feel like navigating a complex maze of options, each more tantalizing than the last.

That’s why I wrote this guide. I live in Paris, love the Seine River Cruises and curated this exclusive list of the best Seine River cruises available.

Let’s set sail and discover the Seine as you’ve never seen it before.

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

If you purchase through links on this site, I may earn – at no cost to you – a small commission. This helps me cover my costs and keep my website running. Thank you so much for your support 🙂   Learn more

Quick List: The Best River Cruise in Paris

If you’re not in the mood to sift through endless options and prefer a quick guide to the best choices, you’re in luck. Below, I’ve distilled the wide array of Seine River Cruises down to an essential shortlist—featuring the top 3 most popular and highly recommended experiences in Paris.

Best 1h River Seine Cruise

• Roundtrip Seine River Cruise
• Audio Commentary
• Panoramic Views on Eiffel Tower , Notre Dame and more
• Boarding at the Eiffel Tower

Best 2h River Seine Lunch Cruise

• All-inclusive 3-Course Lunch with drinks
• Panoramic Views on Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and more

Best Seine Dinner Cruise

• 3-Course Dinner with Drinks
• Live Jazz Music & Window Seating
• Panoramic views on Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and more
• Boarding near Musée d’Orsay

These top 3 Seine River Cruises are reliable picks if you prefer not to sift through the multitude of options available for river tours in Paris

However, if you’re interested in exploring additional options, or if you’re still undecided about which Seine River Cruise is the best fit for your Paris trip, continue reading

Don’t miss these articles, they can help you plan your Paris trip:

• Is the Louvre Worth It? Your No-Nonsense Guide
• 20 Arrondissements in Paris (Quick Guide + Map)

21 best things to do in Paris on a Sunday

The agony of choice: find the perfect paris river seine cruise.

I’ve created a decision tree to help you easily identify the Seine River Cruise that best matches your preferences, expectations, and budget.

The 5 Best Seine Cruises in Pairs

Do you know now which Cruise is the best for you? And which boat tour in Paris matches best your expectations? Then here’s for without further ado the compiled list of the best 5 Seine Cruises in Paris.

#1 The Go-To Option: One-Hour Sightseeing Cruise on the Seine

➲ Secure your seat on board of the Bateau Mouche here

The standard one-hour sightseeing cruise on the Seine is a fail-safe choice for any Paris visit.

This budget-friendly option allows you to view Paris’s most celebrated landmarks from the comfort of your seat—no extravagant add-ons, just the essentials.

For those pressed for time or seeking flexibility, this is an ideal pick. Most cruises of this kind depart every 30 to 60 minutes throughout the day.

The top-rated Seine River Cruise embarks right at the base of the Eiffel Tower. You can book it here . The tour offers a multilingual audioguide available in 10 languages , and accepts mobile vouchers—no need to worry about printing tickets. Just display it on your mobile device, and you’re all set to cruise.

Despite its straightforward approach, the tour doesn’t skimp on amenities, offering onboard WiFi for your convenience. Click here for exact schedules and booking info.

#2 Gourmet Lunch Cruise on the Seine: Savor the Sights

➲ Book this Lunch Cruise in advance , it sells out quickly

Picture this: you’re aboard a riverboat, cruising past iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Île de la Cité, all while indulging in a gourmet French meal and sipping fine wine . Sounds idyllic, doesn’t it? This two-hour Seine River Cruise offers just that experience .

As you sail, you’ll be entertained with live commentary and treated to a three-course à-la-carte French menu that includes an appetizer, starter, main course, and dessert. And let’s not forget the wine! For an even more authentic French experience, you can add a cheese course as an extra.

The cuisine on this lunch cruise is of a gastronomic caliber because it features a broad selection of French classics like foie gras and duck, as well as various meat, fish, and vegetarian options. To preview the menu in advance, click here.

Be aware that lunch cruises on the Seine are highly sought after and tables fill up quickly. To secure your spot, check rates and availability here and book in advance .

#3 Jazz & Dining: The Best Seine Dinner Cruise

➲ Book this 3-Course Dinner Sightseeing Cruise here before it’s booked out

Want to elevate your Paris experience? Consider hopping on a 3-course dinner cruise that sets sail close to the Musée d’Orsay. As you drift along the Seine, you’ll catch iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, all from the comfort of your guaranteed window seat.

But let’s talk about the food—you’ll get to savor a gourmet 3-course meal complete with wine, Champagne, and other beverages . If you’re a fan of live music, the Jazz band on board adds a touch of ambiance without overwhelming the experience.

You have the flexibility to choose between a 1.5-hour early evening sail or a more leisurely 2.5-hour cruise. The dress code? Smart casual , so it’s stylish yet relaxed.

One note: the cruise is intended for those 10 years and older.

Don’t wait too long to book . Spots tend to fill up fast.

➲ 1.5h Seine Dinner Cruise starting at 6 PM: See availabilities here

➲ 2.5h Seine Dinner Cruise starting at 8PM: See availabilities here

#4 Private Boat Tour in Paris: An intimate Seine Rive Cruise

➲ Book your private boat tour in Paris here

Opt in a Private Boat Tour in Paris for an intimate and luxurious adventure on the Seine .

The boat accommodates up to eight people, so it’s ideal for your small gatherings, celebrations, or simply an elevated sightseeing experience in Paris. If you travel with a pet, I have good news because your furry companions are also welcome on board.

The journey begins at the Statue of Liberty near the Eiffel Tower and sails all the way up to Notre Dame and back. Here you have the choice to either disembark where your tour began, or near the Louvre. A convenient drop off location, for your next Paris stop.

If you’re in the mood for a Parisian apéro, feel free to bring your snacks and drinks to enjoy as you cruise.

To top it off, the boat is equipped with Bluetooth speakers, so you can set the soundtrack to your unforgettable cruise. All while absorbing Paris from an entirely unique vantage point.

Click here to see if the Captain has still availabilities on your travel dates.

#5 Paris Night Cruise: The Illumination Cruise Explained

➲ Book your Night Time Paris Seine Cruise here

Discover the magic of Paris at night with an “Illumination Cruise” on the Seine. While the name might make it sound like an exclusive, high-priced affair, the reality is much simpler.

Essentially, this is your standard 1h-Seine River Paris Cruise but timed perfectly to showcase the city’s lights. Simply choose a late time slot—ideally around or just after sunset—to experience Paris as it transforms into the “City of Light.”

Aside from the dazzling lights, everything else about the cruise remains the same, from the iconic landmarks you’ll pass by to the ticket price. So you’re getting an extraordinary experience for the ordinary cost of a Seine cruise.

This evening adventure is perfect for photographers, romantics, or anyone wanting to see Paris from a different angle.

Don’t miss out on this enchanting yet surprisingly affordable experience. Book your Illumination Cruise now to capture Paris in its finest light.

Panorama View from a Bateau Mouche

You may be wondering what sights you’ll encounter on your Seine River Cruise and whether it’s worth your time and money. Rest assured, it’s a valuable experience.

Not only does a Seine cruise offer a picturesque overview of Paris in a condensed timeframe, but you’ll also glide past many of the city’s major landmarks.

• the Tour Eiffel
• Musée d’Orsay
• Musée de Louvre
• Île de la Cité
• Grand Palais
• Petit Palais

Your Seine river cruise will also pass through more than 20 bridges – some of them are the most famous bridges in France , like the Pont Neuf, the Pont Alexandre III, and the Pont des Arts.

Paris Seine Cruise: Travel Tips

Be Prepared for the Weather: Don’t overlook weather conditions. Pack sunscreen for sunny days or an umbrella and raincoat for unexpected showers. Keep in mind you may have to wait in an uncovered queue before boarding. ( Find the latest weather forecast here ).

Mobile Vouchers: Check in advance if your chosen tour accepts mobile vouchers. Some tours still require printed vouchers, which can be inconvenient if you’re already on the go.

Dress Code: If you’ve opted for a lunch or dinner cruise, be sure to review the dress code requirements to avoid any boarding issues.

Consider the Paris City Pass : Before finalizing your booking, take a look here at the Paris City Pass . It covers over 60 activities, including the Seine cruise. If you plan on multiple activities, the pass often offers better value. ( Click here for a full list of included activities ).

There you have it—the top Seine River Cruises in Paris, tailored to fit a variety of preferences and budgets. Whether you’re in the mood for an indulgent dinner cruise or just a laid-back scenic ride along the Seine, both are bound to be highlights of your Parisian adventure. Enjoy 🙂

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• What NOT to do in Paris -23 (costly) Paris Mistakes you need to avoid!
• 14 Hotels with stunning Eiffel Tower views- for (almost) every budget!
• Your Perfect 2 Days in Paris! Itinerary & Insider Tips
• 5 ways to get from Charles de Gaulle airport to Paris – THE complete guide!
• Scams in Paris! How to avoid the most common cons

FAQ Seine River Cruise in Paris

The standard 1h Seine River Cruise with one of the Bateaux Mouchesstarts at €16. Lunch cruises start from €60 and Dinner Cruises from €80.

A Seine Cruise is a lovely way to see Paris. It is very popular and one of the best things to do in Paris. Because while you sit relaxed on board, you see some of the most spectacular sights of Paris: The Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Pont Neuf and many more.

The standard Seine River Sightseeing Cruise in Paris takes 1h. If you opt in for a Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Seine, allow 1.5 to 2.5 hours. To be on time, make sure to arrive 15-30 Minutes in advance.

To be on the save sight, it’s best to book the Paris Seine Cruise in advance. The standard Cruises are often not dated, and you can use the voucher whenever it suits you. Dinner and Lunch Cruises need to be booked in advance, as they sell out very quickly.

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What’s it like on a CroisiEurope river cruise?

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2020

Sailing through the waterways of Europe, letting scenic views and pretty waterside towns come to you – river cruising is on the rise. And after becoming an unexpected ocean cruise convert a few years back, I was keen to try it out for myself. The big names like Viking, Uniworld and Emerald Waterways focus on the luxury (and pricey) end of the market. But then I came across CroisiEurope, whose trips include excursions, food and drink for two-thirds of the price.

This family-run French company was one of the pioneers of river cruising and is now Europe’s biggest river cruise operator. But although they’re big in France they’re not so well known in the rest of the world. We decided to check them out on a mini festive river cruise on the Rhine. So what’s a CroisiEurope river cruise really like? Here’s everything you need to know.

Read more: A Christmas market river cruise on the Rhine

CroisiEurope river cruise review

On our walking tour around Mainz

Where can you cruise to with CroisiEurope?

CroisiEurope have 170 different river cruise itineraries. The focus is on the major rivers of Europe – the Rhine, Danube, Loire and Duoro. They also have a few more exotic options – like the Mekong in southeast Asia and Lake Kariba in Africa – and small canal boat cruises on rivers throughout France. Our Rhine cruise was four nights, and there are short trips so you can give river cruising a try and see if you like it, as well as longer ones of one–two weeks.

Sailing into Rüdesheim

What are CroisiEurope cruise ships like?

CroisiEurope have around 50 ships in their fleet, which are split into two categories – 4 anchors (standard) and 5 anchors (premium ships with fewer, larger cabins, with bigger windows and sometimes balconies). CroisiEurope river cruise ships have either two decks (plus a sun deck up on top – if you’re not cruising in winter) or three decks, with an extra piano bar and terrace.

We were due to sail on the MS L’Europe, but low water levels on the Rhine meant we were switched to the MS France instead. Both are 4 anchors, but the MS France has two decks instead of three. Cabins are split between the decks, and it costs a bit extra to be on a higher deck. I thought it was because you get a better view, but turns out the engines are pretty noisy down below when you’re sailing overnight, so it’s worth upgrading for a better night’s sleep.

Our en-suite cabin

The cabins are the same on every deck though – compact but comfortable, with sliding beds so you can convert them into a double or twin. Each cabin has an en-suite shower room (with impressively good water pressure) which comes with mini shampoo and body wash. There’s a wardrobe and desk, a TV (which has info about the day’s itinerary and menu) and a very vintage-style dial radio which played Christmas music all the way on our festive trip.

Ships also have a dining room and lounge – ours were at opposite ends on the second deck. You’re allocated a table in the dining room so you eat with the same people each day. And the lounge has a mix of tables and sofas where you can hang out whenever you’ve got free time. The ships aren’t as flashy or modern as some of the other river cruise ships, but they have everything you need (even if the lounge ceilings do have a bit of a 1970s disco feel to them!).

The lounge on the MS France

What are the other passengers like?

CroisiEurope’s a French company, but because they’ve got a whole website in English I was expecting a mix of nationalities. Our trip was almost all French passengers though, with just us two English-speakers and a couple of Spanish ladies. Age-wise the passengers were the traditional cruise demographic of 50s–70s, with a couple of younger people on mother-daughter trips. There were a mix of couples and groups of friends, as well as a few tour groups.

Ships by night

Do you need to be able to speak French?

The official languages on CroisiEurope river cruises are French and English, and according to their website all announcements, menus and excursions are in both languages. In practice they were almost all only in French – except our English-speaking tour guide in Mainz. We were asked on check-in if we could speak French and I said I could (kind of) so we were pretty much left to it. Fine for the basics but things like the Rhine commentary were a bit beyond me.

There were also German, Italian and Spanish-speakers on board – our Spanish ladies didn’t speak any French so one of the crew came over to our table each evening to give them a printout of the next day’s activities and menu in Spanish, and answer any questions. So if you can’t speak French make sure to let the crew know and they should provide you with English info.

You can get by without speaking any French, but it helps to be able to so you can chat to other passengers – otherwise make sure you really like who you’re travelling with as you’ll be talking to them a lot! It would also be a good trip to do with a group of friends as you’ve got a ready-made social group to hang out with and it’s not so important to be able to mingle.

Views along the Rhine

What can you do on and off the ship?

The best bit about being on a river cruise is getting to sit there and relax, watch the scenery float by or read a book. There are different activities on board included too depending on theme of the trip. Ours was all about Christmas in the Alsace, so you could make and ice some traditional Christmas biscuits, there was also a talk about Alsatian festive traditions and a quiz (both in French) and a gala evening with a bit of a disco in the lounge afterwards.

Activities and tours were included on each of our stops – the Mechanical Music museum in Rüdesheim, a city tour and the Gutenberg Museum in Mainz , and the Lalique crystal museum. But we had enough free time to wander around the Christmas markets too. And if you don’t want to do the excursions you can always do your own thing instead – unlike on an ocean cruise, most of our moorings were just a short walk into town so it’s easy to do-it-yourself.

Mainz’s Christmas market

What’s CroisiEurope’s food (and drink) like?

I was really impressed with the food on board the ship, with beautifully presented, high-end French food. All meals are included – breakfast is a continental buffet, then lunch and dinner are either three or four courses, with a starter, main, dessert and sometimes a cheese course. Portions aren’t enormous though so you don’t feel too stuffed at the end of it.

If you like meat you’ll be in heaven, but don’t expect a whole lot of vegetables on the menu. We had traditional French dishes like Boeuf bourguignon , Confit de canard and Crème brûlée . But there are also local touches based on your location – ours were Black Forest ham, local hake and an Alsace-themed night with Flammkuchen and Baeckeoffe (meat and potato casserole).

Crème brûlée on board

If you’re a vegetarian or on a special diet (like gluten- or dairy-free) then they can cater for you. Though you might need to chase it up when you get on board – I put that I was gluten-free on my booking form but the message never got through. Wine is included with lunch and dinner, with a choice of three different whites, three reds and two rosés, including local wines.

Drinks at the bar are also included in the trip price – which covers beers, wine (red, white and sparkling), aperitifs and spirits like gin and brandy. There’s a cocktail of the day too or one day we had mulled wine as we got on board. The only extra costs are for a few special wines and spirits. The bar opens at 10am and we did spot a few French gents with post-breakfast beers! Soft drinks, juices, bottled water, teas and coffee are all available at the bar too.

The dining room and cocktails on board

How sustainable are CroisiEurope?

Something that’s becoming more important to me – and a lot of other travellers – is the impact my travels have on the places and people I visit. You’re pretty much at the mercy of the company you’re travelling with when you’re on a cruise as they organise your accommodation, food and travel. The ocean cruise industry hasn’t got the best reputation for sustainability , so I was interested to see how river cruises measure up. So what are CroisiEurope’s eco policies ?

All ships have water savers to reduce usage and waste, low-emission engines, non-pollutant paint and use eco-friendly cleaning products, so not bad. One thing I spotted which they could do better on was plastics – they still use plastic straws as well as a lot of bottled water and mini toiletries. And there didn’t seem to be anywhere for passengers to recycle their waste.

Views on deck

What should you pack for a river cruise?

It’s pretty informal on board CroisiEurope ships, so you don’t need to pack anything too smart. There’s one gala night where you can dress up if you like, though it’s more dress or sparkly top and trousers than the full black-tie regalia (and there aren’t any irons on board so don’t pack anything that creases). Inside the ship it’s pretty warm so you don’t need loads of layers.

You’re provided with basic toiletries (shampoo, body and hand wash) and cabins have a hairdryer (one of those wall mounted ones). Plugs on board are European style, but we only had one in our cabin so if you’re travelling with lots of electricals you might want to pack a multi-plug adapter. And if you’re a light sleeper and in a cabin near the engine, earplugs are a good idea.

Shopping the Christmas markets

What does a CroisiEurope river cruise cost?

Our four-night Magic of Christmas river cruise on the Rhine cost £662 per person all inclusive, with two of us sharing an en-suite cabin. You can get a short 3-day trip for under £400 (though check the itinerary as some of the cheaper trips don’t involve all that much time on the river and have coach trips out instead) or a one-week Rhine trip is around £800–£1200.

So would I cruise with CroisiEurope again? Yes definitely – in fact we’re already eyeing up a trip on the Douro later this year. They’re a good-value option if you want to try river cruising, and I was impressed with the quality of food, drink and excursions. It does help to be able to speak some French though and there were a few communication issues which could’ve been better, but overall CroisiEurope are great for a European river cruise at a reasonable price.

Read more cruise posts

Thursday 22nd of September 2022

Hi Just returned from a 4 year planned Croisi cruise, our first river cruise, that was planned before covid having read your original and very accurate review. On MS France we took a 5 day trip from Passau to Budapest. Overriding memory of the holiday was lack of sleep, the engines we found incredibly noisy and on the nights when you cruise between ports we barely slept. We took upper cabins but walls shook, windows shook, cupboards and doors rattled. Spoke to staff who were sympathetic but said crews quarters were worse! All our fellow passengers were French and , despite our efforts ,made no attempt to converse with us in either English or French, they didn’t want to know. Their loss, we were in a party of 4 so it made no difference, would have been awful if we went as a couple. Primary reason we chose Croisi was that excursions were not included, that suits us, we did our own thing using the boat as a floating hotel. Saved lots as didn’t wish to not use excursions that we’d paid for on other cruise lines. Entertainment was focused on French taste, it was ok to start with but the novelty wore off! Food was excellent though no choice and free bar generous. Hungarian staff were friendly in the main whilst the entertainment guy went out of his was to assist us, translating anything we didn’t understand and offering a welcome friendly face at all times. 5 days was enough, this for us was to see how us and river cruises get on, we don’t think they do. I know you gets what you pay for and Croisi was cheaper than just about every other cruise line. 100% speaking French is a huge help on a Croisi trip, it offers great value but with the shortcomings I’ve listed. If the boat had been quieter maybe we’d consider another trip but for now we’re done with river cruises.

Sunday 2nd of May 2021

Hi Lucy, I just came across this post. Given that this river cruise line consists of mostly French passengers and crew, do you think that it would be kind of isolating for a solo female American to take a Christmas Markets cruise?

Lucy Dodsworth

Monday 10th of May 2021

Hi Mara, I think it varies a lot on different sailings but on our trip I wouldn't have really liked to be on my own unless my French was very good as there weren't a lot of other nationalities on board.

SHARON ROBERTSON

Tuesday 13th of April 2021

I had been looking at this cruise line for a European river cruise in 2022. Your comments eere really helpful especially about the engines!!! They really are better value than the cruises promoted here in Australia. Hopefully our borders will be open by 2022 !!! Today's news says 2024

Tuesday 20th of April 2021

Great to hear the post was useful – and fingers crossed for 2022!

Wednesday 27th of January 2021

This cruise line is not honest. Here they are pushing cruises and yet they have refused to refund my deposit on a cruise they cancelled. Never book with them!

Wednesday 15th of January 2020

Question for you. Is bottled water included in the trip price? Or do they fill cups of water from some sort of filter system?

Thursday 16th of January 2020

Hi, yes bottled water was included in the trip price along with most other drinks.

France River Cruises

Experience a truly all-inclusive journey of a lifetime through the historic and iconic culinary regions of France.

• Destinations
• Previous page

Discover   the North and South of France and Bordeaux regions

From witnessing the beauty of Bordeaux and the dazzling delights of Paris, to winding through the French gastronomic city of Lyon - revel in the magnificence of this amazing country, in truly all-inclusive ultra-luxury.

Soak in the historic monuments and charming villages

Become fascinated by the diverse regions of France, each possessing its own unique charm. Enjoy delicious food and wine, exquisite architecture, and the history of France, as you embark on your all-inclusive luxury river cruise.

Discover France

• Experiences

Spectacular landscapes, enriching history, and gastronomic delights 

Why travel on a scenic france river cruise.

Our intimate ultra-luxury river cruises cater up to just 149 guests. Each journey is designed to take you into the heart of extraordinary regions while you relax and unwind as you explore multiple magical towns and cities with ease.

Innovative Scenic Space-Ships

Enjoy an abundance of premium experiences and luxurious outdoor, dining, wellness areas, and spacious suites. Our Space-Ships can also dock in the heart of towns and cruise upstream through Northern France so that you can travel to famous and picturesque towns such as Honfleur.

Find out more

Luxurious Suites

Our generously sized suites are elegantly outfitted with premium amenities including a queen-size Scenic Slumber bed, a pillow menu, and luxurious bath products. The Balcony, Junior, and Royal Suites feature your very own window to the world with our signature Scenic Sun Lounges – some of the largest balconies offered on European waterways.

Up to Five Dining Options

Whether you prefer a fine dining experience with a six-course meal, a relaxed café setting offering a delicious à la carte menu, or dining in the privacy of your suite, you’ll find delicious options to suit your tastes on board your Scenic Space-Ship. Premium international beverages + – wine, beer, cocktails, spirits – are included and available all day, every day. It’s more than outstanding food and wine – it’s the fresh flavors of each region prepared by our innovative chefs.

Scenic Freechoice  

Personalize your river cruise and pursue your own interests as you set off on unique excursions in France. Our extensive Scenic Freechoice excursions provide Active, Moderate, or Relaxed ways to explore so you can choose activities best suited to you. Whether it’s a full day excursion to the D-Day landing beaches of Normandy, or shopping with a chef at a local market in Bordeaux before cooking up a storm in our Scenic Culinaire cooking class, the choice is yours.

Scenic Enrich

Our exclusive Scenic Enrich experiences place you at the heart of the world’s most refined art, music, and architecture. You’ll go behind the scenes to enjoy moments inaccessible to the ordinary traveler. From an immersive digital art installation show at Les Bassins des Lumières in Bordeaux, to a private concert at the prestigious Palais des Papes in Avignon, these carefully curated experiences are destined to be the highlights of your journey.

Salt Therapy Lounge

We are the first and only river cruise company to feature a therapeutic Salt Therapy Lounge* on board our Scenic Space-Ships cruising the Bordeaux waterways and the Rhône and Saône Rivers. Mimicking the environment of a salt cave, our Salt Therapy Lounge can assist with healing, improving respiration and boosting the immune system. 

Where we Travel in

  france .

Featured Itineraries

Beautiful Bordeaux

Savour the beauty and romance

Spectacular South of France

Awaken your senses in the South of France

• Europe River Cruises
• Your Guide to River Cruising

Your guide to Europe river cruising

What to expect  on your river cruise

Learn about the benefits of river cruising with our comprehensive guide to your first time on a river cruise and what you can expect when you travel with Scenic.

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France River Cruises

Experience a truly all-inclusive journey of a lifetime through the historic and iconic culinary regions of France. 

• Destinations
• Previous page

Discover   the North and South of France and Bordeaux regions

From witnessing the beauty of Bordeaux and the dazzling delights of Paris, to winding through the French gastronomic city of Lyon - revel in the magnificence of this amazing country, in truly all-inclusive ultra-luxury. 

Soak in the historic monuments and charming villages

Be fascinated by the diverse regions of France, each possessing its own natural charm. Enjoy delectable food and wine, exquisite architecture and the history that France is famous for, as you embark on your all-inclusive river cruise.

Discover France

• Experiences

Spectacular landscapes, enriching history and gastronomic delights 

Why travel on a Scenic France river cruise

Our ultra-luxury river cruises cater for only up to 147 guests. Each journey is designed to take you into the heart of extraordinary regions while you relax and unwind as you explore multiple magical towns and cities with ease. 

Innovative Scenic Space-Ships

Enjoy an abundance of premium experiences and luxurious outdoor, dining and wellness areas and spacious suites. Our Space-Ships can also dock in the heart of towns and cruise further upstream in Northern France, so you can be immersed further afield, such as picturesque Honfleur.

Discover our river cruise ships

Luxurious Suites

Our generously sized suites are elegantly appointed with premium amenities including a queen-size Scenic Slumber Bed, a pillow menu and luxurious bath products. The Balcony, Junior and Royal Suites feature your very own window to the world with our signature Scenic Sun Lounges – some of the largest balconies offered on France's waterways. 

Find out more

Up to Five Dining Options

Whether you prefer a fine dining experience with a six-course degustation, a relaxed café setting offering a delicious à la carte menu or dining in the privacy of your suite, you’ll find delectable options to suit your tastes and mood on board your Scenic Space-Ship. Premium international beverages + – wine, beer, cocktails, spirits – are included and available all day, every day. It’s more than outstanding food and wine – it’s the fresh flavours of each region prepared by our innovative chefs.

Scenic Freechoice  

Personalise your river cruise and pursue your own interests as you set off on unique excursions in France. Our extensive Scenic Freechoice excursions provide active, moderate or relaxed ways to explore so you can choose activities best suited to you. Whether it’s a full day excursion to the D-Day landing beaches of Normandy or shopping with a chef at a local market in Bordeaux before cooking up a storm in our Scenic Culinaire cooking class, the choice is yours.

Scenic Enrich

Our exclusive Scenic Enrich experiences place you at the heart of the world’s most refined art, music and architecture. You’ll go behind the scenes to enjoy moments inaccessible to the ordinary traveller. From an immersive digital art installation show at Les Bassins des Lumières in Bordeaux, to a private concert at the prestigious Palais des Papes in Avignon, these carefully curated experiences are destined to be the highlights of your journey.

Salt Therapy Lounge

We are the first and only river cruise company to feature a therapeutic Salt Therapy Lounge* on board our Scenic Space-Ships cruising the Bordeaux waterways and the Rhône and Saône Rivers. Mimicking the environment of a salt cave, our Salt Therapy Lounge can assist with healing, improving respiration and boosting the immune system. 

Featured   Itineraries

Seek inspiration from our most popular itineraries to start planning your unforgettable journey. Explore our latest France river cruises offers  today.

Bordeaux Affair

Vive la Bordeaux

Beautiful Bordeaux

Savour the beauty and romance

Highlights of Normandy & the Seine

The sensational Seine

Normandy & Gems of the Seine

Take a journey down the river of dreams

Spectacular South of France

Awaken your senses in the South of France

Idyllic Rhône

From the gastronomic heart of France to the Mediterranean

Idyllic Rhône with Highlights of Paris

Highlights of Normandy & the Seine with Highlights of Paris

Beautiful Bordeaux with Highlights of Paris

Where we travel in,   france .

River Cruising Brochures

• Europe River Cruising 2025
• Europe River Cruising 2024

Your guide to Europe river cruising

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France River Cruises

Experience a truly all-inclusive journey of a lifetime through the historic and iconic culinary regions of France. 

• Destinations
• Previous page

Discover   the North and South of France and Bordeaux regions

From witnessing the beauty of Bordeaux and the dazzling delights of Paris, to winding through the French gastronomic city of Lyon - revel in the magnificence of this amazing country, in truly all-inclusive ultra-luxury. 

Soak in the historic monuments and charming villages

Be fascinated by the diverse regions of France, each possessing its own natural charm. Enjoy delectable food and wine, exquisite architecture and the history that France is famous for, as you embark on your all-inclusive river cruise.

Discover France

• Experiences

Spectacular landscapes, enriching history and gastronomic delights 

Why travel on a Scenic France river cruise

Our ultra-luxury river cruises cater for only up to 147 guests. Each journey is designed to take you into the heart of extraordinary regions while you relax and unwind as you explore multiple magical towns and cities with ease. 

Innovative Scenic Space-Ships

Enjoy an abundance of premium experiences and luxurious outdoor, dining and wellness areas and spacious suites. Our Space-Ships can also dock in the heart of towns and cruise further upstream in Northern France, so you can be immersed further afield, such as picturesque Honfleur.

Find out more

Luxurious Suites

Our generously sized suites are elegantly appointed with premium amenities including a queen-size Scenic Slumber bed, a pillow menu and luxurious bath products. The Balcony, Junior and Royal Suites feature your very own window to the world with our signature Scenic Sun Lounges – some of the largest balconies offered on European waterways. 

Up to Five Dining Options

Whether you prefer a fine dining experience with a six-course degustation, a relaxed café setting offering a delicious à la carte menu or dining in the privacy of your suite, you’ll find delectable options to suit your tastes and mood on board your Scenic Space-Ship. Premium international beverages + – wine, beer, cocktails, spirits – are included and available all day, every day. It’s more than outstanding food and wine – it’s the fresh flavours of each region prepared by our innovative chefs.

Scenic Freechoice  

Personalise your river cruise and pursue your own interests as you set off on unique excursions in France. Our extensive Scenic Freechoice excursions provide Active, Moderate or Relaxed ways to explore so you can choose activities best suited to you. Whether it’s a full dafull-day excursion to the D-Day landing beaches of Normandy or shopping with a chef at a local market in Bordeaux before cooking up a storm in our Scenic Culinaire cooking class, the choice is yours.

Scenic Enrich

Our exclusive Scenic Enrich experiences place you at the heart of the world’s most refined art, music and architecture. You’ll go behind the scenes to enjoy moments inaccessible to the ordinary traveller. From an immersive digital art installation show at Les Bassins des Lumières in Bordeaux, to a private concert at the prestigious Palais des Papes in Avignon, these carefully curated experiences are destined to be the highlights of your journey.

Salt Therapy Lounge

We are the first and only river cruise company to feature a therapeutic Salt Therapy Lounge* on board our Scenic Space-Ships cruising the Bordeaux waterways and the Rhône and Saône Rivers. Mimicking the environment of a salt cave, our Salt Therapy Lounge can assist with healing, improving respiration and boosting the immune system. 

Featured Itineraries

Explore our itineraries below and discover the remarkable destinations that await you.

Bonus Night Accommodation Offer Enjoy a bonus pre or post night hotel stay on 2025 France river cruises, for a limited time only^.

Spectacular South of France

Awaken your senses in the South of France

Beautiful Bordeaux

Savour the beauty and romance

Normandy & Gems of the Seine

Take a journey down the river of dreams

Where we Travel in

  france .

• Europe River Cruising 2025
• Your Guide to Europe River Cruising

Your guide to Europe river cruising

Your guide to cruising France

Offer is strictly limited and for new France 2025 bookings only on select cruises. Complimentary hotel night will be accommodated at a hotel of Scenic choice and is only valid on set dates in association with selected tour. Complimentary night can be used as either a pre or post tour accommodation (restrictions apply to certain itineraries and dates) as booked by Scenic. Free night is based on Scenic’s contracted rate, any surcharges applied by the hotel are payable by the guests. Offer is combinable with Earlybirds, Super Earlybirds, welcome home discounts and information session discounts but not combinable with any other offer. Offer is valid to 30 September 2024, unless sold out earlier. Offer cannot be substituted for cash value.

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• Sunset Cruise - the ultimate autumn experience on the river Danube

Sunset Cruise – The Ultimate Autumn Experience on the River Danube

Admire Budapest's famous landmarks bathed in the warm hues of a Danube sunset. Book your romantic cruise today! Discover the magical beauty of Budapest from the Danube on our unforgettable sunset cruise . Departing daily from Vigadó Square Pier, this Budapest river cruise offers a chance to admire the city's iconic riverside landmarks such as the Parliament , Buda Castle , and Chain Bridge . Perfect for tourists , conference attendees, and couples seeking a romantic experience, this autumn cruise offers more convenient departure times at 7:00 PM, 8:00 PM, 9:00 PM. With our 11-language WiFi audioguide , you can follow the tour at your own pace. Whether you're looking for the perfect date night , an unforgettable memory with friends , or a serene moment after a conference , our Danube sunset cruise is the ideal choice.

Travel information

Starting from boat port 5 at Vigadó tér, you can choose from several different times per day during the Budapest Danube cruise.

• 1-hour program, 50-minute sailing
• Adult: HUF 6,000 / prs
• Student, child: HUF 5,000 / prs
• Free under 2 years
• School: HUF 2,000 / prs (with prior registration)

Book your ticket now by clicking on the date and secure your place on the best sunset boat trip in Budapest! Starting from boat port 5 at Vigadó tér, you can choose from several different times per day during the Budapest Danube cruise.

You can also buy tickets in person at the MAHART-Passnave ticket office at Vigadó tér 5.

Buy Your ticket

See the magic for yourself! View photos of past guests enjoying the  Danube cruises by MAHART-Passnave  and read their stories about how this cruise became the highlight of their visit to Budapest.

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The 7 best tower of london tours.

Hear all about the tower's history and secrets on a guided tour.

The Best Tower of London Tours

© Historic Royal Palaces

Built as a fortress by William the Conqueror beginning in the 1070s, the UNESCO-listed Tower of London is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Once a palace for monarchs, a formidable state prison and a place of execution – where three of Henry VIII's wives, including Anne Boleyn, met their end – this imposing castle conceals more than 1,000 years of history across its different towers. Visit to learn more about its gruesome tales, and to admire the Crown Jewels, where glittering state crowns and other precious treasures sit beside the world-famous Koh-i-Noor diamond.

If you're looking to explore this impressive site with the insider knowledge of a local, consider booking a tour. We've rounded up some of the top tours, all of which have at least 100 reviews and a minimum rating of 4 out of 5 stars across multiple websites.

Editor's Pick: City Wonders – Best of London: Tower of London, Thames River Ride & Changing of the Guards

U.S. News independently paid to send Laura French , an award-winning British travel writer currently based in London, on this tour to provide readers with an unbiased, first-hand perspective of what to expect. City Wonders – Best of London: Tower of London, Thames River Ride & Changing of the Guards was selected by our team as an Editor's Pick thanks to its popularity and favorable user reviews.

Price: Adults from $98; kids from $92 Duration: 4 hours

This half-day, early-morning walking tour is ideal if you want to combine the Tower of London with other key London attractions ; as a bonus, you get early access to the tower, meaning you'll enter before it officially opens to the public.

We met our guide by the tower at 8:15 a.m. and got plenty of interesting information on its history before being led through to watch the opening ceremony (available as an upgrade). A resident, red-and-navy-clad beefeater (the tower's ceremonial guards) welcomed us with entertaining anecdotes, before the chief yeoman warder and others marched through the grounds to officially open the tower. We then had around an hour to explore; it was enough time to admire the Crown Jewels and its diamond-topped crowns, royal robes and gold chalices – as well as some of the other towers, several of which were still (happily) empty pre-10 a.m.

After exploring the tower, we boarded a Thames Clipper boat from the pier around the corner, passing several London landmarks – from London Bridge to The Shard, St. Paul's Cathedral to the "walkie-talkie" skyscraper (the Fenchurch Building). From Embankment Pier, we wandered through Whitehall to Horse Guards Parade, witnessing the Changing of The King's Life Guard; crowds gathered as mounted soldiers in red and gold lined the square. After a stroll along The Mall, the tour ended at Buckingham Palace . We took in the lavish grounds from the outside and found the perfect photo spot as our guide continued to regale us with more insightful tales.

Laura French

Good to know:

• On Sundays and Mondays, a Royal Westminster Walk is offered instead of the changing of the guard.
• Prices vary by date, so play around with different options if you're flexible on when you can go.

Why we love it:

• Getting early access to the Tower of London makes a difference – I've been to the tower twice before, but this was the best experience yet. There was no line for the Crown Jewels (waiting times can get long later in the day), and the whole area felt relatively calm and uncrowded.
• It's a flexible tour, with the option to add on the opening ceremony when you book. Though it does cost extra, I recommend it if you want to experience one of London's many traditions. We learned about the history of the beefeaters and the daily Ceremony of the Keys, and were kept thoroughly entertained by the yeoman warder who greeted us.
• Our guide was humorous, entertaining and brought the tour to life, sharing facts and stories about London's past and present that I (even as a local) didn't always know about – from historic facts at the Tower of London to a garage in Whitehall that was used as the Ministry of Magic in the "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1" movie.
• The tour was a good length and the group wasn't too big (we had 19 in our group), so it felt like we saw and learned a lot without being overwhelmed.

Check prices & availability on:

Let Me Show You London – Tower of London Private Tour

Price: Varies depending on group size (maximum of 10) Duration: 3 hours

If you'd prefer a private Tower of London tour for just you and your family or friends, this is an excellent choice. An experienced Blue Badge Guide (Britain’s highest professional tourist-guiding qualification) will take you around the tower, sharing in-depth tales of its past. Explore all the key highlights, from the Bloody Tower to the Crown Jewels, as you learn more about its different uses throughout the centuries from an entertaining, knowledgeable expert.

Travelers highly recommended the tour, and are impressed with the knowledge of the guides. Many say it's a great option for families, with plenty of stories to keep younger ones entertained, and appreciate that it can be customized to suit the group's interests.

Tours are available Tuesday to Saturday at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., and at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Sundays and Mondays. Tours depart from the Welcome Centre at the Tower of London (you can also arrange for your guide to meet you at your hotel). The cost of the tour varies by the number of people in the group. For instance, a pair of two adults can expect to pay about 252 pounds (about $330) per person, while a group of 10 adults will pay about 89 pounds (around $117) per person. The company also runs private tours of other London landmarks, such as the British Museum and Westminster Abbey .

Walks – Complete Tower of London Tour: Opening Ceremony, Early Access Crown Jewels & River Cruise

Price: Adults from $135; kids from $123 Duration: 3 hours   Escape the crowds with early access to the Tower and its Crown Jewels on this standout tour. You'll enter before it opens to the public, and watch as a beefeater performs the opening ceremony. Then, you'll enter the Jewel House to admire its treasures with few others around, before meeting your guide for a tour of the rest of the site. Afterward, you'll be given a City Cruises ticket for a one-way sightseeing cruise on the Thames to enjoy at your leisure.

Travelers love this tour and feel it's well worth the price, praising the early access and the included headsets, which make it easy to hear the guides' commentary. Many enjoy watching the opening ceremony and are impressed by the guides, who keep the whole group entertained.

Tours depart from the Tower of London. They take place from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. four days per week in summer (on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays), and two to three days per week in winter. The City Cruises pass is valid on the day and time of your choice, and from a selection of piers (including the Tower Millennium pier, just outside the gates, so you can easily do it straight after your visit). The company also offers an "after hours" evening tour of the tower that includes the legendary Ceremony of the Keys, when the chief yeoman warder officially locks the tower for the day.

LetzGo City Tours – Tower of London – Complete Tour with Crown Jewels & Opening Ceremony

Price: Adults from 132 pounds (about $174); kids from 127 pounds (about $167) Duration: 3 hours

If you want to combine early access perks with a visit to Tower Bridge , this is the tour for you. You'll be among the first to enter the Tower of London, witnessing the military pomp of the opening ceremony before the crowds descend. Learn more about the history of the ceremony from your guide, then see the Crown Jewels with few others around.

Afterward, you'll have time to explore the surrounding highlights of the complex, before heading to Tower Bridge. Visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition and wander over the glass walkway to see the Thames from above, with sweeping city views all around. Head down into the engine rooms to learn more about the history of this Victorian-built feat, before a photo stop to round off your tour.

Tourgoers appreciate the early access and say it's well worth the money, praising the expertise and humor of the guides. Many also enjoy visiting Tower Bridge.

Tours are available every day apart from Tuesdays and leave from Tower Hill tube station, close to the Tower of London. The company also offers afternoon tours, though these do not feature the opening ceremony.

Historic Royal Palaces – Tower of London and Crown Jewels Exhibition Ticket

Price: Adults from 35 pounds (about $46); kids from 17 pounds (about $22) Duration: Varies

If you'd rather explore the tower on your own, book this option to enjoy guaranteed entry. It's the same price as buying a ticket on site, but it's worth it if you'd rather have your booking sorted in advance. You'll explore all the key highlights, from the White Tower and Traitors' Gate to Tower Green and the Crown Jewels. You can also join an optional, complimentary yeoman warder (beefeater) tour for extra insight – a highlight for many reviewers, who describe the warders as friendly and humorous. The first yeoman warder tour starts at 10 a.m. from Tuesday through Saturday, and 10:30 a.m. on Sundays and Mondays.

Travelers thoroughly enjoy the perspective offered by the beefeaters, and find the site fascinating; they recommend setting aside a few hours to explore it fully.

James Hart – Tower of London

Price: Adults from 132 pounds (about $173); kids from 117 pounds (about $154) Duration: 3 hours

On this in-depth tour, you'll see the beefeaters, glimpse the famous ravens, admire the Crown Jewels and tour the rest of the tower with your guide, James Hart. An expert local who's been leading tours for more than two decades, he'll tell you everything there is to know about the tower's past – from its beginnings to the gruesome details.

Travelers find the tour fascinating; they give rave reviews of Hart's historical knowledge and sense of humor. Participants also say the ticket price is a good value for the experience.

You can choose a small-group tour or opt for a private one, with departures on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays throughout most of the year. Tours leave from the sundial outside Tower Hill tube station, a short stroll from the Tower of London. If you're hoping to explore outside of London, Hart also leads tours of Stonehenge and the Cotswolds, among other locations.

Pinocchio Tours for Kids and Families – Tower of London Tour for Kids and Families

Price: Varies depending on group size Duration: 3 hours

If you're traveling with kids and are worried they'll get restless, this family-focused private tour is ideal. You'll be led by a Blue Badge Guide who's specially trained in keeping younger ones entertained. Highlights include a glimpse of the beefeaters, the Crown Jewels and a visit to all the other key highlights. Expect plenty of child-friendly tales, as your guide shares the history of the tower.

Participants love the tour, and many are impressed with how well the guides kept the kids' attention, tailoring the tour to different ages. A few say it might be a little long for younger ones, but most give rave reviews.

Tours leave from the Tower of London Welcome Centre at 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. every day, apart from Sundays and Mondays, when the morning tour starts at 10 a.m. Children of any age are welcome, although it's recommended for those 6 and older. The company also organizes kid-friendly tours of the British Museum, as well as a "Harry Potter" tour, among others.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Laura French is an award-winning British travel writer currently based in London. She grew up near the city and spent her childhood visiting sights like the Tower of London. She loves exploring local attractions, and used her own experience alongside online research to compile the roundup.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best London Hotels

The Best London Tours

• The Best Travel Insurance for Europe

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Continuing Coverage

Boats cruise across the Seine in Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony rehearsal

Dozens of boats snaked along the seine river on monday in a rehearsal for the paris olympics’ unique opening ceremony., by jerome pugmire and tom nouvian | the associated press • published june 17, 2024 • updated on june 17, 2024 at 9:15 am.

Curious onlookers gathered on bridges as dozens of boats snaked along the Seine river on Monday in a rehearsal for the Paris Olympics' unique Opening Ceremony next month.

A total of 55 boats made the journey from Pont d'Austerlitz, named after a French military victory in 1805, to Pont d'Iéna, a stone's throw from the Eiffel Tower , the nation's most striking and best known landmark.

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Officials are confident that the near four-hour ceremony will run like clockwork on July 26.

“Six months ago we had like 10 minutes delay on the timing and today we are very close, almost to the second to our targets,” Thierry Reboul, the executive director for ceremonies said. “So it is very satisfying. We’ve respected an extremely precise level of timing.”

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On the day of the eagerly-awaited event, around 200 Olympic delegations will join the parade on more than 80 boats. They will make the journey from east to west, along a six-kilometer (3.7-mile) route which has become a major talking point — for its audacity as a unique open-air event and for its exposure to potential danger.

Security concerns  led French President Emmanuel Macron to say in mid-April that the ceremony could shift to Stade de France if the threat level was too high. But Reboul said Monday that authorities are preparing for the big day as originally planned, with no alternatives being prepared at this stage.

There will be a final rehearsal, involving the full armada of boats, before the Opening Ceremony — one which is expected to bring 100 world leaders to the city's embankments, where more than  300,000 people  will watch.

“We will give our heart and souls to make it a great success for the French people,” France’s Sports Minister Amélie Oudéa-Castéra said Monday. “They deserve it.”

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The rehearsal saw 10 police speedboats shadowing the convoy, as well as speedboats equipped with television cameras. There were armed police officers stationed at various points along the way. The boats crossed 16 bridges, passing by iconic landmarks such as the green-tinged Grand Palais — where fencing and Taekwondo events will be held.

On each bridge, a few dozen people watched attentively.

“Fifty-five? That’s a lot of boats,” said 49-year-old Rosa Gabriel. Taking a break between walking from the Louvre and Notre Dame Cathedral, she watched it from the Pont des Arts bridge — fondly known as Love Lock Bridge, with its thousands of personalized locks attached to the railings.

One tourist even mistook the scene for something else.

“Maybe they are making a movie," said Driss El Kaoutari, a 42-year-old from Morocco who was on vacation in Paris with his daughter.

What people actually saw were empty vessels bobbing slowly by. But they will be full of life, color, sound and movement next month.

“You will have many delegation members on the boats with their uniforms and their flags,” Reboul said. "Around them there will be many other things, as you can imagine.”

The water itself has become a sensitive and thorny topic for the organizers and politicians heading into the July 26-Aug. 11  Paris Games . A whopping  $1.5 billion investment  has already been made to improve the Seine's water quality, with Macron and Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo both promising to take a dip.

This time, it was Oudéa-Castéra's turn to give assurances about the river — where marathon swimmers and triathletes are set to compete during the Olympics.

She bristled a little when answering.

“Regarding the quality of the Seine's water, we are confident. You shouldn't ask us to be ready ahead of time,” Oudéa-Castéra said, adding that a new center for collecting waste will be opened next week.

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