Seine River Sightseeing Cruise and Dinner at Le Bistro Parisien

Taking in Paris’s most famous sights from the water and enjoying a gourmet 3-course dinner at Le Bistro Parisien offers a compelling way to explore the City of Light. Priced at $80.82 per person, this three-hour experience combines sightseeing, dining, and spectacular views at the foot of the Eiffel Tower. With around 30 days’ advance booking, it’s a popular choice for those seeking a relaxed yet comprehensive way to enjoy Paris’s highlights.

This tour is ideal for visitors wanting to maximize their time with a combined experience that features up-close views of the Eiffel Tower, a seated gourmet meal, and a seine cruise passing many of Paris’s iconic landmarks. An added advantage is the flexibility to choose whether to start with dinner or the cruise, catering to varying preferences.

While the $80.82 price includes dinner, drinks, and the cruise, it’s important to note that some reviews highlight crowding and wait times. Still, the excellent service, spectacular vistas, and informative commentary make this a worthwhile option, especially for those seeking a relaxed evening with easy logistics.

Key Points

• Affordable combination experience: Includes 1-hour Seine cruise, 3-course dinner, and drinks for $80.82.
• Flexible schedule: Guests can select to dine first or cruise first, with tickets for the cruise issued at Le Bistro Parisien.
• Prime location: The restaurant is at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, offering up-close views and great photo opportunities.
• Iconic sights: The Seine cruise passes landmarks like Notre-Dame, the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Pont Neuf.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: The riverbanks and historic waterway are protected as a UNESCO site.
• Customer reviews highlight beautiful views, good food, and friendly staff, though some mention crowding issues.

Meeting Point at the Eiffel Tower’s Bateaux Parisiens Port

The tour starts at Bateaux Parisiens Port de la Bourdonnais, located at the foot of the Eiffel Tower in the 7th arrondissement. Guests redeem their vouchers at the pontoon no. 2, where the restaurant and cruise boats are docked.

You can arrive from nearby public transportation, making access straightforward. The activity begins at 6:00 pm, with arrival recommended around 6:30 pm to settle in and choose your preferred schedule for dinner or the cruise.

The Atmosphere at Le Bistro Parisien

Le Bistro Parisien is a transparent, waterside restaurant with spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower. The large glass windows offer the best vantage point for photos and watching the illumination of the tower, especially as twilight falls. The menu features a 3-course meal with the option to select a beer, wine, or soft drink.

The service is frequently praised as pleasant and efficient, making the dining experience relaxing. A vegetarian option is available on site, and kids under 4 eat free if they do not order from the menu.

Some reviews mention that dinner can be a bit hurried, especially during busy times, but overall, the setting and food quality are considered good value.

The Seine River Cruise: A Visual Journey Through Paris

The 1-hour cruise departs after or before dinner, based on your choice, from pontoon no. 2. During the cruise, you’ll pass Notre-Dame Cathedral, Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Pont Neuf, and Ile Saint Louis.

The viewing area is fully enclosed or partially open, with plenty of space for passengers, though some reviews note crowding. The cruise provides spectacular night views of the illuminated landmarks, with good commentary enhancing the experience.

Notably, the Dome des Invalides and Pont Alexandre III are highlights, with the latter being a gift from Tsar Alexander III. Crossing under the Pont Alexandre III offers a particularly beautiful perspective, and passersby are encouraged to make a wish.

The Route and Key Landmarks Seen from the Seine

The cruise covers some of the most famous sites in Paris, including Notre-Dame, the Latin Quarter, the Grand Palais, and the Place de la Concorde. You’ll pass the Egyptian obelisk and admire the vast Louvre facade, the bustling Pont Marie, and the historic Conciergerie.

Travelers enjoy viewing the Seine’s UNESCO World Heritage site from the water, gaining a different perspective on the city’s architecture and history. The lively atmosphere of the surrounding neighborhoods adds to the charm.

The Dining Experience at Le Bistro Parisien

The menu at Le Bistro Parisien features three courses: a starter, a main dish, and a dessert. The food quality is generally rated as good, with pleasant staff and a beautiful setting. The view of the Eiffel Tower while dining elevates the experience.

Drinks include beer, wine, or soft drinks, enhancing the meal. Some reviews indicate the dinner can be rushed during busy days, and additional charges may apply for certain menu items or extras, such as extra coffee or steak.

Practicalities: Timing, Accessibility, and Crowd Levels

The start time is 6:00 pm, with most travelers arriving around 6:30 pm. The activity lasts approximately three hours, with the option to start with dinner or the cruise to suit your preferences.

The group size is up to 100 travelers, with good accessibility near public transportation. The experience is free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility.

While most reviews mention pleasant experiences, some describe crowding and long lines, especially for the cruise. Weather conditions can also impact the cruise, with the possibility of cancellation for poor weather.

Comparing This Tour to Other Paris Selections

This combined dinner and cruise package offers good value for those who want a full evening experience at a moderate price point. Unlike dinner-only or cruise-only options, it provides convenience and a balanced itinerary.

However, some reviewers advise exploring alternative tours that might offer a more relaxed cruise experience or better food. Still, the flexibility and prime location make this a popular choice for first-time visitors or those wanting a classic Parisian night.

Final Thoughts on the Seine River Sightseeing Cruise and Dinner at Le Bistro Parisien

This tour presents a practical way to enjoy Paris’s major sights with minimal planning. The location at the foot of the Eiffel Tower offers excellent photo opportunities, and the gourmet dinner provides a genuine taste of Parisian cuisine.

While crowding can be an issue during peak times, friendly staff, stunning views, and well-prepared meals make it worth considering. The option to choose your schedule allows for some personalization within a well-structured experience.

This experience suits those seeking a convenient, scenic evening with a combination of dining and sightseeing. It’s especially appealing for visitors short on time or those wanting a balanced introduction to Paris in one evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the dinner served on the cruise boat?
No, the dinner takes place at Le Bistro Parisien, located at the foot of the Eiffel Tower. The cruise tickets are issued separately and are for a 1-hour sightseeing cruise after or before dinner.

Can I choose to do the cruise or dinner first?
Yes, you can choose whether to begin with dinner or start with the cruise, providing flexibility to suit your preferences.

What is included in the price?
The $80.82 fee covers a 3-course dinner, drinks (beer, wine, or soft drinks), and the 1-hour Seine cruise. Additional charges may apply for extra items or upgrades.

Are children included?
Children under 4 years old can cruise for free, but if they dine at the restaurant, a child menu at 15 per child is charged on the spot.

What landmarks are seen during the cruise?
The cruise passes Notre-Dame, the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Pont Neuf, Ile Saint Louis, Place de la Concorde, Egyptian obelisk, and the Eiffel Tower, among others.

How accessible is the tour for people with mobility issues?
The tour is near public transportation, but no specific details are provided about accessibility features.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before are not refunded.

Is there a dress code?
No specific dress code is mentioned, but smart casual attire is appropriate for a gourmet dinner.

What if the weather is bad?
The cruise requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, a different date or full refund is offered.

Is this tour suitable for large groups?
The maximum group size is up to 100 travelers, making it suitable for small to medium-sized groups.

How long does the entire experience last?
Approximately three hours, starting at 6:00 pm and concluding around 9:00 pm.