Eiffel Tower Access up to 2nd Floor or Summit & River Cruise

The Eiffel Tower Access up to 2nd Floor or Summit & River Cruise offers a compelling way to see Paris from two iconic perspectives. Priced at $107.85 per person and lasting around 3 hours 30 minutes, this tour combines a scenic Seine River cruise with a guided visit to the Eiffel Tower, making it ideal for those who want a well-rounded Paris experience.

While the river cruise provides views of landmarks like the Louvre Museum, Notre Dame, and Les Invalides, the guided Eiffel Tower visit ensures you see the city from high above, either at the 2nd floor or summit depending on your selection. The inclusion of a friendly, English-speaking guide and a free gift of “101 Paris Tips for Tourists” add extra value, though it’s important to note that skip-the-line tickets are not included, which could mean waiting in lines at the tower during busy periods.

This tour suits travelers looking for a combination experience with a mix of water views and high-altitude panoramas. It is especially appealing for visitors eager to maximize their time in Paris without the hassle of booking separate tickets or navigating multiple locations alone. However, some reviews point out potential frustrations with ticketing procedures and crowds, making it a good idea to be prepared for possible queues.

Key Points

• Combines Seine River cruise and Eiffel Tower visit in one tour
• Price of $107.85 per person for about 3.5 hours of guided sightseeing
• Seine cruise covers landmarks like Louvre, Notre Dame, and Les Invalides
• Eiffel Tower visit offers elevator access to 2nd floor or summit
• Tour does not include skip-the-line tickets, so wait times at the tower vary
• Includes expert guide and a free Paris travel tips guide

Scenic Seine River Cruise with Landmark Views

The tour begins with a self-guided Seine River cruise that lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. At the meeting point, a coordinator welcomes you and guides you to the boat. Once aboard, you’ll have the chance to see Paris’s most famous sights from the water, including the Louvre Museum’s grand exterior, the golden dome of Les Invalides, and the Pont des Arts, once covered in love locks.

The audio commentary brings these landmarks to life with insights into their history. As the boat glides past the Pont Neuf, the oldest standing bridge in Paris, you get a sense of the city’s layered past. The cruise also offers glimpses of medieval monuments along the riverbanks, which are filled with stories of monarchy and revolution.

While the cruise itself is relaxing and scenic, it’s important to note that no guide accompanies the boat, and audio commentary is provided in multiple languages. This makes the experience good for independent exploration, but it might feel less guided than other tours.

Guided Eiffel Tower Visit with Elevator Access

Following the cruise, the tour continues with a guided visit to the Eiffel Tower. Your English-speaking guide meets you at the tower, helps with tickets acquisition, and ensures you understand the process. Depending on your chosen option, you’ll ascend via elevator to either the 2nd floor or the summit.

The guide shares stories and facts about this Parisian icon, enriching the experience with details that bring the tower’s history and architecture alive. The scheduled time for the Eiffel Tower visit is confirmed 24 hours after booking, allowing for some flexibility.

However, reviews highlight that skip-the-line access is not included in this standard package, which could result in waiting in queues during busy times. Some visitors note that the tickets are provided during the tour, but the lack of pre-reservation may affect the overall experience, especially in peak seasons.

Highlights of the Eiffel Tower Experience

Reaching the 2nd floor or summit provides panoramic views of Paris’s rooftops, historic monuments, and distant landmarks. The elevator ride is smooth and offers a comfortable ascent. From the summit, on clear days, travelers can see far across the city, making it a highlight of the tour.

The guide’s storytelling at the tower turns a sightseeing stop into an engaging exploration. Visitors learn about the tower’s construction, architectural details, and cultural significance. The experience is suited for those wanting an informative and leisurely visit without the hassle of navigating ticket lines alone.

Landmarks Along the Seine: From the Louvre to Île de la Cité

During the cruise, several notable landmarks are passed, including the Musée d’Orsay, housed in a former railway station, which now hosts a world-class collection of Impressionist art. The Louvre’s grand exterior is visible from the river, offering a stunning glimpse of its size and beauty.

Further along, travelers spot Les Invalides, a historic complex with Napoleon’s tomb, and the Pont des Arts, a romantic pedestrian bridge symbolically linked to lovers. The cruise also sails past Pont Neuf, Paris’s oldest bridge, with its characteristic stone arches providing a timeless view.

The cruise offers a relaxing way to see multiple landmarks without walking, but it’s worth noting that no live guide is on board, so commentary is via audio.

Practical Aspects: Meeting Points and Group Size

The tour departs from 13 All. Paul Deschanel, 75007 Paris and ends at the Eiffel Tower located on Avenue Gustave Eiffel. The group size is limited to 100 travelers, allowing for manageable numbers while maintaining a lively atmosphere.

The Eiffel Tower visit scheduled on the same day makes this tour convenient, but travelers should be prepared for possible queues at the tower, given the lack of skip-the-line tickets. The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible for most visitors.

Value for Money and Tour Limitations

At $107.85, this combined experience offers value by bundling two popular attractions into one tour, guided by an engaging guide and including a free tips guide. The 3 hours 30 minutes duration is sufficient to enjoy both experiences without feeling rushed.

However, the lack of skip-the-line access at the Eiffel Tower is a notable limitation, especially during peak hours. Some reviews indicate that waiting in queue can be frustrating, which might detract from the overall enjoyment.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

The tour involves elevator access to the Eiffel Tower, which is generally accessible to most travelers. The cruise is on a flat boat, suitable for many mobility levels, but those with specific needs should confirm accessibility options beforehand. There are no specific mentions of food or drinks included, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Options

This tour provides a balanced experience for those who want both water views and high-altitude panoramas. It is comparable to other Paris sightseeing options that include Seine cruises or Eiffel Tower access, but its inclusion of a guided Eiffel Tower visit and audio-guided cruise make it stand out.

Some alternatives offer skip-the-line tickets or priority access, which could save time during busy periods. Nevertheless, the combination of experiences in this tour makes it a convenient choice for first-time visitors aiming to see some of Paris’s most famous sights efficiently.

Final Thoughts on the Eiffel Tower Access & Seine Cruise Tour

The Eiffel Tower Access up to 2nd Floor or Summit & River Cruise offers a solid introduction to Paris’s landmarks, blending the scenic beauty of the Seine with the spectacular views from the Eiffel Tower. Its pricing and duration are reasonable considering the inclusions.

While some reviewers mention potential queue issues at the tower, the guided experience and comprehensive itinerary help make this tour worthwhile for those wanting a guided, no-fuss sightseeing day. It is well-suited for visitors who value guided commentary and want a balanced overview of the city’s highlights.

For better queue management, travelers might consider upgrading to skip-the-line options, but even with standard tickets, the tour’s overall value remains strong for those seeking a flexible, guided Paris adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include skip-the-line tickets for the Eiffel Tower?
No, this tour does not include skip-the-line tickets. Tickets are provided during the tour, but queues may occur during busy periods.

Can I choose to go to the Eiffel Tower summit?
Yes, depending on your selected option, the elevator access can take you either to the 2nd floor or the summit.

Is the Seine River cruise guided?
No, the cruise features audio commentary in multiple languages, but there is no live guide on board.

What landmarks will I see during the Seine cruise?
Expect views of the Louvre, Notre Dame, Les Invalides, Pont des Arts, Pont Neuf, and other historic sites along the Seine.

How long is the Eiffel Tower visit?
The Eiffel Tower visit lasts approximately 2 hours, with the exact time confirmed 24 hours after booking.

Where do the tour starts and ends?
Start point is 13 All. Paul Deschanel, 75007 Paris; the tour concludes at the Eiffel Tower on Avenue Gustave Eiffel.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
The tower access involves elevators, which are generally accessible, and the cruise is on a flat boat. Confirm specific needs with the provider.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes Seine River cruise tickets, Eiffel Tower elevator access, an expert guide, and the free Paris tips guide.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour.

How do I receive my Eiffel Tower tickets?
Your guide provides the tickets during the Eiffel Tower visit, with the timing confirmed 24 hours after booking.