Eiffel Tower Tour by Lift and Seine Cruise

Explore Paris from the Iconic Eiffel Tower and Seine River in One Tour

The Eiffel Tower Tour by Lift and Seine Cruise offers an engaging way to experience two of Paris’s most celebrated sights in just around 3 hours. Priced at $131.48 per person, this tour combines priority access to the Eiffel Tower’s 2nd level and Summit, along with a 1-hour Seine River cruise. The tour is perfect for those who want to skip long lines and get a comprehensive view of Paris from above and along the riverfront. It’s especially suited for visitors with a limited schedule who want to maximize their sightseeing with guided insights.

While the tour promises stunning panoramic views, it’s important to note that the summit visit is included with standard access — not the exclusive “skip-the-line” tickets often advertised. The experience is complemented by audio-guided commentary during the Seine cruise, making it an informative and visually delightful experience. The tour is operated by Paris TRIP and has received a solid 4-star rating based on 42 reviews, including many positive comments about guides and views, though some mention issues with line-skipping and crowding.

Key Points

• Includes access to the 2nd level and Summit of the Eiffel Tower via elevator
• One-hour Seine River cruise with audio-guides included
• Tour begins about 5 minutes walk from the Eiffel Tower at the Paris TRIP office
• Guided commentary on the Eiffel Tower’s history by an English-speaking guide
• Total duration of approximately 3 hours, with flexible timing for the summit
• Tickets are valid for six months for the Seine cruise, offering flexibility for later use

Meeting Point and Tour Duration at a Glance

The tour starts at the Paris TRIP office on 41 Av. de la Bourdonnais, a short walk from the Eiffel Tower. After a brief check-in, you’ll meet your guide and begin ascending to the second-floor observation platform by elevator. The whole experience lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes at the Eiffel Tower, followed by the one-hour Seine River cruise. This setup allows plenty of time to enjoy the city’s sights from different perspectives.

The total duration is approximately 3 hours, with the flexibility to visit the 3rd level (Summit) on your own after the guided portion. The cruise ticket remains valid for six months, giving you the chance to enjoy more of Paris from the water later, without rushing.

Ascending the Eiffel Tower: From 2nd Level to the Summit

Your guide leads you to the elevator that takes you up to the 2nd level, where you’ll find spectacular views of Paris. From this vantage point, you hear interesting facts and anecdotes about the tower’s history, transforming the visit into an educational experience.

Once on the second level, you have the option to continue up to the Summit, which is included in the ticket. The Summit offers a closer look at Gustave Eiffel’s former office and a bar where you can buy drinks (own expense). Be aware that crowds can be busy, especially at the summit, and security restrictions prohibit items like oversized luggage, glass bottles, and animals.

The View from the Top: What to Expect

Reaching the Summit provides a breathtaking panoramic view of Paris, with the cityscape sprawling beneath your feet. The observation deck is smaller but offers an unparalleled perspective of landmarks like Notre-Dame, Sacré-Cœur, and the Arc de Triomphe, weather permitting. The experience of being at the highest accessible point in the tower makes the extra effort worthwhile, despite some reviews mentioning crowding and the need for patience.

Visitors often appreciate the opportunity to visit Gustave Eiffel’s office and enjoy a drink at the bar, although these are at their own expense. The view and proximity to the city’s landmarks are what make the summit a highlight of this tour.

Descending and Exploring the Ground Floor

After descending from the summit or second level, you can stop by the immersion gallery on the first floor, which offers interactive exhibits about the tower’s history. There’s also a gift shop offering souvenirs and memorabilia, perfect for those wanting a keepsake of their visit. For some, the glass floor on the first level provides a thrilling, vertigo-inducing experience.

The elevator ride down completes your Eiffel Tower experience, leaving you with time to explore the surroundings or relax before the next part of your tour.

The Seine River Cruise: Scenic Views of the Paris Waterfront

Once back on land, your ticket grants access to a 1-hour Seine River cruise, valid for up to six months after your Eiffel Tower visit. The cruise departs from Port de la Bourdonnais and offers audio-guides in multiple languages, enriching your understanding of the city’s bridges, architecture, and cultural sites.

Sailing along the river, you’ll enjoy views of famous landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Conciergerie, and the Louvre, all framed by ornate bridges. The evening or daylight cruises provide different atmospheres, with many reviewers noting that nighttime views with illuminated monuments are particularly memorable.

Practicalities and Tips for the Tour

The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan to meet at the designated office 15 minutes before your scheduled time. The meeting point is not at the Eiffel Tower itself, but at the Paris TRIP office, which is easy to reach by public transportation. Arriving on time is crucial, as late arrivals are not granted entry or refunds.

Security measures mean that knives, drinks in glass bottles, oversized bags, and animals (except guide dogs) are not permitted at the Eiffel Tower, and luggage cannot be stored on site. The tour is not recommended for individuals with walking disabilities due to the physical demands of climbing stairs or standing in crowds.

Honest Considerations: What to Watch Out For

Some reviews point out that the “skip-the-line” experience may not fully live up to expectations, with lines sometimes forming despite the priority tickets. Others mention that the guide’s commentary can be difficult to hear or not as detailed as hoped. The crowding at the summit can be intense, and tickets for the summit might sell out months in advance if purchased separately.

Plus, the tour departs from the office, not directly from the Eiffel Tower, which can cause confusion if directions are not clear. Despite these points, many find the guided access and combined cruise a valuable way to see Paris efficiently.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This Eiffel Tower Tour with Lift and Seine Cruise offers a practical and well-organized way to enjoy Paris’s top sights within a limited time frame. It suits those who want guided insights, skip some lines, and enjoy scenic views from above and along the river.

While crowding and noise might be challenges, the combination of aerial vistas and river scenery creates a comprehensive Paris experience. The ticket’s flexibility for the Seine cruise makes it a good choice for visitors who might want to revisit the river later.

If viewing the city from the Eiffel Tower’s summit is a priority, booking summit tickets in advance directly through the Eiffel Tower website is advised. However, for a guided, all-in-one experience, this tour remains a solid, enjoyable option for most travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include skip-the-line access?
It provides access to the Eiffel Tower’s 2nd level and Summit, but some reviews mention that lines may still form or that the priority access isn’t always seamless.

How long does the entire tour last?
The total duration is about 3 hours, with 1 hour 30 minutes at the Eiffel Tower and another hour for the Seine cruise.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at the Paris TRIP office on 41 Av. de la Bourdonnais, not directly at the Eiffel Tower.

Can I visit the Eiffel Tower summit?
Yes, summit access is included with the ticket, but crowding and security checks can extend waiting times, and tickets should be purchased in advance if possible.

Is there an option for a night cruise?
The Seine cruise schedule varies seasonally, with nighttime cruises being available, especially in summer evenings.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour not recommended for persons with walking disabilities due to the physical demands and crowds.

What items are not allowed inside the Eiffel Tower?
Large luggage, glass bottles, knives, animals (except guide dogs), and excessive food or drink are prohibited.

Can I use the Seine cruise ticket later?
Yes, the cruise ticket is valid for six months after your Eiffel Tower visit.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Many reviews mention that children enjoy the views and guided commentary, especially if they are comfortable with crowds and heights.

What if I am late or want to change my booking?
The ticket is non-refundable and cannot be changed or modified, so punctuality is essential.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The office is near public transportation; a map and directions are recommended to ensure punctual arrival.

This Eiffel Tower and Seine cruise combo offers a balanced blend of guided sightseeing and scenic relaxation, making it a practical choice for those wanting a memorable Paris experience without the hassle of long lines or complicated logistics.