Paris: Montmartre Train Ride w/ Optional Seine River Cruise

Explore Montmartre on a Vintage Train for Just $15

This tour offers a cost-effective way to explore Paris’ famous Montmartre neighborhood with a $15 train ride that lasts around 30 minutes. Starting at the Sacre-Coeur in the heart of the 18th arrondissement, it takes you through charming cobblestone streets and past well-known sights like Moulin Rouge and Lapin Agile. An optional Seine River cruise adds an hour of sightseeing, giving you the chance to see major landmarks like the Eiffel Tower from the water.

While the train ride is a highlight, reviews note that the route may not be the most scenic or interesting, with some travelers feeling the journey could be more engaging. Still, the value for money is clear, especially with the seamless inclusion of the cruise if you choose to add it. This tour is perfect for those wanting a quick, affordable overview of Montmartre and the chance to see iconic Paris views—all in just one day.

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Key Points

• Affordable price of $15 per person for a 1-day activity.
• Includes a 30-minute train ride through Montmartre’s streets, with commentary.
• Optional Seine River cruise adds 1 hour of sightseeing and views of Paris landmarks.
• Meeting point is in front of Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre.
• Good value, especially when combined with the river cruise.
• Limited accessibility for wheelchair users, as the train isn’t wheelchair accessible.

The Charm of Montmartre’s Historic Hilltop Neighborhood

The tour begins at the Sacre-Coeur Basilica, a defining feature of Montmartre. From there, the vintage train departs, passing through the cobblestone streets that have long attracted artists and bohemians like Picasso. The journey offers a glimpse into the vibrant, artistic atmosphere that has inspired generations.

Along the route, travelers get to see the façades of Sacré-Coeur and Saint-Pierre Church up close. The small-scale train provides a relaxed way to take in the neighborhood’s colorful buildings and historic vibe. Reviewers mention that the train ride is gentle and suitable for families, though some note that the route itself could be more interesting.

Visiting Montmartre’s Notable Sights and Streets

The train passes by several famous sites including the Moulin Rouge, known worldwide for its cabaret shows, and the Lapin Agile, a historic cabaret venue. Also, the Cemetery of Montmartre and the Clos Montmartre vineyard are visible along the route, offering a taste of the neighborhood’s artistic and rural legacy.

Travelers often appreciate seeing these sights from a relaxed, moving platform rather than on foot, which allows for a broad overview of Montmartre’s diverse scenery. However, some reviews suggest the route could be better curated to highlight more interesting viewpoints.

The Seine River Cruise: A Postcard-Perfect Addition

Adding the Seine River cruise transforms the tour into an even more memorable experience. The 1-hour cruise departs frequently, offering commentary in 14 languages. During the cruise, you’ll see many of Paris’ iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and Louvre from the water.

The cruise is wheelchair accessible (except for the Montmartre train), making it a flexible option for many travelers. The audio commentary enriches the experience, providing insights about the city’s history and sights. Reviewers praise the spectacular views and the opportunity to take postcard-worthy photos during the cruise.

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Practical Details and Meeting Arrangements

The meeting point for the tour is in front of the Sacré-Cœur Church, making it easy to locate with the notable basilica as a visual cue. The train operates from June to August between 10 AM and 7 PM, and from September to May between 10 AM and 6 PM.

Participants need to bring passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes, and have a charged smartphone for photos and audio guides. The luggage or large bags are not allowed, and pets are only permitted if they are assistance animals.

Timing, Pacing, and Crowd Considerations

The train ride lasts about 30 minutes, providing a quick overview of Montmartre’s streets. The river cruise departs every 30 minutes to 1 hour, with tickets valid for 30 days after the date of use. During peak seasons, expect longer waits for the cruise, but no prior reservation is necessary.

The seating on the train is first come, first served, so arriving early can help secure seats together. The cruise can be enjoyed at various times during the day, providing flexibility for personal schedules.

Accessibility and Limitations

The Seine River cruise is wheelchair accessible, but the Montmartre train is not wheelchair accessible. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users wishing to stay on the train, which is an important consideration for some travelers.

The lack of hotel pickup and drop-off means participants need to arrange their own transportation to the meeting point. The activity is designed for those comfortable walking or using public transport to reach the starting location.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Experiences

This tour offers a budget-friendly alternative to more extensive tours, with its $15 price point and short duration. Similar experiences include hop-on-hop-off cruises and night tours, but this package’s combination of Montmartre train ride and the Seine cruise makes it a compact and convenient option for visitors wanting a taste of Paris.

While some reviews mention the route could be more interesting, the quality of the views and value for money make this a solid choice for first-time visitors or those on a budget.

Final Thoughts on the Montmartre Train & Seine Cruise Combo

This tour provides a cost-effective way to see Montmartre’s highlights from both land and water. The train ride offers a relaxed way to get an overview of the neighborhood’s historic streets and notable sites like Moulin Rouge and Sacré-Cœur.

The optional Seine River cruise enhances the experience with spectacular views of Paris’ most famous landmarks. Despite some critiques about the route and limited train accessibility, the overall value and scenic highlights make this tour attractive for families, first-time visitors, and budget travelers.

For those seeking a quick, straightforward introduction to Montmartre and Paris, this tour offers good value and a pleasant experience—especially if combined with the Seine cruise. Just plan to arrive early for seating and prepare for crowds during peak seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Seine River cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible except for the Montmartre train.

How long does the train ride last?
The Montmartre train ride lasts about 30 minutes.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Do I need to reserve the Seine cruise separately?
No, tickets for the cruise are valid for a month and no advance reservation is necessary; departures are every 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is in front of Sacre-Cœur in Montmartre.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and a charged smartphone.

Is the train route the most scenic?
Some reviews feel the route could be more interesting, but it still passes notable sites like Moulin Rouge and Cemetery of Montmartre.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly and suitable for children, with gentle rides and interesting sights.

Are there any restrictions on luggage?
Luggage or large bags are not allowed on the train.

When does this tour operate?
From June to August, 10 AM to 7 PM; from September to May, 10 AM to 6 PM.

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