Arc de Triomphe and Seine River Cruise

Experience Paris from Two of its most iconic vantage points—the Arc de Triomphe and the Seine River—with this combo tour that combines convenience and authentic sightseeing for about $45 per person. Priced reasonably, it provides prepaid tickets to skip long lines and a one-hour boat cruise with audio guides in multiple languages, making it a solid choice for travelers keen on a comprehensive but manageable sightseeing experience.

What we love about this tour is how it offers breathtaking panoramic views from the top of the Arc, where you can see the 12 radiating boulevards that give Paris its distinctive layout. Plus, the Seine River cruise offers a relaxing break from walking, letting you soak in the city’s beauty from a water level, with landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame just passing by. The included audio guide enriches the experience, turning a simple boat ride into a mini-lesson on Parisian landmarks.

One possible consideration is the climb up the Arc de Triomphe, which involves nearly 300 steps unless you opt for the elevator—something only available for those with mobility issues. Reviewers mention that the stairs can be a challenge, especially in cold or hot weather, so plan accordingly. Also, keep in mind that the cruise boats are dependent on weather and operational hours, which can sometimes cause issues if timings don’t align perfectly or if the boat company is unexpectedly closed.

This tour best suits travelers who want a well-rounded Paris experience that combines spectacular views with informative commentary without the hassle of organizing individual tickets. It’s especially good for those who appreciate self-guided exploration but with convenient pre-booked access. If you’re comfortable with some walking and want a taste of both iconic landmarks and scenic waterway views, this tour will serve you well.

Key Points

• Prepaid tickets save you time and help avoid long queues at the Arc de Triomphe.
• The terrace at the top offers panoramic city views and a great vantage point.
• The Seine River cruise provides a relaxed way to see Paris’s landmarks from the water.
• An audio guide in 14 languages enhances the cruise experience.
• Climbing the Arc involves nearly 300 steps, which might be a challenge but rewards you with stunning vistas.
• The timing of the cruise can be affected by weather and operational schedules, so check ahead.

The Complete Experience

Starting with the Arc de Triomphe

The tour kicks off at the Arc de Triomphe, one of Paris’s most recognizable monuments. Standing 50 meters tall, this neoclassical triumphal arch is a symbol of French patriotism and history. The prepaid tickets mean you skip the often-lengthy lines, heading straight inside—something many reviewers appreciate, especially in peak season.

Once inside, you ascend roughly 284 steps (or take the elevator if available) to the terrace, where the view over Paris is simply spectacular. Imagine standing atop a monument that radiates 12 major avenues—the world’s most famous boulevard system—fanning out like spokes on a wheel. From this height, you can get a real sense of Paris’s layout and see landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Les Invalides from above.

Travelers often describe the view from the top as “well worth the climb” or “spectacular,” with some noting that the stairs can be demanding, especially for those with mobility issues. One reviewer mentioned the elevator is only available for people with reduced mobility, so if stairs are a concern, plan accordingly.

Exploring the Surroundings

The Arc de Triomphe is located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, Paris’s most famous avenue. It’s a busy traffic circle, but the monument itself offers a quiet, reflective space. Many visitors find it a convenient starting point for their exploration of Paris’s major attractions.

Relaxing on the Seine River

After soaking in the views from the Arc, the tour transitions to the Seine River cruise, starting from Port de la Bourdonnais, right at the foot of the Eiffel Tower. This one-hour cruise with audio commentary in 14 languages offers a laid-back way to see the city’s most celebrated sites from the water.

You’ll glide past landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Les Invalides. The cruise’s audio guide provides background stories and historical context, making it more than just a boat ride—it’s an educational experience. Many reviews mention how informative and enjoyable the commentary is, especially since it allows you to relax and take in the scenery without having to strain your neck trying to spot landmarks from street level.

Some travelers note that the cruise is “pretty bare bones,” with limited views from inside the boat, but most agree that sitting back and enjoying the sights from the water makes up for it. It’s a perfect moment of calm after a day of sightseeing, or a gentle way to introduce your family to Paris’s riverside charm.

Practical Details

The tour is affordable, at just under $45, and includes both admission tickets and an audio guide—a solid value considering the cost of individual tickets. The combined experience appeals especially to those who want a self-guided, flexible itinerary, as the tickets are issued electronically, and you visit each attraction on your own schedule.

The timing is quite flexible, with the Arc de Triomphe open from 11 am to 10 pm (or 11 pm in summer), and the cruise departing from 11 am to late evening. Keep in mind that last admission to the monument is 45 minutes before closing, so plan accordingly.

Reviews in a Nutshell

Most travelers praise the stunning views from the Arc and the value for money. As Robert notes, “Great value for the money! Arc de Triomphe gave great views of the city. River Seine tour was informative.” Others appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the self-guided nature, allowing for flexibility.

However, some reviews highlight disappointments—particularly regarding the Seine cruise, with a few mentioning that the audio sometimes malfunctioned, or the boat was closed unexpectedly. One reviewer was frustrated with ticket issues and delays, emphasizing the importance of confirming operational hours and having your tickets ready.

Final Thoughts

This combo tour offers a balanced mix of panoramic viewing and relaxed waterway sightseeing. The prepaid tickets are a time-saver, and the scenic views from the Arc de Triomphe combined with the water-based perspective of Paris make for an enjoyable, memorable experience.

It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview or travelers on a budget who appreciate thoughtful planning and value. Just be prepared for some climbing at the Arc, and double-check operational hours and weather conditions for the cruise.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Sightseers who want to skip the lines at major attractions and save time.
• Those interested in panoramic city views from above and from the water.
• Travelers seeking an affordable, flexible way to explore Paris’s top landmarks.
• Visitors comfortable with moderate physical activity and navigating stairs.
• Anyone who values audio-guided tours that add context and background.
• People who enjoy self-guided exploration, with the freedom to adjust their schedule.

FAQ

• Is the ticket for the Arc de Triomphe included in the price? Yes, it is prepaid, so you skip the lines.
• How long do I have to climb the Arc de Triomphe? The ascent involves approximately 284 steps to the terrace, but elevator access is only for those with mobility issues.
• What landmarks will I see on the Seine cruise? Expect views of the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, Les Invalides, and other iconic Parisian sights.
• Can I use the cruise tickets anytime within a month? Yes, the tickets are valid for a month from the date of issue.
• Are the audio guides available in multiple languages? Yes, in 14 languages, enhancing your understanding of each sight.
• Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, but consider the stairs at the Arc, which may be challenging for very young kids.
• What happens if the cruise boat is closed? The tour depends on operational hours; always verify before your visit.
• Are there any discounts for youth or EU citizens? Yes, visitors under 18, EU citizens aged 18-25, and some professionals can enter for free, but must collect tickets at the monument.
• Is transportation between the two attractions included? No, travelers need to make their own way between the Arc and the river cruise.
• What should I wear and bring? Comfortable shoes for walking, weather-appropriate clothing, and your e-tickets on your mobile device.

In summary, this combo tour offers a practical, scenic, and budget-friendly way to see some of Paris’s most celebrated sights. With skip-the-line access to the Arc de Triomphe and a leisurely cruise along the Seine, it’s a great choice for anyone wanting to maximize their time without sacrificing quality or insight. Just be aware of the stairs and weather, and you’ll likely find it a memorable highlight of your trip.