Seine River Hop-On Hop-Off Cruise

What is a Hop-on Hop-off cruise?

A Hop-on Hop-off Seine River cruise is a flexible sightseeing boat service in Paris that allows you to explore the city’s landmarks at your own pace. The boats operate along the Seine, stopping at key attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Musée d'Orsay.

You can "hop on" at any designated stop, enjoy the scenic ride, and then "hop off" whenever you want to explore a site. When you're ready to continue, just catch the next boat. These cruises typically run all day, making them a convenient and relaxing way to see Paris from the water.

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Sightseeing, your way

Unlike traditional tours, a Hop-on Hop-off cruise lets you set your own pace. Want to linger at the Eiffel Tower or explore the charming streets near Notre-Dame? Hop off, take your time, and hop back on when you're ready to continue. No rush, no pressure—just pure Paris on your terms.

Know your operator: Batobus

Batobus is a public river transport service operated on the Seine River, offering a hop-on, hop-off experience similar to a tourist bus—but on a boat. Batobus is not a guided tour boat—it's more like a water metro service for tourists and locals alike. It connects central Parisian sights along the Seine with a loop of 9 stops, running in a continuous circuit. Think of it as your floating day-pass around Paris.

Tips for experiencing the best Hop-on Hop-off Seine River cruise

Plan your stops: Decide in advance which attractions you want to explore. Prioritize major landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre-Dame to make the most of your ticket.

Check the timetable: Boats typically run every 30 minutes, so keep track of departure times to avoid long waits, especially in peak hours.

Sit on the upper deck (if available): Many boats have open-air seating on top, offering stunning panoramic views of Paris. Try to grab a seat here for the best experience.

Use it as transportation: The Hop-on Hop-off cruise is not just for sightseeing—it can be a convenient and scenic way to travel between major attractions without dealing with traffic.

Take an evening ride: If your pass allows, take a sunset or night cruise for a breathtaking view of Paris illuminated, including the sparkling Eiffel Tower.

Combine with other activities: Many cruise providers offer combo tickets with museum passes, bus tours, or even Eiffel Tower access, which can save time and money.

Frequently asked questions about Hop-on Hop-off Seine River cruise

Can I explore neighborhoods near the stops?

Definitely! Each stop opens the door to a vibrant quartier. Saint-Germain-des-Prés is ideal for cafés, while Le Marais brims with art and boutiques.

How long does a complete loop of the Hop-on Hop-off cruise take?

A full loop of the cruise route takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours if you choose not to hop off.

Is it easy to rejoin the cruise after exploring?

Yes! Boats frequently arrive at each stop, usually every 20-30 minutes, so you can pick up where you left off.

What’s the best stop for a unique view?

Stop at Pont Alexandre III for the most stunning views of Paris, combining grand architecture with river reflections.

Can I use my pass multiple times in one day?

Yes, your pass allows for unlimited rides within the validity period (1 or 2 consecutive days).

Is there an audio guide available during the cruise?

There is no formal audio guide; however, staff provide information about points of interest as you pass by.

Is there a child fare for Seine River Hop-on Hop-off cruise tickets?

Yes, children aged 3 to 15 benefit from a reduced fare, while children under 3 can ride for free.

What’s one stop tourists often skip but shouldn’t?

The Ile de la Cité stop: it’s your gateway to Notre Dame and Sainte-Chapelle, but also tiny hidden alleys filled with charm.

How can I make the most of the hop-off feature?

Plan your stops around meal times. Hop off for a croissant at a riverside café or indulge in crêpes near Notre Dame.

From happy customers

Dailos

Spain

juin, 2025

Sure, here's a review suggestion: ⸻ We had a wonderful experience at Bateaux Mouches. In addition to the exquisite food and the lovely atmosphere of the promenade, we would especially like to highlight the attention of the waiter who served us: he was super nice to us at all times, very attentive and professional. Undoubtedly, his treatment made the evening even more special. We would repeat without hesitation!

View original review in Spanish

Bateaux Mouches Seine River Dinner Cruise with Live Music & French Menu

Palle

Denmark

+ 1 more

Just so nice to enjoy a delicious French meal with friends while sailing on the Seine and seeing several worthwhile monuments and buildings along the way. Without doubt to be repeated. The ticketing was just perfect. One point to mention we would have liked the table right up front in the middle; how can one be sure to reserve that table?

Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Lunch Cruise with French Menu

Paul

United Kingdom

mai, 2025

+ 2 more

The Eiffel Tower structure is outstanding & views are amazing from all levels. The atmosphere around the place is one of awe & excitement. Great seeing some people overcoming their fear of heights. Our tour guide "kendrick" was absolutely professional & helpful & informative about the whole structure & historic occurances at the tower 5*****👍

Combo: Eiffel Tower Guided Tour by Elevator with Seine River Cruise

Carola

Very good. Abi was friendly and polite. Explained everything well. Perhaps it would be good if tours could be given in German or translated.

View original review in German

Cabras

We also managed to get in a few minutes earlier than the time stipulated in the reservation, and this allowed us to cope better with the queue at the security checkpoints. The museum is really big and rich, although some rooms were closed for new installations. The visit lasted for more than 5 hours, which literally flew by between pavilions. I recommend visiting the museum in the morning when it is open, so as to avoid as much as possible the huge mass of people arriving throughout the day. The beauties admired were a balm to the eyes and a caress to the soul.

View original review in Italian

Skip-the-Line Tickets to Louvre Museum & Seine River Cruise

Willy

Dominican Republic

The incredible grandour of the entire museum, friends were not kidding that would take several days to see most of it. Was able to book multiple attractions using headout and was phenomenal, would have been entirely different if not for them.

Julia

Germany

I loved everything. The food was extremely good, the cruise was really amazing, the service was really nice! Would recommend! 10/10

Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Early Evening Dinner Cruise with Gourmet Menu

James

United States

It was all so easy! Booking online, following the directions to the pier, finding the perfect seat (down below and outside-perfect) The one hour fit into our schedule perfectly and covered all the important sites. It is so great to see Paris from the perspective of the river as well! - and the price is extreamly resonable!

Seine River 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise from the Eiffel Tower