The proud capital of the most-visited country in the world, Paris is renowned as the city of light and love. It is home to some of the most recognizable landmarks in the world – the Eiffel Tower, The Arc de Triumph, The Louvre – and packs a powerful punch, no matter how many times you visit. Beyond the tourist sites, you’ll find chattering markets and cool cocktail bars, as well as plenty of brasserie, bakeries and boutiques.
For an alternative view of the city, take to the glimmering waters of the River Seine. The second-longest river in France, this 777km water way runs right through the heart of the city. There are plenty of superb river cruises offering gourmet dinners, sight-seeing and live music. Here, we round up three of the best and most affordable dinner river cruises in Paris for a whirlwind weekend break.
1. Paris: 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise Plus Bistro Dinner
Climb aboard Le Bistro Parisien for sightseeing with a difference. This affordably-priced cruise combines a one-hour sightseeing tour with a two-course bistro dinner. Sail past the city’s landmarks and learn the history behind its most iconic sites – the Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Grand Palais – while tucking into an authentic Parisienne dinner. The tour begins at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, Port del Bourdonnais, and the price includes the tour and dinner. From: £53/ per person
2. Paris: Lounge Dinner Cruise on the Seine River
Explore the City of Lights in all its illuminated glory (Photo: Get Your Guide)
Explore the City of Lights in all its illuminated glory on this gourmet dinner cruise. Guests can choose to depart from the iconic Musée d’Orsay in the 8th Arrondissement or Cite de la Mode et du Design in the 13th. Indulge in ten different types of tapas while enjoying live music from local musicians. Once the plates have been cleared, you can party on the boat with a live DJ until 12:30AM. Price includes the tour and dinner, but excludes alcoholic drinks. From: £53/ per person
3. Paris: Dinner Cruise on the Canal Saint-Martin
Explore the prettiest waterway in Paris (Photo: Get Your Guide)
If you’ve had your fill of the River Seine, get off the beaten track on this romantic dinner cruise along Canal St. Martin. You may recognize the iron footbridges and tree-lined quays from some of the most atmospheric scenes in the light-hearted film, Amelie. This three-hour cruise glides along one of France’s most picturesque waterways, through mysterious tunnels and alongside magical, musical guinguettes – traditional riverside spots featuring live music and dancing. From: £62/ per person
By Allie d’Almo