Bateaux-Mouches Boat Cruises in Paris

3 January 2018

Take an Unforgettable Journey Along the River Seine to See the Sights of Paris

The banks of the River Seine are home to outstanding Parisian architecture and iconic landmarks. Rather than on foot, the most scenic way to view many of Paris' most famous sights is along the Seine. Renowned world-wide, Bateaux-Mouches® is the oldest company operating cruise boats along the river, which founder Jean Bruel described as the city's 'most beautiful avenue'. Whether you'll have your camera at the ready, or will simply want to sit back and take in the views, we've put together a guide for what awaits during a fascinating trip.

Route of the Bateaux-Mouches®

Each structure and sight offer their own story that has shaped both appearance and function to this day. Beginning at Port de la Conférence, the first iconic building to look out for on the Bateaux-Mouches® sightseeing tour will be the Grand Palais. Its towering pillars and huge glass roof were built for the Universal Exhibition in 1900 and are now home to the Galeries Nationales and the Palais de la Découverte science museum, as well as many leading exhibitions and events.

Next, the shimmering gold-leafed pyramid at the top of the Luxor Obelisk won't be hard to miss. The 75ft, 3,300 year old Egyptian monument is located within the largest square in Paris, Place de la Concorde. Located at the end of the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, the area was built in the 1800s and later became the site of the executions of Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette during the French Revolution.

Beginning at the Pont Royal and continuing past the Pont des Arts, the many beautifully framed windows of a Renaissance style palace will catch your eye. Now home to one of the world's largest museums, the Louvre, much of the structure's façade is hidden from the side view and would be worth a return visit... as well as for the opportunity to see Da Vinci's 'Mona Lisa'.

Passing under the Pont Neuf, the boat will begin a scenic circle around the Île Saint-Louis, a natural island. The Palais de Justice is located here and was home to many Kings before becoming the Parlement of Paris and currently, the home of courts. Parts of the palace date back to the 13th century and it also houses the Conciergerie, a 15th century prison, turned museum.

Notre Dame is the island's the most famous structure, attracting an annual average of over 30,000 visitors per day. The first stone of the cathedral was said to be laid in 1163 and its impressive gothic architecture, including the recognisable two towers, have hosted many major political and religious events in the city since.

Further along the banks, Musée d'Orsay and Les Invalides are easy to spot. Located within the former Orsay railway station, the art gallery is characterised by two clock towers and its grand beaux-arts style architecture. While, the glimmering dome of Les Invalides and surrounding structure was originally solely a military hospital and home for veterans, but now also offers the opportunity to see Napoleon's tomb and museum exhibitions.

The unmissable 1,063 ft Eiffel Tower will be next on the horizon. Built in 1889 by Gustave Eiffel to celebrate the 100th year anniversary of the French Revolution, its iron lattice structure attracts almost seven million visitors every year. While, directly opposite, the façade of the Palais de Chaillot will provide an impressive backdrop to the beautiful Jardins du Trocadéro.

The hour and 10 minute's route will offer an exciting chance to see these and many more key and captivating sights in the capital.