This fascinating Paris shore excursion begins at the Le Havre cruise ship port. Our friendly hosts will greet you outside the cruise ship terminal. You will then board a comfortable, air-conditioned bus and set out on a 3-hour journey through the beautiful Norman countryside. Our tours are tailored to the ships' docking times, ensuring a prompt start and punctual return to the port with plenty of time to spare before your ship’s departure. This cruise offers stunning views of Paris's iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, while bypassing heavy Paris traffic. This adjusted tour ensures you enjoy the best of Paris comfortably and efficiently.

Our first stop will be at the river cruise dock, located several hundred meters from the world-famous Eiffel Tower. Here, you will meet your tour guide, who will welcome you to Paris and share fascinating facts about the tower, the city, and France. You will then take a short walk to get closer to the tower, about 1-2 blocks away, for some amazing photo opportunities. The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of French engineering and culture, is a must-see landmark that will surely leave you in awe. Please note that this tour does not allow time to visit inside the Eiffel Tower. We will only view it from a distance of a few hundred yards for photos.

Next, enjoy a captivating 1-hour river cruise starting near the Eiffel Tower. Glide through the heart of Paris and see the city's architectural wonders from a unique perspective on the water. Admire the grandeur of the Louvre, home to thousands of art pieces, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. The river cruise has included audio-commentary. To listen to the commentary on the outside deck, please bring your own headphones.

During the river cruise, you will pass by the Louvre, offering a spectacular view of its grand classical buildings. From the Seine, you won't see the glass pyramid entrance, but you'll enjoy the historic façade and the sprawling complex along the river. You'll glide past the Louvre's western wing, showcasing Renaissance and Baroque architecture. The detailed stonework and statues atop the building are particularly striking from this vantage point. This unique perspective allows you to fully appreciate the scale and historical significance of the Louvre, originally a royal palace before becoming a public museum.

During the river cruise, you'll have an excellent view of the Musée d'Orsay. The building itself is a former Beaux-Arts railway station built for the 1900 Exposition Universelle. From the Seine, you'll see its grand façade, which features large arched windows and intricate detailing. This perspective provides a stunning view of the museum, highlighting its architectural beauty. Inside, the museum houses the world’s largest collection of impressionist and post-impressionist masterpieces, but from the boat, you'll mainly appreciate the exterior design and its historical significance as a converted train station.

During the Seine River cruise, you will enjoy detailed views of several other remarkable Parisian landmarks. The Pont Alexandre III stands out with its ornate design and gilded sculptures of winged horses at each end, showcasing the grandeur of the Belle Époque era. As you glide further, you will see the Grand Palais and Petit Palais, situated opposite each other. These buildings are celebrated for their stunning architecture and cultural exhibitions, with the Grand Palais's massive glass dome being particularly impressive. The cruise also takes you past Île de la Cité, the historical heart of Paris, home to both the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral and the Palais de Justice. Additionally, you will see the Conciergerie, a medieval building that once served as a royal palace and later as a prison during the French Revolution. This cruise offers a comprehensive and scenic way to experience these iconic sights, providing a unique perspective on Paris's rich history and architectural beauty

As you glide further along the Seine, you’ll catch sight of the Place de la Concorde. From the water, you can see the Luxor Obelisk standing tall at the center of this significant square, along with the elegant fountains and the surrounding architecture that make this one of Paris’s most important public squares.

If water levels allow, the cruise will extend to Notre Dame Cathedral. From the river, you'll have a striking view of its Gothic façade, including the twin towers and the magnificent rose window. The reflection of the cathedral on the Seine’s surface creates a picturesque scene that captures the essence of Parisian charm. This vantage point allows you to admire the intricate details of the architecture without the crowds typically found at the entrance. Please note that the river cruises only reach the Notre Dame Cathedral if the water levels allow. We will not be able to provide a refund if this will not be possible on the day of your visit.

After the river cruise, our bus will take you to the Arc de Triomphe, where our knowledgeable guide will share the history of this magnificent monument. Commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte to honor his military victories and the French army, the Arc de Triomphe stands 50 meters tall and features intricate sculptures and reliefs depicting significant historical events.

Arc de Triomphe is located at the end of the world-famous Champs-Élysées. Here you’ll see theaters, cafes, and high-end stores, all contributing to the lively atmosphere of Paris. For centuries, the Champs-Élysées has represented French sophistication and flair, drawing countless visitors each year. Time permitting, you will have some free time here for souvenir shopping or a quick meal. Please note that the free time at the Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées is subject to traffic, special events, docking times of your ship, and other circumstances. If your tour does not permit for free time due to these circumstances, or your free time is shortened, we will not be able to provide a refund. If you prefer a tour focused on self-exploration, please consider our "Paris on Your Own Tour" (Viator Product 63772P156).