A visit to Paris should require at least a week or two to get the most out of it. But if you’re pressed for time, hopping on a boat is a time-tested method where you’ll get to see as much of this lovely city as you can. Cruises are a popular mode of travel in Europe as highlighted by Waypoints Global’s exploration of the Belgian canal system. I personally think it’s one of the best ways to kick off any destination as it builds up the excitement of visiting each highlight one by one. The Eiffel Tower is possibly France’s most iconic landmark. It’s no wonder why lovers’ dream to ride the lift to the top where they can profess their undying love for each other. But did you know that the Eiffel Tower sees 7 million visitors every year. Crowds that size can definitely ruin a special moment. The river actually offers one of the best views of the Iron Lady. Imagine drifting down the Seine with the Eiffel Tower glittering in the background. It just makes you long to pull your loved one close to you and seal the night with a kiss.
On a Seine River cruise, you will come across a small island called île de la Cité. It is the heart of Paris where another monument is also located: the Notre Dame de Paris. This famous cathedral is considered a feat of French Gothic architecture dating back to 1160. One interesting piece of trivia about the Notre Dame: Victor Hugo’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame influenced a major restoration after it was destroyed during the French revolution.
Paris has no shortage of museums housing the most important works in art history, the world-renowned Louvre being one of them. While you can catch a glimpse of the famous museum on a boat, it requires a day of perusing art altogether.
Another one that will animate art buffs is the Musée d’Orsay on the bank of the Seine. TripSavvy recommends coming between November to March or sometime between 9:30 AM until noon to avoid the crowds. Many people come to view masterpieces from the Impressionist and post-Impressionist eras from artists like Matisse, Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.
The French have a rich history when it comes to football and the Stadè de France is their representation of it. Jospehine Luxury Yacht in Paris offers a one-of-a-kind cruise experience that will take you right to the iconic stadium which hosted the historic 1998 FIFA World Cup. Ladbrokes describes how Les Bleus won their first ever World Cup trophy at the Stadè De France, which remains the proudest moment in French soccer history next to their recent triumph in Russia. Take the stadium tour, which will guide you through the stadium’s rich history showing you its unique architecture as well as the private boxes, locker room and its museum. In the museum, you’ll find memorabilia such as legendary soccer jerseys, models as well as other paraphernalia from bands like AC/DC and the Rolling Stones who performed at the stadium.
Most tours end at the Arab World Institute which is also a must-visit location. The main building known as the Institut du Monde Arabe is a symbol of the cultural exchange between France and Arab states. Built in 1987, it houses a museum, an auditorium, a library, and a language and culture centre. Compared to the other landmarks, this building is defined by modern architecture made of aluminium and glass, which you will definitely not miss.
If you’re deciding on what cruise to take, a guide by the Independent Travel Cats will help you choose an operator that suits your needs. Many of the cruises available follow the same route, which makes it easy to decide. The Seine River glistens under the moonlight and is in itself a destination.