River Cruises from Paris

What our customers ask about River Cruises from Paris

• What's the best time for river cruises from Paris?

  April through October is ideal for Seine river cruises since the weather is perfect for both sailing and exploring. You'll enjoy comfortable spring temperatures around 65°F (18°C) in April and May, when Giverny's gardens are in full bloom. Summer brings warmer days around 75°F (24°C) and lots of daylight for sightseeing. Many travelers prefer September and October when there are fewer tourists and the weather is still mild. If you're interested in Christmas markets, December cruises are available, though it gets chilly with temperatures around 40°F (4°C). One TourRadar traveler shared: "spring for the gardens or fall for the beautiful colors along the Seine."

• What shore excursions can I expect on Paris river cruises?

  From Paris, you'll get to join walking tours through historic towns, explore UNESCO sites, taste wines in Champagne, and visit the D-Day beaches in Normandy. When you dock in Vernon, you can choose what interests you most - touring Monet's Gardens, cycling along the Seine, or hiking the Crests Trail. Most cruises start from central Paris hotels like the Mercure Paris Centre Tour Eiffel. A TourRadar traveler noted: "the variety of excursions allowed us to really experience French culture and history in depth."

• Where do Paris river cruises typically stop?

  Your cruise will take you to some of France's most beautiful places along the Seine. You'll visit Versailles Palace, Monet's house and gardens in Giverny, Rouen with its impressive cathedral, and the picturesque port town of Honfleur. The route includes important historical sites like the Normandy beaches and Château de La Roche-Guyon. Your ship will dock at several towns including Caudebec-en-Caux and Mantes-la-Jolie, giving you time to explore each place. TourRadar travelers often mention loving "the blend of historic sites and charming villages along the Seine."

• How active are the shore excursions?

  These cruises offer something for everyone. If you like staying active, you can join guided bike rides along the Seine, hike near La Roche-Guyon, or take walking tours in Rouen and Honfleur. For a more relaxed pace, choose scenic drives, palace visits, or wine tastings. Many ships, like the S.S. Joie de Vivre, provide bikes you can use on your own. As one TourRadar traveler said: "there were perfect options for both active adventurers and those preferring a more leisurely pace."

• How long are river cruises from Paris?

  Most river cruises from Paris last 7-8 days, giving you enough time to explore Normandy, the Seine River, and the Champagne region. You'll stay on comfortable ships like the S.S. Joie de Vivre, which has room for 128 passengers in nice staterooms. One TourRadar traveler mentioned: "we had a fantastic time, the ship is absolutely beautiful and the staff couldn't be nicer and more accommodating."

• How much free time will I have during the cruise?

  You'll get plenty of free time to explore on your own, balanced with guided activities. After morning tours in places like Paris, Rouen, and Honfleur, you'll often have whole afternoons or evenings to yourself. For example, once your guided tour of Paris ends, you can spend time in the Latin Quarter or visit the Louvre at your own pace. Many ships stay docked overnight in city centers, so you can go out in the evening too. TourRadar travelers appreciate that "the schedule provided perfect balance between organized activities and personal exploration time."