Paris: Dinner at The Eiffel Tower & Cruise

Planning a night out in Paris? This experience combines two classic Parisian delights: a gourmet dinner on the Eiffel Tower’s first floor and a magical cruise along the Seine. While it’s certainly a splurge at around $433 per person, it promises a blend of incredible sights, delicious food, and a touch of romance — perfect for those wanting a special evening in the City of Light.

What really sets this tour apart is the unique dining experience at Madame Brasserie, with its views and responsibly sourced cuisine, paired with the spectacular scenery of Paris by night from the water. However, it’s worth noting that the tour does not include access to the upper floors of the Eiffel Tower, which might be a consideration if you’re eager for panoramic city vistas from higher up. This experience suits travelers craving a mix of luxury and authentic Parisian ambiance, especially those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a memorable evening in the city.

Key Points

• Gourmet Dining on the Eiffel Tower: Experience a meal with views on the 1st floor, enjoying dishes crafted by Chef Thierry Marx.
• Iconic Seine Cruise: An hour-long cruise with recorded commentary in 14 languages, showcasing Paris’s famous landmarks.
• Spectacular Night Views: Both from the Eiffel Tower and the boat, you’ll see the city illuminated in its evening glow.
• Balanced Experience: Combines gastronomy, sightseeing, and romance, ideal for couples or small groups.
• Limited Access: The tour provides reserved access only to the 1st floor, not the higher levels of the Eiffel Tower.
• Flexible Cancellation: Full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting at the Eiffel Tower’s First Floor

The evening begins with a reserved ticket to the 1st floor of the Eiffel Tower, which means you’ll bypass the long lines that often greet visitors. From this vantage point, you’re treated to breathtaking views of Paris, especially as the city lights start to sparkle at dusk. The focus here is on the dining experience at Madame Brasserie, which is situated on this level.

Guests consistently mention the spectacular scenery, with one reviewer noting, “The views from the restaurant are stunning, and you feel like you’re on top of the world without climbing all the way up.” The restaurant itself is described as modern and comfortable, with the menu featuring local, responsibly sourced ingredients.

The chef, Thierry Marx, curates a menu that balances Parisian tradition with contemporary flair. The meal includes a starter, such as rosé veal medallion with crispy olive toast or a Niçoise-style white tuna, followed by main courses like sea bream with zucchini or chicken fricassee with crispy rice, and finishing with decadent desserts like lemon meringue or a chocolate profiterole. Drinks include a glass of champagne, two glasses of wine, or non-alcoholic options, making it an indulgent yet refined experience.

The Culinary Experience: Is It Worth It?

The menu distinctly caters to a sophisticated palate, and the inclusion of local, responsible cuisine adds a feel-good factor. Many reviews praise the quality of the food, describing it as “delicious” and “well-presented,” with the ambiance elevating the meal. It’s a premium experience but one that offers good value when considering the combination of spectacular views and gourmet cuisine.

The Seine Cruise: A Romantic Waterway Journey

After dinner, guests are guided to the Port de la Bourdonnais, where a fully glazed boat awaits for a 1-hour cruise along the Seine. The boat, equipped with personal earphones in 14 languages, provides detailed commentary about Paris’s iconic landmarks, like Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Musée d’Orsay.

Many reviewers emphasize how beautiful the city looks at night, with illuminated monuments reflected in the water. One review simply states, “The views from the boat are unforgettable; Paris looks like a fairy tale after sunset.” The cruise offers a relaxing way to see the city, perfectly complementing the earlier dinner on the Eiffel Tower.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, with the dinner and cruise scheduled to flow smoothly. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures a more intimate experience, and multilingual hosts are available to assist. Importantly, the tour does not include transportation to the Eiffel Tower or cruise, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer or plan to meet at the designated spot with the guide.

Guests should be aware that security procedures at the Eiffel Tower can sometimes cause delays, especially during busy periods. Access is reserved only to the 1st floor, so if you’re looking for the full Eiffel Tower experience with access to the 2nd and 3rd floors, you’ll need to consider other options.

Authenticity and Experience

While the experience seems polished and luxurious, reviews reveal that many guests appreciate the authenticity of the cuisine and the personalized service from multilingual hosts. One reviewer noted, “The staff was friendly and attentive, making the whole evening feel special.” The views, both from the restaurant and the boat, are consistently praised as stunning and truly memorable.

Price and Value

At $433 per person, this experience is undoubtedly on the pricier side, but it includes both dinner with drinks at a prime spot and a professional Seine cruise with commentary. When you consider the cost of similar experiences, it offers a convenient, all-in-one package for those wanting to indulge and see Paris from different perspectives in a single evening.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for couples seeking romance, food lovers wanting a gourmet dinner with a view, or first-time visitors eager to combine sightseeing with a memorable meal. It’s also suitable for travelers who value authentic, high-quality cuisine and enjoy scenic panoramas. However, if you have mobility issues or are looking for access to the Eiffel Tower’s upper levels, you might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up

This combined dinner and Seine cruise in Paris offers a well-rounded, elegant evening that captures the essence of the city: dazzling lights, delicious food, and enchanting waterways. While it’s a premium experience, it provides an opportunity to enjoy spectacular views and authentic cuisine without the hassle of planning multiple activities.

Perfect for romantic nights, special celebrations, or simply a desire to indulge, this tour caters to those who want a balance of comfort and spectacle. It’s especially worthwhile if you’re eager to experience Paris from its most iconic vantage points, with the added benefit of a relaxing cruise on the Seine afterward.

FAQ

Does the tour include access to the Eiffel Tower’s upper floors?
No, the ticket grants access only to the 1st floor. If you want to visit the 2nd and 3rd floors, you’ll need to purchase additional tickets separately.

Is the dinner at the Eiffel Tower a buffet or a set menu?
It’s a set menu curated by Chef Thierry Marx, with options for starters, mains, and desserts. You choose from several options for each course.

Are drinks included in the dinner?
Yes, you get one glass of champagne, two glasses of wine, or non-alcoholic drinks like water or coffee.

How long does the Seine cruise last?
The cruise lasts about 1 hour, offering recorded commentary in 14 languages, with personal earphones for a clear experience.

Is this experience suitable for children?
The main tour is geared towards adults, especially since it does not specify a children’s menu or activities. It might be less suitable for very young children due to the sophistication of the setting.

What is the group size?
It’s a small group experience, limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized service.

Can I cancel this experience?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Are transfers included?
No, guests need to organize their own transportation to the meeting point at Port de la Bourdonnais.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is appropriate; comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking and standing during security checks and transfers.

Is there any accessibility for those with mobility issues?
No, unfortunately, this tour does not suit those with reduced mobility due to security procedures and the nature of the activity.

This experience offers a refined way to see Paris in its most enchanting light, combining culinary excellence with iconic views. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, it’s designed to deliver a memorable slice of Parisian life.