Eiffel Tower Summit Floor Entry & Illuminations Seine Cruise

Our look into this popular Paris combo tour gives you an honest picture of what you can expect. For around $150, you’ll gain access to the third (and often less crowded) level of the Eiffel Tower and enjoy a night-time Seine River cruise. It’s a package that promises both panoramic city views and a relaxed cruise along Paris’s most iconic waterway.

What really stands out about this experience is the inclusion of the summit access—not all tours make it that far up. Plus, the Seine cruise, with its audio commentary, adds an extra layer of understanding about the city’s landmarks from the water. However, there are some drawbacks, including mixed feedback about guides and organization that are worth considering.

If you’re someone who loves spectacular views at sunset, or simply wants a convenient way to experience both the Eiffel Tower and the Seine in one go, this tour could be an excellent choice. But if you’re seeking a highly guided, personalized experience, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Includes access to the Eiffel Tower summit—a rare and memorable highlight.
• Offers a scenic Seine River cruise with an informative audio guide.
• No guided tour of the Tower or cruise—you explore independently after initial assistance.
• Price point offers reasonable value considering the combined experiences.
• Group size is limited to 30 travelers, making it manageable but potentially crowded.
• Not suitable for those with reduced mobility due to summit access restrictions.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

The Eiffel Tower Entry: From First Floors to the Summit

We loved the way this tour takes care of access to the third (summit) floor—something that’s not always included in typical Eiffel Tower tickets. Booking online means you skip the long lines at the base, which, especially during peak times, can be a huge relief. The entry itself is via elevator, taking you straight to the first and second floors, with a subsequent elevator ride to the summit.

Once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of Paris. On clear days, you can spot landmarks stretching out in every direction, making it a perfect moment for photos and soaking in the city’s beauty. One reviewer, Wanda, called the experience “so beautiful,” emphasizing how surreal it felt to be so high above the city.

However, not everything is perfect. Several reviews mention that the guided assistance stops at the second floor, leaving the summit exploration to you. This means you’re on your own at the top, which can be a bit daunting if you’re unfamiliar with the layout or eager for a guided commentary. One traveler noted, “We did not know where to go at each level,” reflecting the need for personal navigation skills.

The Seine River Cruise: A Nighttime Waterway Adventure

The cruise ticket is included, but you’ll take the cruise independently from the Eiffel Tower dock. The cruise company, Bateaux Parisiens, departs from Port de la Bourdonnais, right at the foot of the Eiffel Tower. Starting after your tower visit, the cruise lasts about an hour and features audio commentary available in 14 languages.

Travelers will enjoy viewing Paris’s landmarks from the water—the Louvre, Pont Neuf, and various bridges—especially enchanting at night when the city lights sparkle. One reviewer, Elin, described sunset as “the perfect time to view Paris from the Eiffel Tower,” and the cruise complements that beautifully. The illuminated cityscape from the water creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for memorable photos.

A few reviews, however, mention some confusion about the cruise logistics or feeling unprepared, highlighting the importance of reading the instructions carefully. The fact that the cruise tickets are valid for a month provides some flexibility, and the audio guide enhances the experience by offering historical context and fun facts.

Notable Stops Along the Tour

While the main focus is on the Eiffel Tower and Seine, the tour’s itinerary also mentions views of the Louvre Museum and Pont Neuf. The Pont Neuf, as the oldest bridge in Paris, is a highlight for its history and architecture, with sculptures symbolizing the French-Russian alliance.

One reviewer pointed out that “the architecture of the Louvre Museum is marvellous,” which adds another layer of interest if you’re into Parisian history and architecture. But, since these are just viewings and not stops, they serve more as scenic highlights rather than detailed explorations.

What You Should Know Before Booking

The Itinerary

• Start at the Eiffel Tower: Access via elevator to the summit, with assistance up to the second floor.
• Explore independently: Once at the top, you’re free to wander and soak in the views.
• Seine Cruise: Depart from the foot of the Eiffel Tower, with tickets valid for 30 days.
• Additional landmarks: See the Louvre and Pont Neuf from the outside, making for great photo opportunities.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Convenient access to the summit floor, avoiding long lines.
– Stunning views from the top of Paris.
– Relaxed, scenic Seine cruise with audio commentary.
– Suitable for travelers who want a self-guided experience but with hassle-free entry.

Cons:
– No guided tour at the top or on the cruise—you’re on your own after initial assistance.
– Limited to most travelers without mobility issues—summit access is restricted.
– Some reviews mention poor organization or lack of clear instructions, which can cause confusion.
– The price might seem high for some, especially if you prefer guided or more interactive options.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after spectacular panoramic views and don’t mind exploring independently, this tour offers good value. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want quick, straightforward access to the Eiffel Tower’s summit and a scenic cruise without the hassle of booking separate tickets.

However, if you prefer a guided experience with a guide explaining everything, or you need more personalized attention, this might not be the right fit. The tour’s independence model is appreciated by many, but could be frustrating if you’re expecting more hand-holding.

Practical Tips

• Book at least 30 days in advance to secure your preferred times.
• Arrive early to avoid any last-minute panic or confusion at the meeting point.
• Bring a camera for stunning photo ops from the top and on the water.
• Remember that people with reduced mobility cannot access the summit.
• Be aware that this is a non-guided tour; you’ll need to navigate some parts on your own.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

This combined Eiffel Tower and Seine cruise experience presents a solid option for travelers who want a hassle-free way to see Paris’s highlights from above and on the water. The inclusion of summit access is the standout feature, offering a rare chance to enjoy unparalleled views of the city.

The independent nature of the tour suits those who are comfortable exploring without a guide, and the audio commentary on the cruise adds educational value without extra cost. The ease of booking and the ability to use the cruise tickets within a month are added benefits.

However, it’s not perfect. The lack of guided narration at the top or on the cruise, combined with some organizational hiccups noted by past travelers, means this experience is best suited for those who are self-sufficient and keen on flexibility. It offers good value for a two-in-one ticket, but if a guided, immersive experience is your priority, you might want to consider other options.

In summary, if you’re looking for a convenient, scenic, and memorable way to see Paris from its most iconic landmarks—especially with stunning sunset views—this tour can be a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.

FAQ

Does this tour include a guided guide throughout?
No, the tour does not include a guide throughout. Your host assists you in reaching the second floor and provides initial information, but after that, you explore independently.

Can I access the Eiffel Tower summit with this ticket?
Yes, this tour provides access to the summit floor of the Eiffel Tower via elevator.

Is the Seine River cruise guided?
The cruise includes an audio commentary in 14 languages, but no live guide is present on the boat.

How long is the entire experience?
The entire experience is approximately 3 hours, including the time to ascend the Eiffel Tower and the cruise.

What are the meeting and ending points?
The tour begins and ends at the Eiffel Tower, specifically at Av. Gustave Eiffel, 75007 Paris.

Is this suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, people with reduced mobility are not permitted to access the summit of the Eiffel Tower.

Can I use the cruise tickets anytime within a certain period?
Yes, your cruise tickets are valid for one month from the date of your Eiffel Tower visit.

Are food or drinks included?
No, this tour does not include food or beverages.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, comfortable shoes, and perhaps a light jacket for the top of the Tower and the boat deck.

What if the Eiffel Tower or cruise is closed due to unforeseen circumstances?
In cases of force majeure or government restrictions, refunds are limited to the proportionate cost of the inaccessible parts, as outlined in the policy.

This tour offers a practical way to enjoy two of Paris’s most iconic sights, with stunning views and the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Perfect for travelers seeking straightforward access and memorable photo moments, it’s a good investment for first-time visitors and those wanting a taste of Paris from above and along the Seine.