Paris: Eiffel Tower Access by Elevator & Seine River Cruise

Taking in Paris from above and along the Seine in one seamless experience? Yes, please. This combined tour offers a quick, convenient way to tick off two iconic Parisian experiences — the Eiffel Tower and a scenic river cruise — without the long waits or hassle. With a solid 4.5-star rating from over 7,100 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this package both enjoyable and worthwhile.

What we love about this tour is how it combines efficient access to the Eiffel Tower with a relaxing cruise, giving you a balanced taste of Paris’s highlights. Plus, the guides are praised for their knowledgeable, friendly approach, making the experience feel both informative and fun. That said, it’s not suited for everyone — especially those with mobility issues or large luggage, because waiting times for security and elevators can add up, especially in high season.

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a well-organized introduction to Paris’s top sights, or anyone short on time but eager to see the city from different angles. If you’re after a straightforward, enjoyable way to tick off the Eiffel Tower and enjoy a peaceful cruise, this package could be just right.

Key Points

• Skip the lines with reserved entry, saving you precious time during a busy visit.
• Stunning panoramic views from the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower offer perfect photo opportunities.
• Optional summit access allows you to go even higher for a full Parisian vista.
• The Seine River cruise provides a relaxing way to see Paris’s famous landmarks from a different perspective.
• Guides are knowledgeable and engaging, with many reviews highlighting their friendly approach.
• Value for money is good, considering it combines two major attractions plus expert commentary.

What to Expect: A Step-by-Step Experience

When booking this tour, you’re securing a reserved ticket to ascend the Eiffel Tower’s 2nd level via elevator — a real advantage during peak times when queues can stretch long. The meeting point at the Paris’Trip office, just five minutes on foot from the Eiffel Tower, is a smart choice. You’ll exchange your voucher there and meet your guide, who will provide a presentation in English packed with interesting stories about the tower.

Once inside, you’ll head up on the elevator, bypassing the typical long lines. Many reviewers, like one who said, “Even in August, queues weren’t too long,” appreciate how this saves time and avoids frustration. The guide often shares tidbits about the Eiffel Tower’s construction, its role in Paris’s skyline, and some lesser-known facts.

At the 2nd level, you’ll have ample time to wander, take photos, and soak up breathtaking views of Paris’s most famous landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe, the wide boulevards of Haussmann, and the River Seine. Many reviewers mention how incredible the vistas are from here, with some “making sure to get the best photos,” as one dedicated traveler noted.

If you opt for the summit access, you’ll wait in a short line on the second floor, with possible delays of up to 20 minutes during busy seasons. This optional upgrade rewards you with an even more spectacular view, often cited as well worth the extra wait.

After descending, your tour continues with a 1-hour Seine River cruise, operated by Les Bateaux Parisiens. You’ll receive an audio guide in your preferred language, allowing you to relax and enjoy views of Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and other landmarks. This cruise adds a gentle, scenic element to your sightseeing, with many reviewers noting how peaceful and scenic the ride is, even when crowded.

The Practicalities and Value

Pricing at around $90 per person, this tour offers a tidy package: reserved access to the Eiffel Tower’s 1st and 2nd floors, optional summit, a guided experience, and the Seine cruise. For most travelers, it’s a solid deal, especially considering the time saved from waiting in lines.

The guides receive praise for their friendliness and knowledge, often sharing facts that aren’t readily available in guidebooks. One reviewer, who called their guide Emanuel “extremely knowledgeable,” appreciated the personal touch and informative commentary.

It’s worth noting that waiting times can still occur, particularly during high season, with security and elevator queues sometimes stretching up to 25 minutes. Summit access might add another 20-minute wait. Planning your day around this, or arriving early, can help maximize your experience.

The Seine cruise tickets are only given at the office, with a six-month validity window, so you’ll have flexibility to plan your cruise separately if needed. Keep in mind, bad weather, maintenance, or safety closures can affect the Eiffel Tower’s summit availability, so a backup plan or flexible expectations are wise.

Large luggage, pets, non-folding strollers, and glass objects aren’t allowed, so pack accordingly. Also, this tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, due to limited accessibility.

The Experience from Real Travelers

Many reviews highlight the quality of guides, with names like Chloe, Hipolyte, and Catalina praised for their friendly, engaging approach. Comments like “she explained everything with positivity” and “she made sure we got the best photos” show how much personalized attention guides give.

The views from the Eiffel Tower’s 2nd floor consistently get high praise, with comments about “stunning scenery” and “amazing photo ops.” One traveler said, “The structure is incredible,” capturing the awe many feel during the visit.

The Seine River cruise is described as peaceful and scenic, with some reviewers mentioning how it’s a perfect way to wind down after the busy tower visit. However, some felt the cruise was crowded, and one suggested it might not be worth the extra cost if you prefer a more private experience.

Overall, the combination of quick access, expert guides, and relaxing cruise offers a balanced, enjoyable way to see Paris in a few hours. The reviews indicate most travelers leave feeling they received good value, especially compared to the long queues and hassle of doing it solo.

Why This Tour Works for You

This experience is ideal if you want a well-organized, informative, and value-packed introduction to Paris’s most iconic sights. It’s especially helpful if you’re pressed for time but don’t want to miss out on the Eiffel Tower’s best views or a scenic river ride.

Travelers who enjoy guided explanations often mention how guides enhance the experience with fascinating stories and insider tips. If you’re traveling with family or friends, the group setting adds a social element without feeling crowded.

However, if you are mobility impaired or carrying large luggage, you might want to consider other options, as waiting lines and accessibility could pose challenges. Also, those seeking a private, quiet, or more luxurious experience may find this tour a bit too rushed.

The Sum Up: Worth Your Time and Money?

This tour offers a comprehensive and enjoyable way to experience the Eiffel Tower and the Seine in a short amount of time. The combination of skip-the-line access, knowledgeable guides, and a relaxing cruise makes it a valuable option for first-timers and seasoned visitors alike.

You’ll love the views from the Eiffel Tower’s 2nd floor, especially with a guide sharing stories that bring the experience to life. The Seine cruise adds a gentle, scenic conclusion, perfect for unwinding and appreciating Paris from the water.

This experience is best suited for those looking for efficient, guided sightseeing that balances educational content with the chance to capture beautiful photos. It’s particularly good for travelers wanting a cost-effective way to tick off two major attractions without the stress of navigating alone or long lines.

If you’re eager to see Paris from above and along the river, and prefer a well-organized tour with expert commentary, then this package could be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is the Eiffel Tower summit included in this tour?
You can upgrade to include summit access; otherwise, the ticket takes you only to the 2nd level. Summit access involves a short wait and is optional.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including the elevator ascent, exploration time, and the Seine River cruise.

Where do I meet the guide?
You meet at the Paris’Trip office at 41 Avenue de la Bourdonnais, just a 5-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower. Do not go directly to the Eiffel Tower.

Can I do the cruise on a different day?
Yes, the cruise tickets are valid for 6 months after your Eiffel Tower visit, giving you flexibility to schedule separately.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?
Pets, luggage, non-folding strollers, and glass objects aren’t allowed. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

What happens if the Eiffel Tower summit is closed?
In case of bad weather or maintenance, summit access may be closed, and you’ll explore only the 2nd level.

This tour strikes a practical, fun balance for those wanting a smooth, guided experience of Paris’s most iconic sights. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, it offers value, convenience, and memorable views—perfect for capturing those Parisian moments.