Private Tour, Eiffel Tower Lunch, Summit & Seine Cruise Options

Exploring Paris through a mix of iconic sights, gourmet dining, and scenic river views sounds like a dream, and this private tour aims to deliver just that. Priced at around $355 per person, it offers an indulgent blend of sightseeing, culinary pleasure, and spectacular vistas. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, this experience promises a well-rounded day with plenty of memorable moments.

One aspect we particularly appreciate is the personalized touch of having a dedicated English-speaking guide. Plus, the option to enjoy a VIP dinner at Madame Brasserie on the Eiffel Tower’s first floor adds a layer of elegance. However, it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, so you’ll need to organize your own transportation to the Eiffel Tower. This experience seems ideal for those looking for a seamless, luxurious way to see Paris with some insider insights and special treats along the way.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Includes a private guide for a tailored tour of the Eiffel Tower.
• Flexible Schedule: You can choose to do your Seine cruise before or after lunch.
• Dining & Views: Gourmet lunch at Madame Brasserie with spectacular tower views.
• Add-On Options: Upgrade to access the summit or enjoy a champagne cruise.
• No Hotel Pickup: Travelers must arrange their own transportation.
• Authentic Insights: Guides are knowledgeable, enhancing the experience with local stories.

What to Expect from This Parisian Adventure

This tour combines several of Paris’s most loved attractions into one elegant package. It’s designed for those who want a curated experience without the hassle of planning each element separately. From the start, you’ll be guided through the grounds of the Eiffel Tower, with skip-the-line access easing the typical crowds. That’s a significant time-saver and ensures you get the most out of your visit.

Following the Eiffel Tower tour, your options expand. You can indulge in a luxury lunch at Madame Brasserie, situated on the first floor of the tower, or opt for an upgrade that takes you to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of Paris. For lovers of the water, the Seine River cruise offers a laid-back way to see the city’s landmarks from a different perspective, especially when paired with Champagne—adding a touch of celebration to your day.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Eiffel Tower Tour (Ground & Optional Summit)

Your day begins with a reserved skip-the-line ticket that grants you quick access to the Eiffel Tower’s ground floor. Your guide, whose knowledge has been praised for making the experience engaging, will lead you through the tower’s history and architecture, offering insights you might not discover on your own. Once on the second floor, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Paris’s most famous monuments.

If you select the summit upgrade, you’ll ascend higher for a closer look at the tower’s antenna and enjoy unmatched vistas of the city’s rooftops and beyond. Reviewers have shared that guides like Obinna and Yemisi made the experience memorable with their helpful tips and friendly approach. As one reviewer noted, “The guide was very knowledgeable and made the experience enjoyable,” highlighting how a good guide can elevate the visit.

Lunch at Madame Brasserie

Following your tower exploration, you’ll be seated at Madame Brasserie for your scheduled lunch—either at 11:30 am or 1 pm. This restaurant, located on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower, offers a gourmet menu with views of Paris, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed yet indulgent meal with a view. While the menu isn’t detailed here, reviewers have described their meals as excellent, and the venue itself as “amazing.”

Seine River Cruise with Champagne (Optional)

For many, the highlight of the tour is the Seine River cruise, often described as a magical way to see Paris at night or during the day. You can opt for a cruise with Champagne, adding a celebratory feel to the experience. The cruise is typically unguided, with multilingual audio commentary providing context about the landmarks along the river.

One reviewer mentioned that “Paris by night on the Seine is awesome,” emphasizing how the river’s calm waters and shimmering city lights create an unforgettable atmosphere. Another reviewer appreciated the champagne, saying it “adds extra sparkle and makes for a very French experience”—sure to enhance romantic moments or a special celebration.

Practical Details and Tips

Timing & Flexibility

The tour typically lasts about 2 hours, but the scheduling of activities like the cruise and lunch can be flexible depending on your preferences. You can choose to do the Seine cruise before or after lunch, depending on availability and your schedule. Keep in mind that your lunch is set for either 11:30 am or 1 pm, so plan your day accordingly.

Transportation & Accessibility

Since the tour does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off, you’ll need to make your own way to the Eiffel Tower. Paris’s public transportation system is convenient, with nearby metro stations making access straightforward. The tour is described as being near public transit, so no worries if you’re relying on the metro or buses.

Price and Value

At just under $355, this tour offers a lot of value for those wanting a curated Paris experience. The skip-the-line Eiffel Tower tickets alone are worth a good chunk of the price, and the added luxury of lunch and a private guide makes it a worthwhile splurge. The optional upgrades for summit access and the Champagne cruise make this an even more memorable, personalized day.

What Past Travelers Say

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—with one reviewer calling Arnie “wonderful, knowledgeable, funny, patient, and kind.” The guides seem to truly enhance the experience, making complex history and architecture accessible and interesting.

On the downside, there was a notable disappointment when a boat wasn’t running, leading to a cancellation for some. The reviewer mentioned difficulty with the refund process, so it’s worth double-checking the cruise schedule closer to your visit.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is best suited for travelers seeking an elegant, hassle-free way to see Paris’s highlights. It’s ideal if you love combining sightseeing with fine dining and scenic cruises, and want some expert insights along the way. It’s perfect for couples celebrating special occasions or travelers who enjoy a touch of luxury without feeling overwhelmed by planning.

It’s also a good choice for those who value timed reservations—like the lunch and Eiffel Tower tickets—and want a seamless, curated day. Keep in mind, it’s not a budget option, but the mix of private guiding, skip-the-line access, and added experiences makes it a highly worthwhile investment for those who prioritize quality and comfort.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated Parisian experience, combining top attractions with gourmet dining and scenic river views. The private guide ensures you get personalized attention, making the experience more engaging and informative. The Eiffel Tower’s views from the second level—or the summit if upgraded—are unforgettable, and pairing this with a Champagne cruise adds a celebratory touch.

For those who love luxury without sacrificing authenticity, this experience balances high-end touches with genuine sightseeing. While transportation arrangements are on your part, the overall value—considering skip-the-line tickets, guided insights, and optional upgrades—makes it a compelling choice.

If you’re after a well-organized day that captures the essence of Paris with a touch of elegance, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s especially suited for travelers wanting a sophisticated, memorable adventure with plenty of photo-worthy moments and insider knowledge at every turn.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, transportation to and from the Eiffel Tower is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own travel via public transit or other means.

Can I visit the Eiffel Tower summit with this tour?
Yes, if you select the upgrade option, you’ll gain access to the summit after your lunch.

What time should I book my lunch?
Your lunch reservation will be either at 11:30 am or 1 pm, so plan your day accordingly.

Is the Seine cruise guided?
No, the cruise is typically unguided, but it features multilingual audio commentary for a self-guided experience.

Are drinks included during the tour?
Yes, if you opt for the Seine cruise with Champagne, you’ll be able to enjoy a glass while taking in the views.

How long does the entire experience last?
The core experience runs approximately 2 hours, but with lunch and optional upgrades, plan for a full day.

Can this tour be customized?
The scheduling of activities is flexible to some degree, allowing you to enjoy the cruise before or after lunch, depending on your preferences.

This private tour in Paris strikes a fine balance between guided expertise, luxurious dining, and scenic beauty, making it a standout choice for those who want to indulge in the City of Light without the stress of planning each detail.