Best of Paris: Stress-Free Tour with River Cruise from Le Havre
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Experience the highlights of Paris on this shore excursion from Le Havre, featuring a scenic Seine River cruise to help you skip city traffic. Enjoy iconic views of the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and (water levels permitting) the newly restored Notre Dame Cathedral from the water. After the cruise, stop for photos at the Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées, with free time for snacks or souvenir shopping. This tour is carefully timed to your ship’s docking schedule, ensuring a smooth return to port.
Additional Info
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The free time at the Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées is subject to traffic, special events, docking times of your ship, and other circumstances. If your tour does not permit for free time due to these circumstances, or your free time is shortened, we will not be able to provide a refund. If you prefer a tour focused on self-exploration, please consider our "Paris on Your Own Tour" (Viator Product 63772P156).
This tour is not suitable for passengers with mobility scooters or traveling with wheelchairs. Only light, foldable wheelchairs can be accommodated. Private tours with wheelchair-adapted vehicles can be arranged.
Your bus driver may not speak English. If you have any questions or queries, please call our emergency phone number: +49 176 636 40755
This tour does not visit the Eiffel Tower inside. You will have a photo opportunity from the river cruise, and from a distance of about several hundred yards.
Guests should be comfortable with walking for up to 20 minutes at a time. May not be suitable for individuals with severe mobility restrictions.
The route of the tour and time spent in Paris is subject to the ship’s docking times, traffic, special events, and any other circumstances out of our control. Please note we will not be able to provide a refund if the touring time must be shortened because of any of the above
Normally, this tour lasts 11 hours. On the following days, the tour lasts 10 hours: in 2025: 13th of Jul (NCL Sky), 23rd of Aug (NCL Sky), 10th of Sept (NCL Dawn), 16th of Sept (NCL Jewel), 23rd of Sept (Independence of the Seas), 13th of Oct (MS Rotterdam). In 2026: 16th of April (Nieuw Statendam), 20th of June (Carnival Legend), 1st of July (Oceania Sirena), 18th of July (Carnival Legend: 9-hour tour with 2.5 hours in Paris)
If you are late and do not contact us, the bus will be unable to wait for you. In such cases, we will not be able to provide a refund.
The river cruise has included audio-commentary. To listen to the commentary on the outside deck, please bring your own headphones.
Please note that the river cruises only reach the Notre Dame Cathedral if the water levels allow.
Please note this tour is not suitable for children under 3 years old.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Modern, air-conditioned shared bus transportation
Full refund if your ship cannot dock
English-speaking tour guide for shared tours (The guide only joins the bus in Paris)
English speaking hosts at the port
Guaranteed return to ship on time
Toast with French sparkling wine at the end of the tour
1-hour scenic Seine River Cruise with audio commentary on board
24/7 Customer support, assistance with other arrangements and tours
Complimentary typical French pastries
Pick-up and drop off at cruise ship port of Le Havre
Entrance fees (none will be required)
Food and drinks
Gratuities (Recommend 10% for guides, and 5% for bus drivers)
Inside visits to Eiffel Tower, Louvre or Notre Dame are not included
Semi-private option "only driver" does not include a tour guide in Paris.
What To Expect
Cruise Terminal Le Havre
Begin your Paris shore excursion from the Le Havre cruise port, where friendly hosts will greet you outside the terminal. Board a comfortable, air-conditioned bus for a scenic 3-hour ride through the Norman countryside. The tour aligns with your ship’s schedule, ensuring a timely return. Enjoy views of iconic Paris landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, all while avoiding heavy city traffic. Experience the highlights of Paris comfortably and efficiently.
Eiffel Tower
Your first stop is the river cruise dock, just a few hundred meters from the iconic Eiffel Tower. There, your tour guide will welcome you to Paris and share insights about the tower, the city, and French culture. You'll take a brief walk—about 1–2 blocks—for fantastic photo opportunities of this world-famous landmark. Please note: this tour does not include entry to the Eiffel Tower; you'll view it from a nearby vantage point.
Options
Ticket for Shared Tour
Shared tour from Le Havre: This tour starts and ends in Le Havre Cruise Ship Port.
Upgraded option: This is an upgraded version of our Paris shore excursion which includes a 1-hour river cruise to avoid busy streets.
Seine River Cruise : The 1-hour river cruise goes through the heart of Paris, starting close to the Eiffel Tower, past the Louvre, and more.
Eiffel, Cruise, Champs-Elysees: Upon arrival in Paris enjoy a guided walk close to the Eiffel Tower, 1-hour cruise and a photo stop at Arc de Triomphe.
Bus transfer to and from Paris: You’ll travel on a bus shared with other passengers. The journey takes 3-3.5 hours each way. The guide joins in Paris.
Boat commentary: During the boat cruise there is an onboard commentary via speakers. Please bring your headphones with you.
Ticket for a shared tour
Duration: 11 hours
NCL Dawn 7th of July 2025
Shared tour from Le Havre: This tour starts and ends in Le Havre Cruise Ship Port.
Upgraded option: This is an upgraded version of our Paris shore excursion which includes a 1-hour river cruise to avoid busy streets.
Seine River Cruise : The 1-hour river cruise goes through the heart of Paris, starting close to the Eiffel Tower, past the Louvre, and more.
Eiffel, Cruise, Champs-Elysees: Upon arrival in Paris enjoy a guided walk close to the Eiffel Tower, 1-hour cruise and a photo stop at Arc de Triomphe.
Bus transfer to and from Paris: You’ll travel on a bus shared with other passengers. The journey takes 3-3.5 hours each way. The guide joins in Paris.
Boat commentary: During the boat cruise there is an onboard commentary via speakers. Please bring your headphones with you.
Transfers only, no guide
Transfers Only: Please note that this option does not include a tour guide, only bus transfers.
Shared Tour Paris Sightseeing
Shared tour from Le Havre: This tour starts and ends in Le Havre Cruise Ship Port.
Upgraded option: This is an upgraded version of our Paris shore excursion which includes a 1-hour river cruise to avoid busy streets.
Seine River Cruise : The 1-hour river cruise goes through the heart of Paris, starting close to the Eiffel Tower, past the Louvre, and more.
Eiffel, Cruise, Champs-Elysees: Upon arrival in Paris enjoy a guided walk close to the Eiffel Tower, 1-hour cruise and a photo stop at Arc de Triomphe.
Bus transfer to and from Paris: You’ll travel on a bus shared with other passengers. The guide joins in Paris.
Boat commentary: During the boat cruise there is an onboard commentary via speakers. Please bring your headphones with you.
Regal Princess 15th Sept 2025
Shared tour from Le Havre: This tour starts and ends in Le Havre Cruise Ship Port.
Upgraded option: This is an upgraded version of our Paris shore excursion which includes a 1-hour river cruise to avoid busy streets.
Seine River Cruise : The 1-hour river cruise goes through the heart of Paris, starting close to the Eiffel Tower, past the Louvre, and more.
Eiffel, Cruise, Champs-Elysees: Upon arrival in Paris enjoy a guided walk close to the Eiffel Tower, 1-hour cruise and a photo stop at Arc de Triomphe.
Bus transfer to and from Paris: You’ll travel on a bus shared with other passengers. The guide joins in Paris.
Boat commentary: During the boat cruise there is an onboard commentary via speakers. Please bring your headphones with you.
Fully Private - Only Driver
Private Car for the Day: This tour includes a private car and driver for the entire duration of the tour, 10 hours. No guide included.
Duration: 10 hours
Port pick up and drop off: This tour picks up and drops off at the port of Le Havre. Transfer each way takes about 2.5-3 hours.
No tour guide included: This tour does not include a tour guide. Your driver will take you to locations of your choice in Paris.
Carnival Legend 18th July 2026
Shared tour from Le Havre: This tour starts and ends in Le Havre Cruise Ship Port.
Upgraded option: This is an upgraded version of our Paris shore excursion which includes a 1-hour river cruise to avoid busy streets.
Seine River Cruise : The 1-hour river cruise goes through the heart of Paris, starting close to the Eiffel Tower, past the Louvre, and more.
Duration: 9 hours: You’ll travel on a bus shared with other passengers. The journey takes 3-3.5 hours each way. The guide joins in Paris.
Eiffel, Cruise, Champs-Elysees: Upon arrival in Paris enjoy a guided walk close to the Eiffel Tower, 1-hour cruise and a photo stop at Arc de Triomphe.
Boat commentary: During the boat cruise there is an onboard commentary via speakers. Please bring your headphones with you.
Free Time: Due to time constraints, there will be no free time. For self-guided tour: www.viator.com/tours/x/y/d4836-63772P180
Semi-Private with only Car
Private Car in Paris: Shared bus transportation from port to Paris and back. In Paris you will have a private vehicle and driver but no tour guide.
Not guided, no commentary: Please note this tour does not include a tour guide. Your private driver in Paris will take you to locations of your choice.
Seine River Cruise : This Tour Includes Seine River Cruise to admire Parisian Landmarks
10h Semi-Private w/ Guide&Car
Seine River Cruise : This Tour Includes Seine River Cruise to admire Parisian Landmarks
Private Car&Guide in Paris: Includes shared bus transportation from port to Paris and back. In Paris you will have a private guide and vehicle.
Duration: 10 hours: The tour is 10 hours long and is adjusted to your cruise ship's docking times.
Shared transport: Includes shared bus transportation from port to Paris and back. In Paris you will have a private guide and vehicle.
Guided Semi-Private w. Cruise
Shared Bus Transfers: This option includes shared bus transfers from Le Havre Port to Paris and back. In Paris you will have a private tour.
Private Car and Guide in Paris: Upon arrival in Paris you will have a private car, driver and guide at your disposal.
Duration: 10 hours: This tour takes 10-11 hours total depending on ship docking times. Transfer to Paris and back is about 3-3.5 hours each way.
1-hour River Cruise Included: This tour includes tickets to a 1-hour river cruise on the river Seine past main landmarks such as the Louvre.
Flexible itinerary: Your time in Paris can be customized. If you have special wishes regarding the itinerary, contact us prior to your tour.
NCL Prima 15th Sept 2025
Shared tour from Le Havre: This tour starts and ends in Le Havre Cruise Ship Port.
Upgraded option: This is an upgraded version of our Paris shore excursion which includes a 1-hour river cruise to avoid busy streets.
Seine River Cruise : The 1-hour river cruise goes through the heart of Paris, starting close to the Eiffel Tower, past the Louvre, and more.
Eiffel, Cruise, Champs-Elysees: Upon arrival in Paris enjoy a guided walk close to the Eiffel Tower, 1-hour cruise and a photo stop at Arc de Triomphe.
Bus transfer to and from Paris: You’ll travel on a bus shared with other passengers. The journey takes 3-3.5 hours each way. The guide joins in Paris.
Boat commentary: During the boat cruise there is an onboard commentary via speakers. Please bring your headphones with you.
Fully Private with Paris Guide
Private Car for the Day: This tour includes a private car and driver for the entire duration of the tour, 10 hours.
Private Guide in Paris: This tour includes a private professional local tour guide in Paris during your time in the city, about 4-5 hours.
Includes Seine River Cruise: This option includes Seine River Cruise tickets, for a 1-hour cruise with audio-commentary on board.
Duration: 10 hours
Port pick up and drop off: This tour picks up and drops off at the port of Le Havre. Transfer each way takes about 2.5-3 hours.
Regal Princess 7th July 2025
Shared tour from Le Havre: This tour starts and ends in Le Havre Cruise Ship Port.
Upgraded option: This is an upgraded version of our Paris shore excursion which includes a 1-hour river cruise to avoid busy streets.
Seine River Cruise : The 1-hour river cruise goes through the heart of Paris, starting close to the Eiffel Tower, past the Louvre, and more.
Duration: 11 hours: You’ll travel on a bus shared with other passengers. The journey takes 3-3.5 hours each way. The guide joins in Paris.
Eiffel, Cruise, Champs-Elysees: Upon arrival in Paris enjoy a guided walk close to the Eiffel Tower, 1-hour cruise and a photo stop at Arc de Triomphe.
Boat commentary: During the boat cruise there is an onboard commentary via speakers. Please bring your headphones with you.
Reviews
107 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Amazing Trip
DORRIS B,
Jul 14, 2025
- Viator
5.00The experience was amazing. I was a skeptic about third party excursions because I’m not familiar with the countries I’m visiting. However, because of this unforgettable experience I’ve had, Viator would be the way to go from now on. From the pick up and drop off on time, to the bus driver, to the tour guide, Amir AMAZING!!!!!
Top notch fun with plenty of time to do what we wanted to do!!!!
Justin F,
Jul 10, 2025
- Viator
5.00This was a great experience for our family. The operating company was easy to find at the cruise port, the lead us to the buses and we enjoyed a nice air conditioned 3 hour bus ride to Paris. The hour long boat ride down the river was fascinating. The sites were amazing. Afterwards, we were given time at the Eifel Tower and at the Arc de Triumph to do some shopping/lunch before they got us back to the port in plenty of time to catch our departure. Great excursion!!!!
Paris is very far from Le Havre so not much time to see Paris
Richard M,
Jul 8, 2025
- Viator
4.00We left from cruise port at 8am and arrived in Paris at 11:30 and waited till noon to board a river cruise. The cruise had amazing sights. The commentary was hard to hear upstairs since it was windy so that was useless. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable, but he didn't commentate - he would basically just answer questions. The audio commentary you could get on your phone was a pain... you had to go to your phone every couple minutes to start the next section... but there was no way to know what section you should be on, no way to tell what you were looking at to make sure that the commentary was lined up since there were so many short snippets of commentary.... After that, we were given about 20 minutes to go up the the street level which is right at the bottom of the Eiffel tower to take some photos and then got back on the bus. We drove to part of the city with a huge roundabout where a bunch of streets meet. We were told we have an hour. The guide took us half way around the circle and then said meet back at the bus. We got back on the bus and drove back for the 3.5 hour trip back. They fed us a couple cookies and a bottle of water. The gave us a paper cup the size of a shot glass with champagne. We stopped once each way for a bathroom break for 10 minutes. It rained 100?% of the time except we lucked out and it totally stopped while were on the river cruise and restarted as soon as we got off. It was my first time in France so it was cool to see the Eiffel tower up close and to float past he Louve.
Great excursion to Paris
David W,
Jul 8, 2025
- Viator
5.00Too class trip which we booked whilst our cruise ship was in le harve. Paris is around 3 hours away, but the trip is well put together and allowed enough time to see the attractions, do a river cruise and a bit of shopping / sight seeing. Our guide met us in Paris and Maartin was very knowledgeable. Nice snack bag was provided and a cup of sparkling wine at the end. Back in plenty of time for the ship. Very highly recommended at a fraction of what the cruise line was asking
Nice introduction to Paris
Kenneth H,
Jun 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00Other than the long bus ride, the time spent in Paris was great. Saw lots of sights and our tour guide Amir was very good. Very knowledgeable and friendly. The only downside was not having a whole lot of time on our own. We would have liked to have been able to shop for a few souvenirs. Seeing how our time was limited, something had to be short. All in all, a great day.
Related Experiences
Operated by Vexperio