Paris must-see: Colorful,
leisurely rides along the banks of the Seine.
For
centuries, the River Seine has been a central element of the city of Paris. The
Seine neatly divides the city into two the Rive Droite (Right Bank) and
the Rive Gauche (encompassing Paris' famous Latin Quarter) and has long been the citys lifeline,
bringing sustenance, trade and tourists to Paris and its environs.
Its picturesque banks have inspired many a famous painting, novel and poem, and
have even earned a spot on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
What better way to explore Paris than by boat along this storied river? It doesnt
have to cost a fortune.
The
Batobus, a river-boat shuttle service operated by the Bateaux Parisiens in cooperation
with the Secretary of State for Transport, offers hop-on, hop-off service at reasonable
rates. Ticket prices start at just €15 for an adult one-day pass, and are
also available in two-day, and even annual segments. The company often partners
with museums and events in Paris to offer further discounts.
Bateaux
Parisiens has won a number of French tourism awards for its emphasis on passenger
comfort on the Batobus service. With glassed-over tops, interior heating and engine
sound-proofing, the fleets sleek river-boats are a cut above most other
metropolitan ferry services. Open decks at the rear of each boat provide fantastic
views, especially at sunset.
The
Batobus operates year-round, and stops
at eight prominent Parisian landmarks. Boats
run every 30 minutes (15 minutes during peak season), making the Batobus a quick
and easy way to explore the best of Paris.
Stopping at such famous landmarks as the Notre Dame cathedral and the Eiffel Tower
(pictured) the Batobus is a fun, inexpensive tour of the Paris from morning til dusk...
Riding the Paris Batobus
Hop on, hop off the Paris Batobus
offering stops at major attractions
along the Seine ...
Stops: Eiffel Tower, Musée dOrsay, St German des
Prés, Notre Dame Cathedral, Jardin des Plantes, Hôtel
de Ville, Louvre Museum and Champs-Elysées.
Departure
times: Boats depart
every 15 to 30 minutes
November
to March: 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.*
April
and May, September and October: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.*