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Seeing Paris by Batobus

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 (Left Bank) – and has long been the city’s 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 doesn’t 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 €12 for an adult one-day pass, and are also available in two-day, five-day and 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 fleet’s 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, except for a three-week period in January, and stops at eight prominent Parisian landmarks:

• the Tour Eiffel,
• Musée d’Orsay,
• St Germain des Prés,
• Notre Dame,
• Jardin des Plantes,
• Hôtel de Ville,
• Louvre and
• the Champs-Elysées.

Boats run every 30 minutes (15 minutes during peak season), making the Batobus a quick and easy way to explore the best of Paris.

Riding the Paris Batobus

Stops: Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, 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.*

June to August: 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.*

* See the official Batobus timetable for up-to-date information


Ticket Costs:

1-day pass: €12 adult, €6 child (under 16)

2-day pass: €14 adult, €7 child (under 16)

5-day pass: €17 adult, €8 child (under 16)

Annual pass: €55 adult, €35 child (under 16)

Maps & more about the Paris Batobus:

Batobus Paris

also see in Travel -> Paris Catacombs | Paris Top Attractions

Notre Dame Gargoyles | Paris Metro Guide

Eiffel Tower Tour