Paris: Louvre Reserved Access and Boat Cruise

Planning a trip to Paris? Make the most of your visit with a combined Louvre Museum and Seine River cruise package. This popular option lets you experience two iconic Parisian attractions in one day.

With reserved access to the Louvre, you’ll skip the long queues and dive straight into exploring the world’s largest art museum. Wander at your own pace through galleries filled with masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. After immersing yourself in art and history, step aboard a boat for a relaxing cruise along the Seine.

As you glide past landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, you’ll gain a new perspective on the City of Light.

The flexibility of this combo allows you to enjoy both activities on the same day or spread them out during your stay. It’s an ideal way to see Paris from both land and water, giving you a well-rounded experience of the city’s cultural treasures and scenic beauty.

Planning Louvre Reserved Visit and Boat Cruise

Booking Louvre and Seine cruise experience requires some preparation. You’ll need to consider ticket options, entry procedures, and cancellation policies to ensure a smooth visit.

Purchasing Tickets

Prices vary based on the package, but typically range from £40-60 per adult. Children and students often get discounts.

Reserved Entrance

Your reserved access ticket lets you skip the main queue at the Louvre. Head to the designated priority entrance, usually under the glass pyramid.

Show your ticket and go through security. This can save you hours of waiting, especially on busy days. The museum is vast, so plan which sections you want to see most.

The Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo are popular, but don’t miss lesser-known gems. For the boat cruise, go to the dock at your chosen time. Most cruises run frequently throughout the day.

Cancellation Policy

Many ticket providers offer a full refund if you cancel within 24 hours of your visit date. Some allow changes up to 48 hours before.

Check the terms when you book. If your plans change last-minute, you might still be able to reschedule.

Keep your confirmation email handy in case you need to contact customer service. For the boat cruise portion, tickets are often valid for several days or a week. This gives you flexibility if the weather turns bad on your planned day. Always read the fine print to understand your options.

The Louvre Experience

The Louvre Museum offers a wealth of art and history. You’ll find world-famous masterpieces, ancient treasures, and stunning architecture. Reserved access tickets let you skip long queues and make the most of your visit.

Guided Tours

Guided tours give you expert insights into the Louvre’s vast collections. You can book a tour with a knowledgeable guide who’ll share fascinating stories about key artworks. Tours typically last 1.5 to 3 hours and cover museum highlights.

Audio guides are available in multiple languages. They let you explore at your own pace whilst learning about the art. You can rent these devices at the museum or download the app to your smartphone.

Must-See Artworks

The Mona Lisa is the Louvre’s most famous painting. Leonardo da Vinci’s enigmatic portrait draws crowds daily. Arrive early to beat the rush and get a good view.

The Venus de Milo is another iconic piece. This ancient Greek sculpture of Aphrodite is a stunning example of classical art.

Don’t miss the Winged Victory of Samothrace. This powerful statue of Nike, the goddess of victory, is breathtaking.

The museum’s Egyptian collection is vast. You’ll see mummies, sphinx statues, and ancient jewellery.

Renaissance art lovers should visit the Italian paintings section. Works by Raphael, Titian, and Botticelli await you there.

Visitor Facilities

The Louvre offers several amenities to make your visit comfortable. Cloakrooms are available to store coats and small bags. Large bags aren’t allowed inside the galleries.

Cafes and restaurants are scattered throughout the museum. You can grab a quick snack or enjoy a full meal without leaving the building.

The museum shop sells art books, postcards, and unique gifts. It’s a great place to find souvenirs of your visit.

Accessibility is a priority. Wheelchairs are available for free, and most areas are accessible to visitors with limited mobility.

Seine River Cruise

The Seine River Cruise offers a unique perspective of Paris’s iconic landmarks. You’ll glide along the river, taking in breathtaking views of the city’s most famous sights from the water.

Embarking on the Cruise

You’ll board a comfortable boat for your Seine River journey. The cruise typically lasts about an hour, giving you ample time to soak in the Parisian atmosphere. Audio guides are available in multiple languages, providing interesting facts about the sights you’ll pass.

The boats are equipped with large windows and open-air decks, perfect for sightseeing and taking photos. You can choose between daytime cruises for clear views or evening cruises to see Paris lit up at night.

Sightseeing Highlights

As you cruise along the Seine, you’ll pass by many of Paris’s most famous landmarks. The Eiffel Tower stands tall, offering a stunning backdrop for your photos. You’ll see the gothic beauty of Notre Dame Cathedral, even as it undergoes restoration.

Other highlights include the grand Louvre Museum, the ornate Pont Alexandre III bridge, and the golden dome of Les Invalides. You’ll also pass under historic bridges like the Pont Neuf and Alma Bridge. The cruise provides a relaxing way to see these sights without the hustle and bustle of city streets.

Transportation and Accessibility

Getting to the Louvre and Seine cruise is straightforward. There are options for all visitors, including those with mobility needs.

Getting to the Venue

The Louvre is in central Paris. You can reach it by Metro, bus, or taxi. Take Metro Line 1 to Palais-Royal Musée du Louvre station. Bus routes 21, 24, 27, 39, 48, 68, 69, 72, 81, and 95 stop nearby.

For the Seine cruise, most boats depart near the Eiffel Tower. Take Metro Line 6 to Bir-Hakeim or RER C to Champ de Mars-Tour Eiffel.

Taxis and ride-hailing services can drop you off at either location. If you’re driving, there are car parks near both venues, but they can be pricey.

Explore More Parisian River Cruises:

Accessibility Information

The Louvre offers wheelchair access via the Pyramid entrance. Lifts serve all floors. You can borrow wheelchairs for free with a deposit.

Most Seine cruise boats are wheelchair-friendly. Tell the staff when booking to ensure proper assistance.

Both venues have accessible toilets. Guide dogs are welcome at the Louvre and on cruises.

At the Louvre, some exhibits have audio descriptions and tactile elements for visually impaired guests. Some cruise companies offer audio guides in multiple languages.

Additional Tips and Information

Planning visit to the Louvre and Seine cruise requires some strategic thinking. Here are some helpful pointers to make the most of your experience.

Best Time to Visit

The Louvre tends to be less crowded early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Wednesdays and Fridays offer extended evening hours, providing a unique atmosphere.

For the Seine cruise, sunset trips offer stunning views of Paris lit up at night. Spring and autumn are ideal seasons, with mild weather and fewer tourists.

Consider the weather forecast when planning your cruise. Clear days provide the best views of iconic monuments along the Seine.

Facilities and Services

The Louvre offers audio guides in multiple languages to enhance your visit. You can rent these at the museum or download the app on your smartphone.

Lockers are available for storing small bags and coats. Large luggage is not permitted inside the museum.

The museum has several cafes and restaurants if you need a break. For a special treat, book a table at Café Richelieu with views of the Louvre pyramid.

Most Seine cruises offer onboard commentary. Some provide drinks and snacks for purchase. Check if your chosen cruise has covered areas in case of rain.

Wheelchair access is available at the Louvre and on many Seine boats. It’s best to confirm accessibility when booking your tickets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Visitors to Paris often have queries about the Louvre and Seine River cruises. These common questions cover costs, access, and special experiences to enhance your trip.

How much should one expect to pay for a Seine River cruise?

Seine River cruises typically cost between €15 and €30 per person. Prices vary based on the length of the cruise and any added extras. Basic one-hour sightseeing trips are the most affordable option.

Which entrance is recommended for the best experience at the Louvre?

The Pyramid entrance is the main and most iconic way to enter the Louvre. For a quicker entry, try the Carrousel du Louvre underground entrance. It often has shorter queues and provides shelter in bad weather.

Are there any evenings when a music-accompanied river cruise is available in Paris?

Yes, some companies offer evening cruises with live music. These often include dinner and usually run from Thursday to Sunday. Book in advance, as these popular cruises can sell out quickly.

Is pre-purchasing tickets advisable for visiting the Louvre?

Buying tickets in advance is highly recommended for the Louvre. It saves time and guarantees entry on busy days. You can book online through the official Louvre website or authorised ticket sellers.

On which days can one visit the Louvre without an entrance fee?

The Louvre offers free admission on the first Saturday of each month from 6 pm to 9:45 pm. It’s also free on Bastille Day (14 July). These days are very busy, so arrive early.

Can one find a Seine night cruise that does not include a dinner?

Yes, many companies offer evening sightseeing cruises without meals. These trips usually last about an hour and provide stunning views of Paris lit up at night. They’re a great budget-friendly option.