River Seine - Cruise Destination Focus
Everything you need to know about a Seine river cruise
Rising at Source-Seine near Dijon in northeastern France, and flowing through bucket-list destinations like Paris and Rouen before emptying into the English Channel at Le Havre, the River Seine is a stunning waterway that passes through some of France’s most spectacular scenery and idyllic destinations. Boasting breathtaking landscapes worth taking the time to admire, fascinating histories to uncover, and an abundant, rich culture to appreciate, a Seine river cruise is among the best ways to explore northern France and an ideal river cruise experience for travellers looking for a more laid-back getaway. With some of the world’s most important canonical artworks on display in museums and galleries along the river, with impressive medieval chateaus and vibrant forest-covered hills stretching into the distance, it isn’t hard to find a reason why the River Seine should be the next destination you travel to.
However, what does cruising along the River Seine actually entail? What can you expect when you embark on an elegant river cruise ship in Paris ahead of a few days of adventure in Europe? It’s certainly easy to wax lyrical about these cruises to France, but that only tells you so much.
So, we’re going to dive a little deeper into the River Seine and the river cruising experience it offers. Below, you’ll find out more about the region the River Seine flows through, what makes the destinations on a Seine river cruise itinerary stand out from the rest, and more information you may find useful when it comes to booking your next cruise getaway. If that sounds interesting, be sure to keep reading to find out more.
Contents:
- Why choose a Seine river cruise?
- Top destinations and highlights on the River Seine
- Best time for cruises on the Seine River
- Top River Seine cruise lines
- Best River Seine cruise deals
- Seine River cruise tips
- Frequently Asked Questions about Seine river cruise holidays
Why choose a Seine river cruise?
What is so special about the Seine river cruises available right now? It’s an important question, and the ultimate question when it comes to choosing where you travel to next. Much like Danube river cruises and Rhine river cruises, cruises along the River Seine are famed for their jaw-dropping landscapes. Particularly, the stretch of the Seine between Vernon and Rouen in Normandy, which is sometimes known as the Seine Valley, is stunning. This is among the most popular parts of the Seine visited by river cruises, and you’ll find many of the highlights – aside from bucket-list cities like Paris – are found along this section of the river.
The Seine isn’t just known for its scenery, though; during the days when you’re exploring ashore, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in this region’s relaxed culture. Several of the destinations you’ll visit on a Seine river cruise are home to some of the world’s most impressive galleries, which house canonical artworks from history’s most talented artists, and you’ll never be too far from a quaint cafe with fresh French pastries or a restaurant where you’ll be able to indulge in the region’s finest foods.
Beyond this, you’ll find northern France rich with history – both modern and medieval, thanks to the historic importance of the River Seine. So, among the charming half-timber houses and hilltop chateaux, you’ll find a fantastic selection of museums to spend some time in – when you’re not strolling along the Seine, enjoying the riverside scenery.
Then, of course, there’s the onboard experience you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy while cruising along the River Seine.
River cruising is among the most relaxed ways to explore the world, and Seine river cruises really do exemplify that. Equipped with comfortable lounge spaces and well-appointed staterooms, river cruises boast attentive service and all the modern amenities you might need when travelling. The food you’ll have the chance to enjoy on a river cruise ship is also exceptional, and often incorporates regional cuisines to further enhance your experience. And, if you have anything you might need, your river cruise ship’s crew will be on hand to help, ensuring you’re well looked after while onboard.
Ultimately, much like other river cruises, a Seine river cruise is among the most stress-free ways to see northern France. On these river cruises, you’ll have all your travel arrangements already organised, your accommodation taken care of, and a seat at a fine dining restaurant ready each and every evening. You’ll also find a range of engaging cultural activities and experiences planned out for each port of call. While optional, this means you won’t have to worry about finding something to do when you head ashore; your river cruise line has already thought about that and prepared something interesting.
Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser looking for something fresh or completely new to any type of travelling, Seine river cruises are an ideal escape and an experience you’ll remember fondly for years to come.
Top destinations and highlights on the River Seine
What is so special about the River Seine, and why should you care about cruising through France? Well, the destinations you’ll have the chance to explore during your river cruise really are exciting – and certainly unlike any European destinations you’ll have the opportunity to visit on an ocean cruise. With impressive architecture and stunning scenery complementing sensational cuisine and engaging shore experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on a Seine river cruise; every stop on your sailing is worth looking forward to, although the following are among the highlights:
Paris
Paris, France: the city of lights, the city of love, and a city you won’t want to miss out on visiting when you have the opportunity. It’s always a highlight on Seine river cruises, and for several very good reasons. One of those is the fact that this is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum, chief among them. You’ll certainly be spoiled for choice when it comes to sightseeing here. Beyond this, Paris is also home to a wealth of sensational cuisines, incredible histories to uncover, and all the modern attractions and amenities you’d expect from a major European city. A global centre for the arts, fashion, and gastronomy, it’s easy to see why this is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations.
Top highlights here include:
- The Louvre Museum - housed in the Louvre Palace, which was built in the late 12th century under Phillip II, the Louvre Museum is one of the world’s most famous – and most important museums; it’s home to numerous canonical works of Western art, including the Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the Venus de Milo
- Sacré-Cœur Basilica - a minor Catholic basilica constructed atop Montmartre in 1910, the area around the Sacré-Cœur Basilica boasts some of the best views of Paris and the River Seine; while the interior is fascinating, and there are tours that take you up into the church’s dome, this landmark is worth visiting for the view from atop Montmartre alone
- Musée d'Orsay - a stunning museum focused on French art, from paintings and photography to furniture and more, Musée d'Orsay boasts the largest collection of Impressionist and post-Impressionist artwork in the world; a stone’s throw from the Seine in central Paris, this is a must-visit for anyone interested in French artwork and culture
Rouen
The capital of Normandy, Rouen, is one of the most fascinating ports of call on Seine river cruises and an inspiring destination where every type of traveller will find something to enjoy. Once among the most prosperous and important cities in medieval Europe, Rouen is steeped in a rich history, with stunning historic architecture and numerous landmarks scattered throughout the city. You’ll also find a plethora of fascinating museums and galleries here, meaning culture vultures will have more than enough activities to sink their teeth into when visiting. You’ll also find a rich culinary landscape in Rouen, making it the perfect place to indulge in some fine French cuisine and flavourful foods, alongside serene Seine-side walks and vibrant gardens to stroll. A little more laid back than somewhere like Paris, the welcoming atmosphere will put you at ease the moment you disembark.
Top highlights here include:
- Musée des Beaux-Arts - a fine art museum in the heart of Rouen, Musée des Beaux-Arts boasts a sensational collection of artworks from world-renowned painters throughout the 16th century to the 20th century; you’ll also find stunning objects d’art here alongside sculptures and thousands of drawings
- Notre-Dame Cathedral - you may not know this, but Rouen is home to its own Notre-Dame Cathedral, and it’s just as breathtaking as Paris’ own famous landmark; famed for having three towers featuring different architectural styles, this Catholic church was actually the tallest building in the world from 1876 to 1880
- Historial Jeanne d’Arc - found in the heart of Rouen’s historic city centre, this modern museum dedicated to the French heroine Joan of Arc is a must-visit experience; located in the same place Joan of Arc was condemned to death, this museum uses state-of-the-art audiovisual technology to bring her fascinating story to life
Vernon
A charming French commune on the banks of the River Seine between Paris and Rouen, Vernon is one of the most beautiful ports of call on river cruises along this remarkable waterway. Boasting an abundance of historic structures and hints at this town’s medieval history, you’ll be met with some fascinating stories and insightful experiences here. Beyond this, you’ll find quaint boutique shopping experiences, cafes and restaurants serving flavourful French food, and riverside walking routes ideal for soaking up the sunshine – and sensational scenery. Venturing further afield, Vernon is also near Giverny; here, you’ll find Claude Monet’s house and ornate gardens, a must-visit when in the area.
Top highlights here include:
- Château de Bizy - constructed circa 1740, Château de Bizy is a stunning castle boasting almost 50 acres of vibrant parkland to stroll through; divided into three different gardens – an Italian garden, a small French garden, and an English-style park – you’ll be met with gorgeous fountains, two-hundred-year-old trees, and abundant magnificence
- Le Vieux-Moulin de Vernon - a historic water mill that is widely considered a symbol of Vernon, this half-timbered structure sits atop stone piers on the River Seine
- Musée Blanche Hoschedé-Monet - showcasing an interesting collection of Impressionist artwork alongside numerous collections exploring the natural history of the region, this is a fascinating museum to spend any amount of time in when visiting Vernon
Honfleur
Honfleur, a historic city found where the Seine empties into the English Channel, is another popular port of call on Seine river cruises; boasting a laid-back atmosphere and charming half-timber houses, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this destination. Home to a variety of engaging museums and art galleries, you’ll find yourself quickly immersed in the rich history and vibrant culture here. The highlight, though, of this destination is the Vieux Bassin: Honfleur’s historic harbour. Famed for its tall and narrow houses, often painted by local artists, this is the beating heart of Honfleur. While visiting this picturesque port, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a variety of boutique shopping experiences alongside charming cafes and restaurants serving fresh French cuisine. Beyond this waterfront area, though, there’s so much more to discover and explore.
Top highlights here include:
- Le Jardin des Personnalités - this stunning seafront garden is the ideal place to soak up the sunshine while strolling through Honfleur; here, you’ll find an ornamental pond, busts of Honfleur’s most influential people, and a collection of vibrant rose bushes
- Musée Eugène Boudin - in this modern museum, you’ll find a fascinating collection of pre-Impressionist and contemporary paintings by Norman artists who once lived in Honfleur, offering an interesting insight into this city’s cultural history
- Église Sainte-Catherine - a stone’s throw from the Vieux Bassin, this intriguing Catholic church is among the most historic sites in Honfleur; largely made of wood, it stands out among France’s other churches
La Roche-Guyon
An idyllic French commune on the banks of the River Seine, La Roche-Guyon is simply stunning. Historically evolving around Château de La Roche-Guyon throughout the late Middle Ages, with the château itself being constructed throughout the 12th century, this charming village is a hidden gem among the busier cities you’ll visit during a Seine river cruise. When visiting, Château de La Roche-Guyon and its hilltop fortifications stand out as a highlight, though there’s much more to discover while spending some time here. From the sprawling arboretum, which is the ideal spot for a stroll in the sunshine, to an abundant selection of quaint cafes and boutique shopping experiences, this laid-back destination invites you to unwind and savour each special moment on your river cruise adventure.
Top highlights here include:
- Arboretum de La Roche-Guyon - just north of La Roche-Guyon, this sprawling arboretum boasts over 1,800 trees representing the region’s departments – including maples, beech trees, buckthorn, oak, and eucalyptus
- Parc Panoramique - looming over Château de La Roche-Guyon, this vibrant public park boasts impressive panoramic views of La Roche-Guyon, the Seine, and its surrounding scenery
- Potager Fruitier de La Roche-Guyon - a charming botanical garden on the banks of the River Seine, this is the second-largest vegetable garden in Île-de-France and has recently been restored to its original 1741 layout
An example Seine river cruise itinerary
If you’re looking for something a little more specific and wondering how all of these incredible places come together to create a comprehensive river cruise experience, you’re in luck; we’re going to run through a complete Seine river cruise itinerary below, highlighting what you can expect day by day when you embark on a river cruise along the Seine yourself. Of course, there will be some minor changes from itinerary to itinerary, but this will give you a good sense of what to expect.
The itinerary in question is a 10-night Normandy & Gems of the Seine from Paris river cruise with Scenic River Cruises.
- Day 1 - You will embark on your river cruise in Paris and begin sailing the Seine
- Day 2 - Today, you will arrive in Les Andelys, spending some time before continuing on
- Day 3 - Arriving in Rouen, you will spend the day here before enjoying an overnight onboard
- Day 4 - After spending the night onboard, you will have another day to explore Rouen before departing
- Day 5 - Today, you’ll arrive in Honfleur, having some time to explore before spending the night onboard
- Day 6 - After spending the night onboard, you will have some more time to explore Honfleur before departing
- Day 7 - This day will see you arrive in Caudebec, where you’ll have some time before continuing along the Seine
- Day 8 - Today, you’ll spend some time in Vernon before continuing on to La Roche-Guyon, where you’ll also be able to spend some time
- Day 9 - On this day, you’ll arrive in Conflans Sainte Honorine, spending some time before continuing on to Paris
- Day 10 - Arriving in Paris, you’ll have some time to explore before spending the night on board
- Day 11 - After spending the night onboard, you’ll disembark for the final time in Paris
Best time for cruises on the Seine River
The River Seine is always stunning, and there’s never a bad time to embark on a river cruise along this historic waterway. However, there are a few things to consider when it comes to booking your Seine river cruise, and some times of the year are ultimately better than others.
Generally speaking, the best time to travel along the River Seine is either side of the river’s peak river cruising season – something that tends to encompass the summer months and run from June to August. While the weather during this period will be at its warmest, which is ideal if you’re looking to lounge around in the sunshine, the destinations you visit are likely to be busier, and the cruise fares during these months are often inflated. So, you may find that you’re paying more for your river cruise and having to deal with more crowds than you would during other times of the year.
So, that’s why travelling during the Seine river cruising season’s shoulder months is often better – from April to May, and from September to October. Not only will the weather be more agreeable during these times, although perhaps not as sunny at times, but the destinations you visit will be quieter – meaning, you’ll be able to enjoy engaging cultural activities and fantastic local cuisines without dealing with the crowds of tourists that flock to this remarkable region in the summertime.
Those after a more festive experience may wish to travel later in the year, but the weather will be cooler and you may find that some of the tourist-angled attractions and outdoor activities are unavailable during this ‘off-season’. This doesn’t make it a bad time to travel along the Seine by any means, but it’s important to consider the experiences available ashore alongside factors like the weather when booking your river cruise.
Top River Seine cruise lines
If you’re thinking about booking yourself onto a sensational Seine river cruise, it’s important to consider the cruise line you’re booking with. Several of the world’s best river cruise lines offer sailings along the River Seine, and you’ll be pleased to know that there isn’t actually a bad option here. However, each cruise line offers a unique onboard experience, and the entertainment and shore excursions you’ll encounter throughout your voyage can vary from cruise line to cruise line.
So, while the following are worth considering when booking your cruise along the River Seine, it’s important to do some research into each cruise line before making your decision.
- AmaWaterways - immersive shore excursions with an elegant onboard experience
- Scenic River Cruises - exclusive destination experiences and unrivalled luxury
- Riviera Travel - authentic experiences with outstanding service throughout
Best River Seine cruise deals
Interested in booking yourself onto a cruise along the River Seine? Iglu Cruise is home to a fantastic selection of Seine river cruises for you to choose from, with numerous sailings from some of the world’s leading river cruise lines departing throughout the year. Below, we’ll run through a handful of the highlights, but be sure to check out the latest upcoming Seine river cruise deals for more dates and details.
- The Seine, Paris & Normandy, May 2026 (7 nights) - MS Jane Austen
- Paris & Normandy, July 2026 (7 nights) - AmaLyra
- Highlights of Normandy & the Seine from Paris, August 2026 (7 nights) - Scenic Gem
- Paris & Normandy, September 2026 (7 nights) - AmaLyra
- Paris, Normandy & Historic Treasures of the Seine, October 2026 (10 nights) - MS Jane Austen
- Highlights of Normandy & the Seine from Paris, October 2027 (7 nights) - Scenic Gem
The Seine isn’t the only river worth cruising, though; if you’re thinking about venturing further afield, you’ll find more river cruise deals right here, with itineraries visiting exciting destinations along the Danube, the Rhine, the Mekong River, and more.
Seine River cruise tips
Embarking on a Seine River cruise may only mean you’re travelling to France, but it’s still important to make sure you’re properly prepared for your adventure. Alongside ensuring that you have all the correct travel documents ready and that you’re packing enough clothing for the length of your cruise, we have prepared a few more tips which may be useful when it comes to preparing for a cruise along the River Seine.
Pack comfortable walking shoes
Even if you’re not planning on embarking on any long walks or tackling a challenging hiking trail, packing a comfortable pair of walking shoes is always a good idea when preparing for a cruise – be that a river cruise along the Seine, an adventure along another one of the world’s rivers, or an ocean-bound cruise further afield. River cruising can require spending a lot of time on your feet, and a lot of walking; guided walking tours of the destination you’re visiting, particularly, are often a popular shore excursion on river cruise itineraries. And, even if this walking tour is at a leisurely pace on even surfaces, it’s important to wear comfortable footwear that will protect your feet.
Be prepared for interesting docking procedures
Due to their smaller size, river cruise ships can often dock in the heart of a destination, meaning you’re often within walking distance to the major attractions and activities there – something that makes exploring ashore a breeze. However, on Seine river cruises, you may find that your river cruise ship actually docks beside another already-docked river cruise ship. So, on occasion, depending on the port, you may have to walk through another river cruise ship when disembarking.
This isn’t anything to be worried about, but it’s something worth keeping in mind – particularly when you’re returning to your river cruise ship after spending some time ashore. You may have to keep an eye out for a different river cruise ship, one that’s between your river cruise ship and the shore.
Don’t skip the daily port talk
You may think you know everything you need to know about an upcoming destination, but the daily port talk on your river cruise ship is one of the most important organised activities you’ll encounter during your adventure along the Seine. So, it’s worth keeping in mind that this is something you’ll want to attend each day of your itinerary.
Not only will these talks go over the following day’s itinerary and share some interesting details about your next port of call, but they will also highlight some of the activities and attractions you can expect to enjoy in that destination and detail any organised shore excursions that will be taking place. So, they’re a fantastic way to familiarise yourself with somewhere before arriving, and plan the next day of your cruise. This is also a fantastic time to ask any questions you might have, and someone else may ask something you find helpful.
Be patient when you’re cruising between ports
The River Seine can be one of the busiest waterways in northern Europe, and you may find that sailing between ports can take some time. While this is something that has been taken into account for your cruise itinerary, so you’re not going to unexpectedly miss out on visiting any of the ports of call planned, it’s still worth keeping this in mind when sailing. There are over 30 locks along the Seine, and navigating these carefully can make the time you spend sailing feel a little longer than it actually is.
Thankfully, you’ll be met with stunning scenery throughout your river cruise, and you’ll still be able to enjoy all the exciting amenities available on your river cruise ship. So, these periods of time can actually be a great opportunity to unwind and soak up the sunshine ahead of your next trip ashore.
Frequently Asked Questions about Seine river cruise holidays
What is the best river cruise on the Seine?
When it comes to answering this question, it’s difficult to give a definitive answer; there’s no one definitive ‘best’ River Seine cruise you can embark on. Rather, when it comes to booking onto a Seine river cruise, you’ll be met with a fantastic selection of sailings from some of the best river cruise lines out there. Each sailing will feature similar destinations along the river itself, with some variation, and each cruise line boasts its own unique onboard experience. So, it all depends on the type of river cruise you’re looking for; while Scenic river cruises are slightly more luxurious than adventures with AmaWaterways, that doesn’t necessarily make them the best available.
How much does a Seine river cruise cost?
The cost of a Seine river cruise can depend on several factors, such as the duration of the river cruise itself, the cruise line you choose to sail with, and other additions like onboard drinks packages, pre-cruise hotel stays, and paid-for shore excursions.
River cruises on the Seine can range from as little as £1,000 for a few nights onboard, to upwards of £5,500 for a longer itinerary. This doesn’t take into account limited-time offers and deals, which may alter prices further. While the flexibility of Seine river cruises makes them an excellent option for everyone looking to embark on a river cruise, it does mean that prices can vary dramatically from sailing to sailing.
How long does a Seine River cruise take?
Much like the total cost of a Seine river cruise, it’s hard to be specific when it comes to explaining how long a cruise on the Seine River can take. With some cruise lines, you can enjoy a Seine River cruise for as few as three nights. However, full itineraries tend to vary from seven to 10 days. Some can even stretch beyond that, particularly cruise packages that include pre-cruise or post-cruise hotel stays.
What sights can you see on a Seine River cruise?
Alongside the abundance of remarkable landmarks you can admire when enjoying a cruise on the Seine in Paris, such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral, Seine river cruises sail through some of the most scenic spots in northern France. Not only will you have the chance to see historic French cities like Rouen and the commune of Vernon, but you’ll also enjoy unrivalled landscapes boasting vibrant woodland, intriguing castles, sprawling châteaux, and so much more. At some points, it’s as though you’ve stepped into a charming fantasy novel, with endless picturesque views.
Where does a Seine river cruise start and end?
Unlike other river cruises, Seine river cruises often both start and end in Paris, France. As a major city with numerous travel links, this can actually make travelling to and from your cruise getaway a lot easier. However, with river cruise itineraries travelling north, turning around, and travelling back south, you may find some river cruises along the Seine stop at the same destination twice.
Book your next river adventure with Iglu Cruise today
With so many incredible river cruise deals, you'll have no trouble finding the right river cruise for you with Iglu Cruise. However, we also offer an incredible variety of luxury cruises, solo adventures, all-inclusive packages, and more! So, if you fancy venturing further afield and seeing even more of the world, there's a cruise experience out there for you, too. Below, if you're after more inspiration while browsing all our incredible offers, are some of the latest blog posts from the Iglu Cruise team: