Stroll on the Seine: Complete guide for an unforgettable experience
1. Why take a stroll on the Seine?
The Seine, the emblematic artery of Paris, has become an essential meeting place, especially since the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. This summer, events are intensifying with the Fête de la Seine scheduled for July 26, 2025, celebrating the city's Olympic and ecological heritage.
Visitors can enjoy the summer programming "Paris en Seine," which offers a variety of activities ranging from concerts to sporting events. One of the notable new features is the opening of free swimming areas in the Seine starting July 5, 2025, providing a refreshing experience for families.
To explore this magnificent river, nothing beats a sightseeing cruise aboard the famous Bateaux-Mouches. These excursions allow you to admire iconic monuments while having fun with family. It's a playful and relaxing way to discover Paris from a different angle. Don't miss this opportunity to create unforgettable memories along the water!
An exceptional dinner cruise: the Blue Diamond!
Enjoy a dinner cruise under the lights of the capital, during a sumptuous meal. To share with friends, family, or as a couple.
An absolutely unique experience in Paris!
2. The Best Cruises on the Seine in 2025
Discovering Paris with family from the Seine is an unforgettable adventure, and 2025 promises even more captivating cruises. Among the must-see offerings, the cruise aboard the MS Boticelli, which will take place from May 23 to May 30, stands out for its cultural and musical atmosphere. It will take you to discover iconic places such as La Roche-Guyon, Honfleur, and Rouen.
Why Choose a Cruise in 2025?
River cruises on the Seine offer a unique way to see the city, combining beautiful landscapes and historical discoveries. Moreover, the musical performances and cultural visits make the experience even more enriching for the whole family.
Our Recommendations:
For a memorable dinner while sailing on the Seine, take a look at our comparison of the best dinner cruises in Paris. Whether you are looking for a romantic evening or a family outing, there is a cruise that will meet your expectations. Don't miss this opportunity to experience Paris from a new angle in 2025!
3. The iconic monuments to admire from the Seine
Sailing on the Seine offers a unique perspective on the architectural treasures of Paris. Children, amazed, can discover iconic monuments such as the Eiffel Tower, the Orsay Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, all visible from the river.
Which monuments to see?
By boarding a cruise, you can observe jewels like the Alexander III Bridge, with its golden sculptures, and the Palace of Discovery, which will delight the curious. To enrich your visit, feel free to explore the free museums and monuments in Paris that will allow you to learn while having fun.
Practical tips
Remember to book your seats in advance, especially in summer, to enjoy an unobstructed view and an enriching commentary. Cruises are often narrated, providing fascinating anecdotes that will captivate both young and old.
Come discover the charm of Paris from the Seine, an unforgettable adventure for the whole family!
4. Seine Festival 2025: An Event Not to Be Missed
The Seine Festival 2025 promises to be an unmissable moment for families in Paris. Scheduled for July 26, this celebration will highlight the legacy of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, one year after the grand opening ceremony that transformed the Seine into a giant stage.
What Awaits You?
- Festive activities for young and old.
- The inauguration of free swimming at three new sites starting July 5, 2025.
- A tribute to the Olympic spirit that invites conviviality.
Why Go with Family?
This event is the perfect opportunity to discover the Seine in a new light. Children can participate in various fun activities, while parents will enjoy the festive atmosphere and moments of sharing. The Seine Festival helps make the Seine a popular gathering place, perfect for a family afternoon.
Don't miss this opportunity to celebrate summer in Paris in an exceptional setting!
5. Paris on the Seine 2025: free swimming in the Seine
Summer 2025 will mark a historic turning point for Paris with the opening of free swimming in the Seine, a first in over a century. This ambitious project, inherited from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, will allow families to enjoy three new natural swimming sites: Marie arm, Grenelle, and Bercy, accessible from July 5 to August 31, 2025.
Why this is great news for families?
Swimming in the Seine offers a unique opportunity to cool off and have fun in the heart of the capital. In addition to water activities, these swimming areas will encourage moments of relaxation for families. To learn more about nearby leisure activities, check out our article on Paris Beach: Leisure and Relaxation by the Seine.
An ecological reclamation
This initiative also reflects the success of the ecological reclamation of the Seine, transforming this Parisian emblem into a place of life and leisure for everyone. Enjoy this new summer experience and make Paris a water playground for your children!
6. Rescheduling and Cancellation Options for Boat Tours
Planning a boat tour in Paris is exciting, but it is essential to know the rescheduling and cancellation options. Flexibility is crucial, especially when traveling with family and children.
What to do in case of a change of plans?
Most river companies offer flexible cancellation policies. For example, you can often cancel up to 24 hours before departure without penalty. Some companies even offer a full refund if the cruise is canceled due to unfavorable weather conditions.
Rescheduling your tour
If you need to reschedule your tour, check the specific terms of the company. Many allow you to choose a new date, often at no additional cost. This can be ideal for families whose schedules can sometimes be unpredictable.
Our tips:
- Always check the cancellation policy when booking.
- Keep your booking confirmation to facilitate changes.
- Contact the company directly for any questions or special needs.
Navigate the Seine with peace of mind!
7. Audio-guided cruises: an enriching experience
Discovering Paris with family can be a fascinating adventure, and nothing beats a cruise on the Seine to combine relaxation and culture. Audio-guided cruises allow children and adults to explore iconic monuments while learning their history in a fun way.
Why choose an audio-guided cruise?
These cruises offer commentary in multiple languages, making the experience accessible to everyone. Children can marvel at the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, or the Musée d'Orsay while listening to captivating anecdotes.
For a memorable experience, opt for a cruise on the Seine suitable for families, where each member will discover the riches of the city in an interactive and immersive way.
Tips to make the most of it:
- Book in advance to secure your spots.
- Choose morning times to avoid the crowd.
- Bring headphones for a better audio experience.
With family, an audio-guided cruise is undoubtedly an activity not to be missed during your stay in Paris!
8. Practical tips for a successful stroll on the Seine
Enjoying a stroll on the Seine is a must-do activity during your stay in Paris, especially in the summer of 2025, when the city showcases its new swimming areas and festive events like Paris en Seine.
Preparing for your stroll
- Choose the right time: Mornings and evenings offer beautiful light to admire the Parisian monuments.
- Wear comfortable clothing: A walk along the quays can be long, so opt for suitable shoes.
Activities not to miss
- Participate in the events: Don't miss the Fête de la Seine on July 26, which promises a festive atmosphere for the whole family.
- Visit the new swimming sites: Safe locations will be open from July 5, perfect for a refreshing break.
Practical tips
- Book your cruises in advance to secure a spot during peak times.
- Bring snacks and water to keep the whole family's energy up during the stroll.
A walk on the Seine will be an unforgettable moment to share with your loved ones!
9. Restaurants and Cafés along the Seine
Walking along the Seine is a must-do activity during your visit to Paris, especially if you have children. The banks of the Seine are filled with charming restaurants and cafés that offer stunning views and a friendly atmosphere.
Where to eat with family?
- Bistro Parisien: Located near the Eiffel Tower, this restaurant offers a unique experience with a dinner at the quay followed by a guided cruise. It's the perfect place to enjoy French dishes while admiring the city's lights. For more information, check our page on Bistro Parisien.
Why choose the banks of the Seine?
Enjoying an outdoor meal while watching the boats go by is a memorable experience. Children can also have fun in the nearby parks, making these restaurants an ideal choice for families.
Don't forget to book in advance, especially during the summer, to secure a spot with a view of the Seine!
10. Activities and Events Near the Seine in 2025
Paris will be a true festive center in 2025, with the Seine as the backdrop for many captivating summer events.
Paris on the Seine: A Cultural Summer
The Paris on the Seine program will showcase a multitude of cultural, sporting, and festive events. The riverbanks will be lively with concerts, performances, and outdoor activities, perfect for the whole family.
Music Day
On June 21, Music Day will transform the quays into a festive stage with free concerts and DJ sets, offering a friendly and joyful atmosphere for young and old.
Rock en Seine
Don't miss the Rock en Seine festival from August 20 to 24 at the Domaine National de Saint-Cloud. Internationally renowned artists will come to thrill the audience, creating unforgettable memories for the whole family.
These events promise to make 2025 a memorable summer on the banks of the Seine, to be enjoyed with family!
