How to Enjoy the Seine River

France's Seine River runs from the English Channel through Paris to northeastern France. The lovely river divides the city of Paris and is one of the highlights of any visit to the "City of Lights." Out in the French countryside, the Seine passes vineyards, castles and Norman apple orchards.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Stroll the banks of the Seine in Paris. The banks of the Seine River in Paris are some of the most romantic walkways in the world. Take an early morning or late afternoon stroll with someone you love or explore the "bouquinistes," the used booksellers that set up along the Left Bank of the river.
2. Explore the islands of Paris. The city of Paris was first inhabited by a primitive tribe called the Parisii (from whom the city takes its name). This early settlement was on the Ile de la Cite in the middle of the Seine River. Today, this island is home to many of Paris' favorite landmarks, including Notre Dame Cathedral, the Conciergerie, where Marie Antoinette was imprisoned during the French Revolution and the 13th century Sainte Chapelle, with its spectacular leaded glass windows.
3. Take a Bateaux Mouches sightseeing cruise. Les Bateaux Mouches are the most popular of several companies that offer Paris sightseeing cruises. These open-air boats depart from the Pont de L'Alma, near the Eiffel Tower for 1 hour and 10 minute cruises under Paris' many bridges and past a host of the city's landmarks. The company also offers luncheon, dinner and evening dance cruises.
4. Book a barge cruise. For a longer and more thorough cruise down the Seine River, consider booking a barge cruise. These multi-day journeys depart near Dijon and end near the mouth of the river at the English Channel, or vice versa. Along the way, you'll stop for winery tours, sightseeing and luncheon excursions. Onboard, the pace is relaxed, the food superb and the scenery never more than a few feet away.