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The Seine River

The Seine River flows through the Paris and stands as one of the most popular tourist attractions in Paris. The Seine River stands as perhaps France’s most significant waterway.

About the Seine River

Being 776 kilometers in length, the Seine River is not only vital to commercial industries of France but is also one of the most famous tourist attractions in Paris. It is still one of the most popular main modes of transportation in Paris. It is as analogous to the city of Paris as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral or Sainte-Chapelle. The river begins in the northeastern area of France, runs through Paris and empties out in the English Channel. The city of Paris alone has 37 bridges that run across the river. The water is not too deep in the Paris river area, possessing an average depth of roughly 10 meters.

The name of the river most likely has its roots in the Latin language. Seine means sequana in Latin, which many people translate as the “sacred river”. Many other people argue that the name stems from the Gaelic language.

Presently the Seine River remains a big part of modern Paris and is relatively clean. Occasional heavy rains can cause an influx of sewage to enter into the river. However, Atlantic salmon have recently made their way back to the Seine River in Paris, which is a good sign for the health of the river’s water.

History

A great deal of the history of Paris and France involves the Seine River. Over France’s history, the Seine has been the centerpieces of many great French artworks. When Joan of Arc was burned during the Middle Ages in Paris, it was said her ashes were dispersed into the Seine River. When the Seine River rose 20 feet and flooded in 1910, Paris was forced into evacuation. During Operation Overlord in World War II during 1944, the Allies had the goal of conquering the Seine. This goal was accomplished. In 1991, some areas on the banks of the Seine River were pronounced as World Heritage sites by UNESCO.

Transportation along the Seine River

For those who want to take different forms of transport other than the Paris bus system or Paris taxis, the Batobus offers a great way to travel from place to place in Paris. The Batobus is essentially a ferry that goes throughout the Seine River in Paris. It makes stops at important points like The Louvre, Jardin des Plantes, and Champs-Elysees.

The price of a boat ride along the Seine varies on age and what type of pass you buy. Buying a multi-day pass will make the price of a Paris trip a little cheaper. For example, as of the fall of 2011, a one-day pass on the Batobus costs €14 for adults and €9 for those less than 16 years old; a five-day pass costs €21 for adults and €10 for those below the age of 16.

Seine River Tours

Seine River tours started becoming a very popular tourist activity after the Second World War. A variety of sight-seeing tour rides along the Seine River are available. One of the most famous ones is a cruise ride that combines a French cuisine dinner and the famous Moulin Rouge show. The average price of this package ride is €150.

These tours offer travelers a chance to see the city from a different viewpoint and enjoy the comfortable breezes of Paris. A good amount of the major sights in Paris can be viewed during a boat tour. Enjoying some French wine and classic Parisian food like crepes and local Paris pastries only enhances the experience. Crossing under the Pont-Neuf Bridge is a highlight of the ride.

There are countless ways to book a tour. Your hotel or any local Paris travel agency can help you. Beware of scams in Paris from local hagglers. Make sure to purchase your ticket through a legitimate, licensed travel provider.

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The Seine River