Ports of Paris
Today, Paris is the first river port in France and number 2 in the whole of Europe. The “ports de Paris” are aligned along the famous river Seine and divide the city in two: Rive Droite (Right Bank) and Rive Gauche (Left Bank). The waterways were originally devised as a more economic way to transport goods and as a solution to road congestion problems of the Ile-France-region. But as part of a mission to develop port activity, the city of Paris is making tremendous efforts to develop river tourism. In 2008 the Autonomous port of Paris was the busiest inland port in the world of tourism, with an estimated one out of four tourists taking to the water to enjoy the pleasures of the Seine. A short cruise down the river is the best way to explore the city as it allows you to take all the landscape and architecture in. There is also plenty of space for pedestrians to walk alongside the river. The best advice we could give is to leave your car at the parking located closest to the quays and then spend the day on the river.
There are more than 60 boat companies operating a fleet of more than 110 boats. Tourists can choose to go for a guided river trip with or without meals, or a full cruise with on board entertainment such as musical theatre, discotheques and even arts exhibitions.
Those wishing to have one foot on the ground, they will be able enjoy the many cafes and restaurants located in the urban ports. Whether you are looking to listen to live music, go to the theatre or get some fun for the kids, the barges moored along the quays of the Seine offer a varied programme, day and evening. Visitors can also indulge in water sports such as rowing, canoeing and kayaking although these activities are under some regulation.
The Ports of Paris may not be the first thing that springs to mind when planning a trip to Paris. But like all those travel extras that make a trip worthwhile - such as airport lounge or airport parking and lounges, an extra day spent on the river Seine will transform your holiday in Paris into a memorable experience.