Landmarks & River Seine Amphibious Bus Tour Paris

The amphibious bus: from road to river

An amphibious bus is a vehicle that drives on the road like a coach and then enters the water and sails like a boat. On this tour the transition happens at a slipway on the Seine, and it is the moment that makes the trip memorable, especially for children. Once afloat, you sail along the river and see Paris from the same viewpoint as river boats, without needing a second ticket.

An amphibious bus tour in Paris suits visitors who want to save time, since you see the main sights on land and water in about 105 minutes. Wear a light layer, because the river can be breezy, and keep phones and cameras secure during the splash-in.

The Eiffel Tower and Champ de Mars area

The tour begins near the Eiffel Tower at Place Jacques Rueff, close to the Champ de Mars and the École Militaire in the 7th arrondissement. The Eiffel Tower, built for the 1889 World's Fair, is around 330 metres tall and is the symbol of the city, and the tour shows it from several angles. The guide explains the history of the tower and the district.

Because the tour starts here, it is an easy way to see the Eiffel Tower without queueing to go up. If you want to visit the top on another day, ask us about tickets. Arrive fifteen minutes before departure, as boarding cannot be guaranteed for latecomers.

Invalides, the Arc de Triomphe and central Paris

On the road section, the bus passes some of the great monuments of central Paris. Les Invalides, with the golden dome above Napoleon's tomb, is a highlight, and the route also gives you views of the Arc de Triomphe and the elegant avenues and squares of the city. The guide shares stories and history as you go.

Entrance to monuments is not included, so the tour is a way to see and learn about them from outside. If you have limited time in Paris, this is a good overview before you decide which sights to visit in more depth.

The River Seine and how the tour works

The river section is a highlight: the bus glides along the Seine, with bridges, quays and monuments passing on both sides. It gives you a feeling of Paris that is close to what people saw from the river for centuries, with the quays, bridges and grand facades rising on both banks. The guide continues the commentary in English and French, so you keep learning while you float.

The whole tour lasts about 105 minutes. It leaves and returns to Place Jacques Rueff. It runs in most weather, although rough river conditions can alter the plan. Book ahead in summer and school holidays, when tours sell out.