Some people hate sightseeing and it's easy to see why, especially during a first time trip to a foreign city. The chances of getting lost, looking ridiculous, and being disappointed are at an all time high when the only guide around is a large crumpled up map. Fortunately, if you find yourself in Paris, an alternative and much more pleasant way of sightseeing is available.
After I checked into
Hotel Orly, I connected my laptop to the free WIFI and began searching for ways to tour the city without getting blisters. Of course there is the city bus tour, but to be seen on that is about as cool as wearing socks with sandals and a fanny pack. Luckily, after a few more minutes on the web, I stumbled upon a site that offered boat tours along the Seine.
Not only are you separated from the often intimidating hustle and bustle of the streets of Paris, sightseeing from a boat offers a superior vantage point to view all the historical monuments and buildings. I booked my boat tour with Bateaux Mouches Tour Company, which is one of the most popular among tourists. There is a boat that leaves every thirty minutes from 11am to 9pm, so you can tailor your tour around your schedule. The trip lasts one hour and fifteen minutes and is narrated in French, English, Italian, and Spanish. Bateaux Mouches also offers lunch and dinner tours on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. These tours require reservations.
From the comfort of my cosy seat on the boat, I was able to see the Eiffel Tower, the Orsay Museum, the Louvre Museum, the Pont Neuf, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Touring Paris by boat allowed me to get all the good sights in without much effort and I definitely recommend it to anyone who's averse to typical sightseeing with a map. Check into one of the
Orly Hotels near the airport and book yourself a boat tour!
