The beams of the Eiffel Tower scan the city, illuminating the uniform avenues and Hausmannian buildings and, on the hour every hour in the evening, an explosion of lights travels up and down its structure. Paris is arguably the romantic capital of the world, and it lends its magic to the river that runs through it; the Seine. The areas within Paris are defined by which bank they belong to, such is the river's presence. In summer, river cruises service this stretch of water, offering travellers the chance to sail through the city, taking in the sights and stopping off at various points, sampling life in each of the city's quarters.
But a Seine summer river cruise is about more than just Paris. The focus here is the Seine itself. Stretching almost 800km, the Seine is the second largest river in France. Originating in Burgundy, it flows through Troyes to Paris, before meandering its way through Normandy and Rouen, entering the English Channel in an estuary between Le Havre and Honfleur. With over 60% of its length navigable by commercial boat, it is possible to tour more than simply Paris. Seine river cruises will also take in the other big cities it touches on, as well as the stunning scenery en route, from sites of ancient wars to vast stretches of fields, vineyards and Gothic cathedrals.
Not to be defeated by its Seine rival, Rouen is a city that has plenty to offer. Many river cruises stop off here, and it is well worth the visit. Its stunning central cathedral dominates the skyline, and is a must-see. The birthplace of Flaubert and the site where Joan of Arc met her gruesome but heroic end, the city resonates with echoes of its own history and heritage. And if you want more culture, you can get up close and personal with Rubens, Caravaggio, Poussin, Corot, Monet and many more at the Musée des Beaux-Arts.
When you do get into the City of Lights, you can enjoy the views onto some of Paris's most famous sights and structures from the comfort of your boat - from the Musee d'Orsay to the Notre Dame cathedral. But when you're on shore, take the time to stroll along the banks and get to know some of the city's more intimate details. A walk down to the Pont des Arts, the bridge connecting the Louvre with St-Germain des Pres, reveals a startling sight - the bridge has been festooned with padlocks, inscribed with the names of lovers who have travelled from all over the world to seal their love here, connecting their hearts to the city and the many others who have done the same. There are details like these to be found all along the Seine.
From the rugged architecture of Le Havre to the streets crammed with galleries, museums and restaurants in Honfleur, each stop-off has something to offer, and proves that the Seine is much more than simply Paris. Paris is, of course, a highlight, and is likely to remain so, but this river is much more than one city. It has a history, and on a river cruise you may find you discover details you were not aware of before, and that it makes your trip that much more memorable, and that much more beautiful. The devil, they say, is in the detail, but often, so is the divine.
