The Seine: Paris's Lifeline
For over 2,000 years, the Seine River has been the beating heart of Paris. From its humble beginnings as a Celtic settlement on the Île de la Cité to today's global metropolis, the Seine has witnessed the rise of kings, revolutions, and the birth of modern Paris.
The river flows 777 kilometers from its source in Burgundy to the English Channel, but its most magnificent stretch runs through Paris itself. Here, 37 bridges span the waterway, each telling its own story of architectural innovation and historical significance.
During the medieval period, the Seine was Paris's main highway for trade and commerce. Today, it serves as a UNESCO World Heritage corridor, lined with some of the world's most beautiful monuments and offering visitors a front-row seat to centuries of French history and culture.
Modern Seine cruises continue this proud tradition, allowing millions of visitors each year to experience Paris as it was meant to be seen – from the gentle perspective of its life-giving river.
Discover Seine history
