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Discover why the Hop-on Hop-off tour is Paris’ favorite sightseeing experience

Paris is one big city with unending and fascinating nooks and corners to discover. But where do you start? Hop-on Hop-off tour is your answer. Get a Hop-on Hop-off Paris pass and connect to all the major city attractions. You can enjoy unlimited hops, insightful audio guides, and a very convenient sightseeing experience sans the stress of figuring out public transport. Read more to find out why these tours are great, how to extract even more value from them, and some famous and hidden gems en route to kick off your Paris adventure.

Why choose Hop-on Hop-off tours in Paris?

Paris Hop-on Hop-off

Explore all top attractions

Forget the hassle of arranging a commute between attractions, instead hop on and off the bus as many times as you want to explore Paris at your own pace. The carefully curated routes offer a great introduction to Paris! The 24, 48, or 72-hour passes have you covered for a quick exploration with an overview of Paris or a more relaxed one.

Paris Hop-on Hop-off

Great sightseeing experience

The buses are usually open-top, ideal for sightseeing and great photo ops - an edge compared to the underground metro and closed public transport buses. You can also tune into the audio guides to make your trip trivia-packed. The buses are suitable for all with wheelchair amenities and family-friendly pricing and commentary.

Paris Hop-on Hop-off

Seine cruise & other inclusions

Most Hop-on Hop-off tickets come with the add-on of the Seine River cruise, which is a must-do experience in Paris. There is also free Wifi, earphones, walking tours, and more, making it an even more valuable one-time purchase for varied experiences.

Paris Hop-on Hop-off

Sweet deals

At first glance, Hop-on Hop-off tours may not appear cheap but they are cost-effective when you add up all the travel expenses. There are also combo deals that include the bus ride and entry to certain attractions. Factor in the number of places you can see, the stress-free travel, and the useful inclusions, they totally make economic sense.

Hidden gems on your Hop-on Hop-off Paris tour

Touristy places in Paris like the Eiffel and Arc de Triomphe are popular for all the right reasons. However, some lesser-trodden landmarks are so worth your time. You need to explore Paris' famous passages like Passage Jouffroy, Galerie Vivienne, and Passage des Panorames leisurely on foot. There’s indeed a lot of fun in just strolling through and finding charming streets, covered alleyways, and pretty stores and cafes but many hidden gems are right on the Hop-on Hop-off route. For starters, here are a few: 

Paris Hop-on Hop-off

59 Rivoli

59 Rivoli, a former squat turned vibrant art collective, showcases contemporary works from resident artists, making it a must-visit for art lovers seeking unique, edgy creativity. It's completely free as well!

  • Stop:  Louvre - Pont des Arts (Big Bus), Musee du Louvre (Tootbus), Louvre (Batobus)
  • Operator: Big Bus, Tootbus, Batobus
Paris Hop-on Hop-off

Conciergerie

The Conciergerie, once a royal palace and revolutionary prison, offers a gripping glimpse into France's turbulent history, with stunning Gothic architecture and Marie Antoinette's cell.

  • Stop: Notre Dame (Big Bus), Notre-Dame - Quartier Latin (Tootbus), Notre-Dame  (Batobus) 
  • Operator: Big Bus, Tootbus, Batobus
Paris Hop-on Hop-off

Museum of Hunting and Nature

The Museum of Hunting and Nature might not be up everyone's alley but it blends eclectic art and natural history in a charming Parisian mansion, providing a thought-provoking exploration of humanity's relationship with nature. 

  • Stop: Hôtel de Ville
  • Operator: Batobus
Paris Hop-on Hop-off

The Abbey Bookshop

A less touristy alternative to the neighboring Shakespeare and Company, the Abbey Bookshop is a cozy haven for book lovers, selling secondhand, brand new, and rare English-language books.

  • Stop: Notre Dame (Big Bus), Notre-Dame - Quartier Latin (Tootbus), Notre-Dame  (Batobus) 
  • Operator: Big Bus, Tootbus, Batobus
Paris Hop-on Hop-off

Square René Viviani

The small park, Square René Viviani, is home to Paris's oldest tree and offers a quiet escape with stunning views of Notre Dame. The park is in full bloom during spring and also hosts a small Christmas market.

  • Stop: Notre Dame (Big Bus), Notre-Dame - Quartier Latin (Tootbus), Notre-Dame  (Batobus) 
  • Operator: Big Bus, Tootbus, Batobus
Paris Hop-on Hop-off

Le Musée en Herbe

Expose your kids to art with the interactive exhibits at Le Musée en Herbe. While this playful art museum for children is small, it is a fun activity for kids aged 3 to 12.

  • Stop: Louvre - Pont des Arts (Big Bus), Musee du Louvre (Tootbus), Louvre (Batobus)
  • Operator: Big Bus, Tootbus, Batobus
Paris Hop-on Hop-off

Rue Crémieux

Instagrammers are making Rue Crémieux, a hidden gem till now, popular. The street is getting admirers for its pastel-colored houses and cobblestone paths. While it's a great place to stroll, respect the privacy of the residents while clicking pictures.

  • Stop: Jardin des plantes
  • Operator: Batobus
Paris Hop-on Hop-off

Rooftop of Galeries Lafayette

The century-old store, Galeries Lafayette, has a lesser-known rooftop terrace that offers a pretty view of Paris with the Opera Garnier and Eiffel. Alternatively, head up to the small terrace of Printemps, another store nearby for even fewer crowds.

  • Stop: Opéra Garnier (Big Bus), Printemps/Galerie Lafayette (Tootbus)
  • Operator: Big Bus, Tootbus
Paris Hop-on Hop-off

Photographers near the Eiffel

For a unique souvenir, track down the women with old-time cameras who will click your picture and print it out on an old newspaper. How cool is that! There’s no fixed price (just donations) or location, just find them around the Eiffel Tower.

  • Stop: Tour Eiffel (Big Bus), Tour Eiffel (Tootbus), Tour Eiffel (Batobus)
  • Operator: Big Bus, Tootbus, Batobus
Paris Hop-on Hop-off

Gustave Eiffel’s secret flat

Hidden within the Tower is the secret apartment of Gustave Eiffel. It hosted the scientific elite like Edison and was not open to the public. Today, you can view the insides of this hidden apartment through a window if you purchase a ticket for the Tower.

  • Stop: Tour Eiffel (Big Bus), Tour Eiffel (Tootbus), Tour Eiffel (Batobus)
  • Operator: Big Bus, Tootbus, Batobus
Paris Hop-on Hop-off

Saint Germain des Pres Church

Saint Germain des Prés Church, the oldest church in Paris, mixes Romanesque and Gothic architecture with brilliantly colorful interiors, intricate archways, and frescoes. A rich history intertwined with the city's intellectual and artistic heritage resides in those walls.

  • Stop: Louvre - Pont des Arts (Big Bus), Musée du Louvre (Tootbus), Louvre (Batobus)
  • Operator: Big Bus, Tootbus, Batobus
Paris Hop-on Hop-off

Centre Pompidou

While not exactly a hidden gem, the Centre Pompidou has a fascinating inside-out design and houses Europe's largest modern art collection. The terrace of this cultural center is freely accessible and offers panoramic views of Paris. 

  • Stop: Louvre - Pont des Arts (Big Bus), Notre-Dame - Quartier Latin (Tootbus), Notre-Dame  (Batobus) 
  • Operator: Big Bus, Tootbus, Batobus

Tips to making the most of your Paris Hop-on Hop-off tour

  • Take a full loop first: Sit on the bus/boat for the entire loop once, get your bearings right, and make a note of the places that piqued your interest to check out on the second round. This way you also know you’ve seen the iconic sights once from outside.
  • Opt for a Seine cruise: The Seine adds immensely to Paris’ charm. Opt for the ticket with a cruise inclusion and see Paris unfold before you like never before.
  • Sit on the top deck: Well, this is a no-brainer! So if you can access the open-air top decks, grab your seat there. 
  • Ask the driver/guide: Strike up a conversation with the driver or the guide to get insider tips on landmarks, food joints, and more. 
  • Purchase a multi-day pass: While you can get a good overview of the city with a 1-day pass, invest in multi-day passes to maximize your exploration without hurry or the trouble of navigating public transport.
  • Don’t do it all in a day: Decide beforehand 2 or 3 places you want to explore up close and sit out an entire loop for a grand overview. Set aside time to savor the cuisine and energy for some night entertainment. Don’t try to pack everything into one day as you might leave enjoying nothing. This also means planning is key. However, if you have just a day in Paris, that’s a different case altogether, so check out what you can do on Paris itineraries.
  • Planning: Check for museum closure days before visiting and make reservations in advance. Account for traffic delays and crowds if visiting during the peak season. 
  • Take advantage of the inclusions: Be sure to take part in the walking tours usually included with Hop-on Hop-off. And plug into those audioguides to make the journey so much more interesting.

Lesser known details about Paris Hop-on Hop-off

  • Specialty routes: Given that the much-awaited Paris Olympics is around the corner, Tootbus has a special Purple route covering the Olympic venues and a greater area of Paris including the Montmartre district from June 3rd to September 8th, 2024 in place of its regular Blue route.
  • Bundled tickets: In Paris, the Tootbus Hop-on Hop-off operator, offers bundled family tickets - that is, one ticket for 2 adults and 2 children - at much lower rates than individual tickets.
  • Quick exploration: Paris Hop-on Hop-off operators like Big Bus and Tootbus also offer sightseeing night tours and kids tours, which can be a great experience for those who need an introduction to Paris but are short on time and for kids.



Book Paris Hop-on Hop-off tickets

(Limited Time: 10% Off) Big Bus: Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Optional Seine River Cruise
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Flexible duration
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€38.81
Tootbus: Paris Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
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Audio guide
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€38.25
Big Bus: Paris Christmas Illuminations Bus Tour
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2 hr.
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Tootbus: Paris Christmas Night Bus Tour
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1 hr. 30 min.
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Combo (Save 20%): Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Eiffel Tower Guided Tour with Summit Floor Access
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Guided tour
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€69.56
Tootbus: Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Seine River Cruise
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€50.15
Tootbus: Paris Night Bus Tour
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2 hr.
Audio guide
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€28.90
Combo (Save 15%): Louvre Museum Reserved Access Tickets + Paris Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
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€63.28
Big Bus: Paris Panoramic Night Bus Tour
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Tootbus: Paris Guided Kids Bus Tour
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1 hr. 30 min.
Guided tour
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Frequently asked questions

Are Hop-on Hop-off tours good for first-timers to Paris?

Hop-on Hop-off Paris tours are especially ideal for those new to the city. It gives you a sense of where everything is and the vibe of the city. It easily replaces the metro, which though extensive, is underground, making sightseeing less fun. The bus system in Paris is also rather complicated for those unfamiliar with the city. So, all things combined, Hop-on Hop-off tours make for an easy ride offering a good overview of Parisian attractions.

Are Hop-on Hop-off tours ideal for those on a short visit to Paris?

You can check out all the landmarks (from outside) in one go with Hop-on Hop-off tours and choose to get down at any that fancies your interest. Additionally, you can learn more about the city with audio guides or live commentary. If you are in for a short time, figuring out the complicated public transport system can be a total waste of time, making Paris Hop-on Hop-off tours the most convenient option.

When should I not opt for a Paris Hop-on Hop-off tour?

If you plan to explore just one attraction in Paris like the Louvre in detail, a Paris Hop-on Hop-off journey might not make a lot of sense for you. However, if you want to club that exploration with a detailed overview of all Parisian attractions, take a Hop-on Hop-off journey or a night city tour. 

What's included in a Hop-on Hop-off Paris tour ticket?

Most Hop-on Hop-off Paris tours have audio guides to make your journey more informative. Additionally, there can be walking tours and Seine River cruises included in your ticket. Please carefully read the ticket details for more information.

Are there places to eat near the Hop-on Hop-off Paris bus stops?

Yes, the buses run along major touristy spots in the city with plenty of restaurants and food joints nearby. If you feel hungry, hop off, grab a bite, and get back on to continue your journey. If you opt for Batobus, you can find a vending machine onboard.

Are there any limitations on how many times I can hop on and off?

This is the absolute best part of Hop-on Hop-off tours in Paris - no cap on the number of times you can get on and off. You can also sit out the entire circuit if you like.

Is it safe to bring young children on a Hop-on Hop-off tour?

Yes, Hop-on Hop-off tours are great for families with kids. They are usually pram/stroller accessible, have kids’ commentary, and offer child-friendly prices. Additionally, it is so much easier to navigate with kids and much less chaotic than public transportation.