I was going to an exhibition at Porte de la Villette and noticed that taking the canal tour was an alternative to the Metro. I had read about Canal St Martin and had been interested so to get to take the tour and use it as transportation was great. In short, a wonderful way to spend two and a half hours leisurely riding up the canal, seeing Paris from a new perspective. A short part this trip is on the Seine (the beginning or end depending on which direction you are riding) which is, of course, lovely, however, most of the trip took us through areas we hadn't visited before. The boat was clean and pleasant. The crew were wonderful, Arnaud pointed out historical sites of interest along the way. I was also really surprised at all there was to do up at Port la Villette.
Highly recommended if you want to see Paris from a different perspective. Consider bringing a snack or a picnic as there is no food for sale other than a vending machine on the boat. There are also many dining options at Porte de la Villette. Two Metro lines serve the area for the return to central Paris. read more