Many travelers want to see the two biggest icons of Paris in a single day. The Louvre and the Eiffel Tower serve as the anchors of any classic Paris itinerary. While they look close together on a map, they are actually about 3.5 kilometers apart. This is a significant distance if you have already spent several hours walking inside the museum.
You have several convenient options to make this transfer. Consequently, the best choice for you depends on your current energy levels and the local weather.
Option 1: The Scenic Route on Bus 72
This is arguably the smartest way to travel between the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. Bus 72 runs directly along the banks of the Seine River. Because it passes so many landmarks, it essentially acts as a cheap sightseeing tour for the price of a standard ticket.
- Stop Location: Catch the bus at the “Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre” stop on the Rue de Rivoli.
- Direction: Look for the bus heading towards “Parc de Saint-Cloud”.
- Exit: You should get off at “Pont d’Iéna” or “Tour Eiffel”.
- Time: The trip takes about 20 to 30 minutes depending on current traffic.
The bus drives past the Tuileries Garden and the Grand Palais. As a result, you get a perfect view of the river without taking a single extra step.
Option 2: The Fast Route via the Paris Metro
The Paris Metro is highly reliable, but there is no direct line connecting the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. You will have to transfer or walk a short distance from the station.
Take Line 1 from “Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre” towards La Défense. First, get off at “Franklin D. Roosevelt”. Then, transfer to Line 9 towards Pont de Sèvres and exit at “Trocadéro”. This specific route is popular because Trocadéro offers the best elevated view of the tower for photos. However, keep in mind that this option involves many stairs and tunnels. If you are feeling tired or have a stroller, the bus is usually superior.
Option 3: The Batobus River Boat Shuttle
If you want a fun alternative, the Batobus is a hop-on and hop-off boat shuttle. The Louvre stop is located on the Quai François Mitterrand right next to the museum. You can enjoy a relaxing cruise down the Seine before arriving at the Eiffel Tower stop at the Port de la Bourdonnais.
While this is more expensive than the bus or metro, it is much more enjoyable. A day pass costs around 20 Euros. Therefore, you should use this option if you want to rest your feet and enjoy the river breeze.
Option 4: Walking from the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower
When the weather is sunny, walking is a delightful choice. The route is simple because you just follow the river. First, exit the museum through the Pyramid or the Carrousel Garden. Then, walk through the Tuileries Garden to the Place de la Concorde. Finally, continue along the Seine on the Quai d’Orsay.
This walk takes you past the Musée d’Orsay and the beautiful Pont Alexandre III. Although it is a scenic 45 minute journey, you should consider your stamina. Walking another 3.5 kilometers after a long museum visit might be difficult for your legs.
Option 5: Taking a Taxi or Uber
Taxis are available at the Place du Carrousel roundabout. You can expect to pay between 15 and 20 Euros for the ride. Under normal conditions, the trip takes 15 to 30 minutes. However, Paris traffic is often unpredictable. During rush hour, a taxi will likely be slower than taking the metro.
Final Recommendations
- Best Overall Experience: Take Bus 72 for the views and convenience.
- Fastest Travel: Use the Metro Line 1 to Line 9.
- Most Relaxing: Choose the Batobus for a scenic river break.
You should choose the method that saves your energy for the climb up the tower.
