What to Wear on a Seine River Cruise in Paris
A dress code for every season and cruise type
Not knowing what to wear is one of the most common problems tourists face before a Seine River cruise.
Dress too casually, and you’ll feel out of place; dress too fancy, and you might regret it by the second course.
Add Paris’s unpredictable weather to the mix, and outfit planning can become a real headache.
That’s why we created this guide to help you dress right, feel confident, and enjoy every minute of your Seine River cruise.
“Freezing cold but rugged up in the hats, gloves, and jackets. We sat up the back and enjoyed the city of lights – from the Eiffel Tower up around Ile de Cite…” – TripAdvisor review of JnVSydney, Greater Sydney, Australia
Is there a dress code for Seine River cruises? Here’s what you should know
Yes, there is, but it depends on the type of cruise you’re taking.
Sightseeing cruises are casual, while lunch and dinner cruises often call for smart casual or semi-formal attire.
Since Paris weather can shift quickly and decks get breezy, dressing right keeps you comfortable, photo-ready, and in tune with the cruise’s atmosphere.
Common mistakes that tourists make while dressing up for a Seine River cruise:
- Wearing high heels on slippery or rocking decks
- Dressing too casually for lunch or dinner cruises
- Overpacking or wearing bulky clothes in summer
- Not checking the weather before the cruise
- Ignoring wind chill on open decks
Get more tips to avoid mistakes that tourists mostly make!
Seine River cruise dress codes by cruise type
Different cruises have different timings, and with weather that often shifts between morning and night, it helps to plan your outfit accordingly.
So as soon as you book your cruise, clearly read the instructions on the ticket page, or be aware of these tips to dress according to your cruise type:
| Cruise type | Typical dress code | Best for |
| Sightseeing cruise | Casual and weather-appropriate clothing | First-timers, families, solo travelers, and budget-friendly tours |
| Lunch cruise | Smart casual to semi-formal(blouse, dress, chinos, polo) | Couples, mid-day elegance, birthdays, relaxed celebrations |
| Dinner cruise | Elegant to formal wear(cocktail dress, blazer, dress shoes) | Romantic evenings, anniversaries, proposals, and fine dining lovers |
Dressing for each season in Paris: What to expect and what to wear
Paris weather changes not just by the season, but sometimes by the hour, and it can catch tourists off guard if they aren’t dressed right.
Here’s how to plan your outfit based on the time of year you’re cruising the Seine.
Spring (March to May)
Temperature: 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 65°F)
You can expect cool mornings and mild afternoons, with surprise drizzles and a breeze on the water.
What to wear: Light layers like cardigans or blazers, a stylish scarf, a water-resistant jacket, and closed-toe shoes or ankle boots for deck comfort.
Summer (June to August)
Temperature: 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)
Warm and sunny days are common, but breezy conditions can still occur on open decks or after sunset.
What to wear: Breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, sundresses, polo shirts, sunglasses or a wide-brimmed hat, and sandals or slip-ons with grip.
Autumn (September to November)
Temperature: 20°C to 10°C (68°F to 50°F)
Expect crisp air and cooler evenings, with a higher chance of wind and light rain.
What to wear: Sweaters or light coats, neutral scarves that add warmth and photo appeal, and waterproof or leather shoes for changing conditions.
Winter (December to February)
Temperature: 3°C to 6°C (37°F to 43°F)
Cold and damp days are typical, and wind off the river can make it feel even colder.
What to wear: Thermal base layers, a long wool or insulated coat, gloves, a warm hat, and waterproof boots with good grip for staying warm and steady.
According to Météo-France, Paris summer temperatures average 25°C to 30°C, but wind chill can make evening cruises feel cooler.
Bonus: How locals dress for the Seine
Parisians love style, even on a boat. If you want to blend in:
- Go for neutral tones: beige, black, navy
- Add accessories: scarf, chic bag, minimalist jewelry
- Avoid tourist giveaways: baseball caps, oversized backpacks, sports jerseys
“Parisians are effortlessly stylish. You’ll rarely see them overdressed or too casual. Keep it chic, understated, and practical.” – Camille Durand, Parisian fashion blogger.
Smart additions to your Seine Cruise wardrobe
- Lightweight, foldable rain jacket
- Wind-resistant scarf
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Mini travel umbrella
- Reusable tote bag for layers or accessories
Download this guide as a printable checklist to pack the perfect outfit for your Seine River Cruise (PDF, 2 KB).
FAQs about what to wear on a Seine River cruise
Still not sure? Here are the most frequently asked questions to help you choose the best attire for your river outing.
Are there clothing restrictions for Seine River cruises?
While there’s no strict ban, very casual clothing, such as beachwear, gym outfits, or flip-flops, may not be appropriate for lunch or dinner cruises. It’s always better to dress slightly up than feel underdressed once onboard. Check with your cruise provider for any specific restrictions.
What should I wear on a Seine River lunch cruise in Paris?
For a Seine River lunch cruise, opt for smart casual attire like a blouse with trousers, a midi dress, or a polo shirt with chinos. Avoid flip-flops or overly casual clothes to match the semi-elegant setting onboard.
Can I wear jeans on a Seine River lunch or dinner cruise?
Yes, fitted dark jeans paired with a dressy top and polished shoes are generally acceptable. Avoid ripped or overly casual denim, especially for dinner cruises, where the setting tends to be more formal and refined.
Are sneakers okay for a Seine River cruise?
Clean, stylish sneakers are fine for sightseeing and lunch cruises, but avoid athletic or worn-out shoes. For dinner cruises, opt for loafers, flats, or dressier footwear that complements the more elegant ambiance of the evening.
What to wear on a Seine River cruise during summer?
Light, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton are best for summer cruises. Choose sundresses, polos, or short-sleeved shirts, but bring a light scarf or jacket as evening cruises and open decks can still get breezy. When planning your cruise, understanding the best time to visit will ensure you experience pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
Do Seine River dinner cruises have a formal dress code?
Dinner cruises typically recommend elegant or formal wear like cocktail dresses, blazers, and dress shoes. While full formalwear isn’t required, dressing polished enhances your experience and helps you feel at ease among other guests.
What if it rains during my Seine River cruise?
Bring a light raincoat or compact umbrella, especially if your cruise includes time on an open deck. Most boats offer covered seating, but dressing in water-resistant layers keeps you dry and comfortable throughout the experience.
What shoes are best for a Seine River cruise in Paris?
Choose comfortable shoes with a good grip as the deck floors can be slippery. Stylish flats, loafers, or ankle boots are suitable for meal cruises, while clean sneakers or casual sandals are suitable for sightseeing cruises.
Final takeaways: What to remember when dressing for your cruise
- Know your cruise type: sightseeing is casual, lunch is smart, dinner is dressy
- Check the weather on the day of your cruise
- Layer smartly, especially in shoulder seasons
- Balance comfort, practicality, and Parisian flair
- Be photo-ready without sacrificing comfort
With the right outfit, you won’t just feel good, you’ll feel like you belong in the most romantic city in the world.
