Whether you’re staying on the Seine’s correct or left bank, the splendid bridges in Paris not only allow simple transportation from one side of the town to the other, but also incredible photographic views. My Paris Today has come up with the top 5 of Paris ‘ most wonderful bridges, lovely by day and romantic by night!
Bridges in Paris #1: PONT ALEXANDRE-III
Also featured in a well-known film, Pont Alexandre-III takes you from Invalides in the 7th district to the Grand and Petit Palais in the 8th district in the final scene at Midnight in Paris. For the physical architecture of the bridge itself, this bridge is probably one of the most lovely and extravagant bridges in the entire town.
The art nouveau style lamps and gilded carvings on top of the monumental columns create this bridge unlike any other bridge in Paris. That’s likely why many bars, restaurants, and even nightclubs are under this bridge. The Faust and Rosa Bonheur sur Seine bars / restaurants are some of our favourite places to relax and even take in the perspective of this beautiful bridge.
Bridges in Paris #2: PONT DE BIR-HAKEIM
As featured in the famous action-film Inception, one of the most complicated bridges in Paris is the Pont de Bir-Hakeim crossing the Seine not far from the Eiffel Tower. The Bir-Hakeim, made entirely of steel, is not only a beautiful bridge to explore in itself, but the view from the Eiffel Tower bridge between the bridge columns is amazing.
Bridges in Paris #3: PASSERELLE LÉOPOLD – SEDAR SENGHOR
The Passerele Léopold carries you in more ways than one from the Musée d’Orsay to the Tuleries Gardens. What makes this bridge so special is that it has two layers, and as an ordinary bridge you can either walk below, under, or above. Walking across the bridge’s lower portion takes you nearer to the Seine for a distinctive Paris walk.
Bridges in Paris #4: PONT DES ARTS
The renowned Pont des Arts, or the “Love Lock Bridge,” is still one of the city’s most lovely bridges, even without today’s locks. The bridge crosses from the Institut de France to the Musée du Louvre, both places worth visiting on their own as well as the view from the bridge over these locations.
Bridges in Paris #5: PONT NEUF
Pont Neuf has a lengthy history, ironically the oldest bridge in Paris. Bridge plans began by Henri II in 1550 but were not completed until 1606 when Henri IV (whose statue stands on the bridge today) inaugurated the bridge. Once upon a time, this bridge was an extra home for Parisians. It was also a place for the bourgeoisie to walk and be seen across the bridge. The bridge is now freed from the buildings, allowing viewers to have a clear perspective of the town in both directions down the Seine.
