Paris has 37 bridges. From the Seine, each one is a living witness to the city’s rich past. During your private cruise in Paris, be captivated by these architectural masterpieces that tell the story of the city in a whole new way.
Which Parisian bridges are photographers’ favorites?
All bridges in Paris inspire photographers, but some stand out for their views, lines or legendary aesthetics.
Pont Alexandre III
A symbol of Belle Époque elegance, Pont Alexandre III dazzles with sculptures, golden details, and ornate lampposts. Inaugurated during the 1900 Exposition Universelle, it has starred in music videos like Adele’s Someone Like You and Mariah Carey’s Say Something.
Pont de Bir-Hakeim
This dual-level iron bridge is known for its cinematic style and breathtaking Eiffel Tower views. The lower deck is open to cars and pedestrians, while the upper carries Metro Line 6. It featured in Christopher Nolan’s Inception.
Pont des Arts
A light, pedestrian footbridge linking the Institut de France to the Louvre. Once famed for its love locks, it remains a romantic favorite for evening strolls and timeless photos.
Which bridges hold deep symbolic and historical meaning?
Pont Neuf
Ironically the oldest bridge in Paris (1607), Pont Neuf was revolutionary: the first without houses, the first to span the full width of the Seine, and the first to host an equestrian statue (Henri IV).
Pont de la Concorde
Built during the French Revolution, the bridge used stones from the demolished Bastille, so that the people could “trample the old fortress underfoot.” It was once named Pont de la Révolution before being renamed Concorde in 1830.
Pont au Change
Built and rebuilt many times between the 9th and 19th centuries, early versions housed small shops. Today’s version was constructed under Napoleon III and still bears his imperial monogram.
Which are the most unusual or lesser-known bridges in Paris?
Pont Marie
Also known as the “Lovers’ Bridge,” legend says that a kiss under its arches ensures eternal love.
Pont de Sully
Technically a twin bridge, it connects both banks of the Seine to Île Saint-Louis. It offers sweeping views of the island and Notre-Dame. The current version was part of Baron Haussmann’s 19th-century redesign of Paris.
Passerelle Simone de Beauvoir
The newest bridge in Paris, designed exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists. Its bold, modern lines connect the National Library to Bercy Park.
Which bridges can you see on a private Seine cruise?
A cruise with Nouvelle Vague offers a front-row seat to most of Paris’s iconic bridges. Depending on the route, you’ll pass under Pont Royal, Passerelle Léopold Sédar-Senghor, Pont de la Concorde, Pont Alexandre III, Pont des Invalides, Pont de l’Alma, Passerelle Debilly, Pont d’Iéna, Pont de Bir-Hakeim, Pont de Grenelle, Pont du Carrousel, Pont des Arts, Pont Neuf, Pont au Change, Pont Notre-Dame, Pont Marie, Pont de Sully… and many more.
Each bridge marks a new chapter in your journey, showcasing a distinct style, story, and era. Aboard a private boat on the Seine, you enjoy an intimate tête-à-tête with the city’s architectural and historic soul.
To learn more or book your cruise: Contact us or make a reservation.
