Paris, ‘La Belle’, as this most romantic capital is called, is definitely a staple for photogenic content- and Instagrammers worldwide would agree!
Indeed, known as the city of Love, Paris is truly an architectural gem.
With the great river Seine separating it’s left bank from the right, there are 37 bridges overlapping its streams. And in true Parisian form, they are as functional as they are aesthetically stunning!
From Art Nouveau gilded constructions to love-locks adorned railings with sweeping views, scroll down for my top 5 must-snap Parisian bridges!
1. Pont Alexandre III
The most beautiful bridge that I ever did see! Truly! Not only in Paris, but worldwide in my opinion.
It is an emblematic landmark of the French capital and is the most impressive bridge architecturally- truly a work of art.
I am always blown away by its opulence and extravagant structure, overlooking the Seine and connecting the Champs-Elysees with the Invalides building and the Eiffel Tower.
Famous for its gilded Fames sculptures, the nymph reliefs, and the overall intricate design, this is THE Instagrammable BRIDGE in Paris! And no filter needed!
I actually had one of my favorite photo shoots there and it was such an amazing experience!
The bridge is covered in lush, Art Nouveau candelabras (it was the city’s first bridge to be illuminated by electricity) and crowned with gilded statues. At night the lights illuminate the sculptures with a romantic glimmer serving the most magical Parisian atmosphere.
I love walking over this bridge but there is something about experiencing it from a car that gives it a larger than life feel.
But whichever way you choose to visit the ‘Pont Alexander III’, prepare for a show because this bridge is a true star and both her shores have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991.
2. Pont de l’ALMA
This bridge holds a special place in my heart. Not only because of its spectacular views which are unparalleled, but due to my personal history with it. It was the bridge that led me to my dream opportunity to collaborate with a television station and where I learned the art of filming and newscasting.
This stunning bridge, which spans over the Seine, overlooking the Eiffel Tower and the Russian cathedral, is definitely a tourist favorite! It’s simply phenomenal and my phone is filled with fabulous snaps from just walking across it, especially at night when the Eiffel Tower sparkles.
Situated in the heart of the 7th arrondissement, it is sadly also where the Queen of hearts, HRH Diana, has her tragic accident. A statue of an eternal flame stands before the bridge, surrounded by flowers and a touching tribute in memory of the late Princess.
3. Pont Neuf
The Pont Neuf is one of my favorite spots before I even knew its history. I guess I was just charmed by its medieval looking construction and old world allure. It’s actually considered to be the oldest stone bridge in Paris, ordered by Henri IV in 1578!
To describe what stands out on this fabulous bridge are its Twelve arches, 384 ‘mascarons’ or ornamental gargoyles and most notably, the equestrian statue of Henri IV. Consisting of two spans, the bridge connects the Musée du Louvre, with Saint-Germain-des-Prés on the Left Bank via the Ile de la Cité.
I often would walk over its ancient stone structure, during my photography group days, as it leads to other landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Monnaie de Paris and the Sainte-Chapelle.
It’s a historical and iconic bridge indeed!
4. Pont des Arts
Definitely one of the most instagrammable bridges in these Parisian streets! I mean even the Kardashians have posted this iconic bridge on their IG feeds. So you know it had to make it on the list!
Also known as the love lock bridge, le Pont des Arts is really a site to see in person. It’s even more impressive than those millions of posts on its hashtag (#PontdesArts).
Recently onlookers and visitors have been restricted from adding locks on the bridge for security reasons (some locks were even removed). But one thing that won’t change are the views… Especially at night. My favorite for overlooking the Parisian skyline as it gives stunning views of the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay, the Académie Française, the Latin Quarter, Ile de la Cité, and Notre Dame!
5. Pont de Bir Hakheim
This is one of my coup de cœur like they say in French, my “crush”, so to speak.
This bridge, made of steel, has a two-level structure. The lower structure is imagined as a place for cars, bicycles and pedestrians, while the upper level is reserved for the rails of the metro line 6.
I mostly enjoy its phenomenal views from the line 6 (feeling like Jlo, “on the 6”) but instead of ending up in the boogie-down Bronx, you end up over the largest body of water in the city of love, with a heart- stopping view of the Iron Lady herself!
No joke. I often tell friends visiting, to be prepared! Once the train heads for the Bir Hackeim stop, the view of the Eiffel Tower is absolutely breathtaking! You literally have to pause. It’s almost like one of those Disney rides, it truly feels surreal how close it seems.
Surrounded by Haussmannian architecture, from the bridge you can even spot a replica of Lady Liberty herself, standing below, in the shadows of the more imposing Iron Lady!
I agreed that the Bir Hakeim bridge is not as intricate and is on the more functional end, but let’s just say that its placement and views make up for it.
But even so, it is still listed as a French historical monument and is a favorite for romantic proposals.
And there you have it ladies and gentlemen!
Which bridge would you like to capture and highlight on your IG feed? Let me know below!
Thanks for stopping by and stay tuned for more #LovelySpaces lists!
XO, C
