Promenade sur les quais: When Paris reveals itself
A stroll along the quays of the Seine is to discover Paris at its most beautiful. The river becomes an open-air stage, where the most beautiful monuments are reflected in the water, offering a fascinating spectacle. With every step, a new breathtaking panorama unfolds: majestic buildings, bridges steeped in history and a unique Parisian ambience, the magic happens. Discover our favorite places to discover Paris from the water.
1. Notre-Dame and the Île de la Cité, a living postcard
From Quai de Montebello or Quai des Orfèvres, it's impossible to miss Notre-Dame, dominating the landscape with its bewitching Gothic silhouette. Opposite, the Île de la Cité unveils the Palais de Justice and the Conciergerie, vestiges of a medieval Paris with timeless charm.
2. The Louvre and its imposing facades
Running along the right bank, the Quai François Mitterrand offers a spectacular view of the Louvre. Its elegant facades and sculptures are bathed in light as the sun sets, creating an enchanting tableau. Nearby, the Pont des Arts, a favorite haunt of lovers and artists, adds a touch of romance to the stroll.
5. The bridges of Paris, between elegance and history
Every bridge you meet along the way is a work of art. The Pont Alexandre III, with its gilding and majestic sculptures, is undoubtedly one of the most impressive. Further on, the Pont Neuf - the oldest in Paris, despite its name - links the Île de la Cité to both banks, offering a superb panorama of the Seine.
4. The Eiffel Tower gradually unveiled
From the Quai d'Orsay or the Port de la Bourdonnais, the silhouette of the Eiffel Tower gradually appears. As night falls, its glitter is reflected on the water, offering a magical and unforgettable moment.
5. The bridges of Paris, between elegance and history
Every bridge you meet along the way is a work of art. The Pont Alexandre III, with its gilding and majestic sculptures, is undoubtedly one of the most impressive. Further on, the Pont Neuf - the oldest in Paris, despite its name - links the Île de la Cité to both banks, offering a superb panorama of the Seine.
3. The festive atmosphere of Quai Saint-Bernard
On the left bank of the Seine, between the Jardin des Plantes and the Institut du Monde Arabe, the Quai Saint-Bernard is a lively place for Parisians. In summer, it comes alive with salsa and tango in a convivial atmosphere, while barges cruise peacefully on the Seine.
6. Swan Island and the Statue of Liberty
Continuing westward, you'll come across the ÃŽle aux Cygnes, an often overlooked haven of greenery, ideal for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. At its tip, a replica of the Statue of Liberty, more modest than its New York counterpart, symbolizes the friendship between France and the United States.
7. Barges and lively quays
All along the river, barges bring the quays to life: floating restaurants, bookshops, guinguettes... Places like Rosa Bonheur or Barapapa offer the ideal setting to enjoy a drink while admiring the never-ending parade of Paris on the Seine.
Strolling along the quays of the Seine is to plunge into the soul of Paris, between heritage and modernity, between the calm of the river and the bustle of the city. An unforgettable setting where every moment has its own poetry.