Romantic waterside strolls
The banks of the Seine have enchanted lovers for centuries and are the perfect place for a romantic stroll.
Around the two romantic islands of Ile Saint Louis and Ile de la Cité, the riverbanks are perfect places to stroll with your loved one. The bridges also appeal to couples. Could it be because their arches symbolize an alliance? Or because the water flowing under them carries with it the wildest of promises?
According to tradition, lovebirds should kiss and make a wish under the Pont Marie, nicknamed ‘lovers’ bridge’. The Pont des Arts and the Pont de l’Archevêché, located behind the Louvre and Notre-Dame respectively, are also popular with couples from all over the world.
Of the 37 bridges crossing the Seine, the most famous is undoubtedly the Pont Neuf, which dates back to the end of the 16th century. And don’t miss the charming Square du Vert-Galant nearby, built in honour of King Henri IV - nicknamed the ‘Vert-Galant’ (‘the Green Galant’) because of his reputation for amorous escapades.
The more recent Passerelle Léopold Sédard Senghor footbridge, joining the Musée d’Orsay and the Jardin des Tuileries, is also a favourite with loving couples.
Hand-in-hand along the towpath
Even though the Seine is the iconic river of the City of Lights, Paris offers other possibilities for a romantic waterside stroll! The Canal Saint-Martin for exampleis the perfect place for a different kind of walk through old Paris. With its locks and swing bridges, it is a magnet for anyone interested in the authentic Paris of times gone by. It was also used as a location in the film Amélie.
More information Discovering the islands of Paris and Paris: the Seine with its bridges and footbridges
