Pont Neuf

The Basics

As one of Paris’s most popular destinations, Pont Neuf is often included on small-group walking tours of the city center and highlights along the Seine. As one of the main bridges used to access Ile de la Cite, the epicenter of the city’s medieval beginnings, Pont Neuf is often a highlight on tours of the island, which typically also stop at Notre-Dame Cathedral and Ile Saint-Louis. By contrast, Seine river cruises offer panoramic views from the water of the island, cathedral, and Pont Neuf often missed by visitors.

Themed tours, including music, photography, history, and architecture tours, often include a walk across Pont Neuf and a fresh perspective of the city. While bicycle tours provide a quick and active way to see the highlights, evening tours showcase Paris’s architectural gems illuminated under the night sky. Private tours allow visitors to tack a visit to Pont Neuf onto the day’s fully customized itinerary.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Pont Neuf is a must for history and architecture buffs, as well as photographers of all skill levels.

• Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes, as Ile de la Cite and surrounding neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

• While there are plenty of dining options available on Ile de la Cite and Ile Saint-Louis, visitors and locals often picnic on the banks of the Seine.

• Public restrooms are located in front of Notre Dame Cathedral.

How to Get There

Centrally located between the First and Sixth arrondissements, Pont Neuf is easily accessible on foot or by public transit. The nearest stops are Pont Neuf on Metro line 7 and buses 24, 58, and 70, and Cité on Metro line 4.

When to Get There

Pont Neuf is a popular people-watching location for both visitors and locals. While warm weather evenings are more atmospheric as the city buzzes with nightlife, mornings offer a quieter experience and opportunity for unobstructed photos. During the summer months, concerts, art installations, workshops, classes, and kids’ activities are often found on the banks of the Seine from Pont Sully to Pont Neuf.

The Birthplace of Paris

Stand on the Pont Neuf and look out east over Ile de la Cite. You are standing on what was once the ancient Roman city of Lutetia, the birthplace of Paris established between 250–225 BCE. While Paris owes its status to the ancient Romans, few relics remain besides the remnants of aqueducts, the Arena of Lutetia, and the remains of a bathhouse preserved in the archaeological crypt underneath Notre Dame Cathedral.

Ways to explore

As one of Paris’ most popular attractions, Pont Neuf is often included on small-group walking tours of the city. It’s a highlight on excursions to Île de la Cité, the epicenter of Paris’ medieval history; these tours typically stop at Notre-Dame Cathedral and Île Saint-Louis, too. Seine River cruises are also popular, offering views of the islands, Notre-Dame, and Pont Neuf from the water by day or night. Photography, history, and architecture tours often include a walk across Pont Neuf, while bicycle tours provide a quick and active way to see the bridge along with other city highlights.

Accessibility

Pont Neuf is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with flat, wide sidewalks on both sides of the bridge.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water bottle, camera, sunglasses, a picnic to enjoy on the banks of the Seine

What to wear

Dress for the weather, as Pont Neuf is uncovered, and wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the neighborhoods connected by the bridge.

Not allowed

Don’t fix padlocks to Pont Neuf (or any bridges in Paris, for that matter), as the city periodically removes “love locks” placed on its bridges over concerns about structural integrity and historical preservation.

Amenities

Public restrooms (near Notre-Dame Cathedral), luggage storage options (on the north side of the bridge)

Address

Centrally located between the 1st and 6th arrondissements, Pont Neuf is easily accessible on foot or by public transit. You can walk there from nearby attractions such as the Louvre Museum and Tuileries Garden, or take the Paris Metro or bus.

Driving

Self-navigating in central Paris is not recommended for travelers, but taxis and rideshare apps are widely available and can get you to Pont Neuf within 30 minutes from most attractions.

Public transportation

Pont Neuf has its own Metro station—Pont Neuf, served by line 7—but it’s also near Cité station (line 4) and Châtelet station (lines 1, 4, and 7). Several buses stop near the north and south sides of the bridge.

Best times to visit

Pont Neuf is least crowded in the early morning, while it’s especially scenic for photos at sunset.

Best days to visit

This major bridge is always busy, but it draws especially large crowds on weekends. Aim to visit on a weekday for a calmer atmosphere.

Best months to visit

Being an outdoor attraction, Pont Neuf is best visited from May–September, when Paris’ daytime temperatures hover between 65°F (18°C) and 76°F (24°C).