The banks of the Seine
The Seine River, which runs through the heart of Paris, is the beating heart of the dynamic French metropolis. The tranquil river is an essential aspect of the city's unique history. The river, which is lined with traditional bookstores and surrounded by magnificent boulevards, old cafés, and picturesque neighborhoods, is a draw in and of itself. Walking along the Seine's banks is a great way to know the City of Light. Along the route, you'll pass by several gorgeous and ancient bridges, as well as some of Paris' most renowned structures and landmarks, such as the Louvre Museum, the Eiffel Tower, and the Cathedral of Notre Dame.
The two banks of the Seine refer to as La Rive Gauche (the Left Bank) and a La Rive Droite (the Right Bank). Both banks are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and they each offer their distinct flavor of the Parisian experience. The Left Bank link to writers, artists, and café culture. The likes of Hemingway, Picasso, and Matisse all once called the La Rive Gauche their home, and today it's the perfect place to get lost on foot and watch Parisian life pass by. Grab an old-fashioned hot chocolate at Le Deux Magots, stroll through the Latin Quarter's meandering passageways, or peruse the modest book shop set up beside the river.
Whereas the Left Bank connects to the arts, philosophy and other intellectual pursuits, the Right Bank of the Seine has always had stronger links with commerce and trade. La Rive Droite was historically the more affluent side of the Seine. However, this is no longer true. This side of the Seine also lays claim to many of Paris' most notable attractions, including the Louvre Museum and Arc de Triomphe.
Connecting the Left and Right banks with the Ile de la Cité, Pont Neuf is the oldest bridge across the Seine. Built under the instruction of King Henry III, it opened in 1607 and is distinguished by its striking stone arches. The next is Pont Alexandre III, completed in 1900, which many consider as the most beautiful and extravagant bridge in Paris. The beaux-arts bridge is famous for its ornate lamps and gilded sculptures at each end. It was named after Tsar Alexander III to celebrate Franco-Russian relations. Finally, Pont des Arts were perhaps better known as the "Love-Lock Bridge," a pedestrian pathway connecting the Left Bank to the Louvre Museum on the Right Bank.
