Pont Neuf The oldest bridge in Paris

Routes

The Pont Neuf, Paris’s oldest surviving bridge, was begun under Henry III in 1578 and inaugurated by Henry IV in 1607. It spans the Seine at the western end of the Île de la Cité, linking the Right Bank (1st arrondissement) and the Left Bank (6th). Comprising twelve arches—seven over the main channel and five over the smaller one—it was the first to provide broad sidewalks and cantilevered refuges, heralding a more modern conception of urban space. Its cornice is adorned with 381 mascarons with fantastical faces. At its approach stands the equestrian statue of Henry IV, and its parapets offer fine views of the Seine quays, now inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. A symbol of permanence and Parisian life, it remains both a thoroughfare and a place for strolling.

Where is the Pont Neuf located in Paris?

The Pont Neuf spans the Seine at the western end of the Île de la Cité. It links the Right Bank (1st arrondissement) to the Left Bank (6th arrondissement).

How to get to the Pont Neuf by public transport?

The most direct way to cross the Pont Neuf is to take metro line 7 to Pont Neuf station (exits "Quai du Louvre / Pont Neuf"). Other nearby stations — Châtelet, Cité, Louvre–Rivoli, Saint‑Michel–Notre‑Dame (RER B/C) — also provide access to the Pont Neuf. There is also a Batobus "Pont Neuf" stop at Square du Vert‑Galant, at the foot of the bridge.

Which attractions can I visit near the Pont Neuf?

Around the Pont Neuf, you’re in the historic heart of Paris, between Île de la Cité, the Louvre, and Saint‑Germain. Within a 5–10 minute walk, you can reach major monuments, museums, gardens, UNESCO‑listed quays, and iconic spots.

Sights nearby (0–10 minutes on foot)

  • Square du Vert‑Galant (0–2 min, Île de la Cité): a small green tip at the end of the island, ideal for sunsets over the Seine.
  • Place Dauphine (2–4 min, Île de la Cité): an intimate triangular square with 17th‑century houses. You can even sit out on the terraces.
  • Equestrian statue of Henry IV (1–2 min): a historic landmark at the entrance to the bridge on the Île de la Cité side.
  • Pont des Arts (5–7 min): an iconic pedestrian bridge with views of the Louvre and the Institut de France.
  • La Samaritaine (5–7 min, Right Bank): a renovated department store (Art Deco/Art Nouveau) with a panoramic terrace for views across Paris.
  • Institut de France (6–8 min, Left Bank): with its majestic dome facing the Pont des Arts.
  • Monnaie de Paris – Musée 11 Conti (7–9 min, Left Bank): a museum tracing the crafts and history of coinage, housed in an 18th‑century building.