The Bridges of the Seine

During my first trip to Paris, I received some crucial advice: "The best way to see Paris is on foot." There are so many famous buildings, monuments, and landmarks to just enjoy at your leisure... Madeleine, L’Arc de Triomphe, Jardins du Palais Royale, Place Vendome, Musee d’Orsay, Musee du Louvre, Opera National de Paris, Les Invalides, Jardins du Luxembourg, and many others. It is helpful to set a basic walking route (which will lead to detours). You can see the sights you want, stop by cafes when you get tired and hungry (or thirsty), and plan your tour of Paris that way. It's more enjoyable and you can do things on your own time. Don’t be tied down to specific visits and entrance times (unless there is something you really want to see). The museums in Paris are amazing (and are worth a visit if you go during the off season, have extra, and the weather is bad)... but in my opinion, I have a much better experience of the “real” Parisian life by taking in the city on foot.

With that said, a walking tour must include crossing the bridges of the Seine. They all have a different personality... this means they are different in size, have different sculptures, and take in a different view in each direction (especially since the river bends so much). When crossing the bridges, you can get great landscape pictures of Paris. Sunrise and sunset are the best for colors over the city and reflecting in the water... and also right after sunset when the lights of the city (including the Eiffel Tower) get turned on. It just has a romantic feel when walking over the Seine. Another perk is that there are no "open container laws" Paris... so recommend bringing a bottle of wine and some cheese & crackers to your favorite bridge at the end of a long day.




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