Seine River in Paris

Visiting

The two banks of the Seine are referred 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 own distinct flavor of the Parisian experience.

Rive Gauche (Left Bank)
The Left Bank has long been linked 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, explore the winding alleyways of the Latin Quarter or browse the bouquinistes set up along the river.

Rive Droite (Right Bank)
Whereas the Left Bank has historically been associated with 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 traditionally the wealthier side of the Seine, though this is not entirely true in modern times. This side of the Seine also lays claim to many of Paris’ most notable attractions, including the Louvre Museum and Arc de Triomphe.

Bouquinistes
One of the unique and charming features you’ll encounter as you stroll up and down the Seine are the independent book vendors (bouquinistes) selling old books, magazines and collectables from iconic green metal boxes. Browsing bouquinistes along either side of the Seine is a quintessential Parisian experience and they are a great source for unique souvenirs and gifts to take back with you after your trip.

Famous Bridges
Over a dozen bridges connect the Left and Right banks of the Seine as the river snakes its way through the heart of Paris. Each has its own unique history and striking features, but there are a few in particular that certainly stand out.

• Pont Neuf: 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.  
• Pont Alexandre III: Completed in 1900, Pont Alexandre III is considered by many 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.
• Pont des Arts: Perhaps better known as the “Love-Lock Bridge,” Pont des Arts is a pedestrian pathway connecting the Left Bank to the Louvre Museum on the Right Bank. The locks were recently removed due to their enormous weight and have been replaced by art panels.

History

Without the Seine, there would be no Paris. Over two thousand years ago a Celtic tribe established a fishing village on the Ile de la Cité, and island in the Seine where Notre Dame Cathedral now stands, and called in Parisii. The chosen location for Parisii was no accident. The Seine was a valuable trading route connecting the English Channel to modern-day Dijon, and Parisii’s location at the center of this route proved prosperous. Over the centuries the small riverside village grew into a bustling trading post and by the 12th century, Paris had grown into the largest city in the western world.

Through Roman conquerors, medieval kingdoms, emperors and revolutions, the Seine has remained at the heart of Paris. Many of the city’s most famous monuments and buildings, such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde, sit right along its banks. Today residents and visitors alike still head to Rive Gauche and Rive Droite for sightseeing, shopping, dining or simply to watch the world go by.

Paris Perfect's Personal Tip

For a relaxing way to take in all the best views from the Seine, we recommend a riverboat tour. The journey lasts two hours and take you past all the marvelous bridges and monuments along the river, giving you a chance to snap some incredible holiday photos.