Pont Neuf and Square du Vert-Galant

Pont Neuf is a gorgeous arched stone bridge of golden hue, leading to the huge Ile de la Cite, an island in the middle of the Seine River. The square below Pont Neuf, Square du Vert-Galant, is one of my favorite places on earth! You can sit and take in Pont Neuf's majesty while also watching the glimmering blue-green waters of the Seine. See the boats go by. The square is raised up above the waterfront walkway. Walk down to the cobblestone walkway and you can sit under willow trees on the edge of the river, with your feet dangling over the water. Many young people gather here in groups to chat and have fun. It's a great place for a picnic or a romantic stroll.

Atop Pont Neuf is a statue and an area where the city is allowing people to put up locks with their initials and their lover's initials. This is to replace the locks at Pont des Arts that were breaking the metal bridge.
At Quai de Conti and Quai Voltaire, the booksellers or bouquinistes sell their posters and books, with little stands lined up under rows of trees, and views of the Seine River. Search "Bouquinistes du Quai Voltaire" on google maps to find the location.
Afterward, walk east to Notre Dame Cathedral, which is also on Ile de la Cite.
From Pont Neuf, you can take a boat ride up the Seine river and learn about the sites.

Directions

Square du Vert-Galant is located at Place du Pont-Neuf, 75001 Paris, France. There is a metro station called Pont Neuf just steps away.

Click on map for interactive view