Pont Alexandre III
The most beautiful bridge in Paris: Belle Époque lampposts and gilding.
The story of the place
It bears a tsar's name: in 1896 Nicholas II came to lay the foundation stone himself for the bridge dedicated to his father, Alexander III, architect of the Franco-Russian alliance. Inaugurated in 1900 for the Exposition Universelle, it had to cross the Seine in a single 107-metre metal arch, deliberately flattened so as not to break the view between the Champs-Élysées and the Invalides. Hence that almost level silhouette, its candelabras and the four gilded Renommées watching over the pylons.
Getting there
Nearest metro station: Invalides (8/13). The spot is in the 8th arrondissement of Paris. Open walking directions.
The light
Exceptional golden hour (5/5): the spot is open and catches the full low sunlight at sunrise and sunset. This is the slot to aim for.
Where to go after the shoot
A few addresses within a short walk, to make the moment last.
Café-restaurant facing the Invalides esplanade, open daily from 8am to 2am with continuous service, eight minutes from the bridge.
Café of the Petit Palais museum, tables in the colonnaded inner garden, three minutes from the bridge; open Tuesday to Sunday, with free access to the permanent collections.
Brasserie facing the National Assembly, open from 7am on weekdays, with a terrace on the square, seven minutes from the bridge.
Addresses checked in 07/2026. Places change — check opening hours before you head out.
Photo spots nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Pont Alexandre III?
Nearest metro station: Invalides (8/13). The spot is in the 8th arrondissement of Paris.
When is the best time to photograph Pont Alexandre III?
Exceptional golden hour (5/5): the spot is open and catches the full low sunlight at sunrise and sunset. This is the slot to aim for. Golden hour on the Invalides side, lampposts lit at blue hour.
Can I book a photographer for a shoot at Pont Alexandre III?
Yes. SnapSpot Paris connects you with Paris-based photographers who know the location. A single session can cover several nearby spots — the photographer adapts the route to the light of the day. Musée d'Orsay, Opéra Garnier, Arc de Triomphe, Champ-de-Mars / Tour Eiffel.