Planning Your Route and Starting Point
Begin at Ile de la Cite, the historic island at Paris's heart. Pont Neuf connects the island to both riverbanks and serves as a natural waypoint. From here, the walking route proceeds along the riverside toward the Louvre's exterior and the Tuileries gardens.
The Tuileries opening schedule changes with the season: 07:00–21:00 in October and 07:30–19:30 in November. Evacuation begins thirty minutes before closing. Choose your walking start time so you can reach the gardens before that period.
Navigating Bridges and Riverside Access
Multiple bridges cross the Seine along this route, each offering different access levels. Pont Neuf remains the primary crossing for Ile de la Cite; other bridges downstream provide alternatives depending on your pace and physical capability. Stairs and ramps vary across different bridge approaches.
Assess bridge accessibility before choosing a crossing. Some approaches involve steep stairs or narrow passages; others provide gentler slopes. Wear appropriate footwear and allow extra time if mobility requires careful footing or rest stops.
The Louvre Exterior and Tuileries Gardens
The Louvre's exterior architecture is visible from the riverside walk without requiring museum entry. The building's classical facades frame the approach to the Tuileries gardens. This section allows observation of the structure while remaining on public pathways.
Use the Tuileries as the final part of the suggested walk if its opening hours fit your day. In October the listed closing time is 21:00; in November it is 19:30, with evacuation beginning thirty minutes earlier.