Pont de Pierre
Napoleon's elegant 17-span bridge over the Garonne River, offering stunning city views and a historical connection.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Pont de Pierre
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Napoleon's elegant 17-span bridge over the Garonne River, offering stunning city views and a historical connection.
"Great views and a nice sight to see in Bordeaux, but very busy."
🚶♀️ Walk, Don't Rush
Take your time to soak in the views. It's a long walk, but worth it for the scenery and people-watching.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture stunning shots of Bordeaux's riverside, especially with autumn leaves.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic River Views
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Garonne River and Bordeaux's stunning cityscape. Perfect for photos!
Napoleon's Architectural Legacy
Admire the elegant 17-span design commissioned by Napoleon himself. A true historical marvel.
Sunset Spectacle
Witness the sky ablaze with color as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a magical glow.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds on Pont de Pierre
Safety and Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Staying safe
🚶♀️ Walk, Don't Rush
Take your time to soak in the views. It's a long walk, but worth it for the scenery and people-watching.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture stunning shots of Bordeaux's riverside, especially with autumn leaves.
What are your favourite things to do in Bordeaux that aren’t traditional ‘guidebook’ type things?
How should I spend 4 days in / around Bordeaux?
🏃♀️ Mind the Runners
Be aware of fast-moving runners and cyclists, especially on busy days.
🚌 Easy Public Transport
Public transport is conveniently located right above the bridge for easy access.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk, Don't Rush
Take your time to soak in the views. It's a long walk, but worth it for the scenery and people-watching.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture stunning shots of Bordeaux's riverside, especially with autumn leaves.
🏃♀️ Mind the Runners
Be aware of fast-moving runners and cyclists, especially on busy days.
🚌 Easy Public Transport
Public transport is conveniently located right above the bridge for easy access.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Pont de Pierre for its beautiful views and historical significance, calling it a nice place for walks and photos. However, many find it overwhelmingly crowded, especially on weekends, with issues regarding pedestrian flow and runners. The yellow color of the Garonne River is also a notable observation.
"Great views and a nice sight to see in Bordeaux, but very busy"
Julian Dyer
"Some great views, but on a hot Sunday morning in May, it was far too crowded with too many runners trying to keep their speed up and barging into pedestrians. Plus a huge lack of people able to keep to the side of the path designated for walking in their direction. The only place in Bordeaux we found so much congestion from people."
Paul C
"A historical bridge in Bordeaux.. and the quiet city life nicely positioned around it is not bad. fine for short walks and taking pictures. public transport is just above it."
Refik Tuncer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can either enjoy a scenic walk across the Pont de Pierre or take the tram directly from Place de Stalingrad to reach the city center.
While generally safe, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially late at night. The bridge is well-lit and a common route.
Trams are a convenient option, with stops located very close to the bridge, making it easily accessible.
The bridge is primarily for public transport, pedestrians, and cyclists, with limited car traffic. It's best to use public transport or walk.
The bridge is generally flat and accessible, making it suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking across the Pont de Pierre is completely free and open to the public at all times.
The bridge is accessible 24/7, allowing you to enjoy it at any time of day or night.
There are no entrance fees. Access to the bridge is free for all visitors.
Yes, the bridge is open year-round, including holidays. Be prepared for potentially larger crowds during peak tourist seasons.
To avoid the busiest times, aim for early mornings or late evenings, especially on weekends.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer soft, golden light and fewer people, while evenings provide stunning sunset views and city lights.
Try capturing the bridge from the riverbanks for a full perspective, or from the bridge itself looking towards the city.
You'll get great shots of the Bordeaux riverside, including historic buildings and the iconic Place de la Bourse.
Drone usage may be restricted in urban areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
For daytime, a moderate aperture (f/8-f/11) is good for sharpness. For evenings, a tripod and longer exposure will capture the lights beautifully.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy a leisurely walk, take in the panoramic views of Bordeaux, and capture memorable photos.
It takes about 10-15 minutes to walk across at a moderate pace, but you'll likely want to stop for photos and views.
The bridge is primarily a pedestrian walkway and does not have amenities like shops or cafes.
It can get very crowded, especially on hot Sunday mornings and weekends, with many runners and tourists.
The water in the Garonne River can appear yellow, and its current can be quite strong.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as there are no amenities directly on the bridge. The proximity to public transport also makes it easy to get to and from your accommodation, minimizing travel stress for families. It's a simple yet memorable activity that adds a touch of Bordeaux's charm to your family's itinerary.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a walk along the riverbanks or utilize the convenient public transport options nearby to save on taxi fares. It's an excellent way to experience the city's beauty and historical significance without impacting your wallet. Pack a picnic to enjoy with a view, making it an even more economical and enjoyable outing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: Napoleon's Vision
Today, the Pont de Pierre stands as a beloved landmark in Bordeaux, offering a picturesque connection between the city center and the Stalingrad area. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, providing stunning views and a sense of historical continuity. Walking across it offers a tangible link to the past, imagining the era when it was first conceived and built. The bridge's enduring presence makes it a vital part of Bordeaux's identity and a must-see for any visitor.
Navigating the Bridge: Tips for a Smooth Visit
When walking, remember that the bridge is a shared space. Be mindful of cyclists and runners who often maintain a brisk pace. While the bridge is generally safe, as noted by some travelers concerned about nighttime safety around Place de Stalingrad, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings. The convenience of public transport located just above the bridge makes it easily accessible, so consider using it to reach the area rather than driving.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit