The current structure of Pont de Bir Hakeim, or Bir Hakeim bridge, was built in 1905 to replace the Passy footbridge, which had been created for the 1878 Universal Exhibition. It has two levels – one for pedestrians and cars, and a viaduct for the subway’s Line 6. There are stairs in the middle leading to l’île aux Cygnes (swan island). Along the way, you can feast your eyes on the smaller-scale replica of the Statue of Liberty. The bridge was renamed in 1948, in commemoration of the Battle of Bir Hakeim, waged by General Kœnig and the free French Forces, in Libya, in 1942.

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There’s an amazing view of the Eiffel Tower from the bridge. So much so that Parisians make for this unique vantage point during major events (such as Bastille Day), to get a good look at the fireworks. Several movie scenes have also been filmed on this bridge and viaduct.




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If you walk under the subway viaduct, along boulevard de Grenelle, from 7am onwards on a Wednesday or Sunday morning, you will come across Grenelle market. With its multifarious supply of fresh produce, characteristic cries from stand owners and its crowd of regulars and newcomers alike, this market (like every Parisian market) is a feast for the senses. Don’t miss a stroll through Grenelle market, a mere stone’s throw from Eiffel Seine hotel.