Quai de la Tournelle

The Quai de la Tournelle is a riverfront promenade stretching about 420 meters along the Seine with views of Notre-Dame Cathedral. The walkway features traditional Parisian architecture on one side and an open riverbank setting on the other, creating a mix of urban and waterfront spaces.

The quay was established around 1554 and takes its name from a defensive tower that was part of King Philip Augustus's medieval fortification wall. This historical connection to the city's ancient defenses remains evident in its name.

Traditional booksellers display their wares in green metal boxes along the riverbank, and you can spend time browsing while sitting by the water. These vendors have made this stretch a gathering place for book lovers and readers who enjoy the Seine-side atmosphere.

The walkway starts at Pont de Sully bridge and extends to Rue Maitre-Albert, with plenty of space for pedestrians throughout. You can easily stroll the length at your own pace and stop to explore the booksellers along the way.

Buildings exist only on the odd-numbered side, leaving the riverbank completely open and unobstructed. This asymmetrical layout gives the quay an unusual character and ensures the waterfront remains free and spacious.

Location: 5th arrondissement of Paris

Location: Quartier Saint-Victor

Inception: 1554

Length: 420 m

Width: 23 m

Part of: road network of Paris

Shares border with: quai de Montebello, rue de Bièvre, rue de Poissy, rue de Pontoise, rue des Bernardins, rue des Fossés-Saint-Bernard, rue du Cardinal-Lemoine, rue Maître-Albert, Pont de la Tournelle, boulevard Saint-Germain, Pont de Sully, Pont de l'Archevêché, quai Saint-Bernard

GPS coordinates: 48.85030,2.35374

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:47