Île des Cygnes - Small island in the middle of nowhere
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Île des Cygnes

4.5
·13 reviews·Annecy, France

A tranquil island in the Seine, home to a Statue of Liberty replica and offering scenic bridge views. A peaceful Parisian escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour light for photos

CrowdMedium
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Île des Cygnes - Small island in the middle of nowhere

Île des Cygnes

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour light for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil island in the Seine, home to a Statue of Liberty replica and offering scenic bridge views. A peaceful Parisian escape.

4.5
(13 reviews)

"Discover Paris's own Statue of Liberty on the serene Île des Cygnes, a delightful urban oasis."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture the Statue of Liberty replica with the Eiffel Tower in the background for an iconic Paris shot.

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

The island is best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes for your stroll.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Statue of Liberty Replica

Statue of Liberty Replica

Southern tip of Île des Cygnes

A striking 16-meter replica of the Statue of Liberty, a gift from American expats, facing its New York counterpart.

Instagram
Pont de Bir-Hakeim

Pont de Bir-Hakeim

Eastern end of Île des Cygnes

An iconic bridge offering stunning views of the island, the Seine, and the Eiffel Tower.

TikTok
Pont de Grenelle

Pont de Grenelle

Western end of Île des Cygnes

Another beautiful bridge providing access and scenic perspectives of the island and its surroundings.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Statue of Liberty's Parisian Sister

Discover the Île des Cygnes, a charming island in Paris featuring a replica of the Statue of Liberty. It's a peaceful escape offering unique photo opportunities and a pleasant stroll between two iconic bridges. TikTok

Best Views & Access

Easily accessible from the Pont de Bir-Hakeim or Pont de Grenelle, this island is perfect for a quick visit. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and the impressive statue, especially as the sun begins to set. Instagram

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

SORTIES DANS LE 15EME 💫   1-Balade sur l’Île aux cygnes pour aller voir la statue de la Liberté, entre les ponts de Grenelle et de Bir-Hakeim : bucolique et très agréable. L’île aux Cygnes est célèbre pour sa réplique de 16 mètres de haut de la Statue de la Liberté, située sur la pointe sud.
💶Gratuit 📍Île aux Cygnes (départ au milieu du pont de Bir-Hakeim)75015    2-Shopping chez Takumi flavours U...
@leparisfoodalex
15.3K likes • 457.7K views

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture the Statue of Liberty replica with the Eiffel Tower in the background for an iconic Paris shot. TikTokInstagram

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

The island is best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes for your stroll. Instagram

After France gifted the Statue of Liberty to America, American expats raised funds to have a smaller scale replica of Frédéric Bartholdi’s sculpture for Paris. She sits at the tip of Île aux Cygnes- Island of the Swans- in the middle of the Seine in the 15th arrondissement. She used to face the Eiffel Tower, but was rotated to face her sister in New York in 1937. Several of Bartholdi’s scaled down...
arthiding
88 likes • 18.7K views
🏃🏾‍♀️ 2023/115. Enfin l’Île des Cygnes est ouverte, je pouvais faire coucou à mon amie 🗽 ———————————————————————— Finally the Swans’ Island is open, I could say hi to my friend 🗽 #asics #asicsnoosa #noosatri14 #asicsrunning #asicsgeldedicate #trixirunning #courseapied #runningparis #runningfrance #running #coureur #coureuse #runnersofinstagram #trixionthemat #yogafrance #yogaparis #yoga #trixi_mo...
trixi_moves
62 likes • 0 views

🚶‍♀️ Peaceful Escape

Enjoy a quiet walk away from the city bustle, perfect for a moment of reflection. TikTok

💍 Romantic Ambiance

Consider this spot for a proposal or romantic stroll, especially around sunset. Reddit

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Getting engaged in Paris

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture the Statue of Liberty replica with the Eiffel Tower in the background for an iconic Paris shot. TikTokInstagram

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

The island is best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes for your stroll. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Peaceful Escape

Enjoy a quiet walk away from the city bustle, perfect for a moment of reflection. TikTok

💍 Romantic Ambiance

Consider this spot for a proposal or romantic stroll, especially around sunset. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(13 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Île des Cygnes a charming and peaceful escape, particularly appreciating the Statue of Liberty replica and the scenic views from the bridges. It's a lovely spot for a quiet stroll or a unique photo opportunity, offering a serene break from the city's hustle and bustle. Some note the limited facilities on the island itself.

"Ile des Cygnes is a small islet, completely covered by vegetation, located very close to the shore of ''Lac d'Annecy'' almost opposite the source of the "Le Thiou" river. The ''Lac d'Annecy'', where the "Ile des Cygnes" is located, was formed about 18,000 years ago as a result of the melting of alpine glaciers. It is the second largest lake in France and the mountain ranges that, in part, surround it offer us some very attractive panoramic views."

J.M.Q.

"Lovely little island where nature grows lush without human intervention. Nice to go around with a pedal boat and to see from the shore. Anyway, the whole walk around the lake is beautiful: We really should learn here!"

M Masini

"Visible from the Garden of Europe"

H

What People Like

Statue of Liberty replica
Peaceful atmosphere
Bridge views

What People Dislike

Limited facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Île des Cygnes is easily accessible by foot from the Pont de Bir-Hakeim (Metro lines 6 and 10) or the Pont de Grenelle (Metro line 10). You can also reach it via RER C at Champ de Mars - Tour Eiffel and walk across the Pont d'Iéna. TikTok

While there isn't direct parking on the island, several public parking garages are available near the Pont de Grenelle and Pont de Bir-Hakeim. Public transport is generally recommended. TikTok

Yes, it's a pleasant walk from the Eiffel Tower. Cross the Pont d'Iéna and then head towards the Pont de Bir-Hakeim, which leads directly to the island. TikTok

You can access the island from either end via the Pont de Bir-Hakeim or Pont de Grenelle. Both offer lovely views as you approach. TikTok

While you can see the island from boat tours on the Seine, direct public boat access to the island itself is limited. It's primarily accessed by bridges. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Île des Cygnes is completely free. You can wander around the island and see the Statue of Liberty replica without any admission fee. TikTok

The island is generally accessible at all times, as it's an outdoor public space. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment. Instagram

There is no entrance fee to see the Statue of Liberty replica on Île des Cygnes. It's a public monument for all to admire. TikTok

While official tours specifically for the island are rare, many Seine river cruises pass by, offering views. You can explore the island independently at your own pace. TikTok

Île des Cygnes is an open public space and is rarely closed. However, during major events or maintenance, access might be temporarily restricted. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The southern tip offers the best views of the Statue of Liberty replica. The bridges, especially Pont de Bir-Hakeim, provide excellent vantage points for the island and the Seine. TikTokInstagram

Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for photos. Sunrise can also be magical with fewer people around. Reddit

Yes, the Eiffel Tower is visible from various points on the island, particularly from the western side and the Pont de Grenelle. TikTok

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional shoots might require permits, so it's best to check with local authorities if planning extensive commercial photography. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the Statue of Liberty and the bridges. A telephoto lens can be useful for framing the Eiffel Tower. Instagram

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

You can stroll along the tree-lined paths, admire the Statue of Liberty replica, enjoy views of the Seine and surrounding bridges, and relax in a peaceful environment. TikTok

A leisurely walk around the island, including time for photos, typically takes about 30-60 minutes. TikTok

Île des Cygnes is primarily a natural space with walking paths. There are no major facilities like cafes or restrooms directly on the island itself. TikTok

While there are no designated picnic areas, you can find quiet spots to sit and enjoy a simple picnic. Remember to take all your trash with you. TikTok

It's known for its tranquil and bucolic atmosphere, offering a serene escape from the bustling city. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists seeking a peaceful moment. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Île des Cygnes offers a delightful and easy outing for families. The open space allows children to move around freely, and the Statue of Liberty replica is always a hit with younger visitors, sparking curiosity about history and geography. It's a safe and accessible spot for a short walk or a relaxed picnic. TikTok

Consider combining a visit with a boat tour on the Seine, as many pass by the island, offering a different perspective. The bridges also provide interesting structures for kids to observe. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited on the island itself. TikTok

💍 Couples & Romantics

For a romantic interlude, Île des Cygnes is a charming choice. The peaceful atmosphere, especially during sunset, creates a magical setting. The replica Statue of Liberty adds a unique touch, and the gentle lapping of the Seine provides a soothing soundtrack. Reddit

Propose here for a memorable moment, or simply enjoy a quiet stroll hand-in-hand. The views from the bridges, particularly Pont de Bir-Hakeim, offer stunning backdrops for photos together. It's an intimate escape within the heart of Paris. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

Photographers will find Île des Cygnes a treasure trove of visual opportunities. The Statue of Liberty replica, the iconic bridges, and the Seine river offer diverse subjects. The interplay of light and shadow, especially during golden hour, can create dramatic and beautiful shots. Instagram

Experiment with different angles from the bridges and the island's pathways. The Pont de Bir-Hakeim, with its unique structure, is particularly photogenic. For drone enthusiasts, be aware of local regulations regarding drone usage in Paris. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Parisian Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty on Île des Cygnes is a fascinating piece of Parisian history. It's a smaller, 16-meter-tall bronze replica of the iconic Statue of Liberty in New York. This Parisian version was gifted to the city by the American community in Paris in 1889, commemorating the centenary of the French Revolution. Interestingly, it was originally placed facing the Eiffel Tower but was later rotated to face its larger counterpart in New York, symbolizing the enduring friendship between France and the United States. Instagram

This replica is more than just a monument; it's a symbol of Franco-American solidarity. Its placement on Île des Cygnes, a man-made island in the Seine, adds to its unique charm. Visitors often express delight at discovering this unexpected landmark, which offers a fantastic photo opportunity and a moment to reflect on international relations. TikTokInstagram

Exploring the island allows you to appreciate the statue from various angles. The surrounding greenery and the Seine river provide a picturesque backdrop, making it a popular spot for photographers and those seeking a quiet moment amidst the city's grandeur. TikTok

Navigating Île des Cygnes: Bridges and Views

Île des Cygnes is strategically situated between two significant Parisian bridges: the Pont de Bir-Hakeim and the Pont de Grenelle. These bridges not only provide access to the island but also offer spectacular vantage points. The Pont de Bir-Hakeim, with its distinctive Art Nouveau architecture and elevated metro line, provides breathtaking views of the Seine, the island, and the distant Eiffel Tower. It's a popular spot for filmmakers and photographers alike. TikTok

The Pont de Grenelle, located at the western end of the island, offers a different perspective. It connects the 15th and 16th arrondissements and is a vital artery for local traffic. Walking across either bridge allows you to appreciate the scale of the island and the river, and to capture memorable images of Parisian life unfolding around you. TikTok

Many visitors enjoy walking from one bridge to the other, experiencing the full length of the island and its varied scenery. The presence of these architectural marvels enhances the overall experience, making the journey to and from Île des Cygnes as enjoyable as the destination itself. TikTok

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