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Viaduc de Millau: A Modern Engineering Marvel

Experience the breathtaking Viaduc de Millau: A marvel of engineering offering stunning views of the Tarn River valley in Southern France.

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The Viaduc de Millau is a stunning cable-stayed bridge that spans the Tarn River valley near Millau, France. Opened in 2004, it's one of the tallest bridges in the world, offering breathtaking views and a testament to modern engineering.

A brief summary to Viaduc de Millau

Local tips

  • Visit the Viaduc Expo at the Aire du Viaduc de Millau for a free and fascinating look at the bridge's construction.
  • For the best photo opportunities, visit in the early morning during autumn when the bridge is often shrouded in mist.
  • Consider taking a guided tour along the Sentier des Explorateurs for an exclusive, close-up view of the viaduct.
  • Explore the surrounding area with activities like canoeing or hiking to appreciate the viaduct from different angles.
  • Be aware that there is a toll to cross the bridge, with different rates for summer and the rest of the year.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Viaduc de Millau is most easily accessed via the A75 autoroute. Whether approaching from the north (Clermont-Ferrand) or south (Béziers), follow the A75. The bridge is a toll road; toll booths are located a few kilometers north of the structure. In 2025, the toll for cars is €13.70 during the summer (June 15 - September 15) and €11.20 for the remainder of the year. A large rest area (Aire du Viaduc de Millau) just before the northern end offers parking and stunning viewpoints.

  • Public Transport

    While there's no direct public transport to the viaduct itself, you can take a train or bus to Millau. From Millau, you can take a taxi to the Aire du Viaduc de Millau, which provides access to viewpoints and the Viaduc Expo. A taxi ride from Millau to the viaduct area will cost approximately €20-€30. Alternatively, some local tour operators may offer transportation as part of a guided tour.

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Discover more about Viaduc de Millau

The Viaduc de Millau isn't just a bridge; it's a symbol of French engineering prowess and a breathtaking landmark in the Aveyron region. Opened in December 2004, after only three years of construction, this cable-stayed bridge soars across the Tarn River valley, connecting the Causse Rouge and Causse du Larzac plateaus. Designed by French engineer Michel Virlogeux and British architect Norman Foster, the viaduct seamlessly blends into the landscape, offering a visual spectacle for travelers and locals alike. At its highest point, the viaduct reaches 343 meters (1,125 ft), taller than the Eiffel Tower, making it the tallest bridge in the world. Its slender, slightly curved design, supported by elegant stays and seven delicate pillars, gives it the appearance of a giant yacht gracefully sailing through the sky. The bridge stretches 2,460 meters (8,070 ft) long and carries the A75 autoroute, providing a crucial link between Paris and the Mediterranean. Visitors can experience the Viaduc de Millau in several ways. Driving across the bridge offers a unique perspective, with panoramic views of the Tarn valley. For a more immersive experience, stop at the Aire du Viaduc de Millau, a rest area north of the bridge. Here, you'll find the Viaduc Expo, a free museum detailing the bridge's construction, and a belvedere offering stunning views. Guided tours are also available, taking you along the Sentier des Explorateurs (Explorer's Path) for an up-close look at the structure. The surrounding area offers opportunities for outdoor activities, such as canoeing, hiking, and paragliding, providing different perspectives of this iconic landmark.

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