Amazing Cize Viaduct
Finnegan Flynn
| 25-05-2025
· Travel teamIf you love unique sights blending history and engineering, the Cize-Bolozon Viaduct is one spot you can’t miss in eastern France. This remarkable two-level bridge carries high-speed trains above and cars below, gracefully spanning the Ain River.
We’re excited to take you through all the essential details to plan your visit—from transport options to the best time to go, and insider tips to make the most of your trip.
Where Exactly Is the Viaduct and How Do We Get There?
The viaduct links the small towns of Cize and Bolozon in the Ain department, about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Bourg-en-Bresse, a larger nearby city with train connections.
- By Car: The easiest way to visit is by car. From Bourg-en-Bresse, the drive takes roughly 45 minutes. Free parking spots are scattered near the bridge entrances and village streets but tend to fill on weekends.
- By Train and Taxi: Take a regional train to Bourg-en-Bresse or Ambérieu-en-Bugey. Local taxis from these stations cost around $25 USD one-way to the viaduct area.
- By Bike or Hiking: Adventurous visitors can use scenic cycling and hiking trails along the Ain River, providing a refreshing approach to the viaduct.
Is There an Entrance Fee? When Can We Visit?
Visiting the viaduct itself is free. Since it is a public infrastructure, you can walk around and enjoy the views anytime during daylight.
- We recommend visiting between 7 AM and 8 PM during spring and fall when daylight is optimal.
- Nearby trails and parks do not charge admission either.
When’s the Best Time to Experience the Viaduct?
For the best weather and scenery, plan your visit in spring (April to June) or early autumn (September to October).
- During these seasons, temperatures are comfortable, and nature around the Ain River is lush.
- Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends, allowing for a peaceful visit.
- The light in the early morning or late afternoon enhances photos of the bridge and trains passing above.
What Can We Do and See Near the Bridge?
- Admire the Architecture: The viaduct’s stone arches rise 73 meters (240 feet) above the river, a true feat of 19th-century engineering still in use today.
- Train Watching: From safe vantage points, watch modern high-speed trains cross the upper level, contrasting with cars on the lower deck.
- Nature Trails: Stroll or bike along paths beside the Ain River, enjoying peaceful water views.
- Local Villages: Explore nearby Cize and Bolozon for a taste of rural France, including quaint cafés and friendly locals.
- Fishing: For fishing enthusiasts, a daily permit costs about $8 USD and can be purchased locally.
Tips for a Smooth and Enjoyable Visit
1. Wear sturdy shoes suitable for uneven terrain around the riverbanks.
2. Pack water and snacks—there are few shops immediately by the viaduct.
3. Check weather forecasts as trails can get slippery after rain.
4. Respect safety—do not climb on the structure or enter restricted areas near the railway.
5. Bring a zoom lens for capturing trains safely from a distance.
6. Plan for restroom stops in nearby towns, as there are limited facilities near the bridge.
Where to Stay and Eat?
- Bourg-en-Bresse is the nearest city with various lodging options, from budget hotels at $60 to $120 USD per night, to cozy guesthouses.
- Smaller inns in Cize or Bolozon typically charge $70 to $100 USD per night.
- Local cafés serve traditional French meals ranging from $10 to $25 USD per person.
Why We Love Visiting the Cize-Bolozon Viaduct
It’s not just a bridge—it’s a blend of history, technology, and nature. For us, standing by the Ain River watching trains speed above while cars pass below is a moment where past and present connect beautifully. It’s peaceful, inspiring, and perfect for anyone who loves a mix of sightseeing and nature.
We’d Love to Hear from You!
Have you visited the Cize-Bolozon Viaduct or plan to? What caught your eye the most? The graceful arches, the speeding trains, or the calm river scene? Share your stories and photos! Let’s keep exploring these incredible places together.
Viaduc Cize-Belizon, France
Video by Hanko Binnendijk