Every summer, Paris is transformed into a surprising beach destination thanks to Paris Plages. Along the banks of the Seine, the Bassin de la Villette, and the Canal Saint-Martin, the city’s quays are turned into vibrant summer gathering spots featuring sun loungers, parasols, palm trees, sports areas, and pop-up terraces.
The standout attraction of summer 2026 in Paris is undoubtedly the return of swimming in the Seine—an historic milestone made possible by large-scale water purification projects and the renewed vision of the river as a public space, accelerated by Olympic-related investments.
Whether you are visiting Paris for a city break and looking to relax by the water, cool off during hot summer days, or enjoy an active urban experience with the whole family, Paris Plages offers a unique blend of holiday atmosphere and urban beach culture in the heart of the city.
With multiple locations spread across Paris, every visitor can choose their own pace: sunbathing peacefully on the quays, taking part in watersports, or enjoying street performances and food trucks. Thanks to its combination of free activities, green spaces, and a relaxed seaside vibe, Paris Plages has become one of the most beloved summer experiences for both Parisians and tourists.
• TIP: 8 Best Things to Do in Paris Summer 2026 (Ultimate Guide) →
• Fun to do: Tickets Paris Hop On Hop Off Bus + Cruise on the Seine (1h) →
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1. What is Paris Plages?
In summer 2026, Paris will once again be fully dedicated to Paris Plages, this year featuring a special theme celebrating the 250th anniversary of American independence. The free event brings a festive, international atmosphere to the city and runs from early June to the end of August across several locations.
Paris Plages is an annual summer event where different parts of Paris are transformed into temporary urban beaches. Since its first edition in 2002, it has become one of the most popular summer activities for both Parisians and tourists. The biggest advantage? Almost all activities are completely free!
• From 4 July to 30 August 2026, you can enjoy sunbathing areas and deckchairs, open-air concerts and dance evenings, swimming in the Seine, swimming pools and water activities, kayaking and canoeing, pétanque courts, art exhibitions, children’s games and workshops, and pop-up bars and food stalls.
2. Where to swim in the Seine? The 3 locations and opening hours
After years of renovation and water purification work, the Seine has once again been made suitable for swimming. Thanks to an investment of more than one billion euros, originally linked to the Paris Olympic Games, visitors can now safely enter the river at several designated locations. This is particularly remarkable, as more than a century ago swimming in the Seine was still a common sight during the Belle Époque.
To ensure safety, the swimming areas are clearly marked with floating pontoons, buoys, and protective structures that separate swimmers from boat traffic.
• From 4 July to 30 August 2026, Parisians and tourists can once again swim in the Seine at three official swimming locations in Paris:
A. Bras Marie (4th Arrondissement)
This small and atmospheric swimming area is located between Île Saint-Louis and the right bank of the Seine. During certain hours, river traffic is temporarily suspended so visitors can swim safely.
– Opening hours: Daily 8 am – 6 pm
– Capacity: not precisely stated, but strictly regulated through safety zones
– Specially adapted to allow both swimming and navigation
– Recently improved and made more accessible
B. Bercy (12th Arrondissement)
The largest swimming area is located near Parc de Bercy and the Passerelle Simone de Beauvoir. It also includes three floating pools.
– Opening hours: daily 11 am – 9 pm
– Capacity: 600 people total (200 swimmers in the large basin, 100 in the small basin at the same time)
– Largest and most popular site
C. Grenelle (15th Arrondissement)
For swimming with a view of the Eiffel Tower, Grenelle is the place to go. This site is located opposite Île aux Cygnes and can host around 200 people. Families will also find a dedicated children’s pool, and free kayaking lessons are offered nearby.
– Opening hours:
Mon–Fri: 10 am – 5:30 pm
Sat: 10 am – 4:45 pm
Sun: 3 time slots between 10 am and 5:30 pm
– Capacity: 200 people total (150 in the water at once)
– Located near the Eiffel Tower, in a highly visited tourist area
3. The city beaches along the Seine
Alongside the official swimming zones, the classic atmosphere of Paris Plages remains unchanged. Along the Parc Rives de Seine, you will find kilometers of car-free pedestrian promenades where visitors can relax in green surroundings. Where trucks once delivered sand and palm trees, Paris now focuses on a more sustainable approach with grassy areas, local planting, and permanent urban parks.
• Right Bank: relaxation and enjoying the view
Between Pont Neuf and Pont Sully lies the quieter section of Paris Plages. Here, everything is about sunbathing, reading, and enjoying views over the Seine. On warm evenings, music and dancing create a lively holiday atmosphere. Temporary bars and cafés complete the experience with a glass of wine, an ice cream, or a light snack. A true beach feeling in the heart of the city.
• Left Bank: sport, culture, and entertainment
On the Left Bank, between Pont Royal and Pont de l’Alma, the atmosphere is more dynamic. You will find sports fields, climbing walls, art installations, and plenty of activities for children. There are also several restaurants and floating bars where you can enjoy a summer evening by the water. Free concerts are regularly held on a stage along the Seine.
4. Bassin de la Villette: the water paradise of Paris Plages 2026
For families and sports enthusiasts, the Bassin de la Villette is an absolute must-visit. Several large floating swimming pools are installed here and are open daily. Each pool has a different depth, allowing both children and experienced swimmers to enjoy the water safely. Around the basin, you will also find lively terraces, cafés, and ice cream parlors where you can relax after an active day.
In addition to swimming, visitors can take part in free activities such as kayaking, canoeing, pedal boating, sailing, zipline experiences, climbing activities, and various workshops.
– Opening hours: daily 11 am – 9 pm
5. Canal Saint-Martin: swimming in the heart of Paris
The picturesque Canal Saint-Martin is also part of Paris Plages 2026. Its atmospheric quays offer a mix of relaxation, water sports, and cultural activities. With its trendy cafés, boutique shops, and colorful street art, this area has become one of the most fashionable spots in Paris.
– Opening hours: Sunday 2 pm – 6 pm
• Update 22 June 2026
Swimming allowed in the Canal Saint-Martin during the heatwave!
Due to high temperatures, swimming has been temporarily allowed in part of the Canal Saint-Martin since 17 June. The designated swimming area in the 10th arrondissement is open daily from 3 pm to 9 pm and is expected to remain accessible until 24 June, depending on weather conditions and water quality. Swimming outside the designated zone remains prohibited.
6. A greener and more sustainable city
Paris Plages is much more than a temporary urban beach. The event symbolizes the ongoing sustainable transformation of Paris. Former car roads along the Seine have been converted into green promenades, giving pedestrians and cyclists more space to move freely. Improved air quality and the return of swimming in the river highlight the city’s strong commitment to livability and ecology.
7. Practical tips for visiting Paris Plages
• Period: 4 July to 30 August 2026
• Access: free
• Suitable for: families, couples, groups of friends, and solo travelers
• Recommendation: Combine a visit to Paris Plages with a boat cruise on the Seine or a walk along the Canal Saint-Martin
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