Théo (who preferred not to provide his last name), a Frenchman who moved to Paris a year ago for a tech job, found it thrilling to swim in such a setting: “I’ve walked and cycled along the Seine This was the first time I had seen beautiful architecture from a new angle. He said it was similar to the experience of urban swimming. Copenhagen You can also find out more about the following: Zurich. “While the waters of Lake Zurich were pristine, these weren’t!”
Although concerns remain about contamination due to industrial runoff, sewage overflow and other issues (issues that have been around for decades), the EPA has taken steps to address these issues. plagued the Seine Since decades, strict safety protocols have assured most swimmers. All swimmers must, for example, wear yellow buoys on their waists. This is not just to be visible, but also to prevent drowning if they get tired or cramp. Daily bacterial monitoring is also effective at keeping swimmers safe. This week, three swimming areas were closed because of heavy rains. Heavy rainfall can overwhelm stormwater system, causing spikes in bacteria, such as E. coli or enterococci.
Ariane Grumbach is a nutritionist who has done several leisurely laps of the Seine. The experience is currently limited to the months of July and August. These are the warmest and driest months, when the water quality is the most stable. Since the sites opened on July 5, more than 50,000 people have taken part in the experience. No health problems were reported. The city officials see this as an important pilot phase, before expanding the access to a wider audience in 2026. If all goes as planned, this summer could be the beginning of an enduring Parisian ritual.
How to swim on the Seine in Paris
You can swim in the Seine! You can find out how to swim in the Seine and which site is the best for you by reading on. And a reminder: Though swim caps are usually required in municipal pools, they are not obligatory in the Seine—all you need is a proper swimsuit. For more information visit Paris.fr.
Bras-Marie
Swimming hours are 8 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., Monday through Saturday; 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Sunday
The smallest of three swimming pools, it is located just off the Sully-Morland stop on Paris Metro. 150 people can swim at a given time. Due to the tourist boat traffic, swimming hours are shortened during the week. The changing cabins at this location are not available (but there is a restroom), so swimmers will need to plan on coming in their swimsuits. The minimum age for children to swim in this area is 14.
Bercy
Swimming hours are from 11 am to 9 pm daily
It is the largest site, with 700 people able to swim simultaneously. The two separate areas of the bathing area are separated by a lateral fence to allow boats and swimmers. There are showers, toilets and changing rooms. All children over 10 who can swim are allowed.
Bras de Grenelle
Hours of Swimming: Daily, 10 am to 5:30 pm
This is the only site of the three with a secure pool for children and families (40 to 60 centimeters—about 14 to 24 inches—deep), which can accommodate 200 people at a time. The bottomless pool is only open to children 14 years and older. Children 3 years and older must be accompanied by an adult in the safe pool. Metro: Champ de Mars Tour Eiffel.
