Paris’ Seine River Opens for Swimming After 90-Year Hiatus Amid Heat Wave

In an exciting development, the Seine River in Paris has been made swim-friendly for the first time since the 1920s. This summer, designated public swimming spots and docks have been established along the river, including one close to the iconic Eiffel Tower. Despite occasional cloudy days, both locals and tourists are eagerly taking advantage of these new facilities.

Swimming or sunbathing can now be enjoyed within a roped-off area that allows for leisurely laps against the river’s gentle current. The ongoing traffic of barges and pleasure boats adds an unusual charm to this unique swimming experience. When I recently visited, two lifeguards highlighted the increased safety precautions needed compared to traditional pools.

For years, city officials have pledged to clean up the polluted river to make it suitable for swimming. Their efforts bore fruit last summer during the Olympic Games, with large overflow tanks constructed to manage sewage overflow during heavy rains.

The timing of opening the river for bathing could not have been more apt, given Paris’ struggle with prolonged heat waves. Just like in classic Impressionist paintings and vintage sepia photographs, Parisians can once again find relief from the summer heat by cooling off in their very own river.

Be sure to check out photos capturing this fresh perspective of the city from around the world.