Paris' Seine River is now welcoming swimmers. Both tourists and locals are taking advantage as temperatures rise
Paris, the city of love, is now offering a unique summer experience as swimming in the Seine River has become legal once again. Three public bathing sites have been established near Notre-Dame, the Eiffel Tower, and eastern Paris, following a major cleanup that cost €1.4 billion and was completed ahead of the 2024 Olympics [1][2].
Safety is a top priority for the authorities. Each swimmer must be equipped with a yellow buoy for safety reasons, and designated swimming spots and roped-off swimming lanes are provided to separate swimmers from boat traffic [2]. Daily water quality monitoring for bacterial contamination, such as E. coli, is conducted to ensure safe swimming conditions in compliance with European regulations [1][5].
The infrastructure has been significantly upgraded to reduce pollution. Paris’s 19th-century sewage system has been overhauled, connecting thousands of homes to wastewater treatment plants. Massive overflow tanks have been built to contain sewage during heavy rain events, improving the river's resilience [2].
Despite these measures, water quality remains variable depending on weather and other factors. Nevertheless, the current water quality is excellent, and optimal conditions are being enjoyed by swimmers [1].
The swimming areas offer a unique view of the Eiffel Tower and are supervised by lifeguards who emphasize the need for vigilance due to the river environment differing from a regular pool [2]. Continuous efforts include river phyto-purification projects, aiming to maintain water quality by natural filtration methods [4].
Since the bathing sites opened on July 5, over 40,000 people have already taken a dip in the Seine [6]. However, almost two weeks of closures due to rainy weather have affected the number of swimmers. Despite this, the upcoming heatwave is expected to further increase the crowd at the Seine river bathing sites [7].
Paris has been placed under "high vigilance" by Meteo France, with temperatures up to 38 degrees Celsius (100 Fahrenheit) expected [8]. The bathing sites are open for free at scheduled times to anyone 10 or older or 14 or older, depending on the location [9]. Details about the bathing sites can be found on the Paris city hall website, in English as well [10].
While swimming in the Seine is now a popular tourist attraction and a favorite among locals, it's important to remember that environmental factors like storm runoff currently limit consistent safe swimming conditions [1][2][5].
References:
- The Guardian
- Paris City Hall
- AFP
- Le Monde
- The Local
- Le Parisien
- AFP
- Meteo France
- Paris City Hall
- Paris City Hall
- For those interested in unique experiences, swimming in the Seine River is now legal, offering a unique view of the Eiffel Tower.
- Despite the improved water quality, it's essential to remember that environmental factors like weather can affect swimming conditions.
- Each swimmer is required to use a yellow buoy for safety reasons and designated swimming spots are provided for distancing from boat traffic.
- Paris's summer landscape is enriched with the addition of outdoor-living spaces by the Seine, alongside other attractions such as art museums, home-and-garden shows, and sports venues.
