It is getting seriously hot in the streets of the capital, and finding a cool place to hide from the heat is no easy task. What if, to unwind a little, we treated ourselves to an afternoon dip with friends or as a couple? The Do It Team has selected a few spots right in the heart of Paris to dip your toes or take a full plunge into the Seine.
Canal Saint-Martin
Calling all daredevils! While jumping from the footbridges remains strictly forbidden (we see you, thrill-seekers), the Canal Saint-Martin is officially becoming your new aquatic playground. Although the water's color might seem a bit intimidating at first, the opportunity to go swimming for free when it's 40°C out is a luxury you just can't turn down! So, put on your swimsuit, slather on the sunscreen, and head straight to 116 quai de Jemmapes in the 10th arrondissement, where swimming is permitted until July 4th while waiting for the start of Paris Plages. The swimming area is supervised, and the water quality is tested daily. Ready to take the plunge?
116 quai de Jemmapes, swimming allowed in the supervised zone from 3 PM to 9 PM until July 4th.
Paris Plages
From July 4th to August 30th, Paris Plages 2026 promises two months of deckchairs, free swimming, paddle boats, and sunny drinks by the riverbanks. Among our favorite spots is the bassin de la Villette (Quai de la Seine, La Villette, Paris 19th), which is set to become THE festive place to spend your afternoons this summer: shows, concerts, kayaking, and electric boats you can drive without a license, not to mention the 100% free and fully accessible swimming zones.
Another gorgeous option: the Bras-Marie site, located at the foot of the Pont Louis-Philippe in the 4th arrondissement, offering a postcard-perfect view over the historic heart of Paris. Feeling more athletic? Head to the Grenelle site, where the Olympic-sized pool will delight the most motivated swimmers.
Our ultimate recommendation? Quai de Bercy and its solarium, just a stone's throw from the Bibliothèque François Mitterrand, aka the largest swimming spot on the Seine with a capacity of 600 people.
Paris Plages, from July 4th to August 30th, 2026. All information available online.
