Paris has opened three public swim spots along the Seine for the summer, reviving river swimming after years of restrictions and pollution concerns.

The sites are near City Hall, the Eiffel Tower at Grenelle, and in eastern Paris, operating through the summer subject to water quality and weather.

Each site has capacity limits and designated swimmer zones, including Grenelle up to 200 people (150 swimmers), the 4th arrondissement near Louis-Philippe bridge up to 150 swimmers, and Bercy up to 600 people (300 swimmers).

Swimming rules require a minimum height of 1.20 meters, under-14s must be supervised, and buoy usage is mandatory at all three sites.

Lifeguards supervise the areas, and water quality is tested daily with a color-flag system to indicate safety (green, orange, red).

Operational improvements include new pontoons, changing rooms, lockers, and showers, with the Marie root area adjusted to balance river uses and extend hours.

At the Grenelle site near the Eiffel Tower, capacity is capped at 200 swimmers and a real-time waiting system manages crowds to ensure access.

Beyond the Seine, related swimming options include a Sunday-only section of canal Saint-Martin and daily swimming at Bassin de la Villette along the Ourcq canal, expanding city-wide opportunities.

Separately, a major stormwater project near Gare d’Austerlitz has reduced major sewage overflows, improving overall water conditions.

Locations include Bercy, Grenelle, and the Bras Marie area, with lifeguards on site and mandatory yellow flotation devices due to current.

Visitors, including international tourists and locals, describe the Seine swims as a vacation-like experience and a memorable way to enjoy views of the Eiffel Tower.

The activity is seen as social and inclusive, with praise from both residents and visitors for swimming in the heart of Paris.