You can stroll along the banks of the Seine in Paris. You can cruise its gentle curves by boat. And now—for the first time in over a century—you can swim in it.
People jumping into the river
(Video: Reuters)
Through August, Parisians and visitors alike are welcome to dive into the historic waters of the Seine, which reopened over the weekend for public bathing for the first time since 1923. The initiative includes three dedicated swimming areas within city limits, all free to access and complete with changing rooms and showers. In a charmingly French touch, the city is even handing out soap.
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This isn’t just about cooling off in the summer heat—it’s a symbolic moment. The Seine, long associated with romance, river cruises and postcard views, had for decades been off-limits for swimming due to its notorious pollution. But in preparation for last year’s Olympic Games, Paris invested €1.4 billion to clean and restore the river. Several Olympic swimming events were even held in its waters. Now, city officials promise that the river’s water quality is checked daily.
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Jumping into the river with the Eiffel Tower in the background
(Photo: JULIEN DE ROSA / AFP)
Beyond the central Paris sites, 14 additional bathing spots are planned along the Seine and Marne rivers outside the capital. Two of these, located along the Marne, have already welcomed swimmers since June.
Opening day draws eager crowds
“As someone born in the city, I’ve heard promises of swimming in the Seine since childhood—and now I’ve finally done it,” said Olga Prud’homme, who took the plunge with her daughter, Bérénice.
Victoria Knopf, a 24-year-old Brazilian who now lives in Paris, told Reuters, “It’s really nice, I’m so impressed and surprised. I never imagined myself in the water so close to the Eiffel Tower.”
Others were equally enthusiastic. “The water is clean, warm and clear. There’s a bit of algae—but that’s normal,” said Karine, 51. “Come on in, everyone—it’s wonderful!”
“It’s fantastic,” added John Drummond, a 54-year-old tourist from Canada. “It’s good for the environment, good for the city, good for the people who live here. A truly excellent initiative.”