How to Go Swimming in the Seine, If You Must
Despite lingering concerns about historical contamination from industrial runoff and sewage overflow (issues that plagued the Seine for decades), strict safety protocols have reassured most swimmers. For example, all must wear yellow lifebuoys around their waists, not only for visibility but to prevent drowning in case of fatigue or a cramp. Additionally, daily bacterial monitoring has proven effective in keeping swimmers safe: This week, the three official swimming sites were closed due to heavy rains; significant rainfall can overwhelm stormwater systems, leading to spikes in bacteria levels, including E. coli and enterococci.
"What I'd love is to swim for more than just these two months," says nutritionist Ariane Grumbach, who has done leisurely laps in the Seine several times. For now, the experience is limited to July and August, the driest and warmest months when water quality remains most stable. More than 50,000 swimmers have participated in the experience since the sites' openings on July 5, with no reported health issues. City officials view this as a crucial pilot phase before expanding access more broadly in 2026. If all goes well, this brief summer season could mark the beginning of a beloved new Parisian ritual.
How to go swimming in the Seine in Paris
Want to have your own Seine swim? Read on for how to go swimming in the Seine, and which of the three official sites is best for you. And a reminder: Though swim caps are usually required in municipal pools, they are not obligatory in the Seine—all you need is a proper swimsuit. For more information, visit Paris.fr.
Bras-Marie
Swimming hours: 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Monday-Saturday; 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Sunday
Right off the Sully - Morland stop on the Paris Metro, this is the smallest of the three sites and can welcome 150 swimmers at a time. Swimming hours are shorter during the week due to tourist boat traffic. There are no changing cabins available at this location (but there are restrooms), so swimmers should plan to come suited up. Children must be at least 14 years old to swim at this location.
Bercy
Swimming hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily
This is the largest of the three sites, accommodating 700 people simultaneously (300 in the water), and located near the Metro's Bercy stop. There are actually two bathing areas here, separated by a lateral protection to allow swimmers and boats. Restrooms, changing cabins, and showers are available. Children aged 10 and up who know how to swim are permitted.
Bras de Grenelle
Swimming hours: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily
This is the only site of the three with a secure pool for children and families (40 to 60 centimeters—about 14 to 24 inches—deep), which can accommodate 200 people at a time. Children must be 14+ years old to swim in the bottomless area; children 3+ years old accompanied by a parent in the secure pool. Get there via the Champ de Mars Tour Eiffel stop on the Metro.
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