Seine River in Paris reopens to swimmers after a century-long closure.
In a historic moment for the city of Paris, the Seine has reopened for public swimming after a century-long ban. The move, which came into effect on Saturday, 5th July, marks a significant milestone in the clean-up efforts of the iconic river.
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo was visibly delighted about the reopening, echoing President Emmanuel Macron's sentiments that it is the result of a 'collective effort' and a moment of 'pride' for France. Mayor Hidalgo also acknowledged the practical challenges ahead, including the increasing frequency of heatwaves, and the need to maintain the river's cleanliness.
Three supervised swimming spots have now opened: Port de Grenelle, Bras Marie, and Quai de la Rapeé. Access to these spots is free until 31st August. Facilities including changing rooms, showers, and a beach-like area have been installed at each location to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for swimmers.
The water quality in the Seine is being monitored daily, focusing on E. coli and enterococci, two key bacterial indicators. Authorities have reported that current bacterial levels in the Seine are well below official thresholds. For example, the Paris region prefect stated: “for one [bacteria], we are ten times below the thresholds and for the other more than 25 times below,” suggesting exceptionally low risk.
Swimmers must pass an aptitude test supervised by lifeguards to ensure they are comfortable with the river’s currents and conditions. This is a one-time requirement per summer season. Swimming is only allowed in designated, supervised areas during specific hours. “Wild” (unsupervised) swimming remains prohibited.
The reopening comes a year after Mayor Hidalgo famously swam in the Seine to dispel concerns about water quality. Despite the €1.4 billion invested over the past decade in the river’s clean-up, officials acknowledge that addressing the 19th-century Parisian sewage system overflow remains a significant challenge. Swimming will be prohibited after rainy days due to the risk of the sewage system overflowing into the river.
The Seine’s water quality is now required to meet European Union standards for bathing waters, which are designed to protect public health. This is a testament to the success of the clean-up efforts and the commitment to maintaining a safe and enjoyable swimming environment.
In conclusion, the Seine’s reopening for swimming is governed by strict adherence to EU water quality standards, with particular attention to bacterial contamination. Water is tested daily, and safety is communicated visually to the public, ensuring a monitored and controlled swimming environment. This historic event marks a new chapter in the relationship between Parisians and the Seine, offering a unique opportunity to enjoy one of the city's most iconic landmarks in a whole new way.
[1] Paris City Hall press release, 3 July 2025. [2] Seine Swimming Regulations, Paris Prefecture, accessed 6 July 2025. [3] European Union Bathing Water Directive, European Commission, accessed 6 July 2025. [4] World Health Organization Guidelines for Safe Recreational Water, accessed 6 July 2025. [5] Paris Water Quality Monitoring Report, Paris Prefecture, accessed 6 July 2025.
Tourists visiting Paris this summer may want to include a unique swimming experience in their itinerary, as the Seine has reopened for public swimming after a century-long ban. For those seeking an outdoor living adventure, three designated spots have been set up for supervised swimming: Port de Grenelle, Bras Marie, and Quai de la Rapeé, offering a home-and-garden like atmosphere. However, safety measures, such as an aptitude test and specific swimming hours, are in place to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all swimmers.
