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From 6 June to 20 September 2026, Paris en Seine promises to bring back the spirit of celebration, joy and fraternity of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games with a range of cultural and sporting activities that are completely free of charge. The highlight of the summer in Paris and Île-de-France, featuring festivals, exhibitions and sporting events, all linked by the Seine, the iconic river flowing through the capital and Greater Paris.
From 4 July to 30 August 2026, Paris Plages transforms the banks of the Seine into a summer seaside resort. For the 2026 edition, the event celebrates 250 years of American Independence as part of the America250 programme, thus honouring two and a half centuries of Franco-American friendship. A symbolic opening on 4 July, the anniversary of the United States’ Declaration of Independence, sets the tone for a summer marked by conviviality and sharing.
This year, Paris Plages is offering a completely free cultural programme. Sports activities are not to be outdone, with pétanque, table football, giant games and fitness classes along the banks of the Seine.
For fans of open-water swimming, three supervised natural swimming spots are reopening on the Seine: Bercy (12th arrondissement) with its two pools and urban beach opposite the François-Mitterrand Library, Louis-Philippe (4th arrondissement) in the heart of historic Paris, and the Bras de Grenelle (15th arrondissement) opposite the Parisian Statue of Liberty. A true reclamation of the river, a lasting legacy of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Paris Plages 2026 is spread across three iconic sites in the capital, each offering a unique atmosphere along the river.
The Parc Rives de Seine, a true 7-kilometre-long urban park, stretches along both banks. On the Left Bank, from the Pont d’Iéna to the Pont des Arts, and on the Right Bank, from the Pont Neuf to the Port de l’Arsenal, this pedestrian area listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site features deckchairs, palm trees, misting systems and sporting activities. The banks are decked out in their finest summer finery with beach volleyball courts, climbing walls, relaxation areas and open-air cafés overlooking Parisian landmarks.
The Bassin de la Villette, Paris’s largest artificial lake at 800 metres long and 70 metres wide, connects the Canal de l’Ourcq to the Canal Saint-Martin. This popular, lively spot offers four supervised swimming pools free of charge, with capacity for 200 people at a time. Water quality is checked daily and the water is disinfected every two hours. Around the quays of the Loire and the Seine, there is a wealth of free activities: trampolines, table football, pétanque, basketball shooting, water sports (rowing, pedalos, canoeing), yoga and tai chi classes.
The Canal Saint-Martin complements this summer programme with a more intimate atmosphere. Giant games, table tennis, table football and exhibition spaces along the quayside transform the area around the canal into a real hub of activity.
Let yourself be carried away by the beautiful scenery along the Seine on board a cruise. Whether it be for an aperitif, a romantic dinner or a guided tour, Parisian cruises offer a unique perspective on the city's finest monuments.
Memorable moments to enjoy as a couple, with family, friends or on your own!
An iconic symbol of the Paris 2024 Games, the Olympic basin, a masterful creation by designer Mathieu Lehanneur, is making a grand return to light up the Parisian summer. Situated in the heart of the Grand Bassin Rond in the Tuileries Garden, this unique structure, which pays tribute to the first flight in a hydrogen-filled balloon in 1783, will be on display from 21 June to 14 September 2026.
Access to the basin area is completely free for all visitors, with no prior booking required. The public can approach the installation during the day to admire its 100% electric flame, a technological feat by EDF using illuminated water mist. Every evening, weather permitting, the helium balloon rises to a height of over 60 metres to shine in the capital’s sky, offering a magical spectacle to passers-by.
To enjoy the best views of the balloon in flight, head to the Place du Carrousel or the heights of Montmartre to see it glistening above the rooftops of Paris. This triumphant return, scheduled every summer until the Los Angeles Games in 2028, allows the magic and lasting legacy of the Paris Games to continue.
The day after the opening of Paris Plages, on 5 July 2026, the Paris Tropical Carnival will be celebrating its 26th anniversary on the Champs-Élysées, where thousands of dancers, musicians and floats from overseas territories, Latin America and across the Île-de-France region.
Organised by the City of Paris in partnership with the Paris Tropical Carnival Federation and the agency commissioned by the General Delegation for Overseas Territories, this year’s event is themed Paris V’Îles Lumières, a play on words celebrating island cultures and their influence in the capital. On the programme for this anniversary edition: breathtaking performances blending traditional Caribbean, Guyanese and Latin American dances, flamboyant costumes, spellbinding percussion and a unique finale between the Grand Palais and the Petit Palais, on Avenue Winston Churchill.
In 2026, the National Day celebrations in Paris will follow a special schedule. Out of respect for the national tribute paid to the victims of the Nice attack on 14 July 2016, marking the 10th anniversary of this tragic event, the City of Paris has decided to bring forward the main festive gatherings to the evening of Monday 13 July 2026. Tuesday 14 July will therefore be entirely devoted to remembrance, reflection and solemnity.
At 9.45pm (instead of 9pm as originally planned; doors open from 8pm), the Concert de Paris kicks off the evening of 13 July on the Champ-de-Mars in the spirit of national unity. Conducted by the prestigious British conductor Daniel Harding, this major free symphonic concert brings together the Orchestre National de France and the Radio France Choir and Children’s Choir, alongside some of the world’s leading soloists (Gautier Capuçon, Marina Viotti, Jakub Józef Orliński, and others). Organised by the City of Paris, France Télévisions, Radio France and Électron Libre Productions, the evening will be broadcast live on France 2 and France Inter, allowing millions of viewers across more than 70 countries to experience this exceptional moment.
At exactly 11pm, the traditional fireworks display organised by the City of Paris will light up the capital from the Eiffel Tower and the Trocadéro Gardens. For this historic edition, the pyrotechnic display will be accompanied by a unique and spectacular artistic creation, set to the rhythm of 1,600 ultra-light illuminated drones. The show will unfold across 12 themed scenes, highlighting in particular the River Seine, the 400th anniversary of the French Navy, and the 70th anniversary of the twinning of Paris and Rome. To enjoy this spectacular show, head to spots offering an unobstructed view of the Eiffel Tower: the Champ-de-Mars (arrive early to secure the best spots), the Trocadéro, the banks of the Right Bank or the Left Bank, the Parc de Belleville or even some Parisian rooftops hosting special evening events.
On the morning of Tuesday 14 July 2026, the traditional military parade will take place as usual from 10.00 am on the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, in the presence of the President of the Republic. This solemn occasion is marked by the spectacular flypast of the Patrouille de France over Paris, which can also be admired from the heights of Greater Paris: La Défense, Mont Valérien or the terrace of the Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye.
Beyond the official celebrations, Paris comes alive throughout the long weekend of 14 July with a rich and varied programme of cultural and festive events.
The firefighters’ balls bring Parisian fire stations to life on 12 and 13 July 2026. These popular and convivial evenings are an unmissable tradition of the National Day, creating a festive atmosphere across the capital’s various arrondissements.
On the cultural front, several iconic venues remain open on the public holiday of 14 July. The Paris National Opera presents Vibrations at the Palais Garnier as well as La Bayadère by Rudolf Nureyev at the Opéra Bastille. Piano enthusiasts, meanwhile, can enjoy the Chopin Festival in Paris in the enchanting setting of the orangery in Bagatelle Park, with a closing concert on 14 July. The Festival Européen Jeunes Talents takes over several heritage venues with concerts showcasing the next generation of classical musicians.
The summer of 2026 will also be marked by the America250 celebrations, commemorating 250 years of American independence. 4 July 2026 marks the high point of this year packed with themed events, highlighting the historical ties between France and the United States. In Paris, the Musée Carnavalet is presenting the exhibition 1776–2026: 250 Years of Franco-American Friendship (until 27 September 2026), whilst the Jardin d’Acclimatation is organising a concert by the Ambassadors of Music: California (jazz, gospel, classical) in front of the Fondation Louis Vuitton on 14 July 2026 at 3.30 pm.
For a getaway outside Paris, Disneyland® Paris is opening its doors over the 14 July long weekend with attractions, meet-and-greets with Disney Characters, shows and parades. The Palace of Versailles is hosting the Sérénade Royale on Tuesday 14 July from 6.30 pm, a unique costumed show in the Hall of Mirrors featuring a fencing duel, a concert of sacred music and a dance performance, which can be combined with the Grandes Eaux Nocturnes.
To plan your ideal itinerary for 14 July and make the most of the Parisian festivities, check out our complete guide to 14 July events.
In June 2026, the Parisian cityscape is transformed by an extraordinary art installation. The artist JR, famous for his XXL collages and striking trompe-l’œil works, transforms the Pont Neuf into an immersive 120-metre-long cave. Entitled La Caverne du Pont Neuf, this monumental structure rises to a height of 18 metres, creating a spectacular mineral chasm that connects the Right Bank to the Île de la Cité.
This creation is a vibrant tribute to the historic project by Christo and Jeanne-Claude, who wrapped Paris’s oldest stone bridge in 1985. Forty years on, JR revives this tradition of monumental public art, drawing inspiration from the Lutetian limestone quarries from which the very stones of the monument were sourced. To complete the immersive experience, the work is accompanied by a soundscape created by Thomas Bangalter (formerly of Daft Punk), offering passers-by a unique multi-sensory experience.
To find out more about this pop-up installation, read our article dedicated to the Caverne du Pont Neuf by JR.
This summer 2026, Paris is transforming the Seine into a veritable water and sports playground. A spectacular reclamation of the river that builds on the legacy of the Paris 2024 Games and offers Parisians and visitors alike a new way to experience the capital.
From 4 July 2026, Paris will open 11 free, supervised swimming sites, including three directly on the Seine.
Among the capital’s new water spots, three sites stand out on the Seine: Bercy (12th arrondissement) with its two pools, its urban beach and its breathtaking view of the François-Mitterrand Library; Louis-Philippe (4th arrondissement) beneath the bridge of the same name, right in the heart of historic Paris; and the Bras de Grenelle (15th arrondissement), situated opposite the Parisian Statue of Liberty, perfect for families with its jetties equipped with a sunbathing area and a secure pool.
The sites at the Bassin de la Villette in the 19th arrondissement and the Canal Saint-Martin in the 10th arrondissement are also back this year, offering areas suitable for all ages with water activities, pétanque courts, trampolines and even a zip line.
To round off this free water-based offering, several sports centres are opening their doors this summer so you can cool off without spending a penny: Léo Lagrange Sports Centre (Paris 12th arrondissement), Georges Carpentier Sports Centre (Paris 13th arrondissement), Didot Sports Centre (Paris 14th), Porte d’Asnières (Paris 17th), Poissonniers Sports Centre (Paris 18th) and Stade Louis Lumière (Paris 20th).
The summer of 2026 promises to be particularly packed with top-level competitions. From 31 July to 16 August 2026, Paris and Saint-Denis will host the continent’s elite for the European Swimming Championships. This spectacular competition will take place across two major venues: the iconic Olympic Aquatics Centre (CAO) in Saint-Denis for competitive swimming, diving and artistic swimming, and the River Seine at the Bras de Grenelle for open-water and high-dive events.
An exceptional event to cheer on the exploits of Europe’s finest swimmers in a historic setting, almost a century after the last Paris edition in 1931.
Alongside the aquatic events, the capital will become the global epicentre of gaming by hosting the Esports World Cup (EWC) Paris 2026 from 6 July to 23 August 2026. For its first international edition outside Riyadh, this historic event takes over Paris Expo Porte de Versailles VIPARIS with over 25 major tournaments featuring iconic titles such as League of Legends and Counter-Strike 2. Bringing together 2,000 elite players and 200 clubs from 100 countries, this extraordinary competition offers a record prize pool of $75 million. Between matches, fans can enjoy an immersive festival, fan zones and spectacular opening ceremonies at La Seine Musicale, cementing Paris’s status as the stronghold of European esports.
From 6 o 11 July 2026, the Stade Charléty will become the global capital of inclusive football by hosting the 3rd edition of the Unified Football World Cup. This is a world first, as the event has always previously been held in the United States. This unique competition brings together athletes with and without intellectual disabilities in mixed teams, championing the values of sport and inclusion. It is a spirit of solidarity that beautifully extends the legacy of the Paris 2024 Games in the field of parasport.
At the same time, to get into the spirit of the 2026 FIFA World Cup being held in North America, Paris is setting up several fan zones across the city. From 13 June to 19 July 2026, the Parc de la Villette will host the world’s very first LEGO Fan Zone dedicated to the FIFA World Cup, featuring a giant 4-metre-tall replica of the official trophy built entirely from bricks and a spectacular diorama made up of over 400,000 pieces. Matches will be shown on a giant screen, accompanied by a host of free activities.
On the banks of the Seine, from 12 June to 19 July 2026, the Quai de la Photo is hosting the Club Coca-Cola, a free 800-capacity fan zone moored at the Port de la Gare in the 13th arrondissement. A space for sharing and celebration, punctuated by a festive programme that allows you to follow the race despite the time difference, between the Pont d’Austerlitz and the entertainment along the riverbank.
On 26 July 2026, Paris will be buzzing with excitement for the 21st and final stage of the Tour de France. After setting off from Thoiry, the riders will race towards a spectacular finish in the capital. This year, the route pays tribute to the Olympic cycling events in Montmartre: the riders will climb the Montmartre hill three times via the legendary Rue Lepic before descending the Avenue des Batignolles.
A brand-new route that gives sprinters a chance whilst offering a thrilling spectacle for the attackers. The promotional caravan enters Paris around 3.45 pm and the riders from 5.30–5.40 pm, with the first crossing of the finish line expected around 5.50 pm.
Calling all fans of buzzer-beaters, alley-oops and massive dunks: from 31 July to 2 August 2026, the NBA Summer House takes over the Palais Brongniart and the Place de la Bourse (Paris Centre). Stalls, entertainment, demos, courts available, and more. The prestigious American basketball league is pulling out all the stops with a programme as incredible as Victor Wembanyama’s height. Between shots, don’t miss out on discovering the 10 best basketball playgrounds in Paris to extend the experience.
On 28 June 2026, the Stade Charléty (13th arrondissement) will host a must-see athletics event: the Paris Meeting! And the 2026 edition promises to be particularly exciting with the confirmed participation of two superstars: the American sprinter Noah Lyles, who has already won here in 2023 and is the Olympic 100-metre champion at the Paris 2024 Games, as well as the king of the pole vault, Armand ‘Mondo’ Duplantis. The Swede will attempt to break a new world record on the legendary track in the 13th arrondissement.
It’s easy to get active for free in the capital. How? Thanks to the programmes offered by the City! And there’s something for everyone: Paris Sport Dimanches, to round off the weekend in style; Paris Sport Proximité, for a spot of exercise at lunchtime; Sport Seniors en plein air, for those who don’t let their age hold them back; and Paris Sportives, for women to get active together in a supportive and safe environment. The idea is simple: choose your slot and put on your trainers!
Summer rocks in Paris with music festivals! Concerts in parks, DJ sets on the quaysides, pop-up stages in unusual venues...
The capital is transformed into a musical playground for all tastes. Don't miss the festive and eclectic events that bring the city to life throughout the season.
Paris buzzes all summer long to the beat of the festivals! From June to September, the capital is transformed into a veritable open-air stage where all musical genres come together. Whether you’re a fan of jazz, rock, electronic music or classical, the Parisian summer has unforgettable moments in store, filled with music and a friendly atmosphere.
At the same time, the Festival des Places, organised by the Théâtre de la Ville, takes over the city streets from May to October 2026. Every weekend, iconic venues such as the Place du Châtelet, the Place des Fêtes and the Place d’Italie are transformed into open-air stages. This multidisciplinary event offers a free programme open to all, including participatory workshops (dance, poetry, singing), shows, concerts, artistic performances and even sports tournaments. It is a unique opportunity to experience culture alongside local residents and to foster dialogue between the arts and urban life.
Fans of contemporary music head to the We Love Green festival in the Bois de Vincennes, an eco-friendly event hosting international artists. The Solidays returns to the ParisLongchamp racecourse in early July, combining social commitment with a top-class musical line-up.
On 21 June 2026, the capital will celebrate the 45th edition of the Fête de la Musique with hundreds of free concerts taking over Parisian squares, gardens and museums. For the occasion, the Paris Games fountain makes its grand return to the Tuileries Garden, whilst major stages host Tiakola and Ronisia at Place de la Bastille and Chilly Gonzales at the Olympia.
For jazz enthusiasts, the Paris Jazz Festival will enchant summer evenings at the Parc Floral de Paris from 28 June to 6 September 2026 with completely free concerts. At the end of summer, Jazz à la Villette takes over from 28 August to 6 September 2026, offering a bold programme blending Great Black Music, hip-hop, soul and funk in several Parisian venues, including the Grande Halle de La Villette and the Philharmonie de Paris.
Fans of classical music can enjoy the Classique au Vert at the Parc Floral de Paris from late June to early September 2026, showcasing young virtuosos in a leafy setting.
The legendary Rock en Seine brings the music season to a close from 26 to 30 August 2026 at the Domaine National de Saint-Cloud with a prestigious line-up featuring The Cure, Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds, Tyler, The Creator, Deftones and Lorde.
From mid-April until 25 October 2026, the Kiosques en fête initiative breathes new life into the historic structures of Paris’s parks and gardens with over 1,000 free events. This eclectic programme transforms 40 bandstands into proper neighbourhood stages hosting a succession of jazz concerts, community dances, theatre performances, readings and sports workshops. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy a convivial moment in the open air, whether it’s an introduction to hip-hop in the 10th arrondissement or a classical guitar concert beneath the century-old trees of southern Paris.
The Paris l’été festival returns to enchant the capital from 11 July to 4 August 2026. For this 36th edition, this unmissable performing arts event will take over more than fifteen iconic and unusual venues, from the Jardin des Tuileries to the Palais de la Porte Dorée. The programme, which is bold and often free, gives pride of place to dance, theatre, circus and open-air concerts. Among the highlights, don’t miss the performances by Collectif XY at the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont or the magical evenings in the main courtyard of the Monnaie de Paris.
When music meets the silver screen, Paris reveals an even more magical side. The La Villette Open-Air Film Festival returns for its 35th edition from 22 July to 16 August 2026 on the Prairie du Triangle. This year, the programme explores the theme of the forest as a place of contemplation and an ecological symbol. Every evening, there will be a family screening at 6pm followed by a main feature at 9pm. Admission is free, but online booking of deckchairs is compulsory. Bring a picnic and settle in comfortably for an evening under the stars!
The DolceVita-sur-Seine festival celebrates the Paris–Rome twinning from 5 to 9 July 2026 at the Arènes de Lutèce, with open-air screenings of Italian films, photo exhibitions and musical performances in a warm and friendly atmosphere just a stone’s throw from the Quai de Bourbon.
For a unique experience, hop aboard the Vedettes de Paris, which offer a few exceptional evenings combining a cruise on the Seine with an open-air cinema screening.
On 25 August 2026, Paris will celebrate the 82nd anniversary of the Liberation with a commemorative ceremony in the Place de l’Hôtel de Ville. This solemn tribute recalls the decisive moments of August 1944, when the capital regained its freedom. In the Bois de Boulogne (16th arrondissement), a memorial trail retraces the fighters’ entry into occupied Paris and pays tribute to the 35 martyrs of the cascade. The Spanish Republican fighters of La Nueve, the vanguard of General Leclerc’s 2nd Armoured Division, are particularly honoured for their decisive role in the city’s liberation. This day of remembrance forms an integral part of the Paris en Seine 2026 programme, combining reflection with passing on the legacy to future generations.
The Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris (MaM) is presenting an exceptional retrospective dedicated to Lee Miller from 10 April to 2 August 2026. Through nearly 250 original prints, the exhibition traces the fascinating journey of this free-spirited woman, who was in turn a muse of Surrealism in Paris, a fashion model in New York and an intrepid war correspondent. Her photographs, blending a dreamlike aesthetic with raw accounts of the Liberation, offer a unique perspective on the 20th century.
To extend this historical immersion, visit the Paris Liberation Museum – General Leclerc Museum – Jean Moulin Museum. The exhibition Robert Capa, War Photographer is on display there until 20 December 2026. This major retrospective brings together over 160 works and archival documents to shed light on the unique perspective of one of the greatest photojournalists of the last century.
A change of scene at the Musée Carnavalet – History of Paris, which is spotlighting an iconic figure from the 17th century. The exhibition Madame de Sévigné, Parisian Letters, running from 15 April to 23 August 2026, offers a sensitive and vivid portrait of the famous letter-writer to mark the 400th anniversary of her birth. Over 200 works allow visitors to immerse themselves in the social and intellectual life of Paris at the time.
Other cultural events punctuate the summer by the water’s edge:
To make sure you don’t miss out on any cultural news, check out our comprehensive guide to exhibitions in Paris. Remember that access to the permanent collections of the City of Paris’s museums remains free all year round for all visitors.
From 2 June 2026, this iconic monument in the 8th arrondissement will be transformed for the second edition of the Grand Palais d’été. Beneath its monumental glass roof, the Nef becomes a vast contemporary stage hosting a bold, multidisciplinary programme. With a mix of circus shows, dance, theatre and original performances, the event brings the heart of Paris to life throughout the summer season.
Every Saturday morning, free dance workshops invite visitors to get moving alongside renowned choreographers. As night falls, the immersive light installation “Ciels” by the Visual System collective enhances the glass and steel architecture, whilst the After Nef evenings keep the party going with DJ sets and electrifying concerts. An unmissable cultural event, accessible to all, celebrating artistic creation in all its forms.
Want to experience Paris in a different way this summer? See our selection of outdoor activities to make the most of the good weather: outdoor exhibitions, rooftop terraces with views, unusual walks and must-see places.
Take some time out in the heart of the capital, with culture, leisure time and completely new sensations.
Fancy experiencing Paris in a different way this summer? The capital reveals its finest side as soon as the first rays of sunshine appear. From panoramic rooftops to strolls along the Seine and unusual activities, a Parisian summer promises unforgettable moments of escape in the great outdoors.
Since 1 April 2026, pop-up terraces have made a comeback with nearly 4,600 summer installations. To get a bird’s-eye view, head to the rooftops, which offer breathtaking panoramic views of Paris’s landmarks. On the sixth floor of the Peninsula Paris, the terrace bar is open every evening from 6 pm to 10.30 pm, serving a selection of creative cocktails and small dishes to share. The Molitor Hotel rooftop celebrates summer from May 2026, whilst the Han Rooftop-Guimet makes its grand return on the roof terrace of the Guimet Museum with a programme combining K-Food, DJ sets and contemporary Asian music.
In spring–summer 2026, the Musée d’Orsay will unveil its terrace, offering sweeping views of Paris and an arty-chic atmosphere inspired by Art Nouveau. Lovers of spectacular views will head to the National, whose vast terrace overlooks the rooftops of Paris, or to the Villa Minuty at Brach Paris with its programme of live concerts and DJ sets. In September 2026, the Paris Rooftop Days invite you to enjoy the panoramic views from the most beautiful rooftop terraces in Greater Paris, whilst taking part in sporting activities, gardening workshops and tours of green roofs.
The banks of the Seine are perfect for cycle rides. The La Seine à Vélo route starts on the forecourt of Notre-Dame and offers over 400 km of cycle paths towards Le Havre or Deauville. For a guided tour, opt for the Paris en Seine guided cycle tour, which takes you past iconic landmarks: Île de la Cité, the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay, Eiffel Tower and the most beautiful bridges in Paris.
The Quai de la Tournelle, lined with old houses, offers a magnificent view of the apse of Notre-Dame and is home to iconic restaurants such as La Tour d’Argent. Further on, the Port de l’Arsenal is a haven of peace with its jetties, small boats and seafood restaurants just a stone’s throw from the Bastille. The garden running alongside the harbour provides a welcome touch of greenery and is a popular spot for walkers to relax. For a modern guinguette atmosphere, head to Le Grand Bleu, a neo-guinguette situated on the waterfront with a terrace, rooftop and exquisite cocktails.
Summer in Paris offers the perfect opportunity to rediscover the banks of the Seine, with its living heritage, gourmet stops and leisurely strolls along the river. From the iconic green boxes to the floating terraces, the river reveals an authentic side of the capital.
Veritable open-air bookshops, the Parisian bookstallers stretch for 3 kilometres along the quays, between the Pont-Marie and the Quai du Louvre (right bank), and from the Quai de la Tournelle to the Quai Voltaire
(left bank). Their ‘green railway carriage’-style stalls, listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites, house around 300,000 second-hand books, old engravings and vintage postcards. These guardians of our heritage carry on a unique cultural tradition that sets the pace for strolls enjoyed by literature lovers and bargain hunters alike.
For a gourmet break, the riverbanks are brimming with floating eateries offering exceptional views. The Rosa Bonheur sur Seine, a lively open-air café at the Port des Invalides, is a must-visit for its aperitifs overlooking the Grand Palais. On the right bank, the Péniche Le Marcounet hosts live concerts in a historic setting opposite the Île Saint-Louis. For a more refined experience, Ducasse sur Seine offers top-class French cuisine on evening cruises, whilst food trucks provide the chance to grab a quick bite whilst enjoying the view.
To capture the spirit of the river, follow a 6-kilometre route starting at the Pont d’Austerlitz. Walk past the Tino Rossi Garden and its open-air sculpture museum, then cross over to the Île de la Cité to admire the Conciergerie and Notre-Dame. The route continues along the left bank via Quai Conti to the Parc Rives de Seine. This 10-hectare space dedicated to sustainable transport offers 2.5 kilometres of eco-friendly walking paths, sports facilities and relaxation areas between the Pont des Arts and the Eiffel Tower, providing the finest views of historic Paris.
Exploring the capital from the water offers a unique perspective on its iconic monuments, from the Invalides to the Arab World Institute. Whether you’re a couple, a family or travelling solo, Parisian cruises promise an enchanting escape in the heart of the City of Light.
For a memorable evening, the Paris en Scène dinner cruise offers a gourmet cruise lasting around 1 hour 45 minutes. Seated in comfort by the floor-to-ceiling windows, you’ll savour traditional French cuisine prepared on board whilst the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame glide past before your eyes. Other options include Paris Seine – La Marina or the restaurant boats of the Compagnie des Bateaux-Mouches® combine a refined setting with culinary excellence to celebrate special occasions.
A historic institution since 1949, the Compagnie des Bateaux-Mouches offers sightseeing cruises lasting around 1 hour 10 minutes. Departing from the Pont de l’Alma, the route travels upriver towards the historic centre, offering breathtaking views of the Louvre and the Conciergerie. Thanks to the upper decks and multilingual audio commentary, these cruises are ideal for capturing the spirit of Paris, particularly at dusk when the illuminations make the Pont Alexandre III look even more stunning.
Several partner operators welcome you throughout the summer to cruise along the Seine however you wish:
The Seine is the thread that links Paris to its history. From its source in Burgundy to its mouth in Normandy, this 777-kilometre-long river shapes the capital’s identity. Understanding its geography means grasping the very essence of the Île-de-France region’s development.
Flowing through 14 departments, the Seine winds its way from the Côte-d’Or to the English Channel. In Paris, it stretches for 13 kilometres, separating the Right Bank from the Left Bank. Its quays, from the Pont de Sully to the Pont de Bir-Hakeim, are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The river ends at Le Havre in a vast estuary covering 10,000 hectares.
| Feature | Data |
|---|---|
| Total length | 777 km |
| Departments crossed | 14 |
| Source | Langres Plateau (Côte-d’Or) |
| Mouth | Le Havre (English Channel) |
| Catchment area | 78,650 km² |
| Catchment population | 30% of the French population |
The river rises on the Langres Plateau, at an altitude of 446 metres, in Source-Seine. This site, which has been owned by the City of Paris since 1864, is home to a nymphaeum erected in 1865 to protect the original spring. In ancient times, the site was home to a sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Sequana, a water nymph worshipped by the Gauls.
The Seine’s river system comprises 55,000 kilometres of rivers. Three major tributaries influence its flow: the Yonne, the Marne and the Oise. The Yonne, which joins the Seine at Montereau-Fault-Yonne, has a higher flow rate than the Seine at the point where they meet. The Marne joins the river at Charenton-le-Pont, marking the entrance to Paris.
| Tributary | Length | Source | Confluence with the Seine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marne | 525 km | Langres Plateau (Haute-Marne) | Charenton-le-Pont |
| Yonne | 293 km | Mont Préneley (Morvan) | Montereau-Fault-Yonne |
| Oise | 341 km | Belgium (Province of Hainaut) | Conflans-Sainte-Honorine |
| Aube | 248 km | Langres Plateau | Marcilly-sur-Seine |
| Eure | 229 km | Perche | Pont-de-l’Arche |
In English, it is known as “the Seine” (/seɪn/). Its Latin name, Sequana, bears witness to its sacred past. This has given rise to a unique urban planning rule: in Paris, the number 1 on streets running perpendicular to the river is always on the side closest to the water. Its 37 bridges and historic bookstall vendors complete this vibrant picture of cultural heritage.
Summer in Paris is synonymous with open-air festivities on the banks of the Seine. To ensure these moments remain magical for everyone, the City of Paris would like to remind you of some essential rules.
Respect, kindness and consent are essential; there is no place for any form of harassment. Together, let’s make the Parisian summer a great celebration for everyone, enjoyed in complete peace of mind.
