Seine River Swimming: Paris Reopens After 100 Years

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Seine River opens For Public Swimming after Over a Century

Paris, July 7, 2025 – For the first time in over 100 years, Parisians and tourists are now able to enjoy public Seine River swimming. City authorities have officially opened three bathing sites on the banks of the Seine, marking a historic moment for the city.

A Century-Long Wait Ends

The grand reopening follows an extensive cleanup program, significantly accelerated by the river’s use as a venue during last year’s Paris Olympics. Regular illegal swimmers played a crucial role, advocating tirelessly for the Seine’s conversion. Anne Hidalgo, the outgoing Mayor of Paris, also championed the project, even taking a plunge herself before the Olympic Games.

Approximately 1,000 swimmers daily can access the free bathing sites until the end of August. this initiative aims to offer both residents and visitors a refreshing way to experience Paris.

Massive Investment in water Quality

The enterprising project required an investment of approximately €1.4 billion (£1.2 billion). Funds were allocated to connect over 20,000 homes to the sewer system, preventing waste from directly entering the Seine. upgrades to water treatment facilities and construction of rainwater storage reservoirs-equivalent to 20 Olympic swimming pools in size-help prevent sewage overflows during storms.

This extensive infrastructure ensures cleaner and safer waters for swimming.Here’s a breakdown of the investment:

Area of Investment	Description	Impact
Sewer System Connection	Connecting 20,000+ homes to the sewer system	Prevents direct waste dumping into the Seine
Water Treatment Facilities	Upgrading existing water treatment infrastructure	Improves overall water quality
Rainwater Storage Reservoirs	Building reservoirs equivalent to 20 Olympic pools	Reduces sewage overflows during heavy rain

Inspired By and Inspiring Europe

Paris’s revitalization of the Seine has drawn inspiration from similar projects across Europe, where cities reclaim waterways for public swimming.These efforts address rising summer temperatures and promote urban well-being.

Despite earlier health concerns during Olympic training sessions,all races proceeded as planned,boosting public confidence in the swimming initiative. Tourist authorities anticipate the Seine River swimming spots will become a major attraction, drawing visitors to the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the National Library areas.

Did You Know? The Seine River previously hosted swimming events during the 1900 paris Olympics!

safety and Accessibility

Lifeguards are on duty, and changing and shower facilities are readily available.Health authorities conduct daily water quality tests, using a flag system to indicate swimming safety. Due to shallow water, diving remains prohibited.

Beyond the three Paris locations, plans include 14 additional bathing sites along the Seine and Marne rivers. Two sites on the marne River already opened in June.

With the Seine now swimmable, French President Emmanuel Macron faces mounting pressure to fulfill his promise to take a dip himself.

What Does The future of Seine River Swimming Look Like?

the reopening of the Seine for public swimming marks a notable achievement for Paris. The extensive cleanup efforts and ongoing monitoring promise a refreshing and safe experience for all.

But will this initiative continue to thrive and expand in the coming years? And how will it impact tourism and urban life in Paris?

How long was swimming banned in the Seine River?

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A Historic Reopening: Swimming in the Seine is Back

For the first time in over a century,Parisians and visitors alike can enjoy a swim in the Seine River. This monumental achievement, promised by Jacques Chirac in 1988, has finally come to fruition thanks to considerable investments in water hygiene and infrastructure improvements, accelerated by the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The reopening marks a significant turning point for the city, transforming a historically polluted waterway into a recreational space.

The Road to Clean Water: A Decades-Long Effort

the Seine River faced significant pollution challenges for decades, rendering it unsafe for swimming. The primary issues stemmed from untreated sewage, industrial runoff, and agricultural pollution. The cleanup involved a multi-pronged approach:

• Massive Infrastructure Investment: Billions of euros were invested in upgrading Paris’s sewage and stormwater management systems.
• Storage Basins: The construction of massive underground storage basins, like the Seine Grand bassin, capable of holding millions of cubic meters of wastewater during heavy rainfall. this prevents overflow into the river.
• Stricter Regulations: Implementation of stricter regulations on industrial discharge and agricultural practices in the Seine River basin.
• Continuous Monitoring: Ongoing monitoring of water quality to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Swimming Zones and Water Quality

Initially, designated swimming areas will be limited. The first sections opened to swimmers are located between the pont d’Austerlitz and the Pont de Bir-Hakeim, totaling around 5.5 kilometers (3.4 miles). Water quality is continuously monitored, and swimming will be prohibited if levels of bacteria exceed acceptable thresholds. Real-time water quality data is available to the public.

Key Water Quality Indicators

The following parameters are crucial for ensuring safe swimming conditions in the Seine:

Indicator	Acceptable Level (EU Standards)	Monitoring Frequency
Escherichia coli (E. coli)	≤ 500 CFU/100ml	Daily
Intestinal Enterococci	≤ 100 CFU/100ml	Daily
pH Level	6.5 – 8.5	Daily
Dissolved Oxygen	≥ 5 mg/L	Weekly

Practical Data for Swimmers

Before taking a dip in the Seine, hear are some essential things to know:

• Designated Zones: Only swim in designated areas marked by buoys.
• Swimming Season: the initial swimming season runs from mid-July to late September.
• Access: Access to the swimming areas is free.