What to Do in Paris During Summer?

Paris Plages

This initiative was launched in 2002 by the Paris City Council, and it has been such a success that it repeats year after year. Paris doesn’t have a beach, or does it?

Every summer, the banks of the River Seine and the Bassin de la Villette turn into real seaside resorts. The start date is July 6th and it lasts until September 8th.

On the Seine, you can enjoy sand, palm trees, umbrellas, sun loungers, etc. A real paradise to cool off during the hottest hours. In addition, games such as table games, pétanque, and fitness classes are also organised.

Meanwhile, in Bassin de la Villette, outdoor pools that use water from the canal itself are installed. Don’t worry about the depth of the water, as there are different areas so that even the smallest can bathe without any danger. There are also showers, changing cabins, and toilets. There are also snack bars and ice cream stands for you to unwind with your loved ones.

Sales

The best neighbourhoods for shopping are:

• Saint-Germain-des-Prés. It is the most commercial area, as Rennes Street brings together most internationally known brands such as Zara or Levi’s.
• Le Marais is also another reference neighbourhood for getting real deals and discounts. The majority are second-hand or vintage shops, although there are also some luxury product shops.

Picnic at the Foot of the Eiffel Tower

In the Champ-de-Mars (Field of Mars), there are always hundreds of people relaxing or resting. Moreover, it is an ideal place to take beautiful photos with the Eiffel Tower in the background.

In summer, many more people take the opportunity to eat or dine on the grass or in the seats around the area. It is one of the favourite plans of the French. Also, we recommend that you have your picnic at night to watch the lighting of the Eiffel Tower.

Seine Cruise

Taking a cruise on the Seine on the famous bateau mouche is available throughout the year, however, in the cold months, we do not recommend it, as it is not the most pleasant. In contrast, the warm temperatures allow you to spend a couple of pleasant and cozy hours, especially at the end of the day.

It is also an ideal place to take the best photos in Paris. Moreover, keep in mind that you can also opt for a boat with a restaurant and spend an unforgettable evening with your partner.

Night Walks

The warm summer temperatures will allow you to explore the city in a very different way compared to winter. The walk we recommend the most is the one between the Pont Neuf and the Pont de Sully.

July 14th: National Day

If you are in Paris on July 14th, you are in luck. That day celebrates the big day of France, its national day. It commemorates the end of absolute monarchy in 1789.

However, this year it will change location and will be held on Avenue Foch, very close to the Champs-Elysées. The most famous parade in France starts at 10:00 AM and lasts until 12:00 PM, therefore, we recommend arriving early to be able to watch it comfortably. A total of 4000 soldiers, 39 planes, 23 helicopters, and 200 horses will be the protagonists of this day.

Aquaboulevard

If you still don’t know what to do in Paris this summer, we advise you to visit one of the reference water parks in France: Aquaboulevard.

The facilities of this place are magnificent and, moreover, it is considered the largest urban water park in Europe:

• 2 wave pools.
• 11 giant slides.
• Jacuzzis, both indoors and outdoors.
• Counter-current rivers.
• More than 4000 square meters of fine sand for you to relax.
• Cabins.
• Water games.

Regarding opening hours, it is open all year round, but summer is the time when there is the highest influx of people.