Guide to Swimming in Paris Pools: The Perfect Extracurricular Sport at the Summer Olympics

The 2024 Paris Summer Olympics schedule is packed with can’t-miss events featuring 10,500 of the world’s best athletes pushing their limits, and all wrapped up in the magic of Paris in the summer. But when not taking in the energy and excitement of the games, you will no doubt find yourself looking for enjoyable ways to get around and experience the city. Thinking of holding your breath and a slot on your schedule for gymnastics and diving, but slipping out for the equestrian competition? Amidst the Olympic fervor, you might be dreaming of taking a refreshing dip – Parisian summers can get pretty toasty. So, while the elite swimmers will be battling it out in the state-of-the-art Olympic Aquatics Center, you might be scouting for an aquatic oases that’s open to visitors.

While there’s been much anticipation about potential Olympic swimming taking place in the Seine River, recent water quality tests haven’t given it the green light yet. The most recent updates report that authorities are working hard towards making it a possibility, so we’ll all need to stay tuned for updates closer to the Games.

The iconic Seine will certainly still be a focal point during the Olympics. The opening ceremony will reportedly involve a spectacular display along the riverbanks, which will likely be closed for a few days surrounding the event. But fear not, there will still be plenty of beautiful riverside spots to stroll, nosh, pick up a rare or out-of-print book from one of the Bouquinistes (booksellers) along the Seine, and soak in the Parisian ambiance.

And if you’re wondering, the Seine will under no conditions be open to the public this summer. That will have to wait until next summer, provided ongoing clean-up efforts succeed.

Paris Beaches, AKA Paris Plages, are temporary summer attractions along the Seine River and canals in Paris. They offer free activities like swimming pools, movies, water sports, games, concerts, and more. Locations include the Seine River banks and Bassin de la Villette. The event usually spans from July to August. But – due to the 2024 Summer Olympics, Paris Plages will not be held this year.

Now for the good part: Paris boasts a network of public pools, offering an inviting way to beat the heat during your Olympics trip. This guide will navigate you through the best options, from charming outdoor oases in the heart of the city to impressive complexes on the Parisian periphery.

A couple of things to keep in mind. Paris is gearing up for a massive influx of visitors, so expect a vibrant Olympic atmosphere – and potentially some crowds. Public pools can get busy, especially on weekends, so be prepared for a bit of a wait or adjust your swimming schedule if needed.

Public pools in Paris and surrounding regions range from casual and family-friendly recreational centers to more posh and secluded enclaves. We’ve carefully curated a guide to the best Parisian pools for lounging in the sun and swimming laps, whatever your taste.

Piscine Joséphine Baker (163 Avenue Maurice Thorez, 94200 Ivry-sur-Seine):
Website: Piscine Josephine Baker
Prices: €3.50 (€2.00 reduced)
Olympics Schedule: Open daily (closed July 24 -28)
Attire: Swimwear required
Why Josephine Baker: Named after the iconic dancer and activist, this location has a modern, municipal feel. Located on a giant barge on the Seine River, bathers are so close to the Seine, it’s as if they are swimming in it – almost. They can nonetheless enjoy a beautiful expansive view of the water’s surface. In addition to the 25-meter pool, there is a glass solarium, a sauna, and a hammam. The pool is open until 10:00 PM Monday, Thursday and Friday when the pool lights up for nighttime swimming.

With the Piscine Josephine Baker being one of the more attractive pools in the city, the amenities are clean and well looked after. Located in the 13th arrondisement, it enjoys some breathing room from the main tourist center of Paris while still being inside the city.

• Tip: Arrive early, especially on weekends, when the pool’s incredible views and relaxing vibes are sure to attract many. You may bring your own refreshments or grab some from the small cafe on site.

• Piscine Roger Le Gall (34 Boulevard Carnot, 75012 Paris, France):
• Website: Piscine Roger Le Gall
• Prices:€3.50/€2.00 reduced
• Olympics Schedule: Open daily
• Attire: Swimwear required
• Why Roger Le Gall: With one in-door and one out-door pool, including a 50-meter Olympic-sized one, the Roger Le Gall Piscine caters to both athletic swimmers and those looking for relaxation. Visitors with kids in tow will no doubt appreciate the smaller pool’s slide. A sauna, hammam, and solarium round out the offerings.
  
• Tip: Check the schedule for swimming classes or events, including dedicated naturist periods, that might affect regular pool access. Also, bring your own swimming cap, as it may be required for entry.

Piscine Butte aux Cailles Address (5 Place Paul Verlaine, 75013 Paris, France):
Website: Piscine Butte aux Cailles
Prices: €3.80/€2.00 reduced
Olympics Schedule: Open daily excluding Mondays
Attire: Swimwear required
Why Butte aux Cailles: The Butte aux Cailles piscine is housed in a building dating back to 1924. Loved by locals for its Art Deco design, three pools and outdoor solarium, it offers a unique blend of vintage charm and modern amenities. This place is right at home in the hilltop neighborhood of Butte-aux-Cailles in the 13th arrondissement, with its picturesque feel.

• Tip Don’t forget your flip-flops, as the pool area may get slippery. Arrive early to secure a spot in the outdoor pool during sunny days, as it can get busy during peak hours, which may be a slight annoyance in closer spaces like the changing rooms.

• Piscine Molitor Paris (13 Rue Nungesser et Coli, 75016 Paris, France):
• Website: Piscine Molitor Paris
• Prices: €195 for a day pass
• Olympics Schedule: Open daily
• Why Molitor: For those with a taste for the lux life, the Piscine Molitor, located in the swanky 16th arrondissement of Paris, offers a lavish swimming experience. Housed in a five-star hotel of the same name, this historic pool complex dating back to the 1920s features two stunning pools, one indoors and the famous Art Deco style pool outdoors. Guests at the rooftop bar, which offers panoramic views of Paris, can gaze down at the sun loungers and cabanas that bring to mind a scene from a vintage travel poster.
  
  Many potential guests will justifiably guffaw at the price of a day pass – exponentially higher than the €3-5 charged at ordinary public pools. That said, those willing to splurge will be served an indulgence likely unparalleled by any other pool in Paris.

Pack your sunblock and prepare for some first-class poolside lounging in the City of Lights.

Note: Make sure to double check with facilities about possible schedule changes come July/August.