Back in action this summer is Paris Plages, the 12th annual edition of the popular “beach resort” set up along the River Seine. The quayside roads are closed to traffic, and sun-seekers flock to the sand for lounging (oversized chairs galore), games (like boules), and ice cream.
Paris Plages kicks off on July 20 for four weeks. There are two locations: from the Louvre to Pont de Sully in the heart of the city, and along the Bassin de la Villette in the 19th arrondissement. Open from 8 am to midnight; entry to Paris Plages is free.
This summer, the city will also unveil a transformed cityscape along the river’s Left Bank. Along a 1.4 mile stretch between the Musée d’Orsay and the Pont de L’Alma, the riverbank will be completely pedestrianized as part of Mayor Delanoë's plan to "reclaim one of the most beautiful urban and river landscapes in the world.” The coolest part of all? An archipelago of five islands (specially constructed barges) will be landscaped with floating gardens open to the public.