Bonjour and welcome to “Things to do in Paris” for Saturday, July 5, 2025! The city is buzzing with excitement, blue skies, and a gentle summer breeze—perfect for exploring. There’s a historic energy in the air today, as Paris is making headlines worldwide for reopening the Seine to public swimming for the first time in over a century. Locals and visitors are gathering along the river, ready to make a splash and soak up the festive Parisian spirit[1][2][6].
Let’s dive into the top events happening today:
- The Seine is open! Three iconic sites—Bercy, Bras Marie, and Bras de Grenelle—are now welcoming swimmers. It’s free, supervised, and the centerpiece of this year’s Paris Plages, running all summer long. Join the crowds and be part of this once-in-a-lifetime moment[1][2][6].
- Paris Plages launches today, transforming the riverbanks into urban beaches with sun loungers, live music, water sports, and pop-up bars[1][9]. Family-friendly and totally unique, this is summer in Paris at its best.
- The Grand Bal BrasilBrésil takes over the Grand Palais with a free Brazilian-style festival—think samba, bossa nova, and colorful dancing from afternoon into the night[5].
- Need a quieter break? The Bourse de Commerce is offering a free evening opening—wander through cutting-edge contemporary art in a stunning setting, perfect for culture lovers[5].
- Movie buffs will adore “Dolcevita sur Seine,” a free, open-air Italian film festival at the ancient Roman amphitheater, Arènes de Lutèce. Bring a blanket, grab some gelato, and enjoy cinema under the stars[5].
On the news front, the city is experiencing transport disruptions due to a major air traffic controller strike. Around 40% of flights at Paris airports are canceled or delayed today[10]. If you’re traveling, check your updates and consider local alternatives like trains or the excellent Metro network. In brighter news, new eateries and terraces keep popping up along the Canal Saint-Martin and Rue des Martyrs, so foodies have plenty of fresh spots to discover[3].
If you’re planning your day, don’t miss:
- Swimming in the Seine for a true slice of history[1][2][6].
- A stroll down Rue des Martyrs for authentic Parisian cafés and boutiques—it’s a local favorite, away from the tourist trail[3].
- Explore Parc des Buttes-Chaumont in the 19th arrondissement, a hidden gem of natural beauty beloved by Parisians[3].
- End the night at the Grand Palais for music and dancing or at an open-air cinema for something a little more relaxed[5].
Local tip: Paris’ first four arrondissements have car-free zones this month, making it easier to enjoy the city on foot or by bike. Embrace the slower pace and wander the historic streets like a true Parisian[5].
Fun fact: The legacy of the 2024 Olympics lives on—not just with swimming in the Seine, but also with the return of the Paris Games cauldron at the Tuileries Gardens, now an annual summer light show spectacle[1].
Tune in tomorrow for more, including the vibrant Carnaval Tropical parade on the Champs-Élysées and the latest on the Tour de France as it weaves through the capital. Until then, soak up Paris—where every day brings a new adventure!
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI