Bonjour and welcome to “Things to do in Paris” on this sun-soaked Sunday, July 13, 2025! Whether you’re a curious traveler or a local looking for inspiration, we’re diving into the vibrant energy of Paris today—one of excitement, anticipation, and unmistakable summer spirit.

Paris is buzzing in anticipation of Bastille Day, with warm, sunny weather—temperatures are soaring, possibly heading past 35°C as another heat wave sweeps the city. The atmosphere is electric but also marked by a larger-than-usual police presence, as crowds gather for both the big football match tonight and tomorrow’s National Holiday festivities[2][5][8]. Expect some travel disruptions: several metro and RER stations near event zones will be closed today and tomorrow, so plan ahead and check alternate routes[2].

Now, let’s talk highlights for your Sunday:

- PSG fans, unite! Paris Saint-Germain faces Chelsea in the FIFA Club World Cup final, and even though the match is in the US, bars and squares across Paris will be brimming with excitement. Police are patrolling popular areas like the Champs-Élysées, so celebrate responsibly—note, no gatherings or fan zones permitted on the avenue tonight[5][8].
- Bastille Day Eve festivities are everywhere: firemen’s balls and open-air parties pump up the city’s nightlife, with music and dancing spilling out onto the streets in many neighborhoods[4].
- Don’t miss cultural gems like the immersive Van Gogh exhibition at Atelier des Lumières, or step into the fairytale world of “Le Petit Prince, l’odyssée immersive” — both perfect for art lovers and families seeking a cool escape[3].
- For those looking for open-air fun, Paris Plages is back with its Brazilian-themed edition—think pop-up beaches, deckchairs, and swimming areas along the Seine, ideal for families or anyone needing a break from the city heat[7].
- Out in La Défense, the massive Zoo Art Show transforms four floors into Paris’s most vibrant street art museum—an absolute must for urban culture seekers[3].

In today’s local news: with all these festivities, the city has deployed over 11,000 police and security staff to keep everyone safe, especially around event hotspots[5][8]. Public transit is disrupted around major venues, and the Champs-Élysées will be closed to traffic this evening, with tight controls on access. No terrace seating in view of the parade route tomorrow, so scope out your parade spots early if you want a view of the action[1][2].

Looking for must-do activities before the big day?
- Visit the Louvre—admission is free tomorrow for Bastille Day! It’s a rare chance to explore masterpieces without the usual ticket price[4].
- Book an evening stroll through one of Paris’s hidden quartiers, or check out a secret gallery or garden—there’s no better time to explore the city’s lesser-known corners than a festival weekend[6].
- Experience the magical Candlelight evenings at Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte outside the city, for a romantic escape with gardens lit by thousands of candles[7].

Local tip: Paris thrives on spontaneous joy during summer holidays—don’t hesitate to join a street party or a pop-up concert, but always carry water, sunscreen, and a transport app today; you’ll thank yourself as you hop from event to event.

And don’t forget: tomorrow is the big day! From the grand military parade down the Champs-Élysées to the legendary fireworks near the Eiffel Tower—this year with a Rio-inspired drone show and a special nod to the Paris Agreement—you won’t want to miss it. Be sure to tune in tomorrow for the best places to catch the celebrations and tips to navigate Bastille Day like a true Parisian[1][4][7].

Enjoy Paris—every sparkling, sun-drenched, extraordinary moment!

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI