This floating pool on the Seine opens its roof in the summer and stays open until 11 p.m. on Thursdays
As soon as the sun starts shining on the capital, Parisians and visitors alike seek out a cool spot in the open air. Paris’s swimming pools offer a wide variety of options to satisfy this desire: listed Art Deco pools, a floating structure on the Seine, hotel rooftops, and a large water park. Each pool has its own character, and this guide will help you choose the one that’s just right for your day.
Municipal outdoor swimming pools: heritage and swimming
The Butte-aux-Cailles swimming pool, built in 1924 by architect Louis Bonnier, is a designated historic monument. Its Art Nouveau decor, brick facade, and reinforced concrete make it a unique facility within the municipal network. Its two outdoor pools, measuring 25 and 12 meters, are heated year-round, allowing swimmers to enjoy the open air even during the off-season.
Just a stone’s throw from Buttes-Chaumont, the Georges-Hermant Pool (19th arrondissement) features an outdoor pool, a sun deck, and bleachers in the sun. It is primarily designed for swimmers who want to do laps without any distractions. In addition, the Hébert Pool (18th arrondissement), located in a tree-lined park, opens its roof as soon as the warm weather arrives: its fully glass-enclosed facade provides exceptional natural light.
In the 16th arrondissement, the Auteuil swimming pool, nestled in the Bois de Boulogne, features two pools, one of which has a partially retractable roof. Its sun deck, surrounded by trees and set amidst nature, is the perfect place to relax after a few laps. On the other hand, those who prefer a more urban setting can head to the Keller Pool (15th arrondissement), with its two open-air pools in the heart of the Beaugrenelle neighborhood.
The Joséphine Baker Pool: Swimming on the Seine
The Joséphine Baker Swimming Pool is located on Quai François-Mauriac in the 13th arrondissement. Designed by architect Robert de Busni, this glass-and-steel structure opened in July 2006. Its 25-meter pool is treated with ozone, ensuring high-quality water without the irritating effects of chlorine.
When the weather is nice, the retractable roof opens, allowing you to swim outdoors with a direct view of the river and the Parisian riverbanks. Evening slots are available until 11 p.m. on Thursdays, making it a popular spot for workers at the end of the day. As a result, advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends and during school holidays.
“Reservations are required to access the Joséphine Baker Pool. Be sure to book your time slot in advance, especially on weekends and during school holidays when the pool is very busy.”
Olympic-size pools and competitive swimming in Paris
The Georges-Vallerey Swimming Pool (20th arrondissement, Avenue Gambetta) was opened for the 1924 Olympic Games. American swimmer Johnny Weissmuller won the gold medal in the 400-meter freestyle there. Its 50-meter pool is equipped with a retractable laminated-wood roof that opens on sunny days, allowing swimmers to enjoy an outdoor swim in a building with over 100 years of history.
Located behind Place de la Nation, the Roger Le Gall Swimming Pool (12th arrondissement, Boulevard Carnot) was designed by architect Roger Taillibert and opened in 1967. It has been home to the Paris Swimming Club since its founding. Its 50-meter pool is open in the summer thanks to its retractable roof.
This facility offers swimming lessons, aqua aerobics, triathlon training, and aquabike classes. In addition, it welcomes naturists during certain times of the week—a feature unique to Paris. For experienced swimmers, these two Olympic-size pools are the best option for performance training.
- Butte-aux-Cailles Swimming Pool – 13th arrondissement: 2 outdoor pools heated year-round, designated a historic monument
- Joséphine Baker Pool – 13th arrondissement: 25-meter floating pool, retractable roof, evening sessions until 11 p.m. on Thursdays
- Georges-Vallerey Swimming Pool – 20th arrondissement: 50-meter Olympic pool, retractable roof made of glued-laminated timber
- Roger Le Gall Swimming Pool – 12th arrondissement: 50-meter competition pool, swimming lessons, and water aerobics
- Pailleron Swimming Pool – 19th arrondissement: ozone treatment, outdoor sun deck, Art Deco building designated a historic monument
The Pailleron Pool: Art Deco and Chlorine-Free Water
Opened in 1933, the Pailleron Swimming Pool (19th arrondissement) is an Art Deco gem listed as a historic monument. Its ozone-based water treatment is gentler on hair and skin than traditional chlorine. As a result, it attracts swimmers who value a comfortable swimming experience.
It doesn’t have an outdoor pool, but its outdoor sun deck is a great place to relax after your swim. During school breaks, the facility extends its operating hours to accommodate more visitors.
Practical tips: prices, schedules, and required equipment
In 2026, the admission fee for a standard municipal swimming pool is €3.50 (or €2 for the reduced rate). For outdoor pools, from the weekends in mid-May through the end of September, and every day in July and August, the price increases to €6.50 for a ticket valid for 2 hours. Free admission is granted under certain conditions to young people under 26 residing in Paris, to recipients of the RSA, and to large families holding an SNCF card.
The official hours are from 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. The Pontoise pool stands out with hours extending until 11:45 p.m. on certain evenings, while the Joséphine Baker pool is open to swimmers until 11:00 p.m. on Thursdays. In July and August, public opening hours are extended. Please note that seasonal closures for maintenance work are possible: it’s best to check the schedules in advance.
Swim caps are required at all municipal facilities, as are appropriate swimsuits: Bermuda shorts and boxer shorts are prohibited. Therefore, be sure to pack your bag before leaving to avoid being turned away at the entrance. For non-residents wishing to use a hotel pool, the fee can exceed €30, which is a significant difference from the municipal facilities.
For a refreshing change of scenery without leaving Paris,Aquaboulevard (15th arrondissement, near André Citroën Park) offers a 7,000-square-meter space with water kept at 29°C year-round, water slides, a wave pool, waterfalls, and family rafting. Online reservations are strongly recommended to avoid waiting. So, whether you’re looking for a workout in the water, a relaxing moment in the sun, or a family outing, Paris and its surrounding area offer a pool to suit every need, all year round.
