The summer transforms Paris. The cityscape dons greenery and the riverside thoroughfares become car-free resorts. The Paris Plages (Paris Beaches) operation kicks off on or around 20 July and lasts four weeks. 
Paris Plages 2016 : from 20 July to 21 August. Free.
 
Paris Plages is all about – complete with sandy beaches, deck-chairs, ubiquitous ice cream sellers, and concerts for French and foreign guests. Holiday makers at the Bassin de la Villette (Paris 19) can also borrow books free of charge, play beach volley, take an aqua-gym class in a mini pool, or kayak around the lake – or, of course just chill and enjoy. The Seine’s banks become pedestrian and the beaches are spread across three spots (Louvre/Pont de Sully, Port de la Gare and Bassin de la Villette).