Get the perfect tan at Paris-Plages

Paris is a city brimming with a historical, cultural and artistic heritage of incomparable richness, but also offers an extensive programme of events designed for the most indulgent relaxation. Fun-filled happenings are scheduled throughout the year and one of the most anticipated is always Paris-Plages.  

Sandy beaches in the midst of the capital

Since 2002, for a few weeks in July and August, the banks of the Seine in the vicinity of the Hotel de Ville are completely closed to traffic and covered with several tons of sand. Picnic tables, chairs, benches and play areas are developed, and thus the beach resorts of Paris Plages spring to life. Other sites, including the Bassin de la Villette, where water sports and activities are the watchwords, are also transformed each year into ephemeral beaches.

The 2016 edition will take place from July 18th to August 21st and offers not just an opportunity to bask on the warm sand and enjoy magnificent views of the Seine, but also to thrill to a series of concerts and shows of all kinds while relishing summer cocktails and ice-cream. Ideally located in the centre of the capital, the Paris-Plages sites are only a few minutes’ walk from the Bastille and Marais districts. An afternoon in Paris-Plages can be pleasantly extended by a visit to the Pompidou Centre, a stroll through the Place des Vosges, or by exploring the medieval buildings of the Ile de la Cité, Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Palais de la Conciergerie.

The spectacle of the light show at Versailles

After enjoying the sun, there’s no better way to finish the day in a magical way that the spectacle of the Grandes Eaux de Versailles (Fountains Shows). About thirty kilometres from the capital, the former palace of the Sun King is very easily reached by public transport, including the RER C. Each Saturday evening from June 18th to September 17th, 2016, the palace gardens will be filled with light until the evening reaches a colourful climax with a magnificent fireworks display that is unique in Europe.

During more than two hours, visitors are treated to a visual extravaganza in the gardens designed by André Le Nôtre in the 17th century. Set to music and enhanced by subtle lighting effects, the fountains spray their shimmering waters into the air. Wander around the groves and see each and every sculptured fountain in a new light, then gaze in awe as fireworks erupt into the sky above the Grand Canal.

From the youngest to the oldest, the spectacle of the Grandes Eaux de Versailles seduces everyone. This is an original and fun way to discover the thousand and one marvels of Versailles outside of peak hours. If you are enchanted by the opulence and beauty of the place, don’t hesitate to return during the day to visit the famous Hall of Mirrors, the royal apartments, and the Petit Trianon, where Queen Marie Antoinette spent so many decadently luxurious evenings.

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Learn more: • La Villette river basin • Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) • Versailles Palace

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Picture copyright : P e z i

Hotel Marais Bastille, a 3 star Design hotel in the heart of Paris.