Bassin de la Villette (La Villette Basin)
Quai de la Seine, Paris, Île-de-France, 75019
The largest artificial “lake” in Paris, the Bassin de la Villette (La Villette Basin) was built in the 19th century as a link between the Canal Saint-Martin and the Canal de l’Ourcq. Measuring 2,624 feet (800 meters) in length and 230 feet (70 meters) in width, the lake is especially popular in the summer, when locals come to swim and enjoy festivals and other outdoor events.
The basics
A pretty artificial lake in the northeast of Paris, the Bassin de la Villette is celebrated as both a cultural hub and a relaxing place to enjoy the fresh air. Host to cafes, movie theaters (including the MK2 Quai de Loire and the MK2 Quai de Seine), and live music venues (including La Péniche Anako), the lake is also just a quick stroll from the Parc de la Villette, which itself offers ample green spaces and museum attractions.
The Bassin de la Villette is included on off-the-beaten-track tour itineraries and is featured on various canal tours of the city. It’s also easy to discover independently.
Things to know before you go
- The Bassin de la Villette is free for all to visit (swimming facilities, hosted as part of the Paris Plages event, are also free to access).
- The pond can be crossed by a pedestrian bridge (the Passerelle de la Villette), and a shuttle boat (the Zéro-de-Conduite).
- The Base Nautique de la Villette offers free rowing and canoeing classes to kids and adults on Sundays; call the Saturday beforehand to book your place.
How to get there
The Bassin de la Villette can be reached by numerous forms of public transportation. Take Métro lines 2, 5, and 7bis to Jaurès station. Alternatively, use bus lines 48 or 54, or travel on foot, by car, or by Vélib’ bike.
When to get there
The Bassin de la Villette is always accessible to visitors. That said, it is at its most popular during warm and sunny weather—particularly from early July to early September, during the Paris Plages event (a long-running summertime festival).
Summer at the Bassin de la Villette
Several festive, summer events are held at the Bassin de la Villette each year. L’Été du Canal (The Summer of the Canal) is a popular festival held in July and August, and includes canal boat rides, live entertainment, and other events at the Bassin de la Villette and surrounding waterways. Paris Plages (Paris Beaches), held from July–September, also sees three swimming areas, complete with changing facilities and lifeguards, installed on the lake.
Ways to explore
In Paris’ northeast, the Bassin de la Villette is celebrated as both a cultural hub and a relaxing place to enjoy some fresh air. Home to cafés, movie theaters (including the MK2 Quai de Loire and the MK2 Quai de Seine), and live music venues (such as La Péniche Anako), the lake is also just a quick stroll from the Parc de la Villette, which itself offers ample green spaces and museum attractions.
The Bassin de la Villette is included in off-the-beaten-track tour itineraries and is featured on various canal tours of the city. It’s also easy to visit independently.
Accessibility
The area is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers. Specific attractions have their own accessibility features, so check ahead. When open, the swimming areas are accessible to visitors with reduced mobility.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Picnic supplies, blanket, swimwear during summer months, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes
What to wear
Casual clothing, swimwear and sun protection in summer, layers for evening activities
Not allowed
Public disruption, soliciting
Amenities
Playgrounds, picnic areas, film screens, cafés, restrooms; seasonal summer facilities include swimming areas, showers, changing facilities, deckchairs
Address
Don’t picture a lake in the pretty Parisian countryside—Bassin de la Villette is a large canal in the city. Right in Paris’ 19th Arrondissement, it’s best to get there via tour, taxi, or public transit.
Driving
While you could technically drive here, the traffic, prices, and limited parking might ruin your day. You’re better off hailing a taxi or hopping on the metro.
Public transportation
Take metro line 5 to Laumière station, and from there it’s a short walk. Jaurès and Stalingrad stations also work, bringing you to the lake’s southern end.
Best times to visit
If you’re there for the buzz, come on a pleasant summer evening. If you’re there to avoid crowds, sunrise is lovely for meditative moments and photography.
Best days to visit
Weekends in general offer more events and great people-watching.
Best months to visit
July through September for warm weather and fun summer events, or spring and fall for strolls along the water.
Special events
Paris Plages (swimming, sports, and beach activities) runs from July through September. Film screenings run regularly during summer, too.
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