DHeat waves will hit France this weekend of June 18 and 19. The mercury could reach 38°C in Paris, worrying and early temperatures for the season. This surprise “heat wave” could discourage Parisians from leaving their living rooms for fear of the effects of the heat, but don’t panic. If you don’t feel like squinting at the many icons on the map set up by Apur, which lists more than 800 islands of freshness, the editorial staff of the Point has listed for you five essential places to go out in Paris this weekend, without risking sunstroke.
In this selection, we will take you for a walk in the most beautiful garden in Europe, to drink (in moderation) in a real Parisian igloo, to sail on the waves of the Bois de Boulogne and even… underground. So, unplug the fan, put on a pair of sandals and discover this variety of activities to spend a pleasant weekend despite the heat of the sun.
Boat trip on the lower lake of the Bois de Boulogne
What could be better than a stream to relax during the heat wave? The lower lake of the Bois de Boulogne offers a boat trip, surrounded by trees and lawns. The place exudes freshness and shade. The boat service is located near the Henri-Martin RER C station. The price of the ride is 12 euros per hour, up to four people per boat. A deposit of 50 euros is to be expected. During your walk, you will be able to observe atypical places, such as the Emperor’s kiosk or the waterfall in the Bois de Boulogne.
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The Luxembourg Garden
A must in the capital, which is nonetheless very pleasant, is the Luxembourg Gardens. Classified as the most beautiful in Europe, you can see many statues there, a large central fountain, recently renovated, as well as the Senate, on the north side. In this very wooded garden, there is no shortage of shade, with various activities, such as sports fields or pony rides. A well-kept and colorful garden with its omnipresent flora, perfect to go alone or with family. Very cool with benches in the shade, so ideal for going out in hot weather.
Easily accessible with the RER B and nearby metro lines, such as the 4 or the 12, this park although very busy still offers space to enjoy the beauty of the city, giving a view of the Eiffel Tower and the pantheon. Chairs, benches or deckchairs provide plenty of places to sit down or take a nap.
The archaeological crypt of the Ile de la Cité
7, parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul-II – 75004 Paris
During hot weather, underground passages can provide essential shelter. The crypt of Notre-Dame, located in the 4e arrondissement of Paris, near the Cité metro station on line 4 is an excellent example. The entrance is on Place Jean-Paul-II, in front of the cathedral forecourt. The coolness of the stones and the shade hide vestiges testifying to the architectural evolution of the Ile de la Cité and the heart of the capital. The site currently houses an exhibition, “Notre-Dame de Paris, from Victor Hugo to Eugène Viollet-le-Duc”, which traces the history of Notre-Dame in the 19th century.e century. Due to National Archeology Day, admission is free on the weekend of June 18 and 19.
gardening house
Parc de Bercy – 41, rue Paul-Belmondo – 75012 Paris
Located in the middle of the Parc de Bercy, accessible by metro lines 6 and 14, the Maison du Jardinage opens up a green break in the 12e borough. Free entry and open to all. On the program: gardening tips, reading books on horticulture in the library and seed exchange in the grain library. Something to get out of the Parisian concrete mixer routine during these heat episodes. The large trees in the park as well as the greenhouse and the library offer a shaded and cool corner away from pollution. The place even has a vegetable garden where gourmets can pick up raspberries or other seasonal fruits.
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The Ice Kube Bar
To end the day, a fully frozen cocktail bar where the temperature is -20°C! No need to take out the big coat, the formula at 25 euros per person, which includes 3 drinks, also has an option for the loan of a down jacket. Located in the 18e arrondissement, this establishment is a unique experience, as it is the only bar made of ice cream in Paris. Everything is made of ice, from the glasses to the bar itself, and the seats too. From Tuesday to Saturday, from 6 p.m., it is possible to reserve it to cool down after a very hot day. Close to metros 2, 5, 7 and 12, it is easily accessible.
For more tranquility, you must book the session so as not to have other people at the same time.
Its icy post-apocalyptic style plunges all customers into another universe, making people forget the outside with strong heat. It’s a good way to end the day. The place is forbidden to minors.
1, passage Lane – 75018 Paris