Heatwave in Paris: where can you find islands of coolness to keep the heat off?

As the heatwave settles over parts of France, Paris activates its network of "îlots de fraîcheur" (cool islands). Museums, libraries, parks, swimming pools and even churches: over 1,400 locations have been mobilized to protect residents from the heat, starting this Thursday, June 19.

Summer's not here yet, but Paris is already suffocating in the heat. This week, temperatures are topping 30°C, with a peak expected close to 40°C on Sunday and Monday. A foretaste of increasingly frequent heatwaves, a direct consequence of global warming, whose effects are intensifying.

If these conditions are already difficult to bear in the countryside, they become stifling in urban environments. A study published in The Lancet in 2023 revealed that Paris is the most vulnerable city in Europe in the event of a heatwave, due in particular to its high population density and increased mineral content. Faced with this finding, the capital is implementing various adaptation measures to try and mitigate the impact of heat on its inhabitants.

In Paris, cool islands are becoming essential as temperatures rise. The city council has reintroduced its interactive map listing all the places where you can cool off. From air-conditioned public spaces to shady parks and religious buildings, there are plenty of options for beating the heat.

What places are accessible during heatwaves?

Among the 1,400 "îlots de fraîcheur" identified :

Air-conditioned libraries and museums
Churches such as Saint-Médard, Sainte-Marie des Batignolles or Saint-Louis
Parks and gardens open 24 hours a day, such as Buttes-Chaumont or Parc Montsouris
Fountains and water points (1,300 in all), including 175 misting fountains
Municipal swimming pools, some with outdoor pools and solariums
Urban bathing sites: Bassin de la Villette, Canal Saint-Martin and, from July 5, the Seine.
Shade structures installed at 21 sites to create shade.

Consult the interactive map

Why do churches offer refuge from the heat?

Often ancient, Parisian churches are built with thick walls and high vaults to keep cool. They offer calm, free shelter, ideal in hot weather.

What can you do to protect yourself?

A few essential reflexes:

Drink water regularly
Wet your body several times a day
Eat a light diet rich in fruit and vegetables
Avoid physical exertion and outings during the hottest hours of the day
Keep your home cool by airing out at night and closing the shutters during the day
Keep in touch with loved ones

And what about the most vulnerable?

The Reflex scheme provides support for isolated people. In addition, the municipal shower-baths remain open every day, including weekends.

A system to be strengthened

With heatwaves becoming increasingly frequent, the City of Paris is developing sustainable solutions such as shading systems and extending its network of cool islands. A major challenge for urban quality of life.