Life Along the Quais

The quais of the Seine have evolved from working ports to public spaces that belong to all Parisians. The transformation accelerated with the creation of the "Berges de Seine," car-free zones along the water where people can walk, cycle, picnic, and play.

On any given Sunday, the quais showcase Paris's diversity. Extended families from the banlieues spread elaborate picnics featuring dishes from across the Francophone world. Elderly men play pétanque while teenagers practice parkour on the old mooring posts. Artists sell paintings while activists collect signatures for environmental causes.

Sophie N'Diaye, who runs a floating cultural center moored near the Pont de l'Alma, sees the quais as "Paris's greatest democratic space. In the parks, you need to follow rules. In cafés, you need to buy something. But on the quais, you just need to exist. They're free, they're open, they belong to everyone."