The Champs-Élysées is undoubtedly the most famous street in Paris, stretching for 2 kilometers and guiding visitors from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. This avenue is not just a line of trees and shops; it is a stage for extravagant parades and historic protests.
If you love the hustle and bustle, this is the place to be. Here, you can stroll among bright lights, historic buildings, and shops where you can buy almost anything. This article will immerse you in the history and culture of this iconic spot, with insights from a tourist’s perspective on what you simply cannot miss.
What Are the Champs-Élysées?
The Champs-Élysées is the city’s main avenue, surrounded by green areas and parks, ideal for walking while exploring restaurants and shops. Major landmarks nearby include the Arc de Triomphe, the Palais de la Découverte, the Grand Palais, the Petit Palais, and the Place de l’Étoile.
It is one of the city’s most important places, often the gathering point for Parisians to celebrate significant events such as the national holiday on July 14th, the final stage of the Tour de France, various sports victories, and even New Year’s Eve celebrations.
History of the Champs-Élysées
The story of the Champs-Élysées (Les Champs-Élysées) began with the planting of a row of trees in 1640. Its name comes from Greek mythology, referring to the “abode of the blessed souls.” A major redesign later added sidewalks to the tree-lined avenue, creating the spacious boulevard we know today.
Since then, it has witnessed many historic events, such as the French Revolution, marked by military parades and protests. Its importance has grown over the centuries, making it a symbol of Parisian identity.
In the 19th century, significant renovations were carried out, most notably the construction of the Arc de Triomphe. In the 20th century, the Champs-Élysées became increasingly central to Parisian life, hosting cultural events, parades, and political demonstrations.
Beyond its historical significance, the Champs-Élysées is a hub of cultural and commercial life. From theaters and concert halls to world-renowned boutiques, the avenue offers a unique experience that blends Parisian elegance with urban energy.
What to See on the Champs-Élysées
A stroll down the Avenue des Champs-Élysées is one of the most charming activities you can do during your stay in the French capital. If you only plan to walk, it won’t take more than two hours, but if you want to take your time, visit the shops, relax at cafés, or climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe, plan for a full morning or afternoon.
Here are the highlights you shouldn’t miss:
Arc de Triomphe
This emblem of French national pride and grandeur was commissioned by Napoleon to commemorate his army’s military victories, particularly the Battle of Austerlitz in 1805. The Arc, designed by Jean Chalgrin, was completed in 1836, years after Napoleon’s fall, so he never saw his vision realized.
The design is neoclassical and over 50 meters tall, making it an awe-inspiring sight. At its base, you can see reliefs depicting battle scenes, while the upper sections feature sculptures symbolizing the glory and freedom of the French people.
An interesting fact is that you can climb to the rooftop of the Arc de Triomphe, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views and snap impressive photos. However, you must ascend 284 steps to reach the observation platform. From there, you can see the Champs-Élysées and other landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Notre-Dame Cathedral.
You can book your tickets to the top, with free cancellation and some discounts, through this link.
Insider Tip: Visiting the Arc de Triomphe at sunset offers the best lighting for photos and a stunning view of the city as it transitions into evening.
Grand Palais
Located at the southern end of the Champs-Élysées, this architectural masterpiece was built for the 1900 Paris Exposition. The goal was to create a pavilion that embodied the grandeur and modernity of the era, and thus the Grand Palais was born.
The building was conceived as a multifunctional space, hosting art exhibitions, cultural events, and social gatherings. Its architectural design reflects the elegance and monumentality of France’s Belle Époque. The most striking feature is its facade of glass and steel, and inside, the central nave stretches over 200 meters, used for temporary exhibitions and impressive shows.
Petit Palais
Like its larger counterpart, the Petit Palais was also built in 1900 for the Paris Exposition. It was designed by architect Charles Girault to serve as a space for exhibiting decorative and fine arts. It stands directly across from the Grand Palais and was completed in record time.
Its neoclassical style combines elements of classical antiquity with Belle Époque details from a century ago. The exterior is adorned with dozens of columns and a central dome presiding over the building.
Inside, the Petit Palais features a permanent collection of paintings, sculptures, and art objects, alongside rooms for temporary exhibitions. Art lovers will be delighted to see works by Rembrandt, Monet, Rodin, and Delacroix, among others.
Additionally, the Petit Palais is surrounded by expansive gardens and quiet spaces, perfect for visitors to rest and enjoy a sunny day in the French capital.
Élysée Palace
The Élysée Palace is one of Paris’s most important buildings, as it serves as the official residence of the President of the French Republic. It was built in the 18th century as a retreat for French nobility, offering a peaceful lifestyle with every luxury imaginable.
The palace was eventually acquired by the government and became the residence of Napoleon Bonaparte. Since then, it has been the home of the nation’s heads of state and their families.
Notable features include its Louis XVI-style facade and its interior, filled with grand halls housing a significant collection of art and historical furniture. The palace grounds also feature beautifully landscaped gardens.
Strolling Down the Avenue of the Champs-Élysées
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kST0X5D-mX4
While not a monument in itself, the best part of the Champs-Élysées is simply strolling leisurely along the avenue, taking in the atmosphere and browsing the many shops. Every day, a bustling crowd gathers, either to enjoy a scenic walk or to indulge in some shopping.
By day, the avenue is a lively place filled with shops, cafés, and bakeries. By night, Paris transforms into a vibrant scene of nightclubs and bars, so there’s never a moment of inactivity.
Keep in mind that being a major tourist hotspot, like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre Museum, it tends to be quite expensive. If you’re traveling on a budget, it might be wise to avoid dining or shopping here.
Upper and Lower Champs-Élysées
The Champs-Élysées is divided into two distinct areas: the upper and lower sections.
The upper section begins at the Place de l’Étoile, near the Arc de Triomphe. This part is lined with fashion boutiques and shops. Special mention goes to the panoramic views from the top of the Arc, offering one of the best free viewpoints in Paris.
The lower section, near the Place de la Concorde, is characterized by lush greenery, gardens, and parks, lending a more tranquil vibe. Here, you’ll find several of Paris’s most iconic buildings, such as the University, the Palais de la Découverte, and the Grand Palais.
This lower area has a particular charm, perfect for enjoying the gardens, relaxing with a book or a conversation, or exploring art exhibitions at the Petit Palais and the Grand Palais.
Shopping on the Champs-Élysées
The Champs-Élysées offers a variety of fashion stores, cafés, and restaurants, a true paradise for shoppers and those looking to enjoy a bit of luxury (though neighborhoods like Le Marais or Saint-Honoré are also great for boutique shopping). It is arguably the best shopping destination in Paris, a delight for window shoppers and souvenir hunters alike.
Years ago, the avenue was dominated by luxury stores (jewelers, designer boutiques, high-end shops). Nowadays, it also hosts several major retail chains, which have slightly reduced the street’s upscale allure.
For example, you’ll find luxury boutiques lining the avenue, showcasing some of the world’s most exclusive fashion brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Dior, with stunning haute couture collections. You’ll also come across internationally renowned jewelers, offering exquisite necklaces, bracelets, and engagement rings that are certainly not for everyone’s budget.
Shopping Tip: If luxury isn’t your priority, keep an eye out for flagship stores of well-known brands where you might score unique Parisian items or visit during sales for a more affordable shopping experience.
Events and Activities Held on the Champs-Élysées
Being the main avenue of Paris, the Champs-Élysées hosts most of the city’s major events. For instance, it becomes the stage for fashion shows featuring top international designers and brands, transforming the street into a spectacle of lights, music, and high fashion. In addition, there are numerous cultural festivals (for film and theater) and events that highlight French cuisine.
During spring and summer, you can enjoy prestigious outdoor concerts featuring both French and international artists, often held for free along the avenue. Sports enthusiasts will also find excitement here, as the Champs-Élysées is the site of major sporting events, such as the final stage of the Tour de France and the finish line of the Paris Marathon.
The avenue is also the backdrop for official state events, including significant military parades and national celebrations (such as Bastille Day and Victory Day), where crowds gather on both sides to witness these grand displays.
Lastly, the holiday season is especially magical on the Champs-Élysées. The street transforms with festive lights and winter decorations, making for a spectacular evening stroll. Small holiday markets appear, offering delightful souvenirs to bring back from your trip.
How to Get to the Champs-Élysées
Metro
The most convenient way to reach the Champs-Élysées is by using the city’s metro. You can get off at one of the following stations:
- Line 1, 8, 12: Concorde Station
- Line 1: Champs-Élysées Clemenceau Station
- Line 1, 9: Franklin D. Roosevelt Station
- Line 1: George V Station
Bus
Paris also has an extensive and efficient bus network. Several buses stop near the avenue, including lines 28, 32, 42, 72, and 73.
RER (Suburban Train)
If you are coming from outside central Paris (such as Disneyland Paris or the suburbs), you can take the RER to “Charles de Gaulle – Étoile” on Line A. From there, it’s a short walk or a quick metro ride to the Champs-Élysées.
Travel Tip: Consider taking the metro or bus early in the day to avoid peak tourist crowds. If you plan to explore nearby attractions, such as the Arc de Triomphe or the Grand Palais, the metro provides convenient and efficient access to these landmarks.