The Champs-Elysées Avenue is the most important in Paris and connects two popular buildings in the city, the Arc de Triomphe and the Place de la Concorde. Its name refers to the attempt that the French made to build this street with its alameda and its style: that it be something like a paradise, in reference to what that name implies in Greek mythology.
The first row of trees that would give life to this beautiful avenue was planted in 1640, continuing the line of the Tuileries Palace. However, it was not until 1824 that the sidewalks were built. For hundreds of years, this would be a meeting point and unforgettable walk through the capital. In 1994 a resounding remodeling of the avenue was made until it was as we can see it today.
This avenue has a length that covers about 2 kilometers and, in addition to being one of the most famous and weighted avenues in the world, it is an undoubted symbol of the beauty that this city offers its visitors. Be sure to stroll through it when you visit Paris.
What to see on the Champs Elysées?
The Champs-Elysées is today a long promenade that brings together the most sophisticated fashion and leisure shops on its sidewalks and buyers from all over the world, eager to take a piece of this beautiful avenue in their bags. It is also often used on cycling tours; in fact, it is the point of arrival for the athletes who take part in the Tour de France every year.
You will be able to distinguish two very different zones. On the one hand, the part of the avenue that is near the Plaza de la Concordia, which is characterized by being a very green area, full of gardens and picturesque places; there you can visit the Palace of Discovery and the Grand and Petit Palais, which will surely dazzle you. On the other, the upper part of the avenue, next to the Arc de Triomphe, is characterized by its numerous shops and luxury establishments, where you can buy clothes and enjoy good food in exquisite restaurants and venues.
The Champs Elysées is a corner of Paris that you should not miss; however, it may not be a good place to go shopping since prices are usually somewhat high. We recommend you read this text where we tell you where to go shopping in Paris.
If you travel to Paris at Christmas, you have to enjoy the beautiful market that is set up on the Champs-Elysées. If you want more information about Christmas in Paris, we recommend you read this text.
Location of Champs Elysées
The Champs-Elysées Avenue connects the 1st and 8th arrondissement of Paris, from northeast to southeast.