Champs Elysees in Paris: A Guide to the Must-See Avenue!

Paris is a destination with the most astonishing cityscape that you need to visit at least once. Avenues des Champs Elysees in Paris is one of the sites that feature the country’s fame on the map. So, for what is Champs Elysees famous? Architectures? Monument? Luxury Shops?

The answer is Everything! It is an amalgamation of innumerable opportunities waiting to amuse you. It’s not only a favoured avenue for Parisians and tourists but also a venue for many events and festivals that take place. You will be enthralled to see creativity born to reflect the art, culture, and history as you walk through the avenue.

There are plenty of things to look at and activities you can do in this “Most Beautiful Avenue In The World” that will make you fall in love with it personally. Here you can find the best so that you don’t miss it during your visit to Paris.

Most Beautiful Avenue In The World – Champs Elysees, Paris

Champs Elysees’ attractive side comes from its aesthetic appearance, with Arc de Triomphe at the focus. In the 8th arrondissement in Paris, the avenue stretch like a carpet in between Place Charles de Gaulle and Place de la Concorde. During the day, the 1.9km long and 70m wide avenue feels like you are the protagonist in a French novel. The serene view of the Seine river, the busy streets, and the wide cosy sidewalk of the avenue are nostalgic. This nostalgia is quite normal, as it is a popular filming location to shoot Indian movies and songs. When the sun sets, it reveals the younger side of the country with the lighted chestnut trees stretching on the sidewalks to welcome the people to the elegant designer shops, classy restaurants, and nightclubs that light up the mood.

Also Read: Best Views of Paris

History of Champs Elysees in Paris

Since its beginning, Champs Elysees has gone through so much transition. This avenue’s name translates to the word “Elysian Field“. A place where the Greek Gods rest in Greek Mythology. Champs Elysees, the significant symbol of France, emerged from marshlands. It turned into a royal road during the Louis XIV era and is now an avenue of riches. Louis XIV’s gardener, Andre Le Notre, redesigned this once a swamp cum kitchen garden into the boulevard with elm trees on each side and called it Grand Cours.

In 1709 it became Champs Elysees, a leisure spot. Since the 19th century, it has stood as a witness of freedom celebration and World cup victories. Events such as Bastille Day Military Parade on July 14th, Christmas festive and Tour de France Cycling Race also happen every year.

Must-Do Activities In the Avenue des Champs Elysees

Your time in Avenue des Champs Elysee won’t get complete until you visit various sites and activities that the destination has to offer. To know the value of its history and to gain the utmost tourism experience, one day won’t be enough. Here are some of the things you must do and see while you walk in this grand avenue of Paris.

1. Marvel At The Architectural Wonders

You can start your trip with Arc de Triomphe or end with it, but don’t forget to climb to the top so that you don’t miss one of the best views. Witness this most iconic monument that stands as a testimony of the historical events that happened in France. It was commissioned by Napoleon, in 1806 to honour the soldiers who fought for France during the Napoleonic Wars. Every day at 6:30 pm, a memorial flame lit at the tomb of an unknown soldier from WWI.

The Next must-visit architectural wonder of the avenue is the Place de la Concorde. The public square with the most beautiful sculptures in rich colour is worth your time. It is also a place where one of the historical moments of France happened where King Louis XVI got executed during the French Revolution. Close by it is the most intriguing and the oldest structure in Paris, the Egyptian Obelisk of Luxor with two monumental fountains. Never miss taking a look at it.

Stroll around the enchanting Jardins des Champs Elysees. Take some rest, wandering around, and photograph the Instagram-worthy picturesque garden and the charming sculptures.

2. Experience The Art

Champs Elysees is fame-worthy for giving access to world-famous art galleries and museums. Visiting Petit Palais and Grand Palais is the best thing you could do. In 1900, these museums were built, to feature science and art exhibitions. They house various collections of art, among which the Beaux-Arts are most popular. In November, the Paris Photo event takes place. The Grand Palais transforms into an ice skating rink in winter.

Visit ArtCurial, the most admirable art and antiques related to fashion, vintage cars, jewels, paintings get auctioned. It is not only the most favourable spot for artists and art collectors but also Paris’s first auction house(1975).

Also Read: Art Exhibition At Champs Elysees

3. Shopping at the Paradise of Shopaholics

Champs Elysees is the place where the most popular and luxurious brands in the world are. It is a paradise for shoppers and window shoppers. Paris is a destination for people who admire and breathe fashion. The best time to go shopping at night as the entire venue shines like gold. Visit the finest tiny boutiques that sell unique outfits and crafted accessories. Step into the world of perfume in Guerlain. Don’t miss out on the old Louis Vuitton stores, Dior, Banana Republic, Ferrari, Swarovski, Gucci, and Montblanc. Louis Vuitton is well known for playing a significant part in standardising the fame of this street since 1916.

If you are a stamp enthusiast, visit the corner of Avenue Gabriel. Indulge in a conversation with other pro collectors while buying your stamps and postcards.

Also Read: Shopping In Paris

4. Entertainment in Champs Elysees

Entertain yourself by visiting Le Lido de Paris Merveilles. It is a nighttime theatre show, where you can see the performance of the stunning dancers in their eye-blinding costumes. Since the beginning, this dance performance has had a name in entire France. And their show Bonheur sustained its fame for almost ten years. 

A night-out experience is a must in Champs Elysees. With jazz music, vintage decor that shows the elegance of France, the experience would be unforgettable. There are lots of Parisian’s favourite nightclubs on this avenue. Dress up, socialise, dance, and get the best of nightlife. Also, visit Cinema Balzac if you are a fan of films.

Also Read: Best Night Clubs In Paris

Where to eat in Champs Elysees, Paris?

Champs Elysees is the right place if you are a food lover with a huge appetite for new flavours. It has the most beautiful restaurants & cafe’s in the town. Try Laduree’s iconic pastries and the macarons without fail. Don’t miss dining in Le Fouquet, Ledoyen and Pavillon Elysees. Get the touch of traditional French cuisine with the best view in these restaurants. You could also get the best food experience in Le Cinq, Kifune, and Pierre Sang.

Also Read: Top 8 Fine Dining Places In Paris

FAQ for Champ Elysees

Champs Elysees is a single door to a variety of leisure activities. It is the best place for you to visit for the vacation you are planning. It is a bit expensive compared to other destinations in France. But every time you spend there will be worth your time and money. So start planning for your trip to Champs Elysees with Pickyourtrail.com. Choose your favourite Paris tour package or customise your own itinerary.