Walk along the Avenue des Champs-Élysées and gaze up at the imposing Arc de Triomphe. Discover the history behind the intricate carvings decorating it. Enjoy the walk along the boulevard and shop in the designer stores lining the road.
At 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) long and 230 feet (70 meters) wide, the Champs-Élysées cuts a wide swath from east to west through the heart of the French capital. It was originally laid out in the 17th century and was named after the Elysian Fields, the heavenly resting place for Greek gods.
Once you arrive, stop first at the iconic Arc de Triomphe. Despite being commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, this 164-foot-high (50-meter) arch was not finished until 30 years later, after his death. The arch stands on an island at the middle of a multi-lane roundabout. Reach it via an underground walkway. Get close to note the carvings adorning the arch, which pay tribute to the military escapades of the French emperor. Climb to the top for thrilling views.
Walk east along the street and peruse the fashion boutiques to find clothes and jewelry from some of the planet’s biggest brands. Relax with a coffee and watch as people hurry back and forth along the avenue. If you have a larger appetite, taste delicious French cooking or traditional Western food at numerous restaurants serving food from lunchtime into the evening.
Walk 30 minutes or take the metro to Place de la Concorde at the eastern end of the Champs-Élysées. This vast square was the site of thousands of beheadings during the French Revolution.
The Champs-Élysées is located near the center of Paris. Several stations along the street are connected to the rest of the city by regular train services. Parisians gather along this lengthy boulevard to celebrate important events. Whether it is New Year’s Eve or an important soccer game, come here to soak up the lively atmosphere.
