Avenue des Champs-Élysées
Avenue des Champs-Elysées, Paris, Île-de-France, 75008
The tree-lined Avenue des Champs-Élysées is one of the world’s most famous boulevards and one of Paris’ most magnificent sights. Stretching in a straight line all the way from the proud Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde, the avenue draws visitors as much with its elegant architecture as with the boutiques, hotels, and restaurants that line it.
The Basics
No Paris sightseeing tour is complete without visiting Avenue des Champs-Élysées, and the best way to soak up the atmosphere is on foot. Opt for a guided small-group or private walking tour, admire the illuminations on an evening city excursion, or visit independently on a Paris hop-on, hop-off bus tour. Alternatively, discover Paris’ most beautiful boulevard on a bike or Segway tour, a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride, or from the passenger seat of a classic French 2CV car.
Things to Know Before You Go
Wear comfortable walking shoes—it takes at least 30 minutes to walk from one end of the boulevard to the other.
Paris’ main tourist information center is located along the Champs-Élysées, close to the Arc de Triomphe.
The Champs-Élysées is wheelchair accessible, as are many of the shops and restaurants along the boulevard.
How to Get There
Avenue des Champs-Élysées stretches 1.3 miles (2 km) through the heart of Paris’ 8th arrondissement, from the Arc de Triomphe on Place Charles de Gaulle all the way to Place de la Concorde on the banks of the Seine River. Metro stations located along the Champs-Élysées include (from north to south) Charles-de-Gaulle Etoile (Line 1), George V (Line 1), Franklin Roosevelt (lines 1 and 9), ChampsÉlysees-Clemenceau (lines 1 and 13), and Concorde (lines 1, 8, and 12).
When to Get There
As one of Paris’ busiest thoroughfares, the Champs-Élysées attracts crowds at all hours. Shoppers wanting to dodge the crush are advised to avoid weekends and holidays, while those driving should stay away from the morning and evening rush hours. The most dazzling views are found after dark, when the boulevard is spectacularly illuminated.
The Champs-Élysées is also an integral part of Parisian celebrations, and some of the most memorable visits are timed to see the incredible Christmas light displays, the annual Bastille Day military parade, or the grand finish of the Tour de France.
Paris Monuments Along the Champs-Élysées
A great number of Paris highlights are located on and around the Champs-Élysées, starting with the imposing Arc de Triomphe. After taking in the views from the 19th-century monument, stroll past Charles De Gaulle’s statue, Grand Palais, and Petit Palais to Place de la Concorde, with its beautiful fountains and Egyptian obelisk. For an extended tour, continue through the idyllic Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries) along the right bank of the Seine River until you reach the Louvre museum, Palais Royal, and the Pont des Arts pedestrian bridge that crosses the Seine.
What is the history of the Avenue des Champs-Élysées?
The Avenue des Champs-Élysées’ dates all the way back to the late 17th century, when it was originally laid out by landscape architect André Le Nôtre, who also designed the gardens at the Palace of Versailles. Over time, the area became built up and populated with shops, restaurants, and theaters.
What are the top attractions to see on the Champs-Élysées?
The Champs-Élysées begins at the Place de la Concorde and ends at the Arc de Triomphe. The grand avenue passes other memorable landmarks, including the Petit Palais and Grand Palais, the Jardins des Champs-Élysées, and numerous historic theaters.
What famous events take place on the Champs-Élysées?
A number of major events take place along the Champs-Élysées every year. Two of the best known are the Tour de France—the last stage is traditionally held on the avenue— and Bastille Day, when a grand military parade is held. The avenue is also a popular destination during the festive season.
How do I get to the Champs-Élysées using public transportation?
The Metro offers the easiest way to get to the Champs-Élysées. Metro stations located along the avenue are Champs-Élysées-Clemenceau (lines 1 and 13), Concorde (lines 1, 8, and 12), Franklin D. Roosevelt (lines 1 and 9), Charles-de-Gaulle Etoile (line 1), and George V (line 1).
How long is the Avenue des Champs-Élysées?
The Champs-Élysées measures 1.17 miles (1.88 kilometers) long, so you’ll want to set aside a decent amount of time if you plan to walk from one end to the other. The avenue is historically divided into two halves by the traffic circle near Franklin D. Roosevelt station.
Where can you shop on the Champs-Élysées?
The Champs-Élysées has long been celebrated as one of Paris’ top shopping destinations. If you plan to browse, head to the Galeries Lafayette, perhaps the city’s most famous department store; venture to flagship locations for French fashion houses, including Cartier, Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Guerlain; and explore many other international brands that have shops along the boulevard.
Ways to explore
No visit to Paris is complete without a stroll along the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, and the best way to soak up the atmosphere is on foot—set aside at least half a day to walk its length. Join a group or private walking tour of Paris to learn the history behind the famed avenue. You can pedal along the avenue’s dedicated bike lane on a cycling tour or admire its buildings lit up after dark on an evening Paris driving tour. However you plan to visit, set aside some time to linger like a Parisian at one of the Champs-Élysées’ sidewalk cafés.
Accessibility
The Champs-Élysées is wheelchair accessible, although access may vary at specific businesses.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Credit card, camera, sunscreen, cash in small bills
What to wear
Comfortable walking shoes, layers
Not allowed
Don’t eat on the go or interact with anyone without first saying “bonjour.”
Amenities
Restrooms, Wi-Fi
Address
Avenue des Champs-Élysées stretches 1.3 miles (2 kilometers) through Paris’ 8th arrondissement, from the Arc de Triomphe on Place Charles de Gaulle to Place de la Concorde on the banks of the Seine River.
Driving
Although you can drive onto the Champs-Élysées, navigating traffic and finding parking are both challenging. Take a taxi or rideshare instead.
Public transportation
The Paris Metro’s Line 1 runs below the avenue and stops at Champs-Élysées-Clemenceau, Concorde, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Charles de Gaulle–Étoile, and George V.
Best times to visit
Early in the morning to beat the crowds and admire the architecture at golden hour
Best days to visit
The first Sunday of the month, when the avenue is closed to cars.
Best months to visit
December for the Christmas illuminations
Special events
Major events take place along the Champs-Élysées every year, including the Tour de France—the last stage is traditionally held on the avenue—and Bastille Day, when a grand military parade is held.
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