1. Overview
The Champs-Elysées is one of the iconic Paris boulevards. Who hasn’t dreamed of strolling glamorously along its tree-lined streets towards the towering Arc de Triomphe? While this famous thoroughfare is known for its belles promenades (beautiful thoroughfare/walks), it also has much to offer in terms of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Moreover, the neighborhood surrounding the famous street provides a brief respite from the intense crowds, offering a less touristy feel and a return to old Paris. The Champs-Elysées and its environs certainly merit a visit, especially for first-time travelers to the French capital.
2. Finding the Neighborhood
The Champs Elysées neighborhood is located on the right bank of the Seine, in the western 8th arrondissement of Paris, featuring the Avenue running through the area on a diagonal. Paris is divided into twenty arrondissements municipaux, which are administrative districts, more simply referred to as arrondissements.
The elegant Tuileries Gardens and adjacent Louvre Museum are located to the east, just past the expansive Concorde plaza and the Obelisk column. The military monument known as the Arc de Triomphe marks the western edge of the neighborhood. To the south lies The Seine river, while the St. Lazare train station and the bustling Madeleine business district are situated to the north.
The main streets surrounding the Champs Elysées include Avenue des Champs Elysées, Avenue George V, and Avenue Franklin D. Roosevelt.
3. Getting There
To access this vibrant area, taking Metro line 1 is the easiest option. You can disembark at any of the following stops: Champs-Elysées-Clemenceau, Franklin D. Roosevelt, George V, or Charles-de-Gaulle Etoile. Alternatively, for those who enjoy walking, take line 12 to Concorde and stroll from the bustling, dramatic square into the neighborhood.
4. Historical Importance
The formally planted trees lining the Avenue des Champs Elysées, which have become synonymous with the famed street, were first planted in 1724. Prior to that time, the now-celebrated avenue consisted of a mixture of fields and market gardens.
Over the years, the Champs Elysées has been the site of numerous military parades, notably the Free French March by the 2nd Armored Division on August 26, 1944, and the American 28th Infantry Division on August 29, 1944, marking the Liberation of Paris from Nazi Occupation during World War II. Furthermore, the largest military parade in Europe traverses this street every year on Bastille Day, celebrating France’s national holiday.
5. Places of Interest
While numerous visitors find themselves flocking to the Champs Elysées, they might encounter only a couple of the important sights. Here are the must-see places within the neighborhood:
- Arc de Triomphe – Located at the center of the Place de l’Etoile, this renowned arch was commissioned by Emperor Napoleon and is inspired by ancient Roman arches. Its impressive scale allows for stunning views from the top of the grand Avenue des Champs Elysées.
- Grand Palais/Petit Palais – The stunning geometric glass rooftops of the Grand and Petit Palais rise from the Champs Elysées, built for the Universal Exposition of 1900. The Petit Palais houses a fine arts museum, while the Grand Palais features a science museum and hosts exhibitions, including the major international art fair known as the FIAC.
- Théâtre des Champs Elysées – This iconic theater, located at 15 Avenue Montaigne, was built in 1913 in the Art Deco style and became notorious for hosting Igor Stravinsky’s then-controversial Rite of Spring. It’s an opulent venue for an evening in Paris.
- Lido Cabaret – Lido, one of the city’s famed cabarets, offers a borderline kitschy yet consistently entertaining revue that rivals the Moulin Rouge.
6. Eating and Drinking
The Champs Elysées boasts an array of eateries, ranging from cozy bistros to exquisite dining establishments. Here are some popular spots:
- Fouquet’s – After hours of strolling and window shopping along the grand avenue, sink into one of Fouquet’s leather armchairs to enjoy a coffee or cocktail. While portions may be small and prices steep, it is frequented by celebrities and even heads of state, earning its status as a Historical Monument of France.
- La Maison de l’Aubrac – Upon entering this relaxed, ranch-style eatery, you might forget that you’re in one of the most sophisticated areas of Paris. Centered on beef, this establishment uses only organic meat from cows raised in the Midi-Pyrénées region, and your steak can be complemented by any of their 800 wine selections from southwest France.
- Al Ajami – If you’re weary of French cuisine, consider this elegant Lebanese restaurant located just off the Avenue des Champs Elysées. Its menu includes rare Middle Eastern dishes such as minced lamb and cracked wheat croquettes, alongside delectable vegetarian options like hummus and tabbouleh. Uniquely, Al Ajami serves food until midnight.
- Ladurée – For those seeking some of the best macarons in Paris, a stop at Ladurée might be ideal. Besides macarons available in flavors like pistachio, lemon, and coffee, it also serves an array of divine pastries and sweets.
7. Shopping
The Champs-Elysées neighborhood is a significant shopping district that hosts both international chains and exclusive couture designers. However, mid-range shopping options are limited here.
Along the Avenue des Champs-Elysées, you can find global, affordable chain stores like Zara, Gap, and Sephora (flagship Paris store), alongside high-end names such as Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Hugo Boss, and Louis Pion.
Beyond the main thoroughfare, the ultra-chic Avenue Montaigne is home to boutiques for couture designers including Chanel, Christian Dior, and Versace. The prestigious Rue Saint-Honoré is also nearby, boasting an array of boutiques.
8. Nightlife
The exclusive Champs-Elysees, sometimes called the “Champs,” is probably not where locals typically experience nightlife. Its renowned club scene often attracts tourists who have not ventured far beyond the Eiffel Tower and suburbanites eager for the big city atmosphere.
However, dedicated night owls can find suitable spots for dancing and all-night partying in the area. If you wish to enter smaller clubs, dressing in Parisian chic is advisable to get past the doormen, and be prepared for potential cover charges.
Alternatives for a fun night out aside from the touristy Lido include:
- Le Queen (102 avenue des Champs-Elysees): A popular gay club and one of the better choices for dancing.
