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The Avenue des Champs-Élysées needs no introduction! Ranked among Paris’s most visited sites, it welcomes nearly 300,000 visitors every day along its 1.9 km stretch. This historic thoroughfare links Place de la Concorde to the monumental Arc de Triomphe. People come here to admire the grand monuments, stroll through the gardens, go shopping, or experience the excitement of major events such as the 14 July parade or the finish of the Tour de France.
The Avenue des Champs-Élysées has evolved from marshy land in the 17th century to a symbol of French prestige. Today, it continues its transformation with ambitious greening projects that address contemporary challenges.
It was in the 17th century that this scrubby area began its metamorphosis under the impetus of Louis XIV. An early version, then simply known as the Grand Cours or Avenue du Roule, stretched from the present-day Place de la Concorde to the Champs-Élysées-Marcel-Dassault roundabout. In 1710, this Grand Cours was extended to the top of the hill where the Arc de Triomphe stands today. It was not until 1833 that the Champs-Élysées began to take on its current form, gradually transforming from a tree-lined promenade into a wide, prestigious avenue.
It was only after the Revolution that this name came to be applied to the entire avenue. The choice makes direct reference to Greek mythology, where the Elysian Fields (or Elysium) represented the place of eternal rest for heroes and virtuous souls after their death. The name was chosen to evoke this mythological paradise, thus suggesting a place of beauty and serenity. This poetic name has endured through the centuries, confirming the avenue’s mythical status.
The history of the Champs-Élysées is closely linked to the major events that have marked the history of France. Throughout the 20th and early 21st centuries, the avenue has been the scene of numerous historic moments that have shaped its identity and reinforced its symbolic significance.
| Date | Event | Impact on tourism |
|---|---|---|
| 1900 | World’s Fair | Attracted tens of millions of visitors; inauguration of the Grand Palais and the Petit Palais, which became major attractions on the avenue |
| Early 20th century | Establishment of car manufacturers | Transformation of the avenue’s commercial identity; Panhard & Levassor, Peugeot and Mercedes replaced the equestrian establishments |
| 1916 | Opening of the Drugstore Publicis | A must-see attraction for tourists |
| 1944 | Liberation parade with General de Gaulle | A historic moment reinforcing the avenue’s symbolic status |
| 1975 | Pedestrianisation of the first section | Improved visitor experience in the lower part of the historic thoroughfare |
| 1994 | Complete renovation of the avenue | Modernisation and beautification attracting more international tourists |
| 1998 | World Cup victory celebrations | Over a million supporters gathered, establishing the avenue as a venue for national celebrations |
| 2003 | Opening of new luxury flagship stores | Strengthens the avenue’s international commercial appeal |
| 2018 | Another World Cup celebration | Confirms the avenue’s status as a popular gathering place |
| 2019 | Eco-friendly redevelopment project | Aims to transform the avenue into an “extraordinary garden” to enhance the visitor experience |
| 2024 | Paris Olympic Games | The avenue hosted several events, including the Paralympic Games opening ceremonies and the champions’ parade, attracting millions of spectators |
| 2025–2030 | Major greening project | Second phase of transformation with 107 trees planted, a reduction in perceived temperature and the creation of a climate refuge |
These successive transformations bear witness to the constant evolution of the Champs-Élysées, which has successfully adapted to social, economic and cultural changes whilst preserving its status as an iconic historic thoroughfare.
The avenue has been a privileged witness to major moments in national history, such as the Liberation parade in 1944 or the celebrations of World Cup victories. Today, the Champs-Élysées continues to evolve with ambitious greening projects set to continue until 2030, writing a new chapter that blends tradition and modernity.
In 1900, the Avenue des Champs-Élysées played a central role in the World’s Fair, which attracted over 50 million visitors. It was on this occasion that the Grand Palais and the Petit Palais, two iconic monuments that still line the lower part of the avenue today.
The most beautiful avenue in the world is also one of the most accessible! Find out how to get to the Champs-Élysées easily, whether by public transport, on foot or by car. To make the most of this iconic location, here are all the ways to get there, depending on your preferences.
The Paris Metro is undoubtedly the most convenient way to reach the Champs-Élysées. Several strategically placed stations allow you to access different points along the avenue directly.
Line 1 (yellow) serves the avenue with four ideally situated stations:
Line 13 (light blue) also drops you off at Champs-Élysées - Clemenceau station, whilst Line 9 (dark green) stops at Franklin D. Roosevelt.
For those arriving from further afield, the RER A is an excellent option, stopping at Charles de Gaulle - Étoile. From Gare du Nord, allow around 19 minutes by taking the RER E to Haussmann Saint-Lazare, then line 9 to Franklin D. Roosevelt. The distance between Gare du Nord and the Champs-Élysées is approximately 5 km (3.25 km as the crow flies).
Metro line 1 is fully automated and runs until around 1.30 am, allowing you to enjoy the Champs-Élysées even in the evening!
For those who prefer to travel above ground and admire Paris, several bus routes serve the Avenue des Champs-Élysées and the surrounding area:
These buses allow you to enjoy the cityscape whilst travelling in comfort. Cycling enthusiasts aren’t left out either! Thanks to the numerous Vélib’ stations dotted around the avenue, it’s easy to get there on two wheels. Cycle paths have been created to make it easier for cyclists to get around, particularly following the improvements carried out in partnership with the Paris City Council.
Good news for pedestrians and lovers of city strolls: every first Sunday of the month, the Avenue des Champs-Élysées is entirely pedestrianised! These car-free days offer you a unique opportunity to stroll freely across the entire width of this legendary thoroughfare, cycle or even have a picnic without the noise and pollution of motor vehicles. An initiative by the Paris City Council that has proved hugely successful.
For walkers, here are some distances for reference:
If you’re travelling by car, bear in mind that parking near the Champs-Élysées can be tricky and expensive. However, there are several underground car parks nearby:
Parking rates generally range from €4 to €6 per hour, with daily rates around €40. Online booking is strongly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, major events or at weekends. Numerous apps and websites allow you to book in advance and benefit from preferential rates.
Be aware of traffic restrictions: in addition to the monthly car-free days (every first Sunday of the month), traffic may be restricted during special events such as 14 July, the Tour de France finish or New Year’s celebrations. On these occasions, opt for public transport.
| Mode of transport | Journey time from Gare du Nord | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/RER | 19–25 mins | Fast, frequent, economical | Crowded during rush hour |
| Bus | 29–35 mins | Panoramic view, comfortable | Prone to traffic jams |
| Bike | 25–30 mins | Eco-friendly, flexible | Physical exertion, weather-dependent |
| On foot | 44–50 mins | Explore the city, free | Time-consuming, tiring |
| Car/Taxi | 20–40 mins | Comfortable, direct | High cost, traffic jams, difficult parking |
Whichever option you choose, the Champs-Élysées is exceptionally well connected. We recommend combining different modes of transport: arriving by metro and leaving on foot allows you to explore the surrounding neighbourhoods. For visitors with reduced mobility, the Franklin D. Roosevelt and Charles de Gaulle – Étoile stations have lifts. All Parisian buses are wheelchair accessible.
Make the most of your visit to the most beautiful avenue in the world! Book your tickets online for the Arc de Triomphe and enjoy the unique view of the Champs-Élysées from its panoramic terrace.
Discover also the exhibitions at the Grand Palais, the collections at the Petit Palais or opt for a panoramic bus tour for a bird’s-eye view of the iconic monuments.
The most beautiful avenue in the world is also a paradise for shopaholics! A veritable temple of consumerism, the Champs-Élysées offers a unique shopping experience where leading luxury houses, international brands and innovative concept stores all come together. Stretching for nearly 2 km, this historic thoroughfare is brimming with shops that attract nearly 300,000 visitors every day. Ready for an unforgettable shopping spree?
As befits their prestige, the major luxury houses have made their home on this legendary avenue, making the Champs-Élysées one of the capital’s most glamorous thoroughfares.
The legendary perfumer Guerlain has stood proudly on the avenue since 1913 in a listed building. Its iconic boutique invites you to discover the refined world of this French house, featuring exceptional fragrances and luxury cosmetics.
Louis Vuitton impresses with its “cathedral-like store”, featuring spectacular displays designed by contemporary artists. This temple of luxury leather goods has become a major tourist attraction. The brand is currently developing an ambitious hotel project at 103-111 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, scheduled to open in 2026.
Dior is part of this prestigious landscape with its boutique at 127 Avenue des Champs-Élysées. Opened in July 2019, this location features a trompe-l’œil reproduction of the iconic façade at 30 Avenue Montaigne. Spread across several floors, visitors can discover the brand’s creations in a refined setting adorned with Toile de Jouy.
The American jeweller Tiffany & Co showcases its iconic creations across more than 1,000 m². Lacoste, meanwhile, showcases its entire range in its Arena flagship store at 50 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, with an exclusive capsule collection available only in this boutique.
For more accessible shopping, the avenue is home to numerous international brands that appeal with their varied and on-trend offerings.
Zara has one of its largest stores in the world on the Champs-Élysées. Located at 74 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, this flagship store now covers over 4,300 m² following a recent extension, showcasing all the Spanish brand’s collections across several floors. A true temple of accessible fashion where trends are updated weekly.
The Nike Store is a must-visit for sports enthusiasts. Spread across several floors, it showcases all the collections of the famous Swoosh brand, from sports equipment to the latest trainers, in an immersive space where technology is harnessed to enhance sporting performance.
Adidas Champs Élysées rivals it in innovation with its spectacular store at 22 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, where product testing, personalisation and immersive experiences are all part of the visit.
Sephora attracts beauty enthusiasts with its huge boutique, where you can find all the latest cosmetic brands. This temple of beauty offers thousands of products across several floors, with expert advisors and testing areas.
Paris Saint-Germain supporters will find what they’re looking for at the Official PSG Store, located at 92 Avenue des Champs-Élysées. This 370 m² flagship store showcases the full world of the Parisian football club in a modern and welcoming space. In March 2026, the store will open the first PSG CAFÉ: cookies, coffee, and all kinds of smoothies!
The Champs-Élysées stands out for its innovative concept stores and high-tech boutiques that are redefining the shopping experience.
Galeries Lafayette Champs Élysées offers a curated selection of 650 brands in an architectural showcase designed by Bjarke Ingels. This 6,500 m² concept store, spread over four floors, focuses on an innovative customer experience with modular spaces and a food court inspired by Parisian terraces. Natural light floods the floors thanks to a spectacular glass roof.
The Publicis Drugstore, a Champs-Élysées institution, is a true ‘luxury convenience store’ housing a bookshop, delicatessen, perfumery and designer goods. Open late into the evening at 133 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, this legendary establishment embodies the Parisian art of living.
Apple Champs Élysées has taken up residence in a private mansion at 114 Avenue des Champs-Élysées. This exceptional store combines historic architecture with sleek design across more than 1,800 m², featuring creative workshops and a magnificent central courtyard.
86 Champs, a collaboration between Pierre Hermé and L'Occitane, offers a unique sensory experience combining sweet delicacies and natural cosmetics in an elegant setting.
| Shop | Address | Nearest metro station |
|---|---|---|
| Louis Vuitton | 101 Avenue des Champs-Élysées | George V |
| Dior | 127 Avenue des Champs-Élysées | George V |
| Galeries Lafayette | 60 Avenue des Champs-Élysées | Franklin D. Roosevelt |
| Apple Store | 114 Avenue des Champs-Élysées | George V |
| Zara | 74 Avenue des Champs-Élysées | Franklin D. Roosevelt |
| Nike | 65-67 Avenue des Champs-Élysées | Franklin D. Roosevelt |
| Adidas | 22 Avenue des Champs-Élysées | Champs-Élysées Clemenceau |
| Sephora | 70-72 Avenue des Champs-Élysées | Franklin D. Roosevelt |
| Tiffany & Co | 62 Avenue des Champs-Élysées | Franklin D. Roosevelt |
| PSG Boutique | 92 Avenue des Champs-Élysées | George V |
| Lacoste Arena | 50 Avenue des Champs-Élysées | Franklin D. Roosevelt |
| Publicis Drugstore | 133 Avenue des Champs-Élysées | Charles de Gaulle - Étoile |
| 86 Champs (Pierre Hermé & L'Occitane) | 86 Avenue des Champs-Élysées | George V |
A shopping stroll along the Champs-Élysées is the perfect opportunity to discover the diverse range of shops that have made this historic thoroughfare famous. From luxury boutiques to more affordable shops, not to mention innovative concept stores, there really is something for every taste and budget.
The most beautiful avenue in the world stands out for its exceptional culinary offerings. From Michelin-starred restaurants to iconic cafés and trendy bars, the Champs-Élysées is a true paradise for foodies and night owls. Discover all the must-visit spots for an unforgettable culinary experience in the heart of Paris.
The Champs-Élysées shines thanks to the diversity and prestige of its dining establishments. For lovers of haute cuisine, several Michelin-starred restaurants have set up shop on or near the famous avenue.
The Pavillon Ledoyen, helmed by three-Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno, offers an exceptional dining experience in a historic setting. Just a short walk away, Joël Robuchon’s L’Atelier Étoile offers refined signature cuisine in an intimate setting.
Copenhague delights discerning palates with its contemporary Nordic creations. Réséda Café, the new venture by Thierry Marx at the Grand Palais, has quickly established itself as a must-visit on the avenue.
When it comes to iconic brasseries, it would be remiss not to mention the legendary Fouquet’s, a quintessential Parisian institution. Its classic décor and legendary terrace make it a favourite haunt for celebrities and lovers of traditional French cuisine. The Publicis Drugstore restaurant and its famous club sandwich attract foodies seeking a chic yet relaxed atmosphere.
The Champs-Élysées also takes your taste buds on a journey with establishments such as Flora Danica, a genuine Danish brasserie offering Scandinavian specialities in a stylish setting designed by GamFratesi.
L'Alsace, an institution since 1968, serves authentic Alsatian sauerkraut and traditional French dishes in a friendly, timeless atmosphere, open seven days a week with continuous service.
For a more contemporary experience, Mido Paris at the Intercontinental Paris Champs-Élysées-Étoile offers refined Nikkei cuisine, whilst Chez Gabrielle charms with its reimagined French cuisine just a stone’s throw from the avenue. The Le W restaurant – within the Warwick Hotel – rounds off this selection with a menu featuring Mediterranean influences.
The Champs-Élysées is brimming with gourmet spots for a sweet or savoury break at any time of day.
A quintessential Parisian institution, Ladurée Champs-Élysées has recently reinvented itself to offer an even more exceptional experience. Located at 75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, the brand’s largest Parisian establishment welcomes you into a pastel-hued setting. The venue now features a unique dessert bar where pastry chefs prepare their creations right before your eyes, pastry workshops led by executive chef Julien Alvarez, and a boutique showcasing the full range of sweet treats in gilded brass display cases. The flower-filled terrace, adorned with roses on sunny days, invites you to enjoy a gourmet break in an enchanting setting.
For a unique coffee break, 86 Champs was born from the collaboration between Pierre Hermé and L'Occitane. This innovative concept store perfectly blends gastronomy and cosmetics in an elegant, contemporary setting. Here, you can sample the sweet creations of the “Picasso of pastry” whilst discovering the iconic products of the Provençal brand.
The Café Joyeux Champs-Élysées stands out for its inclusive concept and generous selection of pastries: cookies, cakes, verrines and madeleines accompany a wide range of hot and cold drinks. This welcoming venue guarantees a delightful gourmet break to share with colleagues, friends or family.
For lovers of Italian cuisine, Colisée 56 offers an authentic gastronomic experience under the passionate guidance of chef Giovanni, originally from Rome. Just a stone’s throw away, Café 52 charms with its seasonal menu and high-quality vegetarian options.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed option, Five Guys, located at 49-51 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, serves up freshly prepared burgers and chips in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Every year, during the Christmas lights season, these establishments compete in creativity with special menus and magical window displays. The patisseries are decked out in festive decorations and offer exclusive creations to celebrate the festive season. A unique opportunity to discover the avenue at its most splendid, whilst savouring exceptional treats.
When evening falls, the Champs-Élysées transforms into the heart of Parisian nightlife. The avenue and its surroundings are brimming with elegant bars and clubs to extend the evening in a festive atmosphere.
Le Frivole, a new, lively bar-restaurant, stands out for its hidden terrace in the heart of the 8th arrondissement. Just a stone’s throw from the Golden Triangle, this vibrant venue combines creative cocktails and contemporary French cuisine in a chic yet relaxed atmosphere, open every day until 2am.
For those who prefer a more exclusive atmosphere, Chez Régine has been welcoming partygoers for generations. In the early evening, this bar-club offers a trendy after-work scene, particularly on Thursdays with “La French”, its most famous night which attracts the biggest DJs.
Paris’s golden youth, meanwhile, gather at Les Planches and the Duplex, whilst the Parisian hipsters prefer Raspoutine or Le Baron. The Mirage, located just a few metres from the avenue, keeps the party going from Wednesday to Sunday until 7am with its deep house line-up and internationally renowned DJs.
The Club Pierre Charron offers a more refined experience in a high-end gaming establishment. This exceptional venue upholds the French casino tradition and features an elegant bar, a smoking room-library with a cigar menu, and a bistronomic restaurant serving Parisian cuisine. The 27 poker and casino tables round off the experience for a memorable evening.
Every year, on New Year’s Eve, the Champs-Élysées becomes the epicentre of Parisian festivities. The avenue’s restaurants and bars offer special menus and festive evenings to celebrate the arrival of the new year in an exceptional setting. The Arc de Triomphe lights up the Parisian night sky during a spectacular sound and light show, followed by a fireworks display that attracts nearly a million people. Establishments such as Solis bar & restaurant, P'tit Bougnat and Monsieur Lancaster are among the most sought-after venues for this unique occasion.
For a more relaxed experience, numerous cocktail bars such as Casetta within the Le 5 Particulier hotel offer a more intimate atmosphere. The huge terraces of the cafés along the avenue are also an ideal spot to soak up the buzz of the Champs-Élysées whilst sipping a drink, with breathtaking views of the most beautiful avenue in the world.
The Champs-Élysées is not only a mecca for shopping and fine dining, but also a true cultural hub where prestigious theatres, historic cinemas and world-renowned museums stand side by side. Whether you’re an opera lover, a passionate film buff or a fan of contemporary art, this iconic Parisian neighbourhood is brimming with cultural treasures waiting to be discovered.
The Champs-Élysées neighbourhood is home to some of the capital’s most prestigious theatres. The Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, an Art Deco gem on Avenue Montaigne, presents operas, symphony concerts and ballets in its 1,905-seat auditorium adorned with bas-reliefs by Antoine Bourdelle. The Théâtre Marigny enchants visitors in the heart of the Jardins des Champs-Élysées with its eclectic programme. The Théâtre du Rond-Point, a hub for contemporary creation, and the Espace Pierre Cardin round off this exceptional cultural offering, making the Champs-Élysées a major hub of Parisian artistic life.
The Avenue des Champs-Élysées has long been the temple of Parisian cinema. The Gaumont Champs-Élysées and the UGC Normandie, legendary cinemas that have left their mark on the history of cinema, closed in December 2023 and June 2024 respectively.
Today, Publicis Cinémas continues the cinema tradition on the avenue with its varied programme. Nearby, the Balzac and the Élysées Lincoln continue to screen arthouse films in an intimate setting.
Just a stone’s throw from the Champs-Élysées lie some of Paris’s most prestigious museums. The Grand Palais, an architectural masterpiece built for the World’s Fair in 1900, is instantly recognisable by its spectacular glass-roofed nave.
Following three years of extensive renovation, this iconic monument has been gradually reopening since the summer of 2024, hosting the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, followed by major art fairs. Its majestic nave, with a 45-metre-high glass roof, is once again hosting exhibitions of international stature.
Directly opposite stands the Petit Palais, a true architectural gem that houses the Museum of Fine Arts of the City of Paris. This museum offers an exceptional permanent collection spanning from Antiquity to the early 20th century, featuring works by Delacroix, Courbet and Monet.
Nicknamed ‘the most beautiful avenue in the world’, the Champs-Élysées is more than just a place for shopping and strolling. Throughout the year, this iconic Parisian thoroughfare buzzes with prestigious events that attract millions of French and international visitors. A veritable open-air theatre of Parisian life, the avenue hosts cultural, sporting and festive events that punctuate the capital’s calendar.
The famous Avenue des Champs-Élysées is inextricably linked to the great moments of French national life.
The highlight of these celebrations is undoubtedly the 14 July military parade, a tradition dating back to 1880. This spectacular event attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators who come to watch the military parade, which takes place from 10 am to midday on the avenue.
The troops march between the Arc de Triomphe and the Place de la Concorde. The air show featuring the Patrouille de France delights young and old alike in an exceptionally festive atmosphere.
When it comes to sport, the Champs-Élysées is the setting for unforgettable moments. The Champs-Élysées 10km (1 February 2026) invites amateur and experienced runners alike to tackle a prestigious circuit including Avenue George V, Boulevard Haussmann and Parc Monceau.
In spring, the Champs-Élysées provides the starting line for the Paris Marathon, a legendary event that brings together tens of thousands of runners every April. This iconic race transforms the capital into a huge open-air stadium, where participants set off to tackle the 42.195 km challenge through Paris’s most beautiful monuments.
But it is above all the finish of the Tour de France that is one of the most eagerly awaited moments on the avenue. Every year, at the end of July, the final stage of the Tour de France finishes on the Champs-Élysées in an electric atmosphere. The peloton completes three unprecedented laps in the Montmartre district with the climb up the cobbled Rue Lepic before the triumphant finish. This grand finale of the world’s most prestigious cycling race attracts millions of spectators. Access is free and open to the public, allowing everyone to experience this historic moment in an incomparable festive atmosphere.
The avenue regularly hosts races and sporting events. The “Champs-Élysées Pedestrianised” initiative has been a huge success: every first Sunday of the month, stroll freely without cars!
The Champs-Élysées is not only the setting for sporting and patriotic events, but also a major hub of Parisian culture, hosting prestigious artistic events throughout the year.
The avenue buzzes with the exhibitions held at the Grand Palais and the Petit Palais. The Grand Palais, with its gigantic nave built for the 1900 World’s Fair, regularly hosts large-scale cultural events. The Petit Palais, the City of Paris’s Museum of Fine Arts, enriches the cultural offering with its exhibitions dedicated to the great masters.
The theatres are not to be outdone: the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, the Théâtre Marigny and the Espace Pierre Cardin offer a rich programme combining contemporary productions, musicals and family shows in a prestigious setting.
When winter arrives, the Champs-Élysées is decked out in lights to create a magical spectacle. The Christmas lights are one of the most eagerly awaited events of the festive season. From mid-November to early January, the avenue sparkles with a thousand lights every evening from 5 pm, transforming the Champs-Élysées into a veritable path of light. The 400 trees lining the avenue are adorned with fairy lights, creating a sparkling canopy above the pedestrians.
The New Year’s Eve celebrations on 31 December represent the highlight of the festivities. Hundreds of thousands of people gather on the avenue to celebrate the arrival of the New Year together. The Arc de Triomphe then becomes the focal point with a spectacular sound and light show, followed by a spectacular fireworks display at midnight. This gathering of people in an electric atmosphere keeps the avenue buzzing until the early hours of the morning, confirming the legendary status of the Champs-Élysées.
For astronomy enthusiasts, the Champs-Élysées offers a rare phenomenon: twice a year, the sun sets exactly in line with the Arc de Triomphe, creating a spectacular visual effect nicknamed Parishenge by analogy with Stonehenge.
The famous Avenue des Champs-Élysées is more than just a prestigious shopping street. It is set within a leafy environment that is well worth a visit. Strolling along the “most beautiful avenue in the world” takes on its full meaning when you explore its gardens and adjacent green spaces, true havens of peace in the heart of Paris.
Every first Sunday of the month, the Champs-Élysées is closed to traffic as part of the Champs-Élysées Pedestrian Initiative. This initiative has been a huge success! Strolling, cycling, picnicking... the avenue reveals its full beauty without the noise of engines, from 11am to 6pm in summer and from 10am to 5pm in winter.
The Champs-Élysées Gardens stretch over 13.7 hectares between Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Élysées roundabout. Their large, shaded lawns and avenues lined with century-old chestnut trees offer a breath of fresh air in the heart of the 8th arrondissement. In spring, the flowerbeds are adorned with multicoloured tulips.
At the heart of these gardens, the Champs-Élysées roundabout has, since 2019, been home to six contemporary fountains created by designers Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec. Standing 13 metres tall, these bronze and crystal creations blend water, light and movement in an elegant choreography. Come evening, their subtle LED lighting creates a magical atmosphere.
The Champs-Élysées promenade forms part of a wider ensemble known as the historic axis of Paris. This monumental thoroughfare stretches across western Paris for around ten kilometres, from the Louvre to La Défense.
At the heart of this royal avenue lies the Tuileries Garden, a true masterpiece of landscape architecture that marks the start of this unique vista. Created by André Le Nôtre in 1664, this 25-hectare French garden unfolds its symmetrical paths and geometric flowerbeds between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde.
Discover the grand Octagonal Basin, the shaded lawns and the statues by Maillol, Rodin and Giacometti. Children love sailing their little boats on the ponds. From June to August, the Fête des Tuileries brings the garden to life with its 60 fairground rides.
This magnificent vista, punctuated by the Obelisk of the Concorde and then the Arc de Triomphe, offers a striking visual experience that bears witness to Parisian grandeur through the centuries.
Beyond the Champs-Élysées, the centre of Paris is brimming with wonders to discover! From the Louvre to Notre-Dame, via the Marais and Saint-Germain-des-Prés, immerse yourself in the capital’s unique cultural buzz.
Iconic monuments, prestigious museums and literary cafés await you in these legendary neighbourhoods that form the beating heart of Paris.
The most beautiful avenue in the world is well worth a visit. To make the most of your visit to the Champs-Élysées, here is some essential practical information to help you plan your day.
Fancy a spot of shopping on the Champs today? Most shops are open from 10am to 8pm Monday to Saturday, with extended opening hours until 9pm on weekdays for major stores such as Sephora, Louis Vuitton and fashion boutiques. At weekends, some shops such as Nike extend their opening hours until 10 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. For those with a sweet tooth, Ladurée welcomes you from 7.30 am every day, and even until midnight on Saturdays. Good news: several shops are open on Sundays! The lower part of the Champs-Élysées is home to the magnificent Champs-Élysées Gardens and numerous cultural venues. The Grand Palais and the Petit Palais are generally open from 10 am to 6 pm, but regularly offer late-night openings for visitors.
Security on the Champs-Élysées is a priority, particularly during major events. Every year, enhanced security measures are deployed for major events such as the 14 July parade, which mobilises thousands of police officers, gendarmes and firefighters. Exceptional measures may be put in place during international summits, with certain areas temporarily closed off. For your safety, regular patrols are carried out along the avenue. Keep an eye on your personal belongings in crowded areas.
Planning to visit the Champs-Élysées by car? Remember to check the current traffic restrictions. On the first Sunday of every month, the “Champs-Élysées Pedestrian” initiative makes the avenue entirely pedestrianised, a unique opportunity to fully enjoy this iconic location without the noise of engines!
For parking, several underground car parks are available directly on the avenue: Indigo Champs-Élysées (at 64 Avenue des Champs-Élysées), Indigo Pierre Charron and Claridge Champs-Élysées. The hourly rate generally varies between €4 and €6, but booking online will often allow you to benefit from more competitive prices. These car parks are secure and accessible 24 hours a day. If you arrive from the lower part of the avenue, on the Concorde side, parking spaces are also available near the Champs-Élysées gardens. Be aware, however, of the numerous restrictions during special events! During major events, such as the Paris Marathon or the Tour de France, traffic may be completely restricted and car parks inaccessible.
For drivers of electric vehicles, charging points are available in Indigo car parks. Chauffeur-driven cars have dedicated zones, particularly near major hotels and luxury boutiques.
A tip to avoid traffic jams: opt for public transport! The Charles de Gaulle-Étoile (lines 1, 2, 6) and Concorde (lines 1, 8, 12) metro stations provide easy access to both ends of the avenue. For those who prefer cycling, cycle paths and Vélib’ stations are available all along the Champs-Élysées.
The Champs-Élysées is located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris. The avenue stretches for almost 2 kilometres, from Place de la Concorde (75008 Paris) to Place Charles de Gaulle-Étoile, where the Arc de Triomphe stands. To reach this legendary thoroughfare, several metro stations serve the avenue: Champs-Élysées - Clemenceau, Franklin D. Roosevelt, George V and Charles de Gaulle - Étoile on line 1. Whether you’re coming to stroll, shop or attend an event, this information will help you make the most of the magic of the Champs-Élysées. And don’t forget, the avenue is even more beautiful when it’s free of cars!
Here you are at the heart of the most beautiful avenue in the world! The Champs-Élysées is brimming with iconic landmarks that have been at the heart of Paris for centuries. From the imposing Arc de Triomphe to legendary brasseries, via prestigious museums and must-visit gourmet spots, this selection reveals the must-sees you simply cannot miss.
Whether you’re seeking art and culture at the Grand Palais, a gourmet break at Ladurée, an unforgettable show at the Théâtre du Lido or a gastronomic experience in one of the legendary brasseries, each venue tells a part of Parisian history. Ready to discover the treasures that have made this historic thoroughfare, unique in the world, so famous?
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