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Paris is home to some of the most remarkable tourist attractions, with the Eiffel Tower being the highlight. However, many other destinations often go overlooked, like Champs Elysees. It has been the center of many pop culture references, appearing in several movies, most notably Taken.

Are you planning to visit the place too? Then, you may need to gather some information about the destination. This guide will provide everything you need to know about Champs Elysees.

Champs Elysees Pronunciation, Meaning, and Significance

The first problem you will face is with the Champs Elysees pronunciation. Since it is a French word, you have to speak it as Shohnz-Eh-le-zeeh. It means Elysian Fields, a place of dead heroes described in Greek mythology. But some say that the Champs Elysees translation refers to a paradise, boulevard, or resting place of the gods.

Regardless of its meaning, it is deemed the most beautiful avenue in the world. The best part about it is that it connects two tourist attractions, Arc De Triomphe and Place de la Concorde.

A Brief History of Champs Elysees

Champs Elysees holds a special place in world history, from its construction in the early 1660s. This area was under the occupation of Louis XIV and consisted of fields. These fields were cut off, and the site was cleared to lay the foundation of this avenue in 1667. André Le Nôtre, a famous French landscape architect, presented the idea of the Elysian fields and gardens.

The avenue wasn’t as big as it is today when it was constructed. Its area was extended in 1724 to 1.88 km (1.17 miles). Moreover, it achieved its modern appearance after Paris’ renovation in 1994.

Up until 1860, it was merely an avenue with no commercial spaces. However, a group of merchants formed the Champs-Elysees Association to promote retail stores. The committee is still together today and manages new projects regarding the avenue, making it the longest-standing committee in Paris.

This famous avenue also played a crucial role in military history. Many parades have occurred here, including the Fall of French, the Allied victory in the First World War, and free French & American forces.

What to Do In Champs Elysees?

Champs Elysees is now a commercial spot with many brand outlets and restaurants. You can spend your time enjoying the view and fulfill your shopping needs. Since Paris is known for its luxurious and designer products, you can easily find what you need.

Here are some major brands and stores at the avenue:

• Tiffany&Co
• Adidas
• Versace
• Louis Vuitton
• Cartier
• Gucci
• Dior
• Tag Heuer
• Apple Store
• Foot Locker
• Disney Store
• Nike
• Banana Republic
• Marks & Spencer
• Ferrari Store
• Dubail
• Chanel
• Sephora
• Guerlain

If you want to enjoy traditional French cuisine, you can choose a Champs-Elysees restaurant. Some of the best-serving eateries on the avenue include the following:

• L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon Etoile
• Mermoz Restaurant
• Laudree
• Le Cinq Restaurant

One thing to know is that the avenue looks beautiful day and night. The nightlife of Paris is remarkable, with aesthetically pleasing lighting and environment. So you can plan your visit at any time of the day.

How to Get to Champs Elysees?

Now, you know the best places on the avenue. You can plan out the perfect trip for this destination. But how can you get there?

Luckily, the avenue is considered a central part of Paris. Hence, you can reach there via public transport. The Bus 73 is the most convenient option, followed by the Paris Metro. Currently, five different stations are running to the avenue. These include:

• George V
• Franklin D Roosevelt
• Gaulle Etoile
• Place de la Concorde
• Champ-Elysees-Clemenceau

The Popular Events at Champs-Elysees Avenue

The avenue is known for hosting a variety of French celebrations. The most important of them all is on 14 July, Bastille Day. Here, the military holds the largest parade at the Champs-Elysees avenue.

Furthermore, Christmas celebrations are also widely observed at the avenue. The decorations and lighting make the place even more breathtaking. Walking at the destination can be an excellent idea on the first Sunday of any month. During this time, the area is only open for pedestrians, blocking traffic for one day.

Thus, planning a trip during these events can be an excellent idea. You can see the avenue in its full swing and avoid traffic.

What Other Things Can You Do at the Champs-Elysees Avenue

Most tourists just prefer to walk on the avenue. However, the place is also known for having many local cinemas. You can enjoy a movie with your friends, family, or loved ones. On top of that, many departmental stores have recently opened at the destination. They can be your one-stop shop for all essential goods.

Champs Elysees Nearby Places

So, let’s say you have enjoyed the avenue’s sights, restaurants, cinemas, and shopping stores. What to do now? Luckily, you can head to nearby tourist attractions.

The best option nearby is Hotel De La Paiva, within 6 miles of the avenue. It is the ideal place for history buffs. If you are an artist, you can head to Arcurial. Are you interested in sightseeing? Then, your favorite nearby spot would be Fontaine des Ambassadeurs. Lastly, you can visit the Grande Arche. It offers a fantastic view of the city, including the Champs-Elysees avenue.

Conclusion

And that’s all you need to know about Champs Elysees. This beautiful avenue holds historical value and is one of the signature destinations of France. Situated in the beautiful city of Paris, you can visit this place easily thanks to its convenient location and dedicated transport. The destination holds many stores, cinemas, and eateries, making it ideal for tourists to spend a long time of their day.