The Champs-Élysées, also known as the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, stretches 1,910 meters long and spans 70 meters wide, making it the most impressive and widest street in Paris. Furthermore, it ranks among the most renowned and expensive streets in the world.
Often compared to Amsterdam’s PC Hoofdstraat, the Champs-Élysées owes its prestige to its cinemas, cafes, and luxurious shops lining its streets. The likelihood of spotting a celebrity in this area is notably high.
About the Champs-Élysées
Situated within the 8th arrondissement, the Champs-Élysées resides along the so-called Axe Historique, a straight line traversing Paris and connecting various significant streets, landmarks, and squares. The famed street lies between two prominent squares: the Place de la Concorde and the Place Charles de Gaulle, home to the Arc de Triomphe.
Book Your Ticket to the Arc de Triomphe Here
The Champs-Élysées essentially comprises two parts: the eastern green section and the western section, which is one of Paris’s busiest areas boasting a prominent shopping street. The rental prices of properties here are steep, resulting in the predominance of major brands along the street. Amidst the boutiques, one can find charming restaurants; however, it’s advisable to peruse the menu beforehand to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Notably, there are also establishments like McDonald’s and Starbucks.
Metro Access to the Champs-Élysées
Emerging just before the Arc de Triomphe, visitors can disembark at the Charles de Gaulle – Étoile metro station. Metro lines 1, 2, and 6 serve this station.
Alternatively, alighting at the George V metro station allows for a leisurely stroll along a segment of the Champs-Élysées towards the Arc de Triomphe. To reach this station, take metro line 1.
For those wishing to disembark further from the Arc de Triomphe and walk towards it (1 km), the Franklin D. Roosevelt metro station is ideal. This station is served by metro lines 1 and 9.
Champs-Élysées: Known for Events
Given its vast expanse, the Champs-Élysées can accommodate numerous spectators, hosting numerous events throughout the year.
Today, the final leg of the Tour de France concludes along the Champs-Élysées. For cyclists, this scenic route garners significant attention, drawing sizable crowds of spectators.
Moreover, on July 14th, the National Military Parade takes place here. July 14th marks Bastille Day, a French national holiday commemorating the Storming of the Bastille in 1789, which ignited the French Revolution. During the military parade, approximately 4,000 military personnel, police officers, firefighters, and students march, presenting a spectacular and memorable event.
During Christmas, the street transforms into a festive wonderland, adorned with twinkling lights illuminating the thoroughfare in the evenings. If you happen to be in the vicinity during this period, a stroll along the street is an absolute must. Additionally, you’ll find Paris’s most popular Christmas market here, along with the opportunity to ride a giant Ferris wheel, offering breathtaking views from its highest point.
Similarly, on New Year’s Eve, the street becomes a focal point for festivities. However, securing a prime spot requires arriving early, as the street becomes densely packed, particularly near the Arc de Triomphe. As midnight approaches, a collective countdown ensues, followed by a magnificent light show projected onto the Arc de Triomphe.
Car-Free Sundays on the Champs-Élysées
Once a month, a visit to the Champs-Élysées is particularly enjoyable, as it coincides with Car-Free Sundays in the first four arrondissements of Paris. However, the Champs-Élysées, in particular, holds a special allure on these car-free Sundays. Where it’s typically a bustling thoroughfare teeming with fast-moving vehicles, these Sundays offer a serene atmosphere ideal for leisurely strolls. Moreover, it presents an excellent opportunity for capturing the perfect photographs, such as those featuring the Arc de Triomphe.
Car-Free Sundays occur every first Sunday of the month from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. These hours apply to the first four arrondissements in Paris. The Champs-Élysées is closed to vehicular traffic on these Sundays from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm (April to October) or from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (November to March). Additionally, there may be other Sundays when specifically the Champs-Élysées is closed to traffic due to particular events. In essence, the Champs-Élysées is a bustling yet vibrant street hosting exciting events throughout the year.
Hotels near the Champs-Élysées
Hotel Splendide Royal Paris – Relais & Château
Located on Rue de Cirque, just 500 meters from the Champs-Élysées, is the Hotel Splendide Royal Paris. This incredibly luxurious hotel in the heart of Paris boasts spacious rooms, each equipped with a large bed, TV, seating area, and free Wi-Fi. Additionally, guests can indulge in making their own tea or coffee in their room. Notably, the hotel welcomes guests with their faithful four-legged companions.
Each morning, guests can choose from an array of breakfast options, including vegetarian or gluten-free choices. The hotel’s own restaurant, headed by chef Raffaele de Mase, serves delectable Italian and Mediterranean cuisine.
Click here for more information about Hotel Splendide Royal Paris.
Hotel du Rond-Point des Champs-Elysees
Just 200 meters from the Champs-Élysées on Rue de Ponthieu, you’ll find Hotel du Rond-Point des Champs-Elysees. The hotel’s rooms boast an Art Deco style, ensuring guests enjoy luxury throughout their stay. All rooms come with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV with Dutch channels, and tea and coffee-making facilities. Additionally, guests can enjoy plush bathrobes and slippers in the bathrooms, complete with a bathtub or shower.
Each morning, guests are treated to a delicious breakfast, served either in the restaurant or in the comfort of their own room. Following breakfast, guests can take a dip in the indoor swimming pool to start their day off right. At day’s end, guests can unwind in the hotel’s wellness center before enjoying a drink at the bar.
Click here for more information about Hotel du Rond-Point des Champs-Elysees.
Grand Powers Hotel
Situated on Rue Francois 1er, just 400 meters from the Champs-Élysées, is the 5-star Grand Powers Hotel. Some rooms boast balconies with stunning views of the Eiffel Tower, while others feature a seating area with a beautiful fireplace. All rooms come with a Smart TV, a Nespresso machine, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel is perfect for a romantic weekend getaway to Paris, especially with its spa featuring a Turkish bath, sauna, and hot tub.
Each morning, guests can indulge in an American breakfast at the cozy restaurant. Cafe 52, the hotel’s restaurant, offers delightful drinks and exquisite dining options in the evening. Pets are allowed at the hotel, ensuring every member of the family can enjoy their stay.
Click here for more information about Grand Powers Hotel in Paris.