A Stroll Along the Champs Elysees
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The wide boulevard, Avenue de Champs Elysees, lined with trees and grand facades, is one of the most visited streets in Paris. Named for the “Elysian fields” of Greek mythology, a kind of heaven-like destination for heroes and warriors, the Champs Elysees is the broadest avenue in Paris and runs from the Place de la Concorde to Place Charles de Gaulle (commonly refered to as the Place l’Etoile).
Attractions
The Champs Elysees offers visitors a variety of activities. Among them are:
- Arc de Triomphe – At the far eastern end of the Champs Elysees lies the Arc de Triomphe, the 165-foot arch has become an icon of Paris. Built in 1806 under Napoleon’s reign to commemorate the French victory at Austerlitz, the Arc de Triomphe is decorated with bas-reliefs that depict epic battle scenes. Visitors can take an elevator to the top or climb the 284 steps to the observation deck. Beneath the Arc lies the French Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
- Cafes – Every visitor to the Champs Elysees should sample one of the cafes that line the avenue, if only for a café au lait or a glass or wine. A sidewalk table gives you a great perspective of the passersby and the variety of activities along the strip.
- Cinemas and Theaters – The Champs Elysees is known for its many movie houses and theaters. See a first-run movie (many are in English with French subtitles) or opt for a more adult show at the risqué Lido Theater.
- Fashion Houses – The Champs Elysees and the streets leading away from it boast some of the most popular fashion houses in Paris. Among these are Dior, LaCoste, Charles Jourdan, and Gaultier.
- Shopping – In addition to the fashion houses and boutiques, the Avenue is home to some of the most innovative and stylish stores in the world. Among them are the Virgin Records Megastore, the Disney Store, Louis Vuitton, luxury auto dealers, and many more.
- Special Events – The Champs Elysees is the favorite site in Paris for special events. Like Fifth Avenue in New York, this lovely avenue is home to everything from Bastille Day parades to New Year’s Eve celebrations. It’s also the final leg of the annual Tour de France cycling event.
Visiting the Champs Elysees
The grand avenue is easily reached by Metro from all over Paris via the Franklin D. Roosevelt, Georges V, Clemenceau/Champs Elysees, and Charles de Gaulle stations. Well-heeled visitors can stay right on the Avenue at the venerable Georges V hotel or the more modern Marriott. Most will be content to stroll the wide sidewalks and take in the parade of people and sights.
(Photo © istockphoto)