Famous the world over, the Avenue des Champs-Élysées runs for almost two kilometres from Place de la Concorde to Place Charles-de-Gaulle. Nicknamed “the world’s most beautiful avenue”, it blends gardens, palaces, luxury boutiques, legendary cafés and theatres. Walking it on foot, from Concorde up to the Arc de Triomphe, remains one of the finest introductions to Paris.
From royal promenade to modern avenue
The Champs-Élysées were born in the 17th century when landscape designer André Le Nôtre, Louis XIV’s gardener, extended the perspective of the Tuileries westward. This straight line became the Axe historique of Paris, which today runs from the Louvre all the way to the Grande Arche de la Défense. First a country promenade, the avenue gradually filled with mansions, theatres and cafés before becoming, in the 20th century, the showcase of Parisian commerce and prestige.
Two avenues in one
The walk unfolds in two very different sequences:
- The lower section, towards Concorde, is a garden avenue. Here you’ll find green spaces, the Petit Palais and the Grand Palais with its vast glass roof, and theatres such as the Marigny. The atmosphere is peaceful, perfect for strolling.
- The upper section, towards the Arc de Triomphe, concentrates the buzz: luxury boutiques, international flagships, cinemas, and iconic cafés and brasseries such as Fouquet’s and the Ladurée tea house.
The Arc de Triomphe as a grand finale
At the top of the avenue stands the Arc de Triomphe, commissioned by Napoleon I in 1806 and completed in 1836. Beneath its vault lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, whose flame is rekindled every evening. The panoramic terrace offers one of the finest views of Paris, at the centre of the star formed by twelve avenues. To learn more, continue with our article on the Arc de Triomphe and Place de l’Étoile.
What to do on the Champs-Élysées
- Go shopping among the great houses and flagships: see our guide to shopping on the Champs-Élysées and the legend of Louis Vuitton.
- See an exhibition at the Grand Palais, just steps from the avenue.
- Extend towards the Tuileries Garden and Concorde, or reach the nearby Eiffel Tower.
- Rise above the city at a rooftop bar for a drink with a view.
Staying steps from the Champs-Élysées with Helzear
To live the avenue at the rhythm of Paris, it is best to stay close by. Hôtel Helzear Champs-Élysées and Hôtel Helzear Étoile set their suites and apartments in the district, minutes from the Arc de Triomphe.
FAQ: The Champs-Élysées
How long is the Champs-Élysées?
The avenue stretches for about 1.9 kilometres, from Place de la Concorde to Place Charles-de-Gaulle, where the Arc de Triomphe stands.
What can you see walking along the Champs-Élysées?
The Arc de Triomphe, the Grand Palais and Petit Palais, luxury boutiques, historic cafés such as Fouquet’s, and the perspective towards the Tuileries and Concorde.
Can you go up the Arc de Triomphe?
Yes, a panoramic terrace is open to visitors and offers a 360° view over Paris and the twelve avenues radiating from Place de l’Étoile.
Are the Champs-Élysées shops open on Sundays?
Yes, the avenue is classified as an international tourist zone, which allows many stores to open on Sundays.
Which hotel should you choose to visit the Champs-Élysées?
The Helzear Champs-Élysées and Helzear Étoile properties are located in the district, a few minutes’ walk from the avenue and the Arc de Triomphe.