35 Top Things to Do Along the Champs Elysees
Ready to discover the best of Paris? In this post, we take you on an exciting journey through the Champs-Élysées, one of the most iconic avenues in the world. We present 35 must-see attractions and activities that will make your visit an unforgettable experience.
From luxury boutiques and charming cafes to historic monuments and picturesque gardens, the Champs-Élysées has something special for every visitor.
Keep reading to discover how this legendary Parisian boulevard can captivate you with its elegance, history, and vibrant urban life. Get ready to explore the heart of Paris!
35 Things To Do and See Along the Champs Elysées at a Glance
If you don’t have time to read the full article, here’s a brief summary of all the things you can see and do on the Champs-Élysées, from the Arc de Triomphe to the Tuileries Gardens.
- Arc de Triomphe: Begin your journey with this monumental arch that honors those who fought and died for France.
- Champs-Élysées Avenue: Stroll along this famous avenue, known for its theaters, cafes, and luxury shops.
- Publicis Drugstore: Take a look at this complex of luxury shopping and restaurants.
- Champs-Élysées Gardens: Relax in these beautiful landscaped gardens filled with fountains and sculptures.
- Théâtre des Champs-Élysées: Attend a performance at this famous theater known for ballet, opera, and classical concerts.
- Lido de Paris: Experience a classic Parisian cabaret show at this renowned venue.
- Guerlain: Indulge in luxury shopping at this historic perfume store.
- Sephora: The largest and newly renovated Sephora store is on the Champs-Élysées.
- Louis Vuitton flagship store: Visit the flagship store of this world-famous luxury brand.
- Ladurée: Treat yourself to some of the best macarons in Paris at this legendary pastry shop.
- Pierre Hermé: The Champs-Élysées is a paradise for pastry lovers, famous for its innovative macarons and exquisite desserts created by the renowned “Picasso of Pastry.”
- Le Fouquet’s: With its rich history and luxurious ambiance, it’s an iconic restaurant and brasserie on the Champs-Élysées, known for attracting celebrities and offering an authentic French gastronomic experience.
- Galeries Lafayette on the Champs-Élysées represent the epitome of Parisian luxury and fashion, offering a unique shopping experience in an elegant and contemporary setting.
- Dining at Pavillon Elysée: Enjoy a meal or dinner at Pavillon Elysée, located on the Champs-Élysées, for a refined gastronomic experience surrounded by an elegant environment and stunning views.
- Palace of the Elysée (Palais de L’Élysée): Take a glimpse of the official residence of the President of France (exterior view only).
- Disney Store: A fun stop for families and Disney fans.
- Cinéma Gaumont Champs-Élysées: Watch a movie at one of Paris’s most modern cinemas.
- Abercrombie & Fitch flagship store: Explore this unique fashion store known for its distinctive atmosphere.
- Golden Triangle: The Champs-Élysées Golden Triangle in Paris is an iconic area of luxury and exclusivity, known for its haute couture shops, designer boutiques, and jewelry stores. Located in the 8th district, this triangle is bounded by the avenues Montaigne, George V, and the Champs-Élysées.
- Luxury shops and cafes: The Champs-Élysées is famous for its luxury shops and elegant cafes. Capturing the vibrant street life and shop window displays of famous brands can add a chic touch to your video.
- Marche aux Timbres: Located on the Champs-Élysées, Marche aux Timbres is a fascinating stamp market where collectors and enthusiasts can find rare stamps and philatelic items in a historical and specialized atmosphere.
- L’Atelier Renault: More than a dealership, it’s an innovative space on the Champs-Élysées that combines car exhibitions with cultural and technological events and a unique culinary experience.
- Crazy Horse is a legendary Parisian cabaret on the Champs-Élysées, known for its avant-garde shows that blend art, music, and lighting effects to create a sensual and sophisticated experience.
- Librairie Artcurial (Antique Bookstore): The Artcurial Bookstore on the Champs-Élysées is a prestigious antique bookstore, offering a rich collection of rare books, manuscripts, and limited editions in an elegant and cultural setting.
- PSG Official Store: The official PSG store on the Champs-Élysées is the perfect destination for football fans, where they can find a wide range of merchandise and memorabilia from the popular Parisian football team.
- Club Barrière Paris: The Club Barrière on the Champs-Élysées is an exclusive gaming and entertainment club that offers a luxurious experience with elegant table games, gourmet restaurants, and a sophisticated atmosphere.
- Le Rooftop (19 avenue Kléber): Offers incredible views of Paris and the Eiffel Tower. It closes during winter, and the minimum consumption is €60 per person. Reservations are not accepted.
- Grand Palais: Visit this historic site and exhibition hall, famous for its beautiful glass dome.
- Petit Palais: Discover an art museum housing a variety of fine arts dating from the French Renaissance.
- Les Invalides: Les Invalides in Paris is a historic architectural complex housing the Army Museum and Napoleon Bonaparte’s tomb, known for its impressive golden dome.
- Pont Alexandre III: A masterpiece of Art Nouveau, it spans the River Seine and is famous for its elaborate decorations and statues, connecting Les Invalides with the Grand Palais and the Petit Palais.
- Place de la Concorde: Explore this important public square with its Egyptian obelisk, fountains, and statues.
- Musée de l’Orangerie: View Monet’s “Water Lilies” and other Impressionist and Post-Impressionist artworks.
- Tuileries Gardens: Near Place de la Concorde, this historic park, with its beautiful gardens and ponds, is perfect for natural and relaxing shots.
- Champs-Élysées Christmas Market (December): Enjoy festive stalls and activities during the holiday season.
Walk along the Champs Elysées
The Champs Elysees, a renowned avenue in Paris, is not only famous for its prestigious shopping and vibrant atmosphere but is also home to several iconic landmarks.
As you explore this magnificent street, you’ll encounter a wealth of history and architectural marvels that showcase the rich heritage of the city.
Remember, the Champs-Élysées area is always evolving, so you might stumble upon new attractions and experiences as well!
Arc de Triomphe
One of the must-see landmarks on the Champs-Élysées is the Arc de Triomphe. This grand monument, proudly standing at the western end of the avenue, is an iconic symbol of French military victories.
Designed by Jean-François-Thérèse Chalgrin and inaugurated in 1836, the Arc de Triomphe offers breathtaking views from its observation deck.
You can admire panoramic views of Paris, with the Eiffel Tower majestically rising above the cityscape.
It is advisable to purchase tickets online to avoid queues and make the most of your visit.
Luxor Obelisk
Another notable landmark on this iconic avenue is the Luxor Obelisk. Standing tall in the center of Place de la Concorde, it adds a touch of ancient Egyptian splendor to this bustling street.
Donated by Mohammed Ali Pasha, the Viceroy of Egypt, in 1833, this granite obelisk is believed to be about 3,000 years old. Adorned with hieroglyphics and accompanied by exquisite fountains on both sides, it represents a captivating piece of history in the midst of modern Paris.
Now that we have explored some of the most prominent monuments on the Champs-Élysées, let’s delve into the historical architecture that graces this charming avenue.
Grand Palais and Petit Palais
The Petit Palais and the Grand Palais are two architectural monuments located in Paris that offer a unique blend of art, history, and architecture.
The Petit Palais, built for the 1900 World’s Fair, is now a fine arts museum housing an impressive collection spanning from antiquity to the early 20th century, including works by masters like Rembrandt and Rubens.
Its architectural design, featuring a beautiful interior garden and ornate façade, is a work of art in itself.
On the other hand, the Grand Palais, also constructed for the 1900 World’s Fair, is renowned for its iconic glass dome, one of the largest in Europe, and its impressive steel and glass structure.
The Grand Palais serves as a venue for major exhibitions, fashion events, and art fairs, such as the Paris Photo biennial and the FIAC (International Contemporary Art Fair).
Furthermore, it has hosted historical and cultural events, including haute couture fashion shows and avant-garde art exhibitions, making it a vibrant hub for the Parisian artistic and cultural scene.
Triangle d’Or
The Golden Triangle in Paris is an exclusive area renowned for its high concentration of luxury boutiques and designer shops.
Located in the 8th district, this triangle is formed by the avenues Montaigne, George V, and the Champs-Élysées, and represents the epicenter of glamour and fashion in the city.
Here, you can explore iconic stores like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Dior, which offer the latest in high fashion, jewelry, and luxury accessories.
In addition to shopping, the Golden Triangle is also known for its exclusive hotels and gourmet restaurants.
Establishments like the Hotel Plaza Athénée and the restaurant Alain Ducasse offer high-end accommodation and dining experiences, appealing to those looking to indulge in the most refined Parisian lifestyle.
Discovering Cozy Cafes and Fine Dining
The Champs-Élysées offers much more than luxury shops; it provides a delightful culinary journey with charming cafes and top-notch restaurants. Here, you can find everything from a casual spot for brunch to gourmet dinners to suit all tastes.
Imagine yourself sitting in a café with a hot coffee and a freshly baked croissant. The aroma of espresso envelops you as you savor the unique atmosphere of Paris.
Although the Champs-Élysées is bustling with activity, the café offers an oasis of calm.
If you’re looking for a top-notch culinary experience, this avenue has you covered. There are Michelin-starred restaurants and hidden gems serving the best of French cuisine.
Picture yourself dining in a historic brasserie, trying their famous escargot, or enjoying a gourmet dinner with a view of the Eiffel Tower. These are moments that turn a meal into an unforgettable memory, an immersion into the Parisian way of life.
Whether you’re sampling exquisite pastries from a local bakery, savoring traditional dishes in a cozy bistro, or indulging in fine dining at a renowned restaurant, the Champs-Élysées offers a plethora of delights to explore.
Visiting these cafes and restaurants ensures you a truly Parisian and memorable experience.
Dining Experience at Pavillon Elysée
When you find yourself on the iconic Champs Elysees, make sure to indulge in a memorable dining experience in Paris at the renowned Pavillon Elysée. Nestled in the heart of this bustling avenue, Pavillon Elysée offers a delightful fusion of French culinary excellence and Parisian charm.
As you step into the elegant establishment, you’ll be greeted by a sophisticated ambiance that perfectly complements the luxurious atmosphere of the Champs Elysees.
The chic interior design, with its contemporary elements blended seamlessly with classic touches, sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.
Begin your gastronomic journey by savoring an array of exquisite French dishes crafted by talented chefs who understand the art of fine cuisine. From delicate appetizers to mouthwatering main courses and delectable desserts, each dish is meticulously prepared using only the finest ingredients.
With a focus on seasonal produce, expect to be treated to an explosion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Les Invalides and the Alexandre III Bridge
Les Invalides in Paris is an impressive architectural complex that houses historical monuments and museums dedicated to France’s military history. It is primarily known for hosting the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte under its majestic golden dome.
The complex includes the Army Museum, which boasts one of the world’s largest collections of weapons and armor, providing a profound insight into the military conflicts that have shaped France’s history.
This place is not only a tribute to the country’s military history but also an outstanding example of classical French architecture.
Near Les Invalides is the Alexandre III Bridge, a marvel of Art Nouveau that spans the River Seine.
Connecting Les Invalides with the Grand Palais and the Petit Palais, this bridge is famous for its opulent decoration, including golden lampposts, cherubs, nymphs, and four imposing columns crowned with statues of Pegasus.
The bridge is not only a masterpiece of engineering and design but also a popular photographic spot for its stunning views of the River Seine and nearby monuments, offering a unique and charming perspective of the city.
Tuileries Gardens
The Tuileries Gardens, located between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde in Paris, are a magnificent example of a French formal garden.
Originally designed in the 16th century and redesigned by André Le Nôtre in the 17th century, these gardens offer a tranquil and artistically structured space filled with statues, ponds, and perfectly aligned pathways.
They are the ideal place for a relaxing stroll, admiring both nature and art, or simply resting on one of their many green chairs in front of the impressive ponds.
The Tuileries Gardens also house two museums, the Jeu de Paume and the Orangerie, where you can admire works by Impressionist and Post-Impressionist artists, including Monet’s famous “Water Lilies” series.
Place de la Concorde
Place de la Concorde, located at the end of the Tuileries Gardens, is one of the largest and most significant squares in Paris.
Famous for its monumental Luxor Egyptian obelisk, which is 3,300 years old, the square is also flanked by majestic fountains and statues representing French cities.
This historic location has witnessed many important events in French history, including being the site of the guillotine during the French Revolution.
Today, Place de la Concorde offers a breathtaking view of the Champs-Élysées Avenue and serves as a popular meeting point for tourists and locals alike, making it a perfect place to appreciate the magnificence and history of Paris.
Plan Your Trip to Paris
- How to Plan a Trip to Paris
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- How to visit Versailles Palace on a day trip
- Top Attractions in Paris
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