The Champs-Elysees

The Champs-Elysees is a street in Paris well known for its beauty and a high concentration of excellent restaurants, upscale stores, cinemas, and other places for entertainment. It's a popular attraction on its own, and it's also home to another famous Paris site. The Arc de Triomphe sits at its end.

Description

The Champs-Elysees is located in West Paris, and it's considered one of the most exclusive areas of real estate, not just in Paris but in the entire world. Its name refers to Elysian Fields, a place in Greek mythology for the blessed dead. This strip, which runs for a little more than a mile, is also considered one of the most beautiful places in Paris, and it's considered a must-do among tourist sights. This chestnut tree-lined stretch is a lovely spot for walking or biking in Paris, as well as for shopping at the many upscale stores, dining at one of the many restaurants, or simply soaking up the atmosphere,

History

The history of the Champs-Elysees dates all the way back to 1616. Prior to that time, it was an area of fields and market gardens. It was developed as an avenue of trees that would extend the axis of the Tuileries Garden. It developed over the years from something simple into an exclusive avenue by the late 18th century. In 1828 it became city property and received a number of upgrades, including gas lights, fountains, and footpaths. The maintenance and upgrades have continued over the years, with improvement such as widened sidewalks in the 1990s. It continues to be honored as one of the most beautiful streets in the world.

Activities

The Champs-Elysees is lined with stores, restaurants, movie theaters, and other places to visit for shopping, dining, or relaxation. You'll find Parisian souvenirs at the stores on the avenue, along with more upscale merchandise. There are many restaurants serving French cuisine, including classic Parisian food and delicious wine and pastries. While the French food is excellent, you can also find eateries serving other types of ethnic cuisine.

Although the Champs-Elysees appeals most to adults because it is so heavily geared toward shopping and fine dining, there are also some family activities. For example, depending on when you visit, you might find a kid-friendly movie playing at one of the cinemas.

You can stay near the Champs-Elysees if you wish, since there are hotels near this Paris landmark that put you within easy walking distance of the shopping, sightseeing, and nightlife of the nearby clubs and bars.

Be cautious if you visit the Champs-Elysees, just as you should be in any other part of Paris that is frequented by tourists. While this area is generally safe, it's not immune to Paris pickpockets and scams. Many people come to the Champs-Elysees to shop, which means they're carrying money or credit cards, making them attractive to thieves and scammers. Keep your money or cards secure in a money belt or carry them in some other way that makes them hard to steal. Be aware of your surroundings, and avoid anyone who looks or acts suspicious. Thieves often pretend to be friendly, so be on high alert even if a person doesn't look initially threatening.

Events and Attractions

Many events take place regularly at the Champs-Elysees. For example, the annual military parade, held each year on Bastille Day in July, always goes down the scenic avenue. The parade is the largest military parade in Europe, and it's reviewed by the President of the Republic. The Champs-Elysees gets decked out in lights for Christmas every year, with the decorations on display between late November and early January. Be sure to visit it if you're in Paris for the holiday season because the lights add to the avenue's existing beauty. It's also the spot for the last part of the annual Tour de France bike race, and the post-race award ceremony is held on the avenue.

The Champs-Elysees is well known as the home of the Arc de Triomphe, which sits at its end. The arc was built by Napoleon Bonaparte in honor of his military conquests. Today it's one of the major sights in Paris, along with other icons like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame Cathedral. Anyone who visits the Champs-Elysees should stroll to the avenue's end to marvel at this masterpiece.

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