Les Champs Elysées

Elysian Fields comes from the greek word “Elusia” which means "where the gods and heroes come and rest".

The Champs Elysées is surely one of the most famous avenues in the world. Symbol of Paris, the Elysian Fields are the emblematic place of many events: military parade on Bastille day on July 14th, finish line of the Tour de France, New Year’s Eve, Party for a soccer game cup, etc.

The Champs Elysées harbor its famous theater, movie theater, international chains and undoubtedly for its international recognition in the grand fashion houses.

What we like best on the Champs Elysées - if you are not a shopping addict - is the Eastern part with the Grand & Petit Palais, getting to Alexander Third Bridge. 


arc de triomphe

Arc de Triomphe on Place de l'Etoile - ©Daniel Thierry Paris TO


Place de l'Etoile & Triomph Arch

At the far west of the Champs Elysées, the Arc de Triomphe proudly stands on the Place de l’Etoile. 

This imposing arch at the center of the Place de l’Etoile (also called place Charles de Gaulle) has been the symbol of the grandeur of France.

The Arc de Triomphe was built in 1806 by Napoleon the First to commemorate those who fought for France (as well as himself). The tomb of the unknown soldier killed during the World War I is placed under its beautiful arch. It honors all those who fought for France. 

The Arche de Triomphe is the second largest triumphal arch in the world. The monument measures 164 feet - 50 meters in height and 148 feet – 45 meters in wide. The Arc de Triomphe is built as the center of a busy roundabout on the western end of the Champs Elysées. If you climb the stairs to the top, you will have a grandiose view over the Elysian Fields and the avenues departing from the Arc in a star shape – giving its nickname to the square: Place de l’Etoile.

If you drive in Paris, this is the one place you don’t want to drive on. This is probably the biggest roundabout in the world but it has its own special rules (yes: French people like exceptions to rules). Contrary to other roundabouts, those who enter the square have priority over those who are already on it. This is a nightmare for non-Parisian drivers. 

 

Our Travelers’ Reviews

Jenifer
When planning my 60th birthday celebration, my sister and I stumbled upon France Just For You, which saved us from the potential nightmare of traveling with 40 strangers on a bus. As a result, my sister and I, along with our husbands, experienced a trip of a lifetime! From the beginning, Emilie was extraordinarily responsive, informative, and more …
Paul & nancy
We just returned from 15 days in France, this trip was to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary. Emilie and her team were amazing. We started in the south of France and finished in Paris. We visited many towns and villages, Aix, Cassis, Marseilles, les Gorges du Verdon,...The personalized guide book was golden for us. The details and suggestions …
Nicole
My husband and I used Emilie from France Just For You to plan a special trip for our anniversary. We loved the fact that our trip had structure, but at the same time, we had freedom to explore as we wished. We also loved the fact that the trip included guided tours, but we were not tied to a tour group as such. Emilie planned our trip according to …

Our Travelers’ Photos

Young Nam, Albert & Myoung from the US
In the Dentelles de Montmirail, in Provence
Diana & Michael
A glass of wine in the Provence vineyards, what else ?
Harry & Caroline
From Australia
Wine & Cheese Tasting
Michele, Jacques, Nicole, Gaetan, Joanne & Keith
from Canada
In the Loire Valley
Jane & Ron
From Canada
Visiting the Opéra Garnier, in Paris
Sheena & Anna
From the US
In Provence
Dina & Jim
from the US
Who just received their travel pack at home
Jan & Ray
From Australia
In Mont Saint Michel
Nancy & Paul
from Canada
On the French Riviera
Anna & Trea - From the US - in a castle in Provence
Anna & Trea
From the US
In a Castle in Provence
Athena, Joanne, Don & Paul
from the US
Spending a day biking in the Loire Valley
Dennis
from Australia
Hiking in the Dentelles in Provence

Last Blog Articles