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

Mary & Dan
Emilie, Our trip has been fantastic! We appreciate all that you did to make it so wonderful. Many, many thanks! The itineraries, special experiences--- like the 4x4 wine tour, wine picnic, and cooking with Catherine---and the unique accommodations made our vacation very very special. We start toward home tomorrow, leaving your beautiful country but …
Cynthia
On my second trip with France Just For You (FJFY) this October I drove through Normandy and Brittaney. It was a wonderful trip and FJFY is an amazing travel agency. Their customized and detailed guidebook covers everything you need to know about visiting France from practical information about traffic signs to insights about the French people and …
Teresa & Garry
Laura and Emilie started working with us to develop a trip in July of 2020, but the trip had to be postponed because of COVID. Nonetheless they kept everything in place and made some modifications so that the trip could take place this October and November. They were always responsive and helpful with our questions and concerns. All of the …

Our Travelers’ Photos

Clemmer & Dennis
From the US
After folding the US flag in the Meuse Argonne War Cemetery - Eastern France
Pam & Rick
From the US
Tasting some oysters and white wine in the Basque Country
Pam & Mercer
From the US
In Paris
Jane
from the US
Canoeing down the Dordogne river
Ron, Jane, Don & Nancy
From Canada
Visiting a wine cellar
Linda
From Australia
Making Chou-Buns at Valerie's
Bonnie & Steve
from the US
in Provence
Ginger & Tom
from the US
At their B&B in the Loire Valley
Shanna & Mike
from the US
For their First Wedding Anniversary in Provence
Sue & Chris
Romantic night in Montecarlo
Tracey & Sandra
From the US
In Provence...
Cassandra and Justin
Cassandra & Justin
in Gordes, Provence