The Champs Elysees, as one of the world’s most renowned avenues and one of the most expensive pieces of real estate in Europe, lives up to a high standard of elegant scenery, impossibly regal structures, and a host of accommodations and attractions. Named after the Elysian Fields, which in Greek mythology is the final resting place of good souls in the underworld, the area was originally filled with fields and market gardens until it became an extension of the gardens of the Palais des Tuileries in the early seventeenth century. However, only by the late eighteenth century had the lane become a fashionable district and a formal avenue. Today, the Champs Elysees in Paris is a top attraction where visitors can stroll and enjoy the many shops and beautiful surroundings here and on Avenue Montaigne which is another nearby attraction.

Before 1616, the area encompassing the Champs Elysees was a vast agricultural field, and the avenue began as a pas sage lined with trees, commissioned by Marie de Medici and extending from the Palais des Tuileries gardens. Over the next two hundred years, the avenue was extended, while trees and surrounding parkland were allowed to grow as buildings were constructed to line the avenue. By 1828, it had become city property and one of the most fashionable districts in Paris, and today, it extends for two kilometers through the city's 8th arrondissement and is home to such famous landmarks as the Arc de Triomphe.

Fashion and style are considered synonymous with the capital city of France, and the Champs Elysees in Paris is the epitome of prestige and fashion, and a trove of stylish shops can be found along the corridor. If you're interested in shopping during your vacation in Paris this is the place to be; however, only the most esteemed and well-known brands are found here, such as Cartier. Within the district, nearby Avenue Montaigne offers a host of fashionable shopping opportunities, including Ralph Lauren, Dior, and Chanel along with other high-end establishments, including luxury hotels and fine Champs Elysees restaurants.

Paris Map

Beginning at the Obelisk of Luxor in the east and ending at the Arc de Triomphe in the west, the Champs Elysees in Paris reflects the rich history of the city, dating back to a time when the area was a simple agricultural region named after the "place of the blessed dead" in Greek Mythology. Trees and greenery line the avenue on the eastern end, and buildings grow progressively more numerous approaching the western end. The avenue is the site of yearly events, including the final stage of the Tour de France and Europe's largest military parade, which passes down the avenue each year on Bastille Day.

Whether the aim is gorgeous scenery or high fashion shopping, the Champs Elysees and the Avenue Montaigne are simply the place to be in Paris. The experience of the elegant beauty surrounding the avenue, day and night, matched with historical architecture offers guests a charming addition to a list of the already numerous things to do in Paris. Five star hotels such as the Hotel Napoleon are located along the road, as are several four-star and a few three star establishments, so if you're looking to stay in the height of luxury during your vacation, a hotel on the Champs Elysees is worth seeking out.