Landscaped during the reign of Marie de Medici, praised by Joe Dassin, this vast, vibrant area, 71 meters wide and 1,915 meters long from the picturesque Place de la Concorde to the majestic Arc de Triomphe, is the central avenue of today Paris. Even if you have only one day in the city, it’s a must to stop by. Magnificent architectural landmarks and museums, top-tier boutiques and restaurants, as well as lovely squares and gardens, can satisfy the wishes of any traveler.
For the first time, this place appeared in records in the 16th century as a wetland for royal duck shooting. The Champs Elysees got its current name at the end of the 18th century during the French Revolution. This is how the Elysian fields along the stream of Okeanos in the afterlife of ancient Greek mythology were called. Still, it turned out that the “eternal spring” and the holiday vibes are possible during life in the very center of the most beautiful city on earth. At the same time, merchant shops and ateliers opened there. Half a century later, the construction of the famous Arc de Triomphe and flower gardens began, steeping the nearby palaces and fashionable pavilions with a captivating aroma. There appeared elegant mansions, and international exhibitions were held.
Today, the Champs Elysees is a combination of beautiful parkland with the works by renowned sculptors and ancient architectural landmarks of the Marigny Theater and the oldest restaurant Ledoyen, which was frequented by Gustave Flaubert, Guy de Maupassant, Emile Zola, and Jean Cocteau. Also, the small and large palaces of the area are dominated by the central gem, the Elysee Palace, where all the presidents of France lived and worked. The famous Russian restaurant Rasputin and the French cabaret Le Lido are also located here. Annually, the traditional Bastille Day military parade is held. The world-famous Tour de France cycling contest is held every two years. Not to mention that it is the most expensive avenue in Europe and the most beautiful one in the world. Having won thousands of hearts, it still inspires great masters to create immortal masterpieces.