Welcome back to my Paris and London Anniversary series! Today, we’re picking up on the third day of our trip after a day filled with art and history at the Louvre. We took a break at our hotel before embarking on a picturesque walk down the Champs-Élysées, a famous Parisian avenue known for its elegant shops, charming cafes, and captivating ambiance. This iconic street reminded me of walking down Fifth Avenue at Christmas time, bustling with energy and excitement.
A Journey Through History and Beauty
We crossed the Seine River and passed under the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, a smaller arch that stands proudly near the Jardin des Tuileries. This expansive garden, spanning almost 70 acres, sits between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde. Once the royal garden of the Tuileries Palace, the garden has been transformed into a vibrant public space for relaxation and enjoyment. The palace, sadly, burned down but the garden miraculously survived, offering a haven of peace and tranquility for visitors.
A Place of Significance and Beauty
We continued our journey to the Place de la Concorde, a square rich with historical significance. This location witnessed the tragic fate of Marie-Antoinette, Louis XVI, and 1,200 others during the French Revolution. In the center of the square, an imposing obelisk stands tall, a gift from Louis XVI’s brother, Charles X. This 72-foot-tall, 220-ton obelisk is over 3,300 years old and was originally part of Ramses II’s Temple of Amon in Luxor. It was brought to France in 1830, serving as a powerful reminder of the past and its impact on the present.
The Majestic Arc de Triomphe
The Champs-Élysées extends for 1.2 miles, leading to the majestic Arc de Triomphe. This iconic arch, built by Napoleon in 1809, commemorates his victory at the Battle of Austerlitz. Standing at 165 feet tall, the Arc de Triomphe embodies French history and national pride. Dedicated to the armies of the Revolution and Empire by Louis-Philippe in 1836, this Roman-inspired masterpiece has witnessed significant historical events, including the arrival of the Nazis in Paris, the return of Charles de Gaulle after the war, and the celebration of France’s 2018 World Cup victory.
A View from the Top
Beneath the Arc de Triomphe, we found a network of stairs that led down to its base. Visitors can walk around the base for free or purchase tickets to climb to the top. The line to ascend the 284 spiral stairs was long, but the reward of breathtaking panoramic views made the climb worthwhile. We enjoyed the magnificent sight of twelve avenues converging at the arch, creating a unique and dynamic cityscape. From this vantage point, we spotted the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, and Sacre Coeur, offering a comprehensive view of Paris.
A Day Filled with Exploration and Delight
After our walk back to our hotel, we ended the day with a delicious meal at Pizzeria Positano, indulging in pizza, pasta, and tiramisu. Day three in Paris was filled with exploration, history, and unforgettable moments. We walked over 27,000 steps and saw the Louvre, Tuileries Garden, Champs-Élysées, and the Arc de Triomphe.
Stay tuned for day four, which takes us to the charming neighborhood of Montmartre!
