Traversed by the Avenue des Champs-Elysees, the 8th arrondissement is a trendy neighbourhood in the heart of Paris. It’s home to iconic monuments of French nationalism, upscale designer boutiques and world-class art museums, as well as a legendary cabaret show that rivals the Moulin Rouge.
Things to do in 8th arrondissement
Dominating one end of the Avenue des Champs-Elysees is the Arc de Triomphe, an arched monument commissioned by Napoleon in 1806. Rising 50 metres in height, it is dedicated to those who fought for France during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, with its design inspired by the Arch of Titus in Rome. Pay your respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, with its eternal frame rekindled each evening.
North of the 8th arrondissement is the Musée Jacquemart-André, which houses an outstanding collection of European artwork within a 19th-century townhouse. Explore the State Apartments where 18th-century decorative objects are displayed, then admire the 15th and 16th-century sculptures exhibited in the Italian Museum. Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, Thomas Gainsborough and Rembrandt are all represented in the collection.
In the evening, be dazzled during a show at Le Lido, a famous cabaret venue that opened to audiences in 1946. While it has hosted names such as Edith Piaf and Marlene Dietrich, it is mostly renowned for its cabaret spectaculars featuring the Bluebell Girls. Just as impressive as the singing, dancing and rhinestone-adorned costumes are the incredible set designs.
Getting around 8th arrondissement
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport is around 35 minutes’ drive from the 8th arrondissement and is well-served by trains to the Saint-Lazare railway station. Several subway lines traverse the district and buses connect most of its attractions. The Champs-Elysees can easily be explored on foot.