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Why is it going to be a mess to get around Paris this Sunday?

undefined undefined 31 janvier 2025 undefined 09h30

The Editor

© Oliverouge 3 / Shutterstock

We all know that driving in Paris is a nightmare. And one thing's for sure, it won't be improving this Sunday, February 2, 2025, due to two very specific events. On one hand, there's the monthly pedestrianization of a part of the capital. On the other, the hosting of the 10 km race on the Champs-Élysées, a spectacular race on the most beautiful avenue in the world.

This weekend, the weather is looking quite nice. How about walking instead of driving? Anyway, for many of you, that's not even a question, since numerous streets across the capital will be completely off-limits to all motorized vehicles. We’ll share the details of all the areas to avoid.


Paris without cars

This Sunday, just like every first Sunday of the month for several years now, the world’s most famous avenue will be totally closed to traffic. From 10 AM to 5 PM, no motorized vehicle will be able to go up or down, aiming to make Paris a more eco-friendly city, reduce the area’s astronomical CO2 emissions, and give a wonderful space back to gentle mobility.

As part of the "Paris Respire" project, since 2018, the first 4 arrondissements have been following the same approach, separating themselves from all cars and motorcycles for a few hours (specifically from 10 AM to 6 PM) on the first Sunday of the month. It’s a huge area, bordered by the quays, the Tuileries, the Opéra Garnier, République, and Bastille. And this Sunday, get ready for a special event that will expand this already impressive number of streets.


An exceptional race

Indeed, on February 2, the 10 km of the Champs-Élysées will take place, the first of the four Paris Masters Circuit 2025, featuring races around the most beautiful locations of the capital. For this occasion, an incredible route has been planned, passing through the Champs-Élysées, of course, the Place de la Concorde, and Parc Monceau at number…

Parking and traffic will be prohibited throughout the race area, from the crack of dawn until around 1 PM. Except for the Champs-Élysées, of course, which will be closed until 5 PM. This is especially true since they will also host an exceptional Lunar New Year parade starting at 3 PM. It’s going to be a wild Sunday for the Champs!