Survival tactics? This is one of the nicer sporting gatherings in France, as cycling fans have nothing in common with inner-city hooligans. Expect a broad cross-section of French society, of all ages, and positive disposition. I can't remember a single incident in the 20+ years I have followed the Tour.

Here is the itinerary and schedule of the last stage, into Paris.

What happens is that the roads taken by the Tour are closed 3-4 hours before the riders come. They are opened soon after the last one goes by. Except for the last few kilometers of a stage, there are no barriers, and pedestrians can cross until a few minutes before.

I see this year the Tour is expected at Boulogne-Billancourt around 2pm, and then on to Place de la Bastille; the Hilton is between those two locations. Traditionally though, the usual route goes alongside the Seine river banks, which in this case would be the bank opposite the Hilton.

Only the Champs-Elysées area will be closed for an extended period. If you wanted to do a day trip, and do not care to witness the Tour's centennial, it may be a good day. Remember that a countryman of yours is likely to win this year again