The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most famous monuments in Paris, located on the western end of the Champs-Élysées. It was commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 to commemorate his military victories, but it was not completed until 1836. The arch is 50 meters high and 45 meters wide, and it is decorated with sculptures and reliefs depicting scenes from French history. The arch also houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I, which is marked by an eternal flame.
To visit the Arc de Triomphe, you need to buy a ticket that costs €13 for adults and is free for people under 18 or EU nationals/residents under 25.
You can also buy a combined ticket that includes access to other attractions such as the Louvre Museum or the Orsay Museum. You can book your tickets online to skip the line and save time.
The Arc de Triomphe is open every day from 10 am to 11 pm from April to September, and from 10 am to 10:30 pm from October to March. The last entry is 45 minutes before closing time. The arch is closed on January 1, May 1, May 8 (morning), July 14 (morning), November 11 (morning) and December 25. It may also close temporarily for security reasons or ceremonies.
To access the Arc de Triomphe, you need to use the underground passage that connects the Champs-Élysées to the Place Charles de Gaulle-Etoile. You can reach this passage by metro (line 1, 2, 6 or RER A), bus or car. Do not try to cross the roundabout on foot, as it is very dangerous.
Once you reach the base of the Arc de Triomphe, you can either climb up 284 steps or take a lift to the attic room. From there, you need to climb another 46 steps to reach the terrace, which offers a stunning view of Paris. You can see landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Place de la Concorde and the La Défense district. The best time to enjoy this view is at sunset or at night when the city lights up.
The Arc de Triomphe also has a museum that displays models, drawings and photographs related to its history and construction. You can learn more about Napoleon’s campaigns, the sculptors who worked on the arch, and the ceremonies that took place there. The museum is located in the attic room and is included in your ticket.
Some tips for your visit are:
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring water if you plan to climb the stairs.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as the terrace may close in case of strong winds or rain.
- Respect the monument and its symbolism, as it is dedicated to the memory of French soldiers who died for their country.
- Avoid visiting on weekends or holidays, as it may be very crowded.
- Consider taking a guided tour or an audio guide to learn more about the arch and its secrets.
