Arc de Triomphe
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The Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile, one of the most famous landmarks of Paris, rises at the western end of the Champs-Élysées at Place Charles-de-Gaulle. The construction of the Arc de Triomphe was ordered by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 to honor the victories of his armies and completed in 1836. It serves as a monument to the fallen of the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars and is a significant place for national ceremonies. From the viewpoint at its top, the Arc de Triomphe offers an impressive view over Paris and the twelve avenues radiating from it in a star shape.
By Jessica Donev
By Jessica DonevSelect a date to find available tickets, tours & activities:
Tickets
Find tickets for the ascent to the roof of the Arc de Triomphe here. Decide whether you want time-bound tickets or flexible tickets and find tickets that let you skip the long queues.
Paris: Arc de Triomphe Rooftop Tickets
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Arc de Triomphe and Seine River Cruise
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Arc de Triomphe Priority Tickets - Optional Private Guide
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Arc de Triomphe + Rooftop Access Tickets
3.4(102)
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Tours
During our guided tours, you will learn more about the Arc de Trimph and what you can see from above. In this section you will also find combination tickets that allow you to discover a lot of Paris at a low price.Paris: Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour and Arc de Triomphe
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Paris Arc de Triomphe Entry and Mini Walking Tour
4.6(27)
(27)viator.com
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Paris: Arc de Triomphe Entry and Walking Tour
3.8(25)
(25)getyourguide.com
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Arc de Triomphe : Private guided tour with "ticket included"
5.0(2)
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10 tips for visiting the Arc de Triomphe
Arc de Triomphe | Unsplash: Osama Madlom
1
Be prepared to climb stairsThe viewing deck of the Arc de Triomphe is located at a hight of 50m (164ft). There are a total of 284 steps to conquer to reach the top. Alternatively, there is a lift, but only up to the middle floor, from there you will have to climb another 64 stairs to the viewing platform.
Arc de Triomphe | Unsplash: chandresh raju
2
Take your time for the historical exhibitionInside the Arc de Triomphe, there's a small exhibition about the history of the monument and its significance; here, you can quietly learn more about the fascinating history of the building.
3
Linger on the rooftop terraceSpend enough time on the rooftop terrace. The panoramic view over Paris, including Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Cœur and the twelve avenues radiating from the Arc de Triomphe, is breathtaking.
4
Use the underpassSince the dangerous roundabout of Champs-Élysées is hardly safe to cross otherwise, there is an underpass that takes guests directly below the square to the Arc de Triomphe. The entrance to the underpass is located at Avenue de la Grande Armée.
5
Visit the Arc de Triomphe in the eveningAt 6:30 PM the flame at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is ceremonially lit since 1921; and the Champs-Élysées lights up in the light of the oncoming night. This makes the visit to the Arc de Triomphe a very special experience, but at the same time it also ensures that the crowds are quite large. If you prefer a quieter visit, perhaps an early morning trip would be more suitable.
6
Book in advanceThe queues at the Arc de Triomphe can get very long - so purchasing Skip-the-Line tickets is definitely worthwhile. You will surely find the right ticket on TicketLens!
7
Celebrate free admission every 1st Sunday of the month in winterFrom November to March, admission is free on the first Sunday of every month. Take advantage of this opportunity if you are in Paris at this time. Of course, you can also expect a high number of visitors.
8
Visit on July 14thIf you happen to be in Paris on the French National holiday, July 14th, you can experience the impressive military parade and the evening fireworks from the Arc de Triomphe. However, be aware that it can be particularly crowded on this day.
9
Photo Spot TipA great photo spot is on Avenue des Champs-Élysées, near the Rond-Point des Champs-Élysées. From there, you have an impressive view of the Arc de Triomphe and can take great pictures.
10
Pay Attention to the WeatherIt's best to buy tickets that you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. You can of course find these tickets here on TicketLens, for example with our affiliate ‘GetYourGuide’! The Arc de Triomphe is closed during bad weather conditions. Unfortunately, you won't get your money back!
Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile | Unsplash: Timelab
A day in Paris is not complete without visiting the Arc de Triomphe!
The Arc de Triomphe rises at the western end of the Champs-Élysées and is visible from a distance thanks to its size. I spent a day right here and climbed up the 284 stairs. The effort was definitely worth it!Place de la Concorde | Unsplash: Paris Photographer | Février Photography
Start at the eastern end of the Champs-Élysées
In order to be at the Arc de Triomphe by 18:30, we start just before noon at Place de la Concorde and make our way through Jardin de Champs Élysées towards lunch. We have chosen Bistro 25 at the eastern end of the huge shopping street. With a plate full of delicious Steak au poivre and Rigatoni, we are already looking forward to the shopping adventure on the famous Champs-Élysées. We will skip dessert this time because we will definitely get some Macarons at Ladurée instead.
Louis Vuitton on the Champs-Élysées | Unsplah: Melanie Pongratz
Shopping, Shopping, Shopping
The Champs-Élysées leaves no shopping wish unfulfilled. Unfortunately, my wallet is not big enough for the many luxury shops like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, or Yves-Saint Lorent, but there are also plenty of ready-to-wear shops like Zara, Sephora and H&M that make my heart beat faster. I could spend hours on this street. Not just for shopping, but also for art and culture, in restaurants and bars, and to party! If you want to learn more about the Champs-Élysées, feel free to visit our page about it!
Arc de Triomphe bottom | Unsplash: Simon Wiedensohler
The Arc de Triomphe - bottom
From the Rond-Point of the Champs-Élysées we have a spectacular view of the Arc de Triomphe. From here we take the first photos of our destination. Once we arrive at the large roundabout, we walk through the underground passageway to reach the Arc de Triomphe. Beneath the Arc de Triomphe is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where the flame is rekindled every day at 6:30 PM. Looking up, in the middle of the arch, you can discover a camera that sends a live image to the Museum of the Arc de Triomphe. Looking around, one thing stands out: the names of the fallen almost completely adorn the exterior facade of the Arc de Triomphe. And another beautiful detail is that from here we can once again see the Eiffel Tower. Luckily, we purchased tickets in advance and can skip the long lines to take the stairs to the top.
Arc de Triomphe inside | Unsplash: Ruben Christen
The Arc de Triomphe - inside
Spiral stairs take us up. We have to climt a total of 284 steps to finally arrive at the top. On the way up, all visitors feel the same - we are panting and sweating. However, there are always small bays so that you can take a break and not hinder other people on the ascent. After the first part, which makes up about ¾ of the stairs, there is also a small sitting area. The elevator, which only visitors who need it are allowed to use, will also take you up here. On this mezzanine floor, there is a museum that shows the live recording of the small camera we discovered below. Other screens and signs provide information about the Arc de Triomphe and the attractions that can be seen from above - in French and English. Additionally, you have the opportunity to buy banknotes and coins as souvenirs. We want to move on quickly and climb the last stairs to finally see Paris from above. After a few more stairs, we almost reach the top. Inside, there is a souvenir store and further seating options, as well as a memorial to the 'Unknown Soldier' and the wars.
Arc de Triomphe top | Unsplah: Efe Yağız Soysal
The Arc de Triomphe - top
After the last few stairs, we finally arrive at the top of the terrace. After the effort, the wind blowing here is a pleasant way to cool down. As soon as we reach the last step, the long-awaited view over Paris greets us. Here you have to decide which direction and along which of the 12 streets you want to look first. Westward along the Avenue de la Grand Armée you can see the La Défense district and the Grand Arche in the distance. Right opposite is the Champs-Élysées, at the end of which we can spot the Louvre Museum. To the south, the Eiffel Tower dominates the Paris skyline. To the southeast, we see the Musée de l'Armée. If you're ever unsure where you're looking during your visit, there are always signs that label buildings and streets. The view from above of the large roundabout, where countless cars find their way in a traffic system that is inexplicable and quite chaotic to me, is also fascinating.
Arc de Triomphe | Unsplah: Timelab
The day ends - the evening begins
Many think that after climbing the Eiffel Tower, they no longer need to visit the Arc de Triomphe. I definitely disagree. The 12 streets leading away from the monument and the views it offers are quite special. After all the walking on the Champs-Élysées and the 284 stairs, my legs are tired. However, the day is not over for us yet, because my boyfriend surprises me with a reservation at Le Fouquet, one of the most famous restaurants on the Champs-Élysées, and with tickets for a cabaret at Crazy Horse. We relish the meal, enjoy the evening, and fall into our cozy hotel bed late at night. Do as we did and combine the Champs-Élysées with a visit to the Arc de Triomphe. Find your ticket options here on TicketLens!
Arc de Triomphe | Unsplash: Mathurin NAPOLY / matnapo
The history of the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile, one of the most iconic structures in Paris, stands not just for architectural splendor but also for the turbulent history of France. Originally commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte, this monument has witnessed numerous historic events and symbolizes the greatness and pride of the nation to this day.Arc de Triomphe | Unsplash: Lisa Kitano
Napoleon's vision
In 1806 AD, Napoleon Bonaparte ordered the construction of the Arc de Triomphe to celebrate the glorious victories of his armies. The arch was intended to be a symbol of the strength and glory of France. The architect Jean Chalgrin designed the monument in the neoclassical style, inspired by Roman triumphal arches.
Arc de Triomphe | Flickr: David Wilson CC-BY-SA 2.0
The construction process
The construction began in 1806 AD, but dragged on for many years. Due to Napoleon's fall and the political turmoil of the time, the work was interrupted several times. It was not until 1836 AD, under the reign of King Louis-Philippe, that the arch was finally completed. During this time, the responsible architects changed several times, but Chalgrin's initial design largely remained intact.
Tomb of the unknown Ssldier | Flickr: edwin.11 CC-BY-SA 2.0
A monument to the fallen
The Arc de Triomphe serves as a tribute to the French armies who fought during the Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars. Under the arc lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which has commemorated the fallen soldiers of the First World War since 1921. The eternal flame, rekindled daily, symbolizes the memory of the fallen soldiers and the everlasting remembrance of their courage and sacrifice.
Arc de Triomphe | Unsplash: Yiwen
Historical events
Over the years, the Arc de Triomphe has been the site of numerous historical events. In 1919, Allied troops marched under the arch to celebrate the end of World War I. In 1944, a parade was held here to mark the liberation of Paris in World War II. The Arc de Triomphe remains a central site for national celebrations to this day, such as on July 14th, the annual day of remembrance and French national holiday.
Details | Unsplash: Ty Koh
Architectural details
The Arc de Triomphe impresses not only with its size but also through its elaborate decorations. Four main sculptures on the pillars represent significant moments of the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars: ‘Le Départ des volontaires’ (the departure of the volunteers) (also known as ’La Marseillaise’), ’Le Triomphe’ (the Triumph), ’La Résistance’ (the Resistance), and ’La Paix’ (the Peace). The names of 660 generals and numerous battles are engraved on the inside walls.
Triumphal arch | Unsplash: Peter Burdon
A symbol of unity
Today, the Arc de Triomphe is a symbol of unity and national pride for France. It attracts millions of visitors annually, who enjoy the view from its platform and immerse themselves in French history. The triumphal arch remains a testament to the brave men and women who fought for the country, and is an essential symbol of the enduring French identity.
Arc de Triomphe wrapped | Unsplash: Felix Dauer
The wrapping of the Arc de Triomphe as an art project
In September 2021, the Arc de Triomphe in Paris was wrapped as part of a posthumous art project by the late artist couple Christo and Jeanne-Claude. The monument was completely covered in 25,000 sqm (269,097.76 sqft) of silvery blue fabric, which was tied with 3,000m (9,842.52ft) of red rope. This spectacular installation fulfilled a long-held dream of the artist couple, who had become known for similar projects like the wrapping of the Reichstag building in Berlin. The temporary art action, which lasted for over two weeks, attracted numerous visitors and provoked reflection on the relationship between art, space, and public heritage. It reminded us that there is nothing threatening about the crowd in large-scale projects by Christo and Jeanne-Claude. On the contrary: the massive works radiate peace. The silvery covers softened the hardness of the huge official architecture.
Olympia in Paris | Flickr: Diplomatic Security Service CC-BY-SA 2.0
The 2024 Olympic Games
Around the Olympic and Paralympic Games 2024 in Paris, there were significant events and special exhibitions involving the Arc de Triomphe. A standout event is the first-time installation of the three Paralympic Agitos on the Arc de Triomphe. This symbolism was presented for the first time in a host city before the Olympic Games and aimed to highlight the upcoming Paralympic Games. The Agitos installation remained in place until the end of the Games. The Olympic rings were installed at the Eiffel Tower.
On July 15, 2024, the Olympic flame passed through the Place Charles-de-Gaulle-Étoile.
On July 15, 2024, the Olympic flame passed through the Place Charles-de-Gaulle-Étoile.
Frequently Asked Questions
May I take photographs and make video recordings?
Yes, however, tripods and large cameras are not allowed unless you have obtained permission beforehand. Read more.
Can I visit the Arc de Triomph with a stroller?
No, strollers are not allowed. Read more.
What kind of clothing is recommended for visiting the Arc de Triomphe?
It is best to wear non-slip and comfortable shoes due to the many steps to overcome. Additionally, appropriate clothing is requested as the monument is dedicated to the memory of the French soldiers. Read more.
How much time should I plan for the visit?
You should plan about one hour for your visit. Remember that you have to overcome many stairs and the totel visiting time depends on how long it takes you to climb them. Read more.
Am I allowed to take large bags?
It's best to leave large backpacks and bags at the hotel. They are not allowed here; there are also no lockers available. Read more.
Is the Arc de Triomphe included in the ‘Paris Pass’?
Yes! If you plan to visit several attractions in Paris, the Paris Pass is certainly a good investment and also grants you free admission to the Arc de Triomphe. Read more.
Paris's highest observation decks
Photo
Building
Total height
Height of observation deck
Open since
Paris
Arc de TriompheParis | France
50m#4 in Paris#4 in France#81 worldwide
50m#4 in Paris#4 in France#81 worldwide
1836
Eiffel TowerParis | France
324m#1 in Paris#1 in France#42 worldwide
276m#1 in France#36 worldwide
1889
Tour MontparnasseParis | France
210m#2 in Paris#2 in France#75 worldwide
210m#2 in France#63 worldwide
1973
worldwide
Empire State BuildingNew York | USA
443m#3 in USA#17 worldwide
373m#3 in USA#14 worldwide
1931
Arc de Triomphe is number 4 in Paris and number 81 on the worldwide list of the tallest buildings with an observation deck.
General information
opening hours
address
Place Charles-de-Gaulle
75008 Paris
website
tickets
how to get there
Written byJessica DonevJessica is the definition of Jack of all trades. When she wants to do something, she just does it. That's why Jessica is an event manager, professional dancer, trainer, content creator, speaker / presenter in training and much more. Having traveled the world a lot, she knows what's important when traveling and shares it with you here on TicketLens.
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