Arc de Triomphe

Arc de Triomphe which includes a monument, skyline and a city
Magnificent views and impressive architecture await at this world-famous arch in the heart of the city.

Paris’ triumphal arch has welcomed visitors for centuries. Standing at the meeting point of 12 major Parisian roads, including the iconic Champs-Élysées, this imposing monument is so much more than just the centrepiece of a roundabout!

As you approach the Arc de Triomphe, take a moment to stop and admire the view of this majestic structure. The four pillars provide windows down some of the biggest roads in Paris – time your visit for sunset for some truly remarkable photo opportunities. As you get closer to the arch itself, there is plenty of pedestrian-only space, so you can feel free to admire the architecture and decorative artwork safely.

The view from 50 metres above Paris is well worth the admission fee and the 284 steps (a lift is also available). The top of the Arc de Triomphe is home to a museum where you can learn about the history of the monument and a gift shop. Don’t forget your camera to capture the awe-inspiring panoramas from the top – these are especially magical in the early evenings and in the winter, when the trees in the surrounding streets sparkle.

At the base of the arch you’ll discover its true purpose as a memorial for all those who have fought for France. Commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806, after his army’s victory at the Battle of Austerlitz, the inner sides and top are engraved with the details of the battles and victims of the Napoleonic wars, fought between 1803 and 1815. After World War I, the body of an unknown soldier was buried here and an eternal flame was later added to commemorate the soldiers who lost their lives in conflict. This purpose is remembered every day at 6:30 pm, when the flame is rekindled.

The Arc de Triomphe’s pillars are all decorated with relief sculptures, depicting scenes from French life, such as Francois Rude’s The Departure of the Volunteers of 1792 as well as allegorical figures, such as Triumph, Peace and Victory.

The Arc de Triomphe is located in Place Charles de Gaulle in the 16th arrondissement on Paris’ Right Bank. The arch is open daily, but if you time your visit around Bastille Day, on 14th July, you’ll have an excellent view of the national parade. This monument is easily accessible via bus, Metro, railway or on foot – it can be difficult to find parking nearby. Underpasses from nearby roads link to the arch, so pedestrians don’t have to battle with the traffic to reach it.

Villa Beaumarchais
La Dépendance
1K Paris
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Reviews of Arc de Triomphe

4.4
Top destination
5 - Excellent
615
" "5 - Excellent 49.87834549878345%
4 - Good
500
" "4 - Good 40.55150040551501%
3 - Okay
103
" "3 - Okay 8.35360908353609%
2 - Disappointing
8
" "2 - Disappointing 0.64882400648824%
1 - Terrible
7
" "1 - Terrible 0.5677210056772101%

2/5 - Disappointing

Verified traveller
6 Jan 2020

We bought tickets in advance but then found it closed early on the day we planned to visit

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
24 Oct 2019

The climb up the spiral stars was hard even for some of the younger ones it but worth when you get to the top

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
31 Aug 2019

Go up late to see the Eiffel Tower in all its glory!

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
11 Aug 2019

go to view when its dark, very nice

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller
25 May 2019

Elevators not working inside Arch. Bathrooms at top not working.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
17 May 2019

Beautiful building. There is an underground walkway across but we didn't use it this time. Nice walk onto the Champs de Elysee

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