Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is a historic landmark of monumental proportions

View of the Arc de Triomphe from across the traffic circle
View of the Arc de Triomphe from across the traffic circle cc licensed photo by asw909

Seeing the Arc de Triomphe (Triumphal Arch) in person is a must if you are visiting Paris for the first time. This huge and impressive historical monument is an example of French patriotism at it's highest. The Arch stands 164 feet high and 148 feet wide. The large opening is 96 feet high and 48 feet across. You can reach the top of Arch by a combination of a lift and steps. There you will find a museum about the Arc de Triomphe and at the very top a viewing area where you can enjoy panoramic views of Paris.

The Arc De Triomphe is located at the west end of the Champs-Élysées in the centre of a large and chaotic traffic circle from which 12 streets radiate. The monument, designed by Jean Chalgrin, was commissioned in 1806 as a tribute to the Grand Army in celebration of Napoleon's victory at Austerlitz during the height of his success. Construction took place over a period of 30 years and eventually, in 1940, the remains of Napoleon passed beneath the Arc enroute to their resting place at Les Invalides.

Four significant sculptures on the Arc De Triomphe are Le Départ de 1792', Le Triomphe de 1810, La Résistance de 1814, and La Paix de 1815. There are also six reliefs sculptured in the Arch that epitomize significant events surrounding the French Revolution and the time of Napoleon. These sculptures are incredibly detailed and must be seen to be appreciated.

On Armistice Day in 1920 an unknown soldier was interned beneath the Arc de Triomphe in what is now known as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. A flame on top of the tomb burns continually in memory of the many fallen soldiers from World War I and II who where never identified.

Nearby attractions: Jacquemart-Andre Museum - (Private Art Collection) and Parc de Monceau

Facts For Your Visit

Fee: Outside is free. Admission charges apply for the museum and viewing platform

Arc de Triomphe Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays

  • Monday: 10:00 AM – 10:15 PM
  • Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 10:15 PM
  • Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 10:15 PM
  • Thursday: 10:00 AM – 10:15 PM
  • Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:15 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:15 PM
  • Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:15 PM

Address: Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France

Phone: 01 55 37 73 77

Official Website: Arc de Triomphe

Arc de Triomphe Reviews

Rated 4.7 out of 5 Star Rating

5 Star Rating Arc de Triumph is one of the places one must see when in Paris. This monument is simply majestic. The history behind it is so rich and breathing. We visited on a sunny Friday morning, as we wanted to beat the busy times, which usually start at around noon. We did bot reserve but instead got tickets directly at the desk after a short wait. Once you enter, you get to clime a spiral staircase, which leads to the 1st floor where all the history information is displayed and as well as interactive screens, shops and lavatories, etc. You also ge a breather as these stairs are steep. Once you reach the top, you one will be Wowed. If you get nice weather, you see Paris differently. This is done to the positioning of the monument. One has the feeling that you are on the centre as all 11 avenues lead to it. On each corner of the arch, there is an interactive map that shows you all the landmarks that you can see in the distance. Watching the public, traffic, and city life from the top one feel mighty and glorious. Great experience
Sabbi Gavrailov Art - a week ago

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5 Star Rating I understand why Paris Is an amazing place to have Educational field trip for Architecture students… it is simply one of the best cities that have this kind of experience to see human structural creations. It’s huge and really busy on weekends so we got lucky to see it on a weekday like this. People are taking pictures from the middle of the street so be careful please lol
Annie Nestor - in the last week

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5 Star Rating I was there on a French holiday so the lines were long. Buying tickets in advance was nice to avoid two lines. The rooftop access has wonderful view of the entire city. Be prepared for a lot of stairs.
Robert Forrester - a week ago

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5 Star Rating The Triumphal Arch is a historic symbol of Parisian grandeur and beauty. Its majestic architecture and imposing presence are impossible to miss. Climbing to the top, you'll discover breathtaking views of the city's central streets. This place not only inspires but also fills you with a sense of reverence for France's history and culture. I recommend everyone to visit the Triumphal Arch and experience its greatness firsthand🫶🏼.
Helena Gray - in the last week

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5 Star Rating The Arc de Triomphe in Paris is simply breathtaking. Its grand design and intricate carvings tell the story of France's history. Climbing to the top rewards you with an incredible view of the city, especially at sunset. Just be prepared for crowds, so aim to visit early or during quieter times. Overall, it's a must-visit for anyone in Paris, offering both beauty and history in one iconic landmark.
Kinan Rostom - in the last week

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Directions

Metro / RER Line Nearest Station Walking Time
Metro 1, 2 or 6 or RER ACharles de Gaulle—Étoile station2 minutes

How to get to Arc de Triomphe by Metro / RER

By Metro or RER: Take the Wagram exit from Charles de Gaulle—Étoile station and look for the stairs to the underpass which are located on the north side of Avenue de la Grande Armee right next to the traffic circle. Do not try to walk across the traffic circle - it is far too dangerous.

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