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 – 11:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  • Thursday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  • Friday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  • Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 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 Visiting the Arc de Triomphe was one of the highlights of my trip to Paris. The monument is even more impressive in person than in photos. Its massive size, beautiful architecture, and incredible attention to detail make it a true masterpiece. Standing beneath it, you can really appreciate the history and significance of this iconic landmark. Climbing to the top was absolutely worth it. The panoramic view of Paris is breathtaking, especially with the famous Champs-Élysées stretching out below and the Eiffel Tower visible in the distance. It’s the perfect place to take unforgettable photos and admire the beauty of the city from above. I also found the history behind the monument fascinating. The eternal flame and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier add a deeply respectful and emotional atmosphere that reminds visitors of the sacrifices made throughout history. The entire site is well organized, clean, and easy to visit. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply want to experience one of the most famous landmarks in the world, the Arc de Triomphe is a must-see. I would happily visit again and highly recommend it to anyone traveling to Paris.
Tuncay Ergin - 2 months ago

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5 Star Rating Visiting the Arc de Triomphe was an unforgettable experience and one of the most iconic moments of my trip to Paris. The monument is absolutely magnificent, with impressive sculptures and extraordinary architectural details that honor an important part of French history. Standing beneath it, you can truly appreciate its scale and symbolic significance. Climbing to the top was definitely worth it. The panoramic views of Paris are breathtaking, especially the perfect perspective down the Champs Élysées and the surrounding avenues radiating from the monument. The atmosphere around the Arc de Triomphe is vibrant and full of energy, making the experience even more memorable. Overall, a must visit landmark in Paris historic, majestic, and offering some of the best views in the city.
marcos contreras - 3 months ago

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5 Star Rating Standing beneath the Arc de Triomphe is an unforgettable experience. The monument is even more impressive in person, with its massive size, intricate sculptures, and rich history honoring those who fought for France. Climbing to the rooftop is absolutely worth it, offering one of the best panoramic views of Paris, including the famous Champs-Élysées stretching into the distance and the Eiffel Tower on the horizon. Visiting around sunset makes the city even more magical as the lights begin to glow. Be prepared for some stairs if you head to the top, but the view is well worth the effort. A must-visit landmark for anyone exploring Paris.
Trung Nguyen - 2 months ago

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5 Star Rating I was genuinely amazed by the urban planning of Paris the moment I reached the top of the Arc de Triomphe. Standing here, you can clearly see the twelve grand avenues radiating perfectly from the monument. It makes you appreciate how visionary French city planning was centuries ago. Up close, the sculptures and carvings on the Arc are simply breathtaking. Every detail tells a story of France’s history and victories under Napoleon. Whether you admire him or not, it’s impossible not to respect the scale of his ambition and the legacy he left behind. My advice: buy the ticket and climb to the rooftop. It’s €22 on regular days and only €16 on Wednesdays (April–September), and it’s worth every single euro. The 360° panoramic view is one of the best in Paris. You’ll understand the city’s remarkable design, learn the fascinating history behind the monument, and capture some of the most unique, unforgettable photos of Paris. One of the best viewpoints in the city. Worth every cent 🇫🇷📸
Nhoc Den Thui - 2 months ago

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5 Star Rating The monument itself is stunning. The only issue is the cars around it make it difficult to observe and appreciate the architecture. But the design is beautiful - truly one of the highlights of my trip to Paris. Walking along the Champs Elysees and seeing the Arc de Triomphe at the end was unforgettable… the atmosphere around the monument is quite lively too
Noemi - 4 months ago

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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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