Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is a historic landmark of monumental proportions
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 platformArc de Triomphe Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 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 out of 5
What's not to love. It's an incredible landmark and more beautiful than I imagined. Make sure to take pictures not just close up but farther away as well. If you are trying to figure out where to stay, I would recommend staying near the arc instead of near the Eiffel Tower.
Jackie - a week ago
Standing in front of the real Arc de Triomphe feels surreal.
I still remember taking a photo at the miniature Arc de Triomphe in Kediri, Indonesia more than ten years ago. At that time, I never imagined that one day I would be able to see the real monument in Paris with my own eyes. From a replica I visited as a teenager to this iconic landmark in the heart of France, life truly has its beautiful surprises.
Inayah Syar - a week ago
Just visited the iconic Arc de Triomphe in Paris and I'm still pinching myself! This monumental arch was commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 to honor his Grande Armée and was finally completed in 1836. The monument's sheer grandeur and historical significance left me in awe. The views from the top are breathtaking, with the City of Light stretching out in every direction. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the eternal flame add a poignant touch to this symbol of French national pride. A must-visit for anyone traveling to Paris!
souad yassine - a month ago
An iconic monument that beautifully captures the spirit and history of France! 🇫🇷 The Arc de Triomphe, commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806, honors those who fought and died for France during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. The intricate carvings and sculptures are stunning, and the eternal flame beneath it pays tribute to the Unknown Soldier — a deeply moving sight. The view from the top is absolutely breathtaking, offering a perfect 360° view of Paris and the Champs-Élysées. Visit around sunset to see the city glow and the Eiffel Tower sparkle — truly unforgettable! ✨
Ashmeet Singh - a month ago
Directions
| Metro / RER Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Metro 1, 2 or 6 or RER A | Charles de Gaulle—Étoile station | 2 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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Accommodations near Arc de Triomphe:
Photo Gallery
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Dramatic view of the Arc de Triomphe at dusk cc licensed photo by Pragster -
Photo Credit: Pierre Blaché - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: lukas schlagenhauf - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: Sjaak Kempe - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: Jorge Lascar - cc license via Flickr
