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At the center of a large boulevard, at the western edge of the Champs-Élysées, there is an arch that has been standing tall for centuries, with patterned inscriptions and statues that speak of a brave past.
The Arc de Triomphe is a key symbol of French identity, marked by events like the Bastille Day military parade and the annual Tour de France race. This giant stone history book, commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte as an emblem of victory, took over 30 years to complete. This guide helps you plan your trip to the literal heart of French history at this triumphal arch.
If you don’t believe in love at first sight, the Arc de Triomphe might change your mind! Standing tall at an impressive 162 feet and width of 150 feet, this monument showcases Neoclassical elements of Roman architecture, drawing inspiration from the Roman Arch of Titus. Its ornate sculptures and reliefs vividly depict scenes from French battles and campaigns, highlighting victories from the Napoleonic Era. Napoleon sought to make Paris a city of beauty, and the Arc de Triomphe is one of his crowning achievements.
The Arc de Triomphe stands as a powerful chronicle of French history, honoring those who fought and lost their lives in the Napoleonic Wars and the French Revolution. Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, the monument is inscribed with the names of 158 battles and 660 generals who served during these conflicts—a golden roll of honor in the heart of Paris.
As the second-largest triumphal arch in the world, the Arc de Triomphe offers incredible panoramic views from its summit. Visitors can enjoy sweeping vistas of iconic Parisian landmarks, including Montmartre, the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, and even Notre Dame. Located at the center of a star-shaped plaza, with twelve avenues radiating outward from its base, the Arc is truly at the heart of the city.
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Beneath the arched structure of the Arc de Triomphe lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a tribute to the countless anonymous heroes who died for their country and remain unsung. The eternal Flame of Remembrance, lit in 1923, honors the sacrifices of all French soldiers and has never been extinguished.
What makes the Arc de Triomphe a key symbol of the French identity are the staggering 158 battle names inscribed on the monument's surfaces. Did you know that the engravings are interestingly divided, as the outer ring features victories of the French Revolution, while the inner surface celebrates Napoleon's conquests? The names of over 600 French generals are carved on the arch– a wall of fame like no other.
Want to take a walk through time to understand more about the Arc de Triomphe, from its conception to the blueprint and the construction? Head to the museum located just below the observation deck, dedicated to all things Triomphe! As you look around, you’ll learn about the design choices, the challenges faced by the architects, and the symbolism embedded in the sculptures and reliefs. The exhibits include artifacts, photographs, drawings and models of the arch.
The Arc de Triomphe’s history is set in stone, literally! Between 1833 and 1836, artists like François Rude and Antoine Etex carved the pillars with scenes depicting pivotal moments in French history.On the east side, you'll find François Rude's 'The Departure of the Volunteers,' while turning the corner reveals Jean-Pierre Cortot's 'Napoleon's Triumph”. The south side takes a somber turn with Antoine Etex's "The Resistance," and finally, on the west side, there’s Etex's "The Peace".
Last entry: 45 minutes before closing time
Closed: January 1, May 1, May 8 (morning), July 14 (morning), November 11 (morning), and December 25.
Best time to visit: Early in the day or right before closing to avoid crowds. If you're looking for lighter tourist seasons, visit in the shoulder months, September to December, or February to May.
Address: Place Charles-de-Gaulle, 75008 Paris.
The Arc de Triomphe offers limited accessibility, with elevator access reserved for visitors with mobility needs, taking you up to the museum level before a short final lift to the terrace. Staff are helpful and guide eligible guests through dedicated entry points, but the rooftop can still feel narrow and windy. The surrounding roundabout isn’t pedestrian-friendly, so always use the underground passage for safe, step-free access to the monument.
Yes, ideally 2 weeks in advance. Arc de Triomphe is a popular landmark and tickets sell out fast. Purchasing them online also gives you the advantage of fast-track entry.
Entry to the Arc de Triomphe typically costs around €16 for adults (though it can vary by season). Discounts are available for certain age groups, and entry is free for children under 18, EU residents under 26, and others. Visits during European Heritage Days (every 3rd week of September) and the first Sunday of every month from November to March are free.
Tickets are dated, but not timed. You should visit on the date you have selected, with flexibility of time (during operating hours).
Tickets start at around €16 for standard entry with rooftop access. Combo options and guided tours are priced higher.
No, tickets to the Arc de Triomphe are non-refundable and cannot be exchanged, so make sure to plan your visit carefully before booking.
Yes, the rooftop is accessible (except for visitors with mobility issues). Prepare for 360° unobstructed views of Paris and its many landmarks including the Champs-Élysées, and the Eiffel Tower.
The Arc de Triomphe is accessible to visitors with disability up to the mezzanine level (via elevator). However, the rooftop remains inaccessible because it is a 42-step climb to the top. However, the base of the monument and the Eternal Flame can be accessed by all visitors.
The rekindling ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe is a daily public ceremony held at 6:30pm where the eternal flame at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is rekindled by a veterans' association. The ceremony honors the sacrifice of French soldiers who died in World War I and has been held daily since November 11, 1923.
Yes, the Arc de Triomphe is beautifully illuminated every night, presenting a stunning view and multiple photo opportunities.
