Paris Tickets

Arc de Triomphe, third largest triumphal arch in the world

The Arc de Triomphe is a triumphal arch that honors fallen French soldiers of the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. Located in the center of Paris's busiest roundabout, Place Charles de Gaulle, the arch's rooftop offers stunning views of the...

Also Known As

Triumphal Arch of the Star

Arc de Triomphe, third largest triumphal arch in the world

Quick Information

ADDRESS

Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France

RECOMMENDED DURATION

1 hour

Timings

10:00–23:00

TICKETS

From $8.24

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD

1-2 hours (Peak), 30-60 mins (Off Peak)

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - SKIP THE LINE

0-30 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

Did you know?

The construction of Arc de Triomphe took over 30 years and various architects due to political changes and funding issues.

The Arc de Triomphe is the second-largest triumphal arch in the world and was the largest until 1982 before The Arch of Triumph in Pyongyang, North Korea was built.

Although commissioned by Emperor Napoleon, he never had the chance to see the Arch completed as the project continued for 15 years after his death. However, his body was later moved to the arch in 1850.

Book tickets to the Arc de Triomphe

Arc de Triomphe Entry Tickets with Rooftop Access

Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
Guided tour

Combo (Save 11%): Arc de Triomphe Rooftop + Seine River Cruise Tickets

Mobile ticket
Audio guide

Arc de Triomphe Hosted Entry & Gourmet Macaron Tasting

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
2 hr.

Combo (Save 5%): Arc de Triomphe Entry with Rooftop Access + Classic French Meals on the Champs-Élysées

Meals included


What is the Arc de Triomphe?

The Arc de Triomphe is a grand symbol of French pride and history, standing at the heart of Place Charles de Gaulle. Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 to honor his army’s victories, particularly during the French Revolution, it took 30 years to complete.
Inspired by the Arch of Titus in Rome, it bears intricate carvings depicting battles and soldiers, with the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier resting beneath its arch, marked by an eternal flame lit since 1920.

Read about its architecture here

Why visit?

Monument of national significance
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Monument of national significance

Commissioned by Napoleon after his victory at Austerlitz, the triumphal arch commemorates pivotal moments in French history, including the French Revolution and the Liberation of Paris led by Charles de Gaulle. The monument honors the sacrifices of over 300,000 soldiers who fought for France, with the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the eternal flame serving as poignant tributes to fallen heroes.

Iconic Neoclassical architecture

Standing majestically at 50 meters tall, the Arc de Triomphe is a masterpiece of Neoclassical architecture. Its intricate reliefs and sculptures, such as François Rude’s famous La Marseillaise, vividly depict scenes of battle and heroism unique to French military history. The grand design, with its four massive pillars and symmetrical structure, sets it apart as a symbol of strength and unity.

Expansive rooftop views

One of the arch’s standout features is its rooftop, offering sweeping views of Paris. From here, you can see all 12 symmetrically planned avenues radiating from Place Charles de Gaulle, including the Champs-Élysées. The vantage point also provides stunning views of landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Cœur, and the Louvre.

Central location on the Axe Historique

Strategically positioned at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe lies along the Axe Historique (Historical Axis of Paris), the grand alignment that connects some of Paris’s most important landmarks. This prime location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring nearby attractions such as the Louvre Museum, Place de la Concorde, and the Seine River.

Highlights: Keep a lookout for

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Located beneath the arch, this solemn tribute honors soldiers who lost their lives in World War I; names remain unknown. The tomb is marked by an eternal flame (relit every day since 1920), serving as a powerful symbol of remembrance of all the sacrifices that were made.

Intricate relief sculptures

The pillars are decorated with detailed carvings depicting key moments from French history. Look out for La Marseillaise (north pillar) which depicts a group of volunteers from Marseilles fighting for the National Guard; The Triumph of Napoleon (south pillar) illustrates the expansion of the Napoleonic Empire, and many more.

Historical inscriptions

The inner walls of the pillars are inscribed with the names of generals (660 names) and battles (158 battles) from the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic eras. Underlined names signify those killed in action (118) and battle names with a shield (30) next to them indicate those considered great victories.

Sweeping rooftop vistas

Your journey to the rooftop starts with 240 steps leading you to the museum on the mezzanine floor showcasing exhibits on the history and construction of the monument. Continue your climb (44 steps) to the rooftop which offers a 360° view of Paris—the Eiffel Tower, the Sacré-Cœur basilica in the Montmartre district, the golden dome of Les Invalides, the towering spires of Notre-Dame and so much more.

Architecture of the Arc

Tourists exploring the historic Arc de Triomphe in Paris with an audio guide, providing a unique and informative experience
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Designed by Architect Jean Chalgrin; and inspired by the ancient Roman triumphal arches, the Arc de Triomphe is a monumental masterpiece of Neoclassical architecture. Towering at 50 meters, each pillar is adorned with massive sculptural reliefs depicting French military victories with detailed carvings of battles, soldiers, and allegorical figures. The inner walls are inscribed with the names of generals and battles from the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, while the vaulted ceiling boasts intricate rosette patterns. Beneath its arch lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a solemn tribute enhanced by the eternal flame.

Frequently asked questions about the Arc de Triomphe

How long did it take to build the arch?

It took 30 years to complete the Arc de Triomphe, from 1806 to 1836. Due to political unrest between 1814–1823, the project was temporarily suspended.

What does it symbolize?

It symbolizes France’s military victories, the bravery & resilience of its soldiers, and national unity. Read about its history ​here.

Who is buried in the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?

The tomb holds the remains of an unidentified French soldier from World War I.

How long does it take to visit the Arc de Triomphe?

A typical visit lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours unless you cannot step away from the expansive views of Paris from the rooftop. Book your tickets ​here.

Is the rooftop accessible to visitors?

Yes, it is accessible via stairs (284-step climb) or by an elevator (only to the mezzanine level—46-step climb from here to the roof). Accessing the rooftop requires separate tickets—book ​here!

How significant is the arch today?

It remains a national symbol, receiving an annual footfall of 1.7 million people. Annual ceremonies like Armistice Day are celebrated here.

What are other nearby attractions that I can visit?

Nearby visits include ​Hotel de la Marine,Conciergerie,Sainte-Chapelle, andPantheon, all within walking distance (it’s a good way to burn away the macaroons and croissants calories).

More reads

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