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
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)
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.
Arc de Triomphe Entry Tickets with Rooftop Access
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Arc de Triomphe Hosted Entry & Gourmet Macaron Tasting
Combo (Save 5%): Arc de Triomphe Entry with Rooftop Access + Classic French Meals on the Champs-Élysées
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
It symbolizes France’s military victories, the bravery & resilience of its soldiers, and national unity. Read about its history here.
The tomb holds the remains of an unidentified French soldier from World War I.
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.
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!
It remains a national symbol, receiving an annual footfall of 1.7 million people. Annual ceremonies like Armistice Day are celebrated here.
Nearby visits include Hotel de la Marine, Conciergerie, Sainte-Chapelle, and Pantheon, all within walking distance (it’s a good way to burn away the macaroons and croissants calories).
