The Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphethe emblematic monument at the heart of Place Charles de Gaulle (formerly Place de l'Étoile) in Paris. Pariswas erected by order of Napoleon I in 1806. This majestic structure celebrates the victories of the Grande Armée and pays homage to the French soldiers who fell in the Revolutionary and Napoleonic wars, housing under its vault the tomb of the Unknown Soldier from the First World War.
This comprehensive guide will accompany you on your visit to the Arc de Triomphe, providing essential information on ticketing, the fascinating history and unique design of this monument. You'll also find suggestions for enriching experiences in the surrounding area.
Take advantage of your stay in Paris to explore the Arc de Triomphe and enjoy spectacular views of the city and its famous avenues from its terrace.
Preparing your visit to the Arc de Triomphe
Opening times and best times to visit
The Arc de Triomphe welcomes you every day, except on certain public holidays and during official ceremonies. Opening hours vary according to the season: 10am to 11pm from April 1 to September 30, and 10am to 10:30pm from October 1 to March 31. Please note that the last access is allowed 45 minutes before closing time.
The ideal time to visit the Arc de Triomphe depends on your personal preferences. To avoid crowds, choose early morning or late evening. If you want to enjoy a panoramic view of Paris, choose a clear, sunny day.
For a unique experience, consider an evening visit. The city lights up, and the flame of the Unknown Soldier offers a moving spectacle under the archway.
Buy your tickets: options and prices
There are several ways to buy tickets for the Arc de Triomphe: directly on site, online or via combined offers. The standard admission price is €16, with freebies and discounts available for certain visitors.
Buying tickets on site is possible, but may involve waiting in line. Buying online, on the other hand, saves time and gives you priority access.
Tickets can be booked on the official website of the Centre des monuments nationaux or through partner platforms. Combined offers include discounts and guided tours, pairing the Arc de Triomphe with other Parisian monuments, or even a €45 annual pass giving unlimited access to over 90 monuments.
Practical advice: safety, accessibility and available services
For a safe visit, please follow staff instructions and sanitary measures. A security check is carried out at the entrance, and a free checkroom is available for bulky items.
No smoking, eating or drinking inside, except in designated areas.
The Arc de Triomphe is not fully accessible to people with reduced mobility, due to the 284 steps leading up to the terrace. However, the monument is equipped to accommodate the visually and hearing impaired and the mentally handicapped, with special documents and tours available on request.
On-site services include a gift store, toilets, water dispensers and free wifi. Information panels, touch screens and audio guides are also available to enhance your experience.
Exploring the Arc de Triomphe
A dive into history
The Arc de Triomphe, an emblematic monument, embodies the milestones of French history since the 19th century. It is decorated with bas-reliefs and sculptures, and bears the names of battles and illustrious generals engraved on its walls. Works by Rude, Cortot, Etex and Bosio, among others, represent key moments in the French Revolution and Empire, offering a visual journey through time.
Inside the Arc, a museum reveals the details of its construction and the importance of its symbols.
Ascent to the panoramic terrace
The Arc de Triomphe offers a breathtaking view of Paris and its majestic avenues. Access to the panoramic terrace must be earned by climbing 284 steps. Once at the top, the reward is well worth the effort: a unique view of the historic axis running from the Louvre to the Grande Arche de la Défense, crossing the Tuileries, the Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Élysées.
From up here, the Eiffel TowerThe Sacré-Coeur and Notre-Dame de Paris are revealed from an exceptional angle.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Eternal Flame
At the foot of the Arc de Triomphe lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a tribute to all the French soldiers who fell in the First World War. The eternal flame that burns there unceasingly symbolizes respect and remembrance. Every evening, at 6.30pm, a ceremony to rekindle the flame offers a moment of meditation in which all can participate.
Tribute can be paid to the Unknown Soldier, whose grave bears the inscription "Ici repose un soldat français mort pour la patrie 1914-1918" ("Here lies a French soldier who died for his country 1914-1918").
Complementary experiences around the Arc de Triomphe
Guided tours: Arc secrets and anecdotes
For those wishing to deepen their knowledge of the Arc de Triomphe, taking part in a guided tour is the ideal option. These tours reveal the monument's fascinating secrets and anecdotes, covering historical, artistic and even unusual aspects. Whether it's a guided tour with a monument agent, a lecture by a conference guide, or a personalized experience with a professional guide, you'll discover the Arc from every angle, including its sculptures, museum and panoramic terrace.
Special events and temporary exhibitions
The Arc de Triomphe is the scene of numerous special events and temporary exhibitions highlighting its heritage and symbolic significance. You'll have the opportunity to attend commemorative ceremonies, concerts, shows and projections that enrich its cultural offering. Themed exhibitions, art installations and fun tours are regularly offered for a complete immersion experience. To make sure you don't miss a thing, keep an eye on the monument's cultural calendar.
Around the Arc de Triomphe: discover the Champs-Élysées avenue
A visit to the Arc de Triomphe is also the perfect opportunity to discover the Champs-Élysées avenue, reputed to be one of the most famous and magnificent avenues in the world. Take advantage of this exceptional location to stroll along its 2 kilometers of stores, restaurants, cinemas and theaters. And don't miss the iconic monuments and gardens along the way, such as the Grand Palais and Petit Palais. The Champs-Élysées avenue is also the setting for numerous events and festivities throughout the year, including the July 14th parade, Christmas illuminations and the arrival of the Tour de France.
Conclusion
The Arc de Triomphe represents an essential stopover on your visit to Parisinvites you on a fascinating journey through French history and art. Whether your interest lies in Napoleon's prowess, whether you're captivated by the breathtaking view over the capital, or moved by the tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Arc de Triomphe will meet your expectations.
Don't delay in planning your visit: book your tickets online for a memorable and rewarding experience. For those wishing to explore further, the area around the Arc de Triomphe, and in particular the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, offers many other wonders to discover.
FAQ
What are the opening hours of the Arc de Triomphe?
The Arc de Triomphe's opening hours vary according to the time of year. From April 1 to September 30, doors are open from 10am to 11pm. Then, from October 1 to March 31, it is open from 10am to 10:30pm. Please note that the Arc may be closed on certain public holidays and during official ceremonies.
How do I book a ticket for the Arc de Triomphe?
To avoid long queues at the Arc de Triomphe, you can buy your ticket online via the Centre des Monuments Nationaux website or the Billets Coupe-File website. These platforms give you direct access to the monument, allowing you to take full advantage of the magnificent panoramic view over Paris.
What activities are available at the Arc de Triomphe?
The prestigious Arc de Triomphe not only offers a breathtaking view of Paris, it also invites visitors to explore its museum, dedicated to its history and importance during major national events. A highlight not to be missed is the daily ceremony to rekindle the flame of the Unknown Soldier, which takes place every evening at 6.30pm.
What is the history of the Arc de Triomphe?
Commissioned by Napoleon I in 1806, the Arc de Triomphe is a monument to French military victories. Its construction, interspersed with interruptions and modifications, was spread over 30 years, reflecting the tumultuous political regimes of the time.q
