Explore the Arc de Triomphe: A Symbol of France's National Pride

Towering over the Place Charles de Gaulle, at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe is one of the most iconic monuments in France. Commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte after his victory at Austerlitz in 1805, the arch celebrates the military achievements of the French army and serves as a national symbol of courage, sacrifice, and unity.
 

Today, the Arc de Triomphe is not only a historic site but also a must-visit destination for travelers in Paris. Whether you're interested in French history, panoramic city views, or simply want that perfect photo, this monumental arch delivers on all fronts.

📍 Where Is the Arc de Triomphe?

Location: Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France

Neighborhood: 8th arrondissement

Nearby landmarks: Champs-Élysées, Eiffel Tower, Trocadéro, Avenue Kléber

Metro Access: Charles de Gaulle–Étoile station (Lines 1, 2, 6, RER A)

🧭 Why Visit the Arc de Triomphe?

Marvel at its Neoclassical architecture and relief sculptures

Climb to the rooftop for one of the best panoramic views of Paris

Learn about French military history and Napoleon's ambitions

Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and eternal flame

Stand at the heart of 12 radiating avenues, symbolizing unity

🏛️ The History of the Arc de Triomphe

Napoleon's Vision

Napoleon ordered the construction of the Arc de Triomphe in 1806 after the Battle of Austerlitz to honor the Grande Armée. Inspired by Roman triumphal arches, the structure was meant to glorify French victories and military power.

Interrupted and Resumed

Although construction began quickly, it was halted after Napoleon’s downfall in 1814. It resumed in the 1820s under King Louis-Philippe and was finally completed in 1836, 30 years after its inception.

A Site of National Remembrance

Since then, the Arc has become a symbol of French patriotism, especially after World War I. In 1920, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was installed beneath the arch, and its eternal flame is rekindled every evening.

🏗️ Architecture & Symbolism

Style: Neoclassical

Height: 50 meters (164 ft)

Width: 45 meters (148 ft)

Main Archway: 29.19 meters high and 14.62 meters wide

Sculptures to Look For

La Marseillaise (The Departure of the Volunteers) – by François Rude; the most famous relief symbolizing the French Revolution

The Triumph of 1810 – celebrating Napoleon’s diplomatic victories

The Resistance of 1814 and The Peace of 1815 – by Antoine Etex

Names Engraved

The names of 660 generals and 128 battles are engraved on the inner and outer surfaces — with underlined names signifying those who died in battle.

🔥 The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Under the Arc lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I. The eternal flame burns 24/7 in memory of those who died in both World Wars without recognition.

Daily Ceremony

Flame rekindling every evening at 6:30 PM

A poignant and respectful ceremony observed by locals and visitors alike

🪜 Visiting the Arc de Triomphe: What to Expect

How to Get There

Do NOT try to cross the roundabout! Instead, use the underground pedestrian tunnel accessible from the Champs-Élysées side.

Tickets

Entrance to rooftop:

Adults: ~€13

EU citizens under 26: Free

Children under 18: Free

Entry is free on the first Sunday of each month (Nov–March)

Opening Hours

April to September: 10 AM – 11 PM

October to March: 10 AM – 10:30 PM

Last entry: 45 minutes before closing

Closed: January 1, May 1, July 14 (morning), December 25

Accessibility

Elevator available for visitors with limited mobility

284 steps to the top if you go by stairs

🌆 Rooftop View: A 360° Panorama of Paris

Climbing the Arc rewards you with one of the best viewpoints in the city. Unlike the Eiffel Tower, here you get an unobstructed view of the tower itself!

What You Can See

Eiffel Tower

Champs-Élysées

La Défense skyline

Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur

The Louvre and Seine River

This spot is especially magical at sunset or night, when Paris is bathed in golden light or twinkling city lights.

📸 Best Photo Spots

Avenue des Champs-Élysées, looking toward the Arc

Across from Avenue Kléber, for a full view

On the rooftop, capturing the radiating avenues

Evening photos of the flame ceremony

🛍️ Nearby Attractions & Activities

1. Champs-Élysées

One of the most famous shopping streets in the world

Luxury brands, cafes, cinemas, and flagship stores

2. Eiffel Tower

A 20-minute walk or short metro ride away

Combine both landmarks in one scenic itinerary

3. Trocadéro Gardens

Stunning view of the Eiffel Tower

Great for photographers and picnics

4. Bois de Boulogne

A vast green park for walks, boat rides, and relaxation

🗓️ Best Time to Visit the Arc de Triomphe

🧳 Insider Tips for Visiting

Buy tickets online to skip the queue

Visit early morning or at sunset for fewer crowds and beautiful light

Use the underpass to access the monument safely

Plan your visit around the flame ceremony at 6:30 PM

Combine with a Seine cruise or Eiffel Tower tour for a perfect Paris day

🎉 Events at the Arc de Triomphe

Bastille Day (July 14): Military parade starts at the Arc

Armistice Day (November 11): National ceremony honoring WWI soldiers

New Year’s Eve: Light shows and projections on the Arc

🏨 Where to Stay Nearby

Luxury

Hotel Raphael Paris – 5-star, elegant and minutes from the Arc

The Peninsula Paris – Rooftop terrace and spa, 2 blocks away

Mid-Range

Hotel Ekta – Chic and fashion-inspired

Hotel Balmoral – Cozy and classic Parisian ambiance

Budget

Hotel Cecilia – Affordable and excellent location

Ibis Styles Paris Étoile – Good value, modern amenities

❓Is the Arc de Triomphe Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. The Arc de Triomphe is not just a photo op — it's a monument to French resilience, an open-air museum of art and history, and one of the most breathtaking observation decks in Paris. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or just a curious traveler, the Arc delivers an unforgettable Parisian experience.