Background

Arc de Triomphe: A Symbol of French Grandeur

4.7 (245738)

Experience Parisian history and breathtaking panoramic views from atop the iconic Arc de Triomphe, a symbol of French national pride and military triumph.

The Arc de Triomphe, standing proudly at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle, is a monument honoring those who fought in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Inspired by the Arch of Titus in Rome, it offers panoramic views of Paris from its rooftop terrace.

A brief summary to Arc de Triomphe

  • Monday 10 am-11 pm
  • Tuesday 11 am-11 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-11 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-11 pm
  • Friday 10 am-11 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-11 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-11 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Arc de Triomphe.

  • Access the Arc de Triomphe via the underground pedestrian tunnels from the Champs-Élysées or Avenue de la Grande Armée to avoid the chaotic roundabout.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance to skip the ticket lines, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Visit the Arc de Triomphe just before sunset to see the Eiffel Tower light up for a special experience.
  • Consider visiting on the first Sunday of the month from November to March for free entry.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Unlock the Best of Arc de Triomphe

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From central Paris, take Metro lines 1, 2, or 6, or RER A to Charles-de-Gaulle-Étoile station. Follow signs to the Arc de Triomphe exit and use the underground tunnel to reach the monument safely. A single Metro/RER ticket costs €2.50. Alternatively, bus lines 22, 30, 31, 52, 73, and 92 also stop nearby. A bus ticket costs €2.00.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Paris. A taxi from the Louvre Museum to the Arc de Triomphe, a distance of approximately 4 km, typically costs between €15 and €20, depending on traffic. The minimum fare is €7.10. Be sure the taxi has a meter and a 'TAXI' sign. Supplements apply for pre-booked taxis (€4-€7) and additional passengers. The taxi stand is located at Place Charles de Gaulle.

  • Walking

    If you are near the Champs-Élysées, walk towards the western end. Use the underground pedestrian tunnels from either the Champs-Élysées or Avenue de la Grande Armée to safely access the Arc de Triomphe, as crossing the roundabout is dangerous. The walk from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe is approximately 3.5 km and takes about 45 minutes.

  • Car

    Driving to the Arc de Triomphe can be challenging due to the complex roundabout. Paid parking is available in nearby parking lots. Consider using Parking Kléber-Trocadéro or Indigo Etoile Wagram. Underground parking options include Saemes Carnot car park, about a 5-minute walk away, with rates around €14.40 for 3 hours. Street parking is limited and costs between €4 and €6 per hour. Be aware of strict parking rules and heavy traffic.

Discover more about Arc de Triomphe

Located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe is one of Paris's most iconic monuments. Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 to celebrate the victories of the Grande Armée, its construction took three decades, finally completed in 1836. The arch stands as a testament to French military history and national pride.Designed by Jean Chalgrin, the Arc de Triomphe is inspired by the Roman Arch of Titus but on a larger scale. The names of French victories and generals are inscribed on its surfaces. Beneath the arch lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, with an eternal flame that has been burning since 1920, honoring the unidentified casualties of World War I.Visitors can access the top of the Arc de Triomphe via 284 steps, or by elevator. From the rooftop terrace, a 360° view of Paris unfolds, including the Champs-Élysées, the Eiffel Tower, and La Défense. Inside the monument, a small museum details the history of the Arc de Triomphe. The Arc de Triomphe remains a central point for national commemorations and a must-see attraction for tourists.
Mobile App

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.



More about Ile De France

File:Eiffel Tower Paris 01.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

Explore Île-de-France, where Parisian charm meets historic grandeur, and every corner tells a story of elegance and timeless beauty.

Tell me more about Ile De France

Select Currency