In short
The Arc de Triomphe dominates the Place Charles de Gaulle and marks the beginning of the Champs-Élysées. Built to celebrate Napoleon's victories, it is now one of Paris's most recognizable monuments thanks to its panoramic terrace overlooking the city.
- Height: about 50 meters
- Inaugurated in 1836
- Panoramic terrace open to visitors
- View of the Champs-Élysées and the Eiffel Tower
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Arc de Triomphe opening times and prices
The Arc de Triomphe can be visited every day of the year and offers access to the famous panoramic terrace, through tickets, with views of the Champs-Élysées and Paris.
Opening hours
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Everyday 10:00–23:00
Variable opening hours on some holidays
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Last access 45 minutes before
Access to the terrace closes before final time
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Panoramic terrace
360° view of the city
Prices
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Adults from €16
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EU Youth (18–25) Free
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Under 18s Free
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Terrace entrance included
What to see at the Arc de Triomphe
The Eiffel Tower offers much more than just a panoramic view: each level offers different perspectives of the city and the famous iron structure that has dominated Paris since 1889.
The panoramic terrace
View of the Champs-Élysées, the Eiffel Tower and the great boulevards of Paris.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Under the arch is the famous commemorative flame dedicated to the fallen of the First World War.
The sculpted reliefs Historical detail
The facades of the arch display historical scenes and monumental sculptures dedicated to French victories.
The Champs-Élysées
From the terrace, one of the most famous views of the city opens up.
The evening lighting
In the evening, the arch and the avenue become even more evocative thanks to the city lights.
Visiting the Arc de Triomphe
Opening hours, crowds, and views can significantly impact your Eiffel Tower experience. Here are the most useful things to know before planning your visit.
How to visit the Arc de Triomphe
Access to the panoramic terrace allows you to admire one of the most famous views of the Champs-Élysées and Paris.
Need to know
- The terrace is reached via approximately 280 steps.
- The best view opens along the Champs-Élysées.
- Traffic around the roundabout is very heavy, so be very careful.
- In the evening, the illuminated arch completely changes its atmosphere.
Practical advice
- Sunset offers one of the most beautiful views of Paris.
- From here you can also see the illuminated Eiffel Tower.
- The terrace is much quieter in the morning.
- The best photos are taken from the Champs-Élysées side.
How to get to the Arc de Triomphe
Getting to the Arc de Triomphe is simple: it is located in Place Charles de Gaulle, at the beginning of the Champs-Élysées, and is well connected by metro, RER and bus.
The most convenient stop is Charles de Gaulle – Étoile, served by metro lines 1 metroexit is located directly under Place Charles-de-Gaulle, a few steps from the Arc de Triomphe. , 2, and 6.
The Charles de Gaulle – Étoile station (RER A) provides quick access to the Arc de Triomphe from central Paris, La Défense, and other areas of the city.
Lines 22, 30, 31, 52, 73 and 92 serve the Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées area.
The Arc de Triomphe is easily accessible on foot from the Champs-Élysées, the Grand Palais, and the Trocadéro. To access the monument, you must use the underground pedestrian passage located beneath Place Charles-de-Gaulle.
Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008
Official Transport Paris
- Paris Metro Map
- RER tickets and fares
- Taxis in Paris (numbers and alternatives)
History of the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 to celebrate the victories of the French army. The monument was completed several decades later and quickly became one of the most recognizable symbols of Paris.
Located in the centre of Place Charles de Gaulle, it dominates the beginning of the Champs-Élysées and still represents one of the most iconic points of the city.
Its monumental structure, approximately 50 meters, is decorated with large sculpted reliefs dedicated to Napoleon's campaigns and moments in France's history. The upper panoramic terrace offers one of the most spectacular views of the great Parisian boulevards.
Under the arch is also the famous Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, with the commemorative flame that has been relit every evening since 1923.
Curiosities about the Arc de Triomphe
Besides the panoramic view of the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe also holds some little-known historical details and curiosities.
- Under the arch is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: the memorial flame has been relit every evening since 1923.
- Napoleon never saw it completed: the arch was inaugurated many years after construction began.
- The terrace offers 12 different perspectives: from here, the large avenues that branch out from the center of the square begin.
- The arch is about 50 meters high: to reach the terrace you have to climb almost 300 steps.
Arc de Triomphe Tickets and Tours
Find accommodation near the Arc de Triomphe
Explore the best accommodations near the Arc de Triomphe using this interactive map.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to visit the Arc de Triomphe?
The visit takes on average 45 minutes to 1 hour, including the climb to the panoramic terrace.
Can you go up to the panoramic terrace?
Yes, access to the terrace is included in the ticket and offers panoramic views of the Champs-Élysées and Paris.
How many steps are there?
To reach the terrace you have to climb about 280 steps via the monument's internal staircase.
What is the best time to visit?
Sunset and evening are among the most evocative moments thanks to the city lights and the view of the illuminated Champs-Élysées.
Where is the Arc de Triomphe located?
The monument is located in Place Charles de Gaulle, at the beginning of the Champs-Élysées, in the 8th arrondissement of Paris.
What is the closest metro ?
The most convenient stop is Charles de Gaulle – Étoile, served by the metro and RER.
Is the terrace worth visiting?
Yes, the panoramic terrace is considered one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Paris.
Is the Arc de Triomphe suitable for children?
Yes, but the climb to the terrace involves numerous steps and may be challenging for little ones.
