Arc de Triomphe
Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris
Website – tel: 01 55 37 73 77
Metro station: Charles de Gaulle – Etoile
Price from €16. Free for EU citizens under 26 years old (free for non-EU citizens under 18 years old)
Open daily.
Open daily.
April through September: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., on Tuesday from 11 a.m.
October through March: 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., on Tuesday from 11 a.m.
A certified “Tourism and Handicap” location.
Classified as a National Monument. Activities and workshops for the whole family.
The Sunset Secret: Don’t just visit during the day! Aim to reach the rooftop terrace about 30 minutes before sunset. You’ll witness the “Eternal Flame” ceremony (daily at 6:30 PM) from above, then watch as the twelve avenues radiating from the monument—including the glittering Champs-Élysées—light up. It is arguably the best urban photo spot in Paris, with a perfect alignment of the Eiffel Tower in the distance.
The Arc de Triomphe was completed in 1836 under Louis Philippe.
It is dedicated to the armies of the Revolution and the Empire. Its architect (Jean-François Chalgrin) was inspired by the ancient Arch of Titus, but in monumental proportions: 50 meters high and 45 meters long.
At its base, the flame of remembrance recalls the presence of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, buried here in 1921.
From the 19th century onward, the Arc de Triomphe became a national symbol and the location of patriotic ceremonies. The sculptures that adorn it are the work of renowned artists: Cortot, Etex and Rude.
Pro Tip: To truly appreciate the views and the history, this is the guided experience I personally suggest.
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