Arc de Triomphe

As one of the most famous monuments of Paris, you must have heard about the Arc de Triomphe. But did you know that you can climb up to its roof 50 meters above the ground? Ordered by Napoleon, the Arc was built to commemorate his army, known as “Grande Armée”, and it’s one of the highest triumphal arches in the world.

Credit: ParisbyM

WHAT WILL YOU SEE?

When visiting the Arc de Triomphe, you will have an amazing view over Paris from the top of it, including a view of the Eiffel Tower.

The arch was commissioned as a commemorative monument for the soldiers who died in the Napoleonic Wars. You can see the names of the French generals who fought during these wars engraved on the monument, along with the names of famous French victories.

It later became a patriotic icon after the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was installed under it. This tomb and the inscriptions commemorate the unknown soldiers who lost their lives fighting for France in World War I.

Credit: ParisByM

HOW TO VISIT IT?

The Arc de Triomphe is located in the 8^th district of Paris, along the Champs Elysées Avenue, in the middle of the Charles de Gaulle Square.

Consider budgeting approximately 1 hour to climb the arch and visit it.

We recommend that you go either on a sunny day to enjoy the view over the city and take great pictures, or, if the weather isn´t that good, to go in the evening after the night has fallen in order to enjoy the lights of the city (especially beautiful in winter time).

Another interesting option is to go between 6-6:30pm when you will be able to attend the ceremony of the Revival of the Eternal Flame of the Unknown Soldier, which takes place everyday at this time.

For the history buff, guided tours of the Arc are also available.

In any case you should never cross the square at ground level. To reach the Arc de Triomphe you must use the tunnel access, whose entries are located on the Avenue des Champs Elysées (by the metro entrance, right side when facing the Arc), or on the Avenue de la Grande Armée (on the left side when facing the Arc).

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Hours: From April 1 to September 30: 10 a.m.-11 p.m.
  From October 1 to March 31: 10 a.m.-10:30 p.m.
• Price: 8 €, students less than 26 pay 5 € while it is free for children up to 17
• Access: RER: line A, station “Charles de Gaulle-Etoile”
  Metro: lines 1, 2 and 6, station “Charles de Gaulle-Etoile”

Additional sightseeings in Paris

Champs Élysées

Montmartre Tour

Orsay Museum

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