Visiting the Arc de Triomphe
About The Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is the most recognizable arch in the world and is located in Central Paris. Inspired by the Roman Arch of Titus, the Arc de Triomphe, Honors the French Soldiers who died in the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. The Arc was completed in 1836 and is also home to the Tomb of the French Unknown Soldier, which honors an unknown soldier from World War I.
From 1836 until 1938, the Arc de Triomphe was the tallest arch in the world. Since, it has been surpassed by the Monumento a la Revolución in Mexico City, the Arch of Triumph in Pyongyang, and La Grande Arche de la Défense, which is also in Paris.
The inner facade of the Arc lists the names of all of the victories of the French Military, as well as the names of French Military Leaders. The ceiling of the Arc de Triomphe is sculpted with 21 roses, and there are several plaques at the foot of the Arc.
In 1961, US President John. F. Kennedy and his wife visited the Arc de Triomphe. Mrs. Kennedy was so moved by the internal flame at the Tomb of the Unknown French Soldier that she requested an eternal flame be placed at the grave of President Kennedy following his assassination.
Visiting the Arc de Triomphe - Table of Contents
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Getting to the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc can be accessed by the Paris Metro’s Green (Line 6), Yellow (Line 1), and Blue (Line2) lines with the closest station being Charles de Gaulle Etoile. There will almost always be heavy traffic at the Place Charles de Gualle roundabout so it will be necessary to use the underground walkway to get to the Arc.
Visiting the Arc de Triomphe
When I arrived at the Arc de Triomphe, I first walked around the exterior taking pictures and visiting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Be sure to pass under the Arc de Triomphe and read the names of the French Generals and the French Military victories.
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
The French Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located at the base of the Arc de Triomphe. Entombed is an Unknown Soldier from World War I. Next to the tomb is an eternal flame that represents all of the unidentified soldiers from both World Wars. On Armistice Day, a ceremony is held at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Observation Deck of the Arc de Triomphe
Visitors can stand on an observation deck at the top of the Arc de Triomphe. Admission to the observation deck is €13. The observation deck provides excellent views of Downtown Paris and the Eiffel Tower.
If you would like to pre-purchase your ticket you can do so by clicking on the link to the right. As an affiliate of Viator, I will receive a small commission if you purchase using my link. That commission is at no additional cost to you.
 Arc de Triomphe Paris entry ticket - $21.12 Visit one of the most famous monuments of Paris, the Arc De Triomphe. Explore the building from the inside, and head up to the rooftop of it via its gorgeous stairs, to admire a truly unique panorama of Paris! |
The stairs are a little bit tricky to walk up and down. Being 6 foot 5 and 270 lbs I had to hold onto the handrail and take my time. I don’t believe the stairs would be unmanageable for most if they take their time.
Paris Tours that Include the Arc de Triomphe
You definitely do not need a tour to see the Arc de Triomphe. It is easy to get to the Arc on your own and there is no need for a guide. For those interested in tours, I linked two below that seemed interesting.
I am an affiliate of Viator. Please note, that if you book using one of my links, I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no additional cost to you.
Prices are accurate as of June 2023.
 Skip the Line Arc De Triomphe Summit Access & Champs Elysees Highlights - $54.13 Enjoy the most spectacular highlights tour of the Champs Elysees combined with Skip the Line Summit Access to the world famous and must-see Arc de Triomphe. Climb to the top of the triumphal arch and look down the most beautiful avenue in the world. Relive great moments in French history and view the Arc's bas-reliefs up-close as well as discover some of the most incredible views of Paris from the top. |
 Arc de Triomphe Entry and Mini Walking Tour - $44.20 Your self-guided visit to the Arc de Triomphe, a monument to France's war heroes and victories begun in 1806 (it took three centuries to build), will provide a unique view of Paris from above. See the Eiffel Tower and more as you enjoy the vibrant city scene and take photos you'll cherish forever. |
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