The Arc de Triomphe is a triumphal arch that honors fallen French soldiers of the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. Located in the center of Paris's busiest roundabout, Place Charles de Gaulle, the arch's rooftop offers stunning views of the...
Also Known As
Triumphal Arch of the Star
RECOMMENDED DURATION
1 hour
TICKETS
From € 7
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD
1-2 hours (Peak), 30-60 mins (Off Peak)
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - SKIP THE LINE
0-30 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)
Did you know?
The construction of Arc de Triomphe took over 30 years and various architects due to political changes and funding issues.
The Arc de Triomphe is the second-largest triumphal arch in the world and was the largest until 1982 before The Arch of Triumph in Pyongyang, North Korea was built.
Although commissioned by Emperor Napoleon, he never had the chance to see the Arch completed as the project continued for 15 years after his death. However, his body was later moved to the arch in 1850.
Commissioned by Napoleon after his victory at Austerlitz, the triumphal arch commemorates pivotal moments in French history, including the French Revolution and the Liberation of Paris led by Charles de Gaulle. The monument honors the sacrifices of over 300,000 soldiers who fought for France, with the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the eternal flame serving as poignant tributes to fallen heroes.
Located beneath the arch, this solemn tribute honors soldiers who lost their lives in World War I; names remain unknown. The tomb is marked by an eternal flame (relit every day since 1920), serving as a powerful symbol of remembrance of all the sacrifices that were made.
The pillars are decorated with detailed carvings depicting key moments from French history. Look out for La Marseillaise (north pillar) which depicts a group of volunteers from Marseilles fighting for the National Guard; The Triumph of Napoleon (south pillar) illustrates the expansion of the Napoleonic Empire, and many more.
The inner walls of the pillars are inscribed with the names of generals (660 names) and battles (158 battles) from the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic eras. Underlined names signify those killed in action (118) and battle names with a shield (30) next to them indicate those considered great victories.
Your journey to the rooftop starts with 240 steps leading you to the museum on the mezzanine floor showcasing exhibits on the history and construction of the monument. Continue your climb (44 steps) to the rooftop which offers a 360° view of Paris—the Eiffel Tower, the Sacré-Cœur basilica in the Montmartre district, the golden dome of Les Invalides, the towering spires of Notre-Dame and so much more.
Designed by Architect Jean Chalgrin; and inspired by the ancient Roman triumphal arches, the Arc de Triomphe is a monumental masterpiece of Neoclassical architecture. Towering at 50 meters, each pillar is adorned with massive sculptural reliefs depicting French military victories with detailed carvings of battles, soldiers, and allegorical figures. The inner walls are inscribed with the names of generals and battles from the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, while the vaulted ceiling boasts intricate rosette patterns. Beneath its arch lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a solemn tribute enhanced by the eternal flame.
It took 30 years to complete the Arc de Triomphe, from 1806 to 1836. Due to political unrest between 1814–1823, the project was temporarily suspended.
It symbolizes France’s military victories, the bravery & resilience of its soldiers, and national unity. Read about its history here.
The tomb holds the remains of an unidentified French soldier from World War I.
A typical visit lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours unless you cannot step away from the expansive views of Paris from the rooftop. Book your tickets here.
Yes, it is accessible via stairs (284-step climb) or by an elevator (only to the mezzanine level—46-step climb from here to the roof). Accessing the rooftop requires separate tickets—book here!
It remains a national symbol, receiving an annual footfall of 1.7 million people. Annual ceremonies like Armistice Day are celebrated here.
Nearby visits include Hotel de la Marine, Conciergerie, Sainte-Chapelle, and Pantheon, all within walking distance (it’s a good way to burn away the macaroons and croissants calories).