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    Grande Arche de la Défense

    3.9 (61 reviews)

    Grande Arche de la Défense Photos

    Recommended Reviews - Grande Arche de la Défense

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    Jeremy S.

    Awesome spot to visit as this Arche is freaking massive and provides some awesome views with a more modern experience then typical Paris. The architecture is cool and the lines are smooth. There is a nice staircase that leads up to the Arche and even enables a solid view of the Arch de Triomphe in the distance. It's actually amazing that the 3 archs' are perfectly centered with one another. Major downsides to this place is that there really isn't anything around aside from a mall and some really expensive drinks. Overall, it's worth a trip for exploration but I wouldn't necessarily spend much time out there... Pros- Gorgeous Views Architecture Extremely modern Staircase Relaxation Cons- Out of the way Not much in the area Expensive drinks etc nearby Primarily a business district Outside of Paris

    Thumb sculpture
    Sharon H.

    Since the Grande Arch was located across our hotel, we had a decent view and wondered what the fuss was about as it was nowhere near the intricate sculpting of the Arc de Triomphe. From afar, it looks like a square welcome door for alien ships, at least that's what one friend (who hails from New Mexico) commented! The up close view is a different story. The structure is massive, an architectural wonder in its own right, and even includes step seating below. From here, you can get a tiny view of the Arc de Triomphe, and supposedly these structures align. So, if you're in the area, take a look. Some of the other features in the mall area included a big thumb sculpture, much to our amusement, and a living wall of greenery.

    Tina C.

    At the start of a business week on a Monday mid-morning in a past life, my former love and I utilized the Paris Métro all the way to La Défense. It is here where much of the modern skyscrapers in the city lies. La Défense is primarily a business district, but we came to see the Grand Arch. Grand indeed with modern office buildings as there is not much attraction flair for tourists. Aligned with the Arc de Triomphe in a parallel position where visible on a clear day, which at night it illuminate to display its full structural beauty. We took some photos but did not go to the top of the structure.

    Night view
    Kelly L.

    It is pretty impressive and modern Paris. The arch is massy. We got there late at light so did not get to the top of the arch. There are many restaurants and shoppings there. It is a good place to take a break from the museums and palace. It is worth to visit if you have time.

    David S.

    It seems as if they wanted to create something a bit more modern in this part of Paris, which is basically an incredibly modern part of the city as it is. Really, it isn't all that flash - it is just a really big square standing at the end of a long road that travels all the way down to the Arc de Triumph and the Place d' Concorde. You can also see the Eifel tower in another direction, but there doesn't seem to be a long road heading there. I only came here to check out La Defense, and this place as well, but I would recommend going out of your way to see it.

    Magdalena C.

    Great modern architecture in commerce center. Very quiet at the weekend. Check online if roof is open. westfield centre just next to the arche.

    Ann S.

    Pretty cool to see... we actually had no idea this was in Paris until we saw it when we got off the train to head to our hotel. The arch is a monument and building in the business district of La Défense and in the commune of Puteaux, to the west of Paris, France. It is usually known as the Arche de la Défense or simply as La Grande Arche. It is 110-metres high.

    From a distance
    Amy S.

    One evening after walking the entire length of the Champs-Élysées, my then partner and I decided to hop on the Metro and check out la Défense. We didn't know much about it but we had heard that there were some interesting things there. Whilst the trip to la Défense was a bust, the Grande Arche was definitely a highlight of the trip! It is perfectly in line with the more famous Arc de Triomphe and at night, you can see them lined up in lights. The Grande Arche has a spotlight that draws you to it and has offices located inside! I was really surprised to see windows there! How cool would it be to have your office located there! Don't make a trip out to la Défense just to see this, there isn't much else here. But if you find yourself out this way, make sure you check it out!

    Grand arche Christmas markets
    Chelsea S.

    My husband and I stayed in the La Défense area during our trip to Paris in November 2016, and I must say I am happy with our choice for the ease of accessibility and the breath of fresh air from tourist congestion. La Défense is not your typical tourist destination in Paris. It is where they keep all of the unsightly corporate buildings (except Montparnasse Tower), and where French people (both Parisians and suburban) go to work. It is a modern corporate park. But, it seems that the French figured out a great way to make an unsightly corporate park easy on the eyes. You can walk along the long boardwalk all the way up to the Grand Arch and find colors, shapes, and structures which will surprise and delight you. During normal business hours, La Défense bustles with non-tourists. And if you know anything about Paris, you are aware that at most tourist destinations, you will find masses of people cramming in lines and solicitors desperately trying to harass them to buy tchotchkes. This is not the case in La Défense. My husband and I were happy to start and end our days in peace and quiet, away from all of the mayhem. If you are not staying at La Défense but are visiting Paris in the winter season, I recommend taking the RER red line or the yellow metro line #1 to La Grande Arche stop, where you will encounter "Le Marché de Noël" (open Christmas markets) between November 23 - Christmas. You can find really good and reasonably priced local or Swiss cuisine as well as holiday goodies, ranging from smoked meats to local cheeses, wines, winter clothing, and tchotchkes. There is also a huge mall called "Le Quatre Temps" located next to the arch. Oh, and re: the Arch, you cannot climb it. There are a few steps which will allow you to gain some elevation. But the Arch itself is actually an office building.

    Incredible marble stairs

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    Grande Arche de la Défense Reviews in Other Languages

    Review Highlights - Grande Arche de la Défense

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    L'Arc de Triomphe - Entry underground to arc

    L'Arc de Triomphe

    4.5(717 reviews)
    4.8 kmChamps-Elysées, 17ème

    THE GOOD ----------------…read more+ Great aerial view of the city! Obviously not as high as the Eiffel Tower, but still very solid views, ESPECIALLLLY of the Champs Elysees right outside. + Besides the view of the city, there are historical artifacts inside at different points as you walk up. Definitely worth a look when you need a break. + There are restrooms about halfway up the Arc, so don't fret if you just downed a bottle of water. THE NOT SO GOOD ---------------------------- - The walk up and down the Arc's top is definitely a workout. I'm still tired just thinking about it! There are alottttttt of dizzying steps on the spiral staircase, so mentally prepare yourself for it before embarking. - Crossing the street over to the Arc can be an adventure with no street lights or signs controlling the traffic so cross at your own peril! MIXED THOUGHTS --------------------------- = Nada. RANDOM OBSERVATIONS ------------------------------------- = Buy an e-ticket! You can cut the long line if you do!

    This very large French memorial is very famous and a real crowd pleaser. It's free to visit but…read moredoes charge a fee to climb the over 250 interior steps to the roof for the nice views offered there. The Arch is located in the middle of a huge roundabout for vehicles and is only accessible via underground tunnel as it would be impossible to safely walk/run through that crazy circular traffic. Once there, you are on its island and totally safe. There, it's a huge photo op. It is also so interesting to see all of the names of the battles France was involved as they are commemorated on the Arch. Also they list the last names of many ex-French generals that served. Those that have a line under their name died in battle. On the street level is the French Tomb of the Unknown soldier with a short ceremony of it every day at 6:30 pm. You can also look down the Champs Elysee all the way down to The Louvre far away. If you come to Paris, you have to come here for 30 minutes. Then afterward go walking down one of the most famous streets for shopping in the world.

    Photos
    L'Arc de Triomphe - 4-18-2025

    4-18-2025

    L'Arc de Triomphe - Photo 5: On the rooftop

    Photo 5: On the rooftop

    L'Arc de Triomphe - @endoedibles on Instagram 03/10/26

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    @endoedibles on Instagram 03/10/26

    La Tour Eiffel - 7am view from our hotel

    La Tour Eiffel

    4.6(2.2k reviews)
    5.7 kmTour Eiffel/Champ de Mars, 7ème

    Landmark in Paris, France…read more.. I've visited this famous piece of architecture a few times before I knew about Yelp. Back in 2000, I was here with my former co-worker. She didn't want to visit because there was a bomb threat. I told her that it's just a threat. How many miles and hours did we fly to just stay in the hotel room? She ended up walking outside with me... LOL! Our friend dropped us off this time to just get photos. He and his wife drove around the block and picked us up in-between stops. Parking is quite the challenge here! Be on your best behavior... some guards with guns marched past us!

    I had a 3 pm reserved ticket To The Top and arrived 30 minutes early. I'm glad I did because they…read morewere running behind schedule. Once On Top I was almost 1,000 feet above ground and the views were dramatic. One level is fully enclosed behind large windows and the level above is open air with large metal screens for protection. That day the wind was calm so it was very pleasant to be on that level. On the open air level you can buy a glass of champagne and macarons to celebrate if you wish. Above you the tower rises for about another 100 feet for radio antennas, etc. It costs extra to go To The Top and it is worth it. If you do, go there first and then work your way down to the 2nd and then 1st levels. You can only access The Top by elevator. The 2nd level (400 feet) and 1st level (200 feet) are accessible by elevator and stairway. Remember it's much easier going downhill than uphill. By the way, the stairs are open air but enclosed with metal screens making it impossible for you to fall off. If you are on the 1st level and want to exit it is faster to do so by stairs rather than waiting on the elevator. There are upscale restaurants on the 1st and 2nd levels and there are chairs that you can sit on and enjoy the view. Actually, the famous French landmarks are better seen from the 2nd level than The Top. There are 2 Metro stations within less than 10 minute walking distance to the Tower so getting here is easy. It amazes me that this HUGE landmark was originally designed to be a temporary structure only, They were suppose to take it down but decided it was too popular.

    Photos
    La Tour Eiffel - A friend just sent this Eiffel tower photo

    A friend just sent this Eiffel tower photo

    La Tour Eiffel - Eiffel Tower, Paris December 1,2024.

    Eiffel Tower, Paris December 1,2024.

    La Tour Eiffel - Bask in the shadow of the Tower of Eiffel and eat the buttered toast of luck and forgiveness.              -VerveBimly

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    Bask in the shadow of the Tower of Eiffel and eat the buttered toast of luck and forgiveness. -VerveBimly

    Château de Versailleo - Versailles palace

    Château de Versailleo

    4.2(714 reviews)
    12.9 km

    Visiting the Château de Versailles was truly a dream come true. The architecture is absolutely…read morestunning--every detail, from the grand halls to the intricate ceilings, is a testament to the opulence of the French monarchy. The grounds are just as impressive: beautifully kept gardens, sparkling fountains, and perfectly restored landscapes that make you feel like you've stepped back in time. As someone who loves history, I was in heaven. The palace is filled with artifacts from the Sun King himself, Louis XIV, and the stories about his many mistresses add an extra layer of intrigue. I could have spent hours just wandering the Hall of Mirrors and imagining the lavish parties that once took place there. Marie Antoinette's area, with its charming hamlet and gorgeous gardens, was a highlight for me--so peaceful and picturesque. We spent an entire day exploring and still barely scratched the surface. There's just so much to see and experience! I also have to mention the restaurants on the grounds. The food was surprisingly good--fresh, flavorful, and honestly better than most of what I get back home in America. If you love history, art, or just want to be wowed by breathtaking beauty, Versailles is an absolute must-see. I loved every minute and can't wait to go back!

    Of everything we did in Paris, this was top five for sure. I booked tickets in advance and we took…read morethe RER C train right to the Versailles station. From there it is a 7 or 10 minute walk to the entrance. You do need to plan for several hours if not the majority of a day to explore the chateau and the gardens. Also, it is very, very crowded, so expect to be shuffled along in a current of people, especially in popular areas like the Hall of Mirrors. We had kids with us that were not impressed by the gilded treasures, so we spent probably more time in the gardens than the palace. Let me tell you - the expanse of these gardens is impressive. At one point it looked like they go on for eternity. Just take your time strolling through and exploring all of the different little alcoves. We did do a boat ride in the Grand Canal lake and enjoyed some snacks and drinks in one of the cafes tucked into one of the gardens. One thing we did not know, is that if you want to book a ride on the train, you will have to do that when you are still at the chateau and they do sell out. You can also rent a golf cart in the same way. Overall I greatly enjoyed all the splendor and grandeur of this magical place. Worth the time and the travel.

    Photos
    Château de Versailleo - One of the many fountains in the gardens.

    One of the many fountains in the gardens.

    Château de Versailleo - The grandiose Hall of Mirrors

    The grandiose Hall of Mirrors

    Château de Versailleo - Versailles palace

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    Versailles palace

    Quartier Latin - Oh! Si tu pouvais lire dans mon coeur, tu verrais la place où je t'ai mise! So I wander...

    Quartier Latin

    4.7(9 reviews)
    9.2 kmSaint-Michel/Odéon, 5ème

    Part of the oldest area of Paris the Latin Quarter or 5th Arrondisement is so unique and…read moreinteresting you must visit Tons of old cobblestone side alleys with bars,cafes,bistros, and shops it is truly one of a kind

    Latin Quarter, Paris, France. 5th arrondissement…read more Oh! Si tu pouvais lire dans mon coeur, tu verrais la place où je t'ai mise! Oh! If you could read my heart, you would see the place that I keep you.. so I wander.. A cool, old, very old neighborhood in Paris. I'm usually in the Montmartre, Madeleine, or Pyramids areas of Paris, so for me, crossing Le Seine River is the first step before any steps are in Quartier Latin. Wandering Quartier Latin was fun for me. Passing historical landmarks such as the Natural History Museum, the Panthéon, Medieval Musée de Cluny with the Lady and the Unicorn Tapestries that dates to circa 1511, to more modern destinations like the Shakespeare & Company English Bookstore, which dates to 1911 and seems so beautifully out of place. Just walking the streets you can find yourself in well known movie spots, like the Rue Mouffetard - Market Street, where Julia Child listed as her favorite outdoor market. The same streets made popular by Meryl Streep seen shopping in Julie and Julia! Oui, oui! In the end, I encourage you to stroll through Quartier Latin. One of the most architectural preserved arrondissement in all of Paris and it's absolutely free! Wanderlust like I did and find cobblestone streets filled with history and character! Voltaire sleeps for eternity at the Panthéon and so does Madame Curie. Oh! If you could read my heart... IG: @eric_travel_guru

    Photos
    Quartier Latin
    Quartier Latin - Oh! Si tu pouvais lire dans mon coeur, tu verrais la place où je t'ai mise! So I wander...

    Oh! Si tu pouvais lire dans mon coeur, tu verrais la place où je t'ai mise! So I wander...

    Quartier Latin - Oh! Si tu pouvais lire dans mon coeur, tu verrais la place où je t'ai mise! So I wander...

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    Oh! Si tu pouvais lire dans mon coeur, tu verrais la place où je t'ai mise! So I wander...

    Grande Arche de la Défense - landmarks - Updated May 2026

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