L'Arc de Triomphe Photos
Recommended Reviews - L'Arc de Triomphe
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
Another amazing monument in Paris that you must see if coming here to visit. The Arc is a masterpiece of sculptures like La Marseillaise, and has all the lists of generals and the battles they fought. This site also has the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from WWI with an eternal flame. You can purchase tickets to go to the top of the arc if you choose.
This place is pure magic; especially at night. Climbing to the top is worth every step. Once you're there, the view of the twinkling lights of the Champs-Élysées look like a river of stars. You also have a beautiful view of the Eiffel Tower sparkling against the night sky. The city feels grand beyond grand. I personally prefer this view to the Eiffel Tower itself. From here, you can see the city's layout, the long avenues, and the monuments perfectly by night. There's a quiet energy at the top where people pause and soak in the city of light. The winding narrow staircases and the engravings inside the arch have such a rich sense of history. By the time you reach the top, you're rewarded with that unforgettable view. The Arc de Triomphe is my favourite landmark of Paris and quite possible the most magical one I've been to yet.
Nice view of the city, I heard it's a great place for sunset. Make sure you buy tix online ahead of time. There are 284 spiral steps, it was a tough climb. Supposedly there's an elevator for the disabled but I didn't see it. Make sure you use the underground tunnel (Passage du Souvenir) from Champs-Elysees side to cross traffic. No backpacks larger than 40x40x20 and no tripod/selfie sticks allowed, there are no lockers available.
L'Arc de Triomphe was established by Napoleon to honor the French Army and those who died during the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. It also serves as a memorial for unknown soldiers from World War I with an eternal flame that burns in remembrance of all unidentified soldiers who died in both World Wars. My boyfriend and I took the M1 and exited Charles de Gaulle-Etoile to get to the L'Arc de Triomphe and took the 73 bus on our trip back. This landmark looks best from across the street. If you want to get closer to see it up close, please take 2 stairwells from across the street to access the tunnel to cross over to the L'Arc de Triomphe. I hear there are many accidents from tourists trying to cross from the street side. This roundable is really hectic so I can see how it is not safe to cross. The Arc is in the center of Place Charles du Gaulle's 12 grand avenues that light up like a star, hence the etoile. Designed by Jean-Francois-Therese Chalgrin, it was designed in a neoclassical style with symmetry and grandeur. It is a representation of harmony, power, and symbolism. To be completely honest, I was completely unaware of the history, prior to visiting. It was quite a learning experience for me and I was glad we came to pay respect to the soldiers who passed away.
Last summer was my third time to Paris (my first as an adult), and I don't recall ever going near the Arc de Triomphe, only seeing it from afar. As we had some business along les Champs-Élysées (going to the Apple store to purchase a cord for my computer), we naturally came across the Arc de Triomphe, which is located at Place Charles de Gaulle, the west terminus of les Champs-Élysées. The Arc de Triomphe is a 162.5 foot tall, 147.0 foot wide tall arch that was built between 1806 and 1836 and it honors those who fought a during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Due to the huge, chaotic, anxiety-inducing crowds, I once again decided to just admire it from afar. Also, the monument is in the center of a round-about with a dozen lanes of traffic. However, I have since learned that there is an underground tunnel leading to the arch so next time I am in Paris, I may finally visit it up close. I also didn't know that you could purchase tickets to go inside. [Yelp collections: Europe 2024; Paris, France]
If you ask me, among the definitive landmarks in Paris, this one is the most underrated. I think it depends on when you see it on your vacation. In the classic musical "Funny Face", Fred Astaire opened the bouncy "Bonjour Paris" by jauntily walking away from it on the Champs-Elysses and ending at the Eiffel Tower. Jamie W and I made the smarter move and closed our trip here. What's the difference you may ask? Well, it's because when you get to the top, you can see many of the landmarks you already visited. I've never actually been here. I really thought we had to brave the multiple roundabout traffic, but no, there was a convenient and clean underground passage. We had bought tickets in advance for 22€ each. As we readied to take the stairs, a courteous young man asked me if I'd prefer using the elevator. I didn't know it was even an option, so we glided about three flights short of the top of the arch with ease. Actually it stopped on the floor where we could peruse the informative museum. There was also a surprisingly large gift shop chock full of quality souvenirs. The climax obviously was the observatory rooftop. No surprise there were quite a few tourists here but not nearly the zoo at the Eiffel Tower or in front of the Mona Lisa at the Louvre. We could see Place de la Concorde at one end and the modern La Defense at the other. The Eiffel Tower is within clear view (and vice-versa) as well as Sacre-Coeur. We couldn't help but let out a sigh and say out loud "Jusqu'à ce qu'on se revoie, Paris!" RELATED - Exploring Paris? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://yelp.to/TDhdgjoONI
Fairly cool night with a light and intermittent breeze in Paris. The streets while somewhat crowded, were clean and there was sufficient enough space. Extremely enjoyable time in December. Most stores were open as well as cafe's, boulangeries (bakeries) and patisseries (pastry shops). People of the city are extremely friendly and welcoming. Neoclassical architecture such as the Arch de Triomphe must be seen in person. Pictures alone can't possibly convey the size and splendor. It took 30 years to create this wonderment...looking forward to visiting again in the Spring or early Fall when I have more time to properly appreciate this piece of work along with the multitudes of others throughout this beautiful and alluring city.
The Arc de Triomphe is a monument honoring those who fought for France, especially in the Napoleonic Wars, located at the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle where 12 avenues, including the Champs-Élysées, converge. Commissioned by Napoleon I in 1806, it features many sculptures like La Marseillaise, lists of generals and battles, and (my highlight) houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from WWI with an eternal flame. Visitors can climb (or take an elevator for some) to the top for panoramic city views and explore a museum inside.
L'Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile or Arc de Triomphe is one of the most iconic monuments in Paris. The Arc de Triomphe honors those who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars and was built in the early 19th century. Just a great landmark with lots of history - so lots of the history is written somewhere so I won't go on about it. As a tourist, I didn't spend much time here, but it was astonishing to see and stand underneath. It's located at the end of the Avenue de Champs-Élysées - one of the most famous luxury shopping areas in the world. The sculptures and the structure itself is truly a sight to behold. Heck, I'm even pretty amazed at the copy version at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas. It's free to see and walk up to and since at the time of my visit, I was on a pretty strict budget, I thought it would be great to see after walking along the Champs-Élysées. The Tome of the Unknown Soldier is also another fun site to see and its' located underneath the Arc De Triomphe. I consider it a privilege and myself so fortunate that I was able to see this place. Okay, okay, let's get to the real reason I'm posting and writing this review now other than posterity (as I visited this place years ago). This is part of my John Wick 4 nostalgia tour. I wanted to put this up when I first watched the movie in theaters, but didn't for whatever reason. But almost every scene in Paris in the movie was a place I visited during my Paris trip. Watching that movie really wanted me to revisit Paris again and retrace my steps as well as the steps in the film. This scene in particular in the roundabout was one of the most fun, albeit unbelievable action sequences I've seen in any movie. It was in the portion of the movie that paid homage to The Warriors another movie I am fond of.
Inspired by Rome, commissioned by Napoleon, and standing as the centerpiece of Paris, lies the Arc the Triomphe. This massive monument, where 12 avenues converge, houses the tomb of the unknown soldier (World War 1) and the eternal flame. I had the pleasure of driving by, and walking around this fine piece of history. However, I did not get the chance to climb up its 248 steps to the panoramic view. This is a future endeavor, as my girlfriend and I intend to come back in the near future. As a history buff, I was able to appreciate the names referencing the generals and battles of the Napoleonic Wars. It's amazing walking the area where both axis and allied troops marched through, at different points during World War 2. For anyone visiting Paris, the Arc de Triomphe is definitely a must! Make sure to put it in your bucket list, alongside the other monuments this city has to offer.
If you want to have a civil disagreement with your spouse in a Paris Metro station this is the place to do it. I told my wife we stay in the Metro station and follow the signs to the Arc. She said we exit the station, which we did because I always do what she says. Well........we ended up across the roundabout/ street from the Arc. Pro tip. Never attempt to cross to get to the Arc. You will be playing a real life game of Frogger. Anyway the Arc is beautiful. Definitely a must visit.
What a magnificent landmark and it's become one of my favorite sights ever in all the world! What's very special about this world recognized icon is its magnificent layout with 12 major avenues, including the Champs-Elysées, radiating symmetrically from it like giant spokes on a wheel. It's a massive and beautiful white limestone structure that's visible from about a mile away in all directions. It was completed in 1836 and commemorates those who died in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Also somewhat unique is the huge 5 lane deep traffic circle around it. It's also known locally as the "Circle of Death" lol. Unconventionally, those entering the traffic circle have the right of way (as opposed to those already within the circle) and inner circle traffic has to yield. It makes for some interesting traffic patterns and it's all best observed from a passenger seat! But with almost 200 years' experience, it all works out just fine for the Parisian drivers!
Without a doubt, one of the absolute musts of a visit to Paris, the Arc is a world-famous sightseeing destination. And that's more than obvious when you're here, because the tour buses all stop and the place, even on a cold and windy day, is mobbed. There are plenty of great places around the Place Charles de Gaulle (also known as the Place de l'Étoile) for getting pictures of the massive block of marble. Don't worry about the traffic, because there is an underground tunnel that will bring you right up to it without dodging any of those crazy French drivers. The Arc is much bigger in real life than you would expect, so prepare to be dazzled. Get lots and lots of pictures and realize that yes, this is a war memorial. Lots of people have died for La France around the world and this is dedicated to their sacrifice. There is an observation deck above (not free), if you want to get some amazing pictures, but the day I visited, it was way too cold and wet and windy. Easily accessible by Metro, it is the Étoile stop on the 1, 2 and 6 lines. read more
Very very cool. Seeing the large roundabout from outside and inside is the way to do it folks. You can take an underground path to the center of it, then sneak through the gate without a ticket to the Museum (walk up the stairs) and just snap a few pictures or videos from within. Loved it! read more
If it's your first time in Paris, you'll definitely need to stop by this monument. You can take the RER A train or the Paris Métro subway 1, 2, or 6 and get off at the Charles de Gaulle - Étoile station. Once you've exited the station, you'll need to take the underground tunnel over to the monument. There's no way you'll be able to navigate the huge roundabout while on foot! There's plenty of things to see on the ground floor including the tribute to the unknown soldier. If you have time and want to see more, you can pay 12 € to climb to the top. There will be plenty of stairs to climb so be sure to wear your most comfortable walking shoes. They have museum displays as well as a restroom along the way to the top. Up at the top, you get a nice view of the city from all directions. read more
Views of the champs elysees and Paris is gorgeous from the top of the arc. There's a lot of steps to get up though so keep that in mind it's quite the workout. For about 9 euros each the price is not bad at all. It's confusing getting there though but you need to take exit 1, and then go down the tunnel under the intersection and you will see the ticket counter on your left. Usually there will be soldiers as well in the area guarding it. read more
7 years ago
Highly recommended bc it is so iconic!!! If you have the Paris visite pass*, there is a discount of 25% off the ticket to the top (though I don't recommend this pass if you are just staying in zone 1 and doesn't use transports more than 5x/day or *transfer between bus to subway* that much, then there are cheaper alternatives). You have to climb a LOT of stairs though. The lift is restricted, only for people who are disabled or elderly. I had to take a breath midway bc it is a lot of spiraling. Going down got me a bit dizzy bc you are going down in circles! 284 steps, 40 rounds of spiral! read more
9 years ago
On our last day in Paris, we walked a lot all the way along Champ Elysees and finally made it at the Arc de Triomphe. What a beautiful landmark. All roads lead to this. It's a really long walk but worth it, plus you get to window shopping through all the big brands along Champ Elysees and catch a coffee or a bite. Visited August 2010. read more
9 years ago
I'm in love with Paris. My husband and I walked through the Christmas market to get here. He's seen this before but has never gone inside. I'm glad we did. That night the elevator was broken but did not mind the spiral stairway. Just writing about this place makes my heart melt. I've only seen this in picture but in real life it's a completely different. It's Beautiful! read more
Best view in Paris. You buy tickets underground, then take the dizzying steps up to the top. Under 18 tickets are free, and they don't ID you... Hence my 19 year old sister got in free no problem. My sister claims the best times to go to the top of the Arc is dusk/sunset or when the sun has completely set. Since it was a cloudy day, we waited until the lights came on at the Arc. Starting at 10 pm, the Eiffel Tower will light up at the top of every hour for 5 minutes, so get your cameras ready. The stairs are winding, which threw off my hungover self. I slipped and fell coming down. So be sure to hold on to the handrails... My tailbone is feeling the repercussions. There's a small plaza area before you head to the top of the arc that allows you to check out the history of the arc. There's also a small gift shop with overpriced souvenirs, yay! A priceless experience. Be sure to take the time and bit of money to explore because pictures alone cannot do the view of Paris at night justice. read more
7 years ago
Bonjour from the "City of Light!" Paris's second most famous landmark is L'Arc de Triomphe. To get there, you have to walk under the rotary which circles the arch. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier sits beneath the Arch and it is highlighted by the eternal flame at its center. To get to the top of the Arch you have to walk up an exhausting flight of steps. The elevator is only for the handicapped. The view from the top best when looking down each street that leads away from the Arch in a star formation. As a native New Yorker, there is a smaller yet non-glamourous copy of L'Arc de Triomphe in New York University in Greenwich Village. read more
13 years ago
The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most beautiful and famous monuments in Paris. It stands in the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. Napoleon commissioned the Arc de Triomphe in 1806 after the victory at Austerlitz to honor the soldiers who fought for France. This massive arc took almost 30 years to build so Napoleon had a smaller replica built for his soldiers' victory, the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, which stands west of the Louvre. Some unique features of the Arc include the names of the generals and wars fought engraved on the inside and at the top of the arch. There are also inscriptions in the ground underneath the arch which include the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier where the Memorial Flame burns. The "eternal flame" is re-lit every evening at 6:30 pm. DO NOT TRY CROSSING THE TRAFFIC CIRCLE! There is an underground tunnel on the Avenue de la Grande Armee side of the circle. You can access this tunnel from the Wagram exit of the Metro. The cost to climb the Arc is €8 (free for Paris Museum Pass holders). If you have a Paris Museum Pass you can bi-pass the ticket line and avoid waiting in line. The 284 steps to climb the top of the arc offer the most rewarding panoramic view of Paris and the Eiffel Tower! read more
Loved this piece of history! Not only is in the school history books but in all types of movies. i would recommend getting the paris city pass. as the arc de triomphe is included. definitely would save you money and time. it's a bit tricky to get to as you have to locate the underpass. so don't fret and please do not try to jay walk. it's very dangerous! the underpass looks like a underground tunnel. it will lead you to where the arc de triumphe is in one piece. there's some history of the arc inside. one of my favorite things about the arc is of course being able to go all the way on top and being able to view beautiful paris. also take some time and just examine or admire the architecture of the arc. it definitely is a gem! this yelper highly recommends you to see the arc if you're traveling to paris. tips: *they give student discount for entry. *they allow you to take pictures *super close by to the shopping area. (walking wise) *the big bus makes a stop here. (also included in the paris city pass) read more
9 years ago
The Arc de Triomphe is yet another must see if you are in Paris! Just walk through the underground tunnel, purchase tickets and head up to the top to see some of the best views of the City. More stairs, great.. That was my first thought before heading up but at least I was staying fit. The views made it worth the work though! Make sure you check out the Unknown Solider that was buried at the base of the arc too, just look out for the flame of remembrance. read more
The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most impressive architectural buildings in Paris. It is a gorgeous view from far away or up close. It is also an excellent place to take photos. Very important - many people think they have to cross the traffic roundabout to get up close to the Arc. DO NOT DO THIS- the traffic is insane and certainly not meant for pedestrians to try and cross. I say this because my friends and I almost attempted this and we probably would have been hospitalized. What we did not see right away (and thank goodness we did eventually realize) is that there is an underground passage by the Champs-Élysées. We took the staircase that led to the Arc. it was really cool to see up close. The details in the Arc are intricate and very beautiful. There is also a staircase that leads to the top for a good view of the Eiffel Tower. A definite must-see in Paris! read more
8 years ago
5 years ago
This is the real deal! While I've seen the Arc de Triomphe in 2006 (so quickly and almost in passing), I am glad I was able to visit this site in greater length on the most recent trip to France. My husband and I have both seen the mini Arc de Triomphe in Washington Square (near NYU) in New York City; however, this was the real monument in Paris! Be sure to walk to the middle of the Arc de Triomphe and look upwards at all the carvings. Look at all the statues and detailing on the monument. Magnificent! It's free to visit too, so why not get close? You can also see La Defense and Champ Elysees from the monument as well, so very very cool. read more
4 years ago
4 years ago
Arc de Triomphe is one of Paris' top attractions. It is massive (162 ft x 152 ft x 72 ft) and quite an impressive work of art. You have to include this monument in your Paris trip itinerary. The history and details are pretty amazing. The arch stands at the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle, located at the western end of the world famous Champs-Elysees. Take the metro to Charles de Gaulle station and you can't miss this landmark. How do you get to Arc de Triomphe? We couldn't figure it out and until a nice local helped us. You have to take the underground walkway and walk up the stairs to get to the AdT. Walking around the outside is free. You have to buy a ticket if you want to go inside the museum and go to the top. Pricing: Adults: 12,00 € Adults group rate (minimum of 20 people): 9,00 € Schools group rate (maximum 30 children and 2 chaperons): 30,00 € Children under 18, European Union citizens, legal residents in France, and disabled visitors and their escorts: free I couldn't stop taking pictures (selfie, the arch, more selfie pics) because it's gorgeous. 4 stars!! read more
4 years ago
4 years ago
It's easy to describe this one as a classic. I marvel every time I see it: inside, outside and on top. Started by Napoleon, but not finished until decades later, this famous spot in Paris is full of history. Go beyond the external photo opportunities and soak in the history. read more
6 years ago
The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most magnificent structures I have ever had the chance of seeing. What can I say that hasn't already been said by countless others before me? If you like, you can climb 284 steps to the top and get a breathtaking view of Paris, including a jaw-dropping view of the Eiffel Tower. You can also simply walk underneath the massive structure and take in all the inricate detail that's carved into the arc. Either way, you have to visit this while you're in Paris; it's definitely a must-see while in the City of Light. Quick tip - do NOT try to run across the road to get to it. Go underneath the road through the tunnels! read more
Arc de Triomphe is the "real deal" in Paris. The arch in downtown NYC copies this! It is so congested and there's a lot of traffic around here. Everyone is always driving by. It's hard to get out and walk around and truly enjoy this masterpiece. Major tourist attraction in Paris. read more
"Why Drew", you will ask, "oh why would you give one of the grandest monuments THREE stars?" Well, I'll tell you. The night we went to the AdT the elevators weren't - according to the staff - was NOT working. So we had to hoof it up to the 284 stairs and 50 meter to the top. I get up and see one of their Jean-Paul Sartre-reading college student staffers pop out of a friggin' WORKING ELEVATOR. I get the same story on the way down ... and yes, again, I'm at the bottom I see someone pop out of the elevator. The Arc De Triomphe is a marvel, definitely worth seeing. I recommend going up to the top, especially at night as it has a great vantage point to see the Eiffel Tower's light show. But don't expect scintillating customer service; I'm taking off one star for every lie I was told by staffers. read more
6 years ago
Magnificent structure and art. About 20 minutes walk from the Eiffel tower. Somewhat busy traffic prior to COVID19 era. Lots of life and city activity in the area. read more
Arc de Triomphe is probably the most famous arc in the world! Located at the west end of Champs-Elysees. Dedicated to the soldiers lost during the French Revolutionary wars. The Arc is pretty massive compared to other arcs I have seen in my travels. You can visit the underground area and Tomb of the Unknown Soldier for 12 euro. I only saw it from Champs-Elysees since time was running out but it is still a sight to see from a distance. It will be my first stop next time I am in Paris. I want to see the details of this beauty up close! read more
4 years ago
Incredible architecture built 200 years ago. Really enjoyed the climb to the top and the amazing view of the City. Totally worth going to the top. Wish Toronto had such inspired city planning. Note: you have to go underground to reach the little isle where the Arc sits, you will never beat the unending traffic to run across above ground. Also 12 euro to go to the top. read more
More info about L'Arc de Triomphe
L'Arc de Triomphe Reviews in Other Languages
Review Highlights - L'Arc de Triomphe
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
37 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
9 years ago
18 years ago
8 years ago
18 years ago
13 years ago
10 years ago
9 years ago
10 years ago
15 years ago
10 years ago
7 years ago
11 months ago
13 years ago
13 years ago
4 years ago
9 years ago
10 years ago
8 years ago
L'Arc de Triomphe - landmarks - Updated May 2026
Browse Brands
Browse Articles
People who viewed L'Arc de Triomphe also viewed
Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel
44 reviews
1er, Palais Royal/Musée du Louvre
La Tour Eiffel
2171 reviews
Tour Eiffel/Champ de Mars, 7ème
Le Panthéon
143 reviews
Sorbonne/Panthéon, 5ème
Pyramide du Louvre
204 reviews
1er, Palais Royal/Musée du Louvre
La Seine - Paris
51 reviews
1er, Palais Royal/Musée du Louvre
Château de Versailleo
714 reviews
Petit Palais
85 reviews
Avenue Montaigne/Faubourg St-Honoré, 8ème
Hôtel des Invalides
86 reviews
7ème, Invalides
Quartier Latin
9 reviews
Saint-Michel/Odéon, 5ème
Tombeau de Napoléon
13 reviews
7ème, Invalides