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The Arc de Triomphe is one of Paris' most famous monuments. Emperor Napoleon I commissioned it in 1806 after victory at Austerlitz to honor those who died and fought for France during the French revolutionary and Napoleonic wars. As a major tourist location today, many people stand by the radial avenues to gaze at the monument. There's an opportunity to walk up the monument for the current price of admission. Bypassing the roundabout requires walking through an underground pedestrian tunnel. There are also many cafes surrounding the area. If doing a walking tour around Paris, this can be a short stop as you can walk along Champs-Élysées to visit other landmarks nearby.
THE GOOD ---------------- + 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 does 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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
More than tripled in entry price over the last 15 years the value of climbing to the top is subjective, especially after navigating the odd underground route to get there. At 164 feet tall, and now 190 years old, the marble construction remains immaculate as a tribute to Napoleon told in the small museum.
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.
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.
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.
16 years ago
Maybe my eyesight is wiggity wack, but I wasn't aware that there was an underground way to get to the arc UNTIL I had crossed the roundabout. My fault completely, but maybe they should have a bigger sign? I don't know...other people were doing it too so I don't feel as dumb (I'm lying, I still feel dumb). Like the Eiffel Tower, if you want to go up the Arc, GO EARLY to avoid the long line and waiting hours to get to the top. It can get pretty crowded on weekends. Location: It's right next to all the shopping areas, and a walking distance from the tower. View it both during the day and at night. It's amazing how differently pleasing both views are to the wondering eye. There's nothing else much to say - it's a definite must-see and it sure is beautifully detailed. Can't wait to see it again. read more
***My 400th Review*** Paris, France for Arc De Triomphe The Arc De Triomphe in pictures and books is really an understatement. Not until you've seen the real thing, you're missing out. This historical landmark is HUGE. A human being looks like an insect ready to be squashed standing next to it. The architect and sculptures on this building are truly breathtaking. Be careful from where you're at. You do not want to run across the intersection and risk getting ran over because these Paris drivers are super cray cray! Please do look for the underground stairs with signs showing you how to get over and into the Arc. To get into and to the top, you'd have to buy a ticket and it was 9.50 Euro a person. The stairs up to the top was approximately 284 steps, but don't quote me cuz that's from memory, and my memory isn't the best. They do have a lift to the top for those who really need it or if you are handicapped. The views up top are truly gorgeous. You really do see Paris By Night. It's a photo opportunity for the Eiffel Tower and it really is amazing. Simply put, I can use all the wonderful adjectives to describe the view from up top but you must come and visit yourself. I also really like their souvenir shop. Trust me, it's worth purchasing it from here. It's not a rip off. It's cheaper than souvenir shops on the streets by almost half. If you see something you like at the store, buy it. You won't regret it! The spiral steps down is another amazing view! It got me a little dizzy but it was a fun experience! Get a photo! Overall, enjoy yourself and don't miss the Arc while in Paris! read more
Magnificent piece of architecture in France that is now one of the most instagrammable locations. Go when the lighting is good--early morning can be tough. Sunset is probably best. Take time to research it too before going because there are no historical markers. read more
4 years ago
4 years ago
Wow Arc de Triomphe! The grandest arc I have seen, it's huge!!! Intricate designs on the front, back, and when your standing under the arc as well! Hint: Just don't even try to run across the street to get to the Arc because you will probably die with so much traffic going through. Find the signs to walk underneath the road to view the Arc. read more
11 years ago
We went to the Arc de Triomphe on May 16th, 2015 and they were having some kind of celebration. I tried to google it and nothing came up and we didn't speak French so we do not know what it was. They closed the arches and wouldn't let anyone go up during this time but we were "really" done with the stairs in France at that point anyway. read more
9 years ago
Another great monument you can't miss checking out! Amazing detailing and construction, totally worth getting up close to check out and crossing the street to check it out from underneath. Some people say just run but if you want to enjoy the rest of your vacation use the tunnel under the traffic circle, much smarter! Watching the traffic is impressive, this is one traffic circle that I do not want to drive through. I visited during a national holiday and wasn't able to go up but still so worth walking over to check out. read more
10 years ago
l'Arc de triomphe de l'Étoile is probably the best place to appreciate the beauty of entire Champs Elysees and another 11 avenues that stretches from all direction of arch to distance for miles, which gives a mirage of lava shots out volcano( only in night time). The arch situated in the end of Champs Elysees, which means you can check Champs Elysees out in a row. I would like give 4 star to the arch on account of it is not as grand as I expected it would be. read more
Beautiful monument and it's really big! Sadly, I saw the Arc de Triomphe for a couple of minutes!!! I was on the tour bus and we didn't stop to get out to take pictures.The pictures I took were really shot from the inside of the tour bus. ;D read more
13 years ago
This landmark is in an interesting location right at the top of the main road. So you see a lot of people stepping onto the road to take pictures. Its definitely fun to see and very beautiful but I would not make a particular plan to go to see this, you will likely pass by in anyways. read more
Another historic landmark in Paris that is a must see. From a mile away, you can see this huge arc that defines this historic shopping and dining stretch is Paris. With all the history engraved in the walls of this beautiful piece of architecture, it's work taking some time to read the names and learn what it all means. People tend to think Paris is all about the wine and shopping. While that is a huge part of it, historic landmarks like these show the depth of the history is France, as well as its role in the history books. It also happens to look amazing! read more
11 years ago
This is a must see/do in Paris. It's a fun area to walk around and shop. You can climb up to the top for a great view of the Eiffle tower and the rest of Paris. It's included in the Paris museum pass read more
This, along with the Eiffel Tower, is probably what Paris is most known for. I really didn't know what to expect when coming here, and underestimated the monstrosity of the thing! Whats interesting is that it serves also as a tomb, and that the names engraved on the top of it are the names that Napoleon and others fought for Paris. Pretty amazing! read more
9 years ago
OMG! The 284 stairs to the top is ABSOLUTELY worth it! I felt grateful to walk up each stair and found the brisk pace energizing and fulfilling!!! Each step I took brought me closer to the amazing scenic views and sweeping panoramic vistas! I can not say thank you enough for creating the wonderful spiral stairway to Heaven! Magnifique!!! I felt so energized by the 284 steps that I even did a headstand at the top!!!! A must do in Paris!! read more
13 years ago
There is nothing like the sensation of climbing the Arc de Triomphe and its 284 steps in all their glory. If I remember correctly, there were a couple of rest points along the way where you could duck out into a room and sit for awhile before continuing to spur onwards, ascending its ever winding spiral staircase. The feeling of conquering all of its steps really gives you a sensation of "triomphe" and victory. The climb also wasn't that bad, although it may not do so well for those who get dizzy easily or don't do well in tight spaces (narrow staircase). Ascending the winding steps was actually easier than descending because of dizziness that occurred going down. Either way, the climb up and the descent down was worth it! If having to pick between going up the Eiffel Tower or climbing up the Arc de Triomphe due to time, I would definitely pick the Arc de Triomphe. The Arc de Triomphe has a better view from the top, and to boot, this includes a great view of the Eiffel Tower, which is lit up and sparkles prettily on the hour at night. It makes for great photo opportunities on top of the Arc de Triomphe, having the Eiffel Tower behind you. Climbing the many steps of the Arc de Triomphe also lends a feeling that you did something worthwhile to get to see the amazing view, which makes it much more rewarding. It's good for the heart and a treat for the eyes with the views. Highly recommend going to the top! read more
9 years ago
Definitely a landmark one must see when visiting Paris. We went in the middle of the day, so I would recommend going earlier in the morning if you want a picture without all of the traffic and people circling. The museum is located underneath and can be accessed by taking the stairs. Avenue des Champs Elysees is right near this monument, so that makes for easy shopping and food after you finish your tour. read more
14 years ago
**Don't be "one of those tourists" who tries playing frogger while crossing one of the busiest roads in Europe. There is a tunnel to get to the bottom of the Arc... A must see. It's only 9.50 euros to get in and on your way to the top, but the negative is you have to wait in what seems like a subway tunnel with loud, smelly, screaming school kids surrounding you if you go during the summer.. The ticket line was only about 15 minutes in late June, and the line moves pretty quick to the top. There are some historical displays on the way up, and the views of Paris are unique. They are probably better from the top of the Eiffel Tower, but we didn't book those far enough in advance so we didn't get to experience that. read more
9 years ago
16 years ago
This is another one of the "Must Sees" when visiting Paris. It is very dramatic and quite domineering as you approach it. Its a fantastic piece of architecture and is the perfect start for a walk down the Champs-Elysees to the Place de Concorde. It is also the home of the tomb of the unknown soldier. It is very easy to get to from the Metro and as you walk down the Champs-Elysees there are plenty of lovely pastry shops to give you a much needed sugar rush for the day ahead. read more
12 years ago
It's okay . Just watch the cars and speeding bikes !!! No cops and no laws In this circle See vid read more
18 years ago
The Arc De Triomphe is a stunning piece of architecture, and larger than I had expected it to be. As one of Paris's best known landmarks it is well worth visiting, although the huge amounts of traffic on the roundabout that surrounds the Arc somewhat detracts from the impact. Its probably best viewed either from a short distance away to take in the shape and impressive detailing, or from underneath to appreciate the size of the thing. Worth a visit if you're in the area, but I wouldn't trek accross Paris for another look. read more
11 years ago
The climb is about 280 steps but it is worth it at the end. At the top there is a great view of the Eiffel Tower and Champs-Elysees. Just be careful, because some steps are hidden so you can trip on the roof. read more
9 years ago
We visited the Arc de Triomphe on 10/21/2017, early in the morning. There were already crowds to get through security, but nothing too bad. In fact we didn't wait more than 20 minutes to get through. To visit the Arc from the exterior, you do not need tickets. However, if you wish to explore the interior, museum, gift shop, tomb of the unknown soldier, and climb up to the top you do need to pay 12,00 Euros per person. The beauty of the Arc tickets is that they are open and can be used up to a year, from date of purchase. Because we had read reviews prior to our visit and so many people wrote that the Arc gets crowded, we purchased our tickets in advance, online. You can show the ticket barcode on your smart phone, but knowing first--hand how much technology can glitch, we printed our tickets before departing from the states, and took these with us during our visit and we were glad we did. If you don't pre-purchase tickets, you will have to walk the underground tunnel to the ticket office and let me tell you, although we technically went during the beginning of the off-peak season, there was a significant line to purchase tickets on site. We did not have to worry about that, we simply showed our tickets and walked right on through, no waiting. This is a grand structure with the exterior full of detailed carvings and inscriptions. I am a person that loves and appreciates history, historical sites and the intricate details of architecture, and this does not disappoint. If you're anything like me and also seek out city views with perspective, preferably from atop, then climbing those 284 steps to the top, should be on top of your list of must do's. Unlike most other sites where climbing stairs is required to reach the top, here you're not forced into two-way traffic on one set of shared stairs. Instead there are designated entrance and exit steps, which make it more convenient. The city view from the Arc is quite similar to that of the second floor of the Eiffel Tower. I must admit that I had read reviews stating that the climb up was only possible if you're fit, well I am not a thin woman, in fact I am quite out of shape, and yes, that climb felt like a killer at first, but I was determined; therefore, slowly, but surely and with a few breaks in between, I made it to the top, and you can too. (However, be mindful if you suffer from any heart condition, as many of these locations do not encourage the ascend if you do have a condition.) They do have a lift (elevator) for disabled visitors, but it is to my knowledge that one must have medical documentation verifying your disability in order to access the lift. I had read that they weren't very strict about the verification, but I can't confirm this, as we ended up being herded onto the steps. Although, the morning we visited, the weather was overcast and gloomy, the city views were still quite beautiful and breathtaking. This is also a good place for great shots of the Tour Eiffel and Champs-Elysees. I've read many reviews saying it's not worth the cost to climb to the top, but I say that it merits at least one attempt. Worst case scenario is you may not like it, but it isn't a total lost, it's an experience. At least if you give it a chance, you can speak from personal experience and not from other people's experiences. read more
7 years ago
12 years ago
First of all let me say I give the workers there a 1 star. We went there twice 45 minutes before it closed and they did not let us go up. OK now to the Arc de Triomphe. Be ready for a lot of stairs. But you can go to the top and look out onto a good view of France. Funny thing I went to France in 2004 and did not know that you could go up the Arc. My fiancée saw that you can go up. I recommend going up during the day and at night. You get a great light view at night I recommend getting the Paris Pass if you plan on going to a lot of Paris sites. You can skip lines and all the ticket prices are included read more
9 years ago
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