It was recommended to go here instead of the Eiffel Tower in order to see the view without the long line. However, how can I miss the experience of the Eiffel Tower as it was a must for me of all of Europe. It did have a shorter line and a cheaper entry fee. I loved the 2 Euros souvenir coins of three of the famous sites in Paris. Also, their store had some cheaper items than at the Eiffel Tower. So, go to the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower! read more

Arc de Triomphe, in my opinion, is the second most important monument to visit in Paris. It's right on the same street as Champs-Élysées shopping district, so it's almost impossible to miss it. There's a huge flag of France hanging beneath the Arc de Triomphe and it really brings out the French pride to this monument. I went here during the night, and it was still busy with visitors and there were many cars and buses zooming by. At night, there is a small fire lit with flowers around a tomb inside the centre of the Arc de Triomphe. If you want to get an entire picture of the monument with yourself in the picture, it's important to use a camera with a wide angle lense. Arc de Triomphe is located beside a busy street, therefore it can be difficult to get a picture if you don't have the right equipment with you. read more

L'Arc de Triomphe - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Paris, 75

***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

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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

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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

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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

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Location: Place Charles de Gaulle. There are subway stops that will drop you off not too far from the arch, or you can be overly ambitious (and a little mental) like me, and walk from Bastille all the way there. Only took 2.5 hours - though an hour of that was me stopping to take shots of this and that. The place/ the goods: This is another example of a place I wanted to see live, because architecturally, it's stunning. In addition, it's a historic monument and you can't go to Paris and not see this in person. You will walk up les Champs Élysées (which is now the equivalent of Times Square - or almost) and see this tiny arch get bigger and bigger until you're standing in front of it. Pretty impressive. Now, all of that said, this area is also tourist central. Expect rude tourists to just get into your shots as you're trying to snap a photo - and be careful if you're standing in the middle of the Champs to get your shot - traffic is frequent and there's NOT a lot of room for every darn tourist that insists on being there at the same time as you. You don't want to get pushed into oncoming traffic. For those of you, like me, who wondered how the hell to get to the actual arch from across that giant roundabout.... there's an underground walkway to take you there. Believe me, you don't want to try to get across that roundabout on foot! One of the perks of going over to the tower (besides seeing the tomb of the unknown soldier) is that you can go up to the top for a great view of the city. That said, there's usually a line-up and it's not free. I skipped this but when I went past, I didn't notice if there was skip-the-line access so you might want to check on that. If you can purchase your ticket ahead of time, I would suggest you do. read more

I'm not sure how one rates a marvel like this, much less give it anything less than 5 stars... This is a must if you're in the city. My suggestion is to start at the Lourve, walk through the gardens up to the Arc- you'll get the coolest view walking up to your destination. The line for the top view isn't too bad but get ready to walk. Small winding staircase of 280 steps all the way to the top. But the reward with the view? Perfection! read more

Napoleon, with his megalomaniacal tendencies did it right with the Arc de Triomphe. What better way to honor the Grand Armee, who was considered invincible at that time, with an arch to victoriously march through? Unfortunately for Napoleon, he died 15 years before the arch was completed. Visually, the arch from the Champs Élysées is imposing and impressive. The 12 avenues that spring from the Arc look like they're spokes on a wagon wheel. To get there, you have to walk underneath a tunnel and exit underneath the arch. I am completely fascinated by the traffic flow around the arch - it's a complicated roundabout but cars entering the circle have the right of way and the criss crossing of the cars amazes me. The neoclassical design of the arch is very impressive up close, and if you're a history buff you can see the names of 128 battles of the first French Republic and Napoleon's Empire together with the names of the generals who took part in them. Definitely stop by and if you look down one of the avenues, you can see the "modern arch," La Defense. read more

The easiest way to get here is the subway. If you are in Paris this is another one of those places you have to go and see for yourself! read more

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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

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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

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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

L'Arc de Triomphe - Arc de Triomphe - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Paris, 75

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The Arc is absolutely beautiful and if there is one landmark that you should see in Paris, I would make it this one. I'm sorry to the tower that the Parisians hated at first but this kicks your ass repeatedly, especially with the history behind the Arc. If you plan on heading up to the top, bring lots of water on a hot day. You will be standing outside for some time unless you're there bright and early. read more

Hey, it's the Washington Square Arch! Just kidding. More like the other way around. It is reminiscent of NYC's arch... but this is like the curvier, bootylicious edition, its thick sides. read more

L'Arc de Triomphe - Thank you, Lightroom. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Paris, 75

No need to plan on going to see it, since as long as you are visiting the major sites, you really can't avoid it! There was a lot of hectic traffic whizzing around it, so getting a good picture might be a little difficult. read more

Go here at night, you can see the Tour de Eiffel (Eiffel Tower) sparkling in the distance. My friend took the stairs and I pleaded asthma (I do have asthma) and took the elevator. Great views from the top. It would probably be better to go during the day if you want to see what everything is from the view, but it was nice to go at night and see the Tower sparkle. read more

My absoulte favorite monument in Paris, by far. It is a bit tricky getting there, I thought you would just cross the street but it is in the middle of a roundabout and there is no cross walks to it. However, across the street from it there is a stairway that takes you under ground and into a "hall way" type entrance that leads to the other side. Just walk on over to the other side as you'll reach another stairs that leads you to the Arc de Triompe. I sadly did not have enough time on my hands to reach the top, but I do recommend it! I walked around and many of the carvings and artistry were just amazing. I would definitely want to come back here again to climb up the wondrous stairs to the top, it will all be worth it and your legs might just get a little extra workout haha read more

We've seen this thing plenty of times on TV. I'm sure you have as well! But to finally see it up close and personal. It truly is a work of art-- and I'm not even into art. It is amazing to see in person and just as grand as they make it seem on tv/movies/etc. I like the reference to "Frogger" another reviewer made when trying to get to the center. There is no crosswalk and I've seen dumb people not time their run across the side turnabout and look like fools when the cars have to slow down for them and honk. Could be worse and they could be on the news about being ran over dead. Apparently there are stairs that go under which lead you to the center. There are plenty of vantage points to take wonderful photos showcasing the full Arc in the frame of your shot. Make sure to check it out at night as well. Simply amazing. Of course this is a must for all visitors of Paris, so it does get busy at times, but this area is so vast, it still never feels that crowded. Unless of course you want to venture to the top, there might be a wait. If there is something you absolutely must do while in Paris, whether it be for 1 day or a few weeks, the Arc de Triomphe is a must. read more

I played the soundtrack to 300 when climbing the stairs. Went up to watch the sunset ... too bad they don't allow drinks / food at the top - or it would have been a great place to enjoy a glass of champagne. There are underground passage ways ... so don't try to run across the round-about!! read more

My 1st time in France I had passed the Arc De Triomphe more than once on a site seeing bus and didn't think much to get off and go to the top. But my 2nd time around someone recommended going to the top instead of the Eiffel Tower because you have a very good view of the tower which you do. Its a lot of steps 284 l read somewhere so this 164 ft climb will definitely leave you a little winded even if you are in shape and totally wiped out if you aren't. However the view is worth the climb, but I don't think you'd need to do the Arc, Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame. So pick one, if steps aren't your thing do the tower, if you are ok with step the Arc or Notre Dame. The Arc is less claustrophobic feeling than Notre Dame. read more

Gorgeous monument in Paris, day and night! We got the opportunity to see the light show projected on it with fireworks on New Years Eve. Absolutely stunning and lucky to spend such a momentous night here. read more

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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

L'Arc de Triomphe - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Paris, 75

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

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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

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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

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Hop on hop off bus was great for us to take a look at all the monuments. It was very busy over by this one. The round about here is awful too. But to see it in person, and to know the history of it was cool. 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

L'Arc de Triomphe - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Paris, 75

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

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Simply beautiful! A bit confusing at first on how to get there, my friend and I comtemplated running across the street but realized that thought was short-lived because we couldn't time the cars right lol. When then realized how to get there, a underground tunnel leads you there. The line was extremely long but what do you expect. Of course a must see if visiting Paris. read more

**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

L'Arc de Triomphe - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Paris, 75

It's okay . Just watch the cars and speeding bikes !!! No cops and no laws In this circle See vid read more

L'Arc de Triomphe - Just a bit of the past - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Paris, 75

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

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Arc de Triomphe, one of the most popular spots in Paris, if not the world, sits on the western end of Champs Elysees. It was constructed to honor those who fought in the Napoleonic and French Revolutionary Wars. For those who are a bit confused, you can enter to the base of the Arc de Triomphe through the underground tunnels. Don't cross the circular traffic! When you're underground, there is an exit that takes you directly to the base of the Arc. You may see a "ticket booth" but don't fret, you can exit to the base for free. The ticket booth is really just for the tour inside the Arc. The Arc, although a really beautiful historic attraction, is really sobering. There is a Tomb of the Unknown Soldier there paying tribute to the unidentified soldiers of World War I. In addition, this is the site that is portrayed in Paris's liberation parade in World War II. read more

It's construction was ordered by Napoleon in 1806 to honor the Grande Armee. Today it is a memorial to those who fought in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic wars with a special tribute to the unknown soldier of WWI. It lies on the western portion of the Champs Elysee surrounded by a ten lane roundabout. Look for signs on the Avenue de la Grande Armee side of the roundabout which will direct you to the underground entrance tunnel. The Arc can also be accessed from the Wagram exit at the Metro. A Museum Pass will grant you free entrance. If you do not have a Museum Pass there is a ticket booth at the entrance. Eight Euros for adults and children are free unlike the Eiffel Tower.Walk the 284 steps that take you 164 feet above ground level. Lots of people needed to stop and catch their breath. You can take the lift to the attic. There is a small museum there and then walk up 46 steps to the top. In the vault below there is the eternal flame for the Unknown soldier. It's rekingled everyday at 6:30 PM. There are statutes, carvings and reliefs which depict battles and generals who fought in the various wars. At the top is a magnificent 360 degree view of Paris. Great photos of the various monuments and the Eiffel Tower. July 14th is Bastile Day. A grand parade is is held and it passes under the Arc of Triomphe. There are restrooms and a gift shop. It's a better value if you are looking just for views of Paris.There is a island that you can stand on to take the picture I took. The caution is that it is a four lane roundabout and getting there is a risk. read more

L'Arc de Triomphe - Arc de Triomphe - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Paris, 75

Absolutely one of the best spots to check out. It is famous and a tourist trap. But it is rightfully so. ----------------------------- Before I went to Paris, I bought a Paris pass, part of that is free entrance to many of the famous gems (except Eiffel Tower and Catacombs). To get to the Arc, you will need to enter the underground part to it (we entered at Champ-Elysees. So we bypassed the normal lines (which are long). Going up the Arc is a spiral stairs. They say the Arc is equal to a 15 story building and so walking up was definitely a wind sucking experience! Near the top, the two floors have some history, art and gift shop. On top, gorgeous views of Paris from all sides (depending on weather). It can get crowded and yes, some people will take up extra time and space being greedy for that selfie shot (get your pix and move please). But nothing wrong with taking in the beauty of the views!!! Definitely worth it. Different sculptures were made by different artists. Many of the French wars are listed as well as many of the generals of significance. The tomb of the unknown soldier with eternal flame underneath. ---------------------- The Arc is massive and if you take it in, it will leave you in Awe. ---------------------- tip - Day time is expected to be busy, sometimes coming at night, you can get some nice pictures with less people and cars in the background. Watch out for pick pockets and fraudulent people saying they need money. read more

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

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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

L'Arc de Triomphe - The perfect view of the Eiffel Tower and Champs-Elysees. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Paris, 75

Just a quick walk from our hotel, The Marriott. We visited it while waiting on our room. I reccomend getting the museum pass so you can go to multiple places during your visit. The view from the top is priceless and very much worth the the steps up. read more

L'Arc de Triomphe - View from Champs Elysse. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Paris, 75

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#356-2016: Having recently mentioned this massive monument as part of a review on the smaller version "gifte" to the city of Milan, I decided I would review the actual Arc the Triomphe itself, which hasn't changed much since I last visited Paris a few years back. The Champs Elysees is a massive street that only underlines the triumphal monument that Napoleon Bonaparte masterminded as part of his egomaniac needs to celebrate his achievements (small man, huge ego I am sure was a perfect fit for this guy). The details on this building are breathtaking and can take hours to be slowly admired from as many angles as possible. It can easily bring about a stiff neck from bending backwards it is so big. Just like the Milan counterpart, one can opt to got on top (what a VIEW!!!) And, if one has enough time to allot for the waiting line a few miles long (not as bad as the Eiffel Tower but it ain't for the faint of hearts), the payback is super thumbs up. Why not the full 5 stars? Because it is a celebratory monument of oppression. It is basically "I won, you lost and I am gonna erect a perennial reminder so SUCK IT UP". read more