This is a must see. Dont over look it when you get to Paris. This is where The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located. It refers to a monument (cenotaph) in dedication to the services of an unknown soldier and to the common memories of all soldiers killed in any war. Even hitler when he entered Paris went around the arc instead of thru the arc. From the top of the monument, you can enjoy a unique view over the Champs-Elysées, by day or by night. The unknown soldier was buried under the arch on 11th November 1921 and awarded the Légion d'Honneur. The eternal flame was lit on 11th November 1923, and has never gone out. It is rekindled every day at 6.30 pm by one of the 900 French associations for former soldiers. read more

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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

L'Arc de Triomphe - The stairs that you need to climb to get to the top of the Arc de Triomphe - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Paris, 75

A must see in Paris. It is quite impressive when seen up close. The sculptures and inscriptions are worth a close inspection. Also, it is amazing look down the Champs d'Elysse. Also there is the tomb of the unknown soldier. While the outside structure is worth seeing, I would recommend taking the stairs to the top. There is of course a fee. The lines move quickly. We chose to do it at sunset and the views from the top are quite picturesque. There is also a small museum inside the Arc that gives some of the history. Of course, there is also a gift shop! Go to the top. It is worth it. read more

PLEASE BEWARE!!! Watch out for the girls asking you to sign some sort of paper... they will keep asking if you speak English and demand you sign their paper - all a distraction to steal something from you!!! Two girls approached me right away. One forcefully grabbed my arm, and the other tried to open my bag. I said loudly "don't touch me!" and other sorts of things multiple times to no avail and had to shove / push to get them off. They refused to let go of my arm and their grips got harder. An older lady approached them (also with the same sort of clipboard) and seemed to be angry with them. She was yelling (probably because they pissed me off and I made a scene in front of a giant group of tourists). They were no where to be found a few minutes later. I was trying to hunt them down so I'd get a photo to post up here. Stopped by Cartier nearby and a SA told me those girls were usually there. Anyways, nice to see the Arc in person! read more

Go at sunset, the view down all 12 avenues is spectacular and if you can - plan to be there for sunset! Also note, no tripods allowed, this is strictly enforced! read more

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

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They say all roads lead to Rome. But when in Paris, all roads lead to Arc de Triomphe. 13 avenues collide and spin around encircling the massive arch that is a epicentre of it all. Watching cars drive here is like listening to the Sound of Madness. There are names of the fallen soldiers on the pillar plaques, and the sheer size of the monument squishes you like a bug when you stand under it. You can take a lift to the top, but - you guessed it - I took stairs, of course. I do not know why I am so fascinated with old staircases. From La Sagrada to random lighthouses, I always take those rotating steps. There is something about unevenness of steps connected in the middle, and the fact that it will make you dizzy if you run on it too fast. There are also the views - the seashell effect of the stairs as you look down. But enough of poetry of the staircases... 234 steps take you on very top of the monument, and the views of Paris unfold. Avenues radiate in all directions, and the perspective is absolutely beautiful. Yes, another must. read more

I didn't go up but it's still very impressive. It's on this giant roundabout which can be really intimidating with the crazy traffic. Very close to the Champs Elysées and other attractions. To get to it, you have to go under the street via an underground tunnel which I think is on the west side. read more

L'Arc de Triomphe - Oh so impressive and historic - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Paris, 75

I have this amazing pair of Frye boots... four pairs, actually. I'm obsessed with Frye. The craftsmanship is unparallel to any other pair of boots I've owned and lemme tell you - I've owned some boots. THIS pair is worn and weathered with a 5" heel and 1" platform front. What?! They're comfortable. Besides, if you know me, you know I can run in 5" heels. So this amazing pair of boots and I, as well as the BF, decided we were going to spend our second full day in Paris visiting the Arc de Triomphe and then "Oh why don't we take a stroll down the Avenue of Les Champs-Élysées? And then maybe we can walk down the rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré? That's where Chanel is... we're in Paris. I need Chanel." So of course, I HAD to wear my boots. I couldn't see myself walking in to Chanel later that afternoon in a pair of Naturalizer walking flats. The fashionista in me said NO! SUFFER!!! FOR FASHION!!! Stupid. . . . Did you know that to get to the top of the Arc de Triomphe you have to climb 284 steps up a narrow spiral staircase? . I didn't know that. And THEN, you have to walk DOWN those same 284 steps. And PS - the Champs-Élysées ain't exactly one block. Oh man, did I suffer for fashion. [Ironically, I think we walked at least 5 outta 20 districts that day...] But let's get back to the Arc de Triomphe - We took the metro from our hotel near the Eiffel Tower to the Arc and once we crossed UNDER the Place de l'Étoile (don't try and rush traffic - are you CRAZY?!), we were able to begin our climb to the top without much hesitation. HA. You don't want to hesitate - period. The climb up and down can be a little dizzying... the staircase is relatively narrow because it isn't exactly brand new, (you know), and it is a good idea to prepare yourself for the number of steps beforehand unless you wanna be a jerk and hold up people behind you. I was fine going up and coming down because I'm relatively active but I can imagine this might wind someone that leads a mostly sedentary lifestyle. Eeeekkk gassssSSSSppPP, ya know? The view from the top is my second favorite view of Paris... (The first being that from the top of the Sacre-Coeur) It really is quite stunning... being at the highest point possible in the middle of the Place de l'Étoile is nutty. 10 lanes that outlet to 12 avenues? And we're in the middle of it all? Sidenote: We drove through it on our way to a party outside the city and although our friend is experienced driving as a Parisian native, I about lost my mind in the back of that Twingo as we went roundabout and out. Xanax, s'il vous plait! Crazy to imagine during the German occupation of WWII, a bunch of Nazi thugs marching through the Arc down the Champs-Élysées. JERKS. We hung out long enough to catch our breath and take some photos and braced ourselves as we began our descent. Champs-Élysées here we come! Ouch. My amazing boots and I broke up for about a week. read more

Paris, The City of Lights. Iconic with so many iconic symbols to represent this amazingly romantic city that you cannot really say which is your favorite. Why can't they All be my favorites, who says I need to pick just one? Okay, withat settled, The Arc de Triomphe is as iconic as the Eiffel Tower or the glass pyramid at the Louvre. Here's a few facts: The construction of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris was ordered in 1806 by Napoleon, the French Emperor. Napoleon wanted to honor the Grande Armee, the name of the French army at that time. The Grande Armee had conquered most of Europe and was then considered invicible. After his Austerlitz victory in 1805, Napoleon said to his soldiers : "You will return home through archs of triumph". The construction had been stopped between 1814 (abdication of Napoleon) and 1826. The Arc de Triomphe costed 9.3 millions French francs, a gigantic amount of money at that time. The names of 128 battles of the first French Republic and Napoleon's Empire are written on the white walls under the vault together with the names of the generals who took part in them. The construction of Arc de Triomphe was completed in 1836, long after Napoleon's death in 1821. Take time to climb to the top for another scenic view of The City of Lights! read more

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When you think of Paris what do you think of? Firstly, the Eiffel Tower maybe or good food, or romance or... well yeah. But Arc de Triomphe (or Arc de l'etoile) is one of the most well-known features of the city. And the Arc de Triomphe is well worth visiting. Sure it gets lined up (so plan ahead to either take advantage of one of the packages that allows you to skip the lines or arrive early or at a non-peak time). I actually really loved the museum aspects of this attraction along with the great 360 degree views of Paris from the top. Yes there's a lot of stairs (there is an elevator but it is reserved for those who have physical limitations for the most part) but the views are worth it. The gift shop here was well worth visiting as I picked up some of my favourite souvenirs (postcards and nanoblocks). The tomb of the unknown soldier is here. Additionally things like the military parade on the national holiday (Bastille Day or Fete Nationale) go down the Champs d'elysees which ends here. One of the most iconic aspects of Paris, featuring strongly in the history of the city, this is well worth a visit. read more

I loved it! Go all the way up and preferably go at night so you can see the Eiffel Tower light up at night.

This was a nice experience and beautiful architecture. I love the history associated with the Arc. Saw it several times both day and night. There is a tour available and might be something to get more out of the site. read more

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

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Blessed to see this part of history and can't wait to go again. Tomb of the unknown soldier! read more

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Upon recommendations from friends, I skipped going to the Eiffel Tower and went to the Arc de Triomphe instead. I mean you come to Paris to see the Eiffel Tower not to see Paris from the Eiffel Tower. There are a few things to know before going: There is an underground walk way that will take you to the Arc de Triomphe from the Champs-Élysées. DON't be an idiot and try to cross the roundabout around the monument. You will probably die from being hit by car. Unless you are physically impaired, you have to hump your ass up A LOT of narrow spiral stairs. Pace yourself or you might also die from a heart attack. There is a cool museum at the top before you get to the rooftop. You can take pictures but the lighting in not great. This is an amazing place to get photographs of Paris and the Eiffel Tower. I would suggest going at dusk, before the sun goes down and staying until the Eiffel Tower is lit up. It's magical. On your way back, beware of ambitious teenagers running down the stairs. They are vary narrow and if they knock you down, well you know, you will probably die. read more

Arc de Triomphe is definitely worth seeing. It doesn't cost anything to hang out around the bottom and there is plenty to see but the real treat is seeing the view of Paris from the top (which costs money). My tip would be to buy the "jump the line tickets" from your phone so you don't spend a long time in line. We climbed the beautiful spiral staircase and that is quite the workout. A great way to get the blood pumping! There is an elevator available for those who are physically limited. If you go to see the the Arc de Triomphe make sure you use the underground walk to get to it, rather than being an idiot trying to cross traffic to get there. read more

It's great place that you can experience the real beauty of the world one of the best architectural art so awesome!

Catching up on reviews from our previous trip. Amazing landmark with an incredible history. I can just imagine looking off this arch during the events of ww2 read more

It's impressive, but not a must see, in my humble opinion. Although, I guess the historical significance is worth it. read more

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

Ah Paris. Why are you so epically amazing? The Arc de Triomphe is one of the must do tourist attractions while vacationing in Paris, France. It's basically the monument honoring those who fought for France during the French revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. It stands proudly at 50 meters tall (164 feet), 45 meters wide (148 feet) and has one of the most beautiful inscriptions on it, which can rival the monuments in Rome even! There is also the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, much like the one in the USA, but the French version of it, which lies underneath the Arch herself. What is fascinating for me is that the Arc de Triomphe is a towering pillar of the past, a magnificent structure that just provokes awe to whoever visits her. On a recent October visit to Paris, I was here admiring the Arc de Triomphe via the L'Open Sightseeing Bus Tour's green line. Thankful as ever, since the L'Open bus tour knows where the best sights around Paris are. After cruising along the Champs Elysses in what was bumper to bumper traffic, I saw the Arc de Triomphe in the distance and I knew that I was getting excited - especially when sitting on the top of the L'Open Sightseeing Bus. The weather during my visit was around 12 degrees Celsius pretty consistently, especially much so when you're riding at the top, the wind chill makes you feel alive. At least, that's what did it for me. Definitely an adventure trip to be sure! The Arc de Triomphe is located at the Place de Charles du Galle, named after the late French President. The Paris metro comes through here, so that may be your best bet in coming here. There's always driving, but the traffic here can be very crazy, so I can't comment on that and the parking must be assumed to be nowhere to be found, especially with the fast paced craziness that Paris provides. With that said, the Arc de Triomphe is essentially free to look at and pose with for timeless and priceless personal photographs. However, if you would like to journey up to the top of the Arc, there is unfortunately an admissions fee of 10 euros, I believe. And of course, there were a few stairs involved. Not only that you would have to pay, but you would get in your workout for the day too! The Arc itself is quite amazing and definitely well worth your time and energy to go. For me, like the Eiffel Tower, I just wanted to see it in person and take photographs. I did the usual tourist thing, but couldn't bring myself to pay 10+ euros admission fee to see the views on the top of the Arc. The shopping and nearby the Champs Elysses is pretty neat, but it reminds me of a swanky Waikiki, Beverly Hills, or the Las Vegas Strip, but here in the heart of Paris. I didn't buy the Paris pass either, so it was just my way of seeing Paris on the cheap. The Arc de Triomphe is a wonderful monument and tribute to those who have died in combat fighting for freedom. Be forewarned though, the Arc di Tromphe is known for Paris pickpockets and scammers, as with any big tourist attraction. Fortunately, I haven't had brushes with them during my short time at the Arc di Tromphe. Just ignore them and shake your head when they ask you if you speak English. If you are bilingual, reply in a different language and move on. Works like a charm! If you are ever in Paris, consider stopping here and visit. I would definitely recommend it, just to see the Arc. Free for the most part, unless you decide on going up it for picturesque views. Support local! A+ read more

Beautiful beautiful beautiful. When your up close the detail is amazing. Must see if your in Paris obviously. read more

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If you're in town, you have to stop by. There are tickets available to walk around on top if you would like, but it's not necessary.

Come on...How can you say that you went to Paris and didn't go to the Arc de Triomphe? Well, I suppose you could, but I am sure there will be some skeptical looks. Set right as the 12 major avenues converge on what can be described as organized chaos filled with a mass of vehicles, the Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoleon to honor the soldiers that fought and died for France in the French Revolution and the Napoleonic wars. It rises 50 meters (that's 164 feet for us crazy Americans) and offers one of the most incredible panoramas of Paris that is worth the $10 euro fee. Getting there might seem like an imposing task with the gridlock, but let me allay those concerns with saying there is a tunnel accessible from the Champs des Elysses and the Grande Armee streets. Simply look for the downward sloping pedestrian ramps and you'll soon find your way to the entrance. Now, the walk up to the top of the Arc de Triomphe is not for the faint of heart. Its narrow circular staircases to go up and down can take the breath out of you. Plus there aren't many places to stop as you make your way up, so be prepared. Like I said, the view from the top is one of the best ways to truly experience Paris and the sight will definitely take your breath away. read more

It's impressive alright, you need nerves of steel to tackle the roundabout around it in a car however....I like how it aligns the Champs Elysses from the Place de la Concorde to the La Defense Financial area in a straight line...leaves for spectacular views...yay, I'm a fan read more

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

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Somehow we had managed to miss the underpass stairway that takes you to the Arc, probably because we were pretty awestruck by the actual landmark itself. Plus we walked across and stayed in the middle of the street to get pictures and slid into tourist mode. It was very cool to see the inscriptions up close and see it from the view of looking down the Champs Elysees. It's a very worthwhile site to see. Unfortunately, the line was too long for us to want to get to the top. Maybe next time we are in Paris we'll try to get to it earlier or later to avoid the wait. read more

Lovely view of the city. See the "star"! Get your steps in - all 284! Security is tighter compared to 12 years ago . I was stuck on the upper level (room with the display of soldiers uniforms throughout time), because of an unidentified backpack left at the tomb of the unknown soldier. Heard sirens whilst waiting until investigation was complete. Almost missed my train back to London, but better safe than sorry. So, thanks for the extra precautionary measures! Je vous remercie! read more

I recently had a whopping 8 hour layover at CDG on my way back to the States, so I decided to make the most of my midday break. I stored my luggage with Bagages du Monde in Terminal 2, hopped on the train, and headed into town. This was a definite whirlwind day, with me attempting to maximize the big sites, seeing as it was my only time in Paris thus far. I got off the metro, stepped out, and boom! I was right in front of the Eiffel Tower. How cool! Look, I'm a heavy traveler and while I'm generally sort of meh on big touristy sites. . . c'mon, it's the Eiffel Tower! And it was right there! I walked along the Seine for a while. I'd stop, take in the view, take some photos, then slowly walk on. I eventually crossed the river at Pont d'iena in front of the Eiffel Tower, then walked down the river before eventually wandering down various streets and making my way to the Arc de Triomphe. The Arc itself really is magnificent. And as a history buff, I couldn't help but just let the history of the place wash over me. It was crazy to imagine the Nazis-- and Adolf Hitler himself-- marching under it. The Arc itself is beautiful, intricate, and worthy of some time exploring. It really was a lovely way to spend an afternoon and I highly, highly suggest it. Also, I was a single female and felt perfectly safe the entire time. Yes, there are panhandlers and scammers-- just tell them no, ignore them, whatever. Several that came up to me led with, "Do you speak English?" to which I said, "Absolutely not." I walked off as they sat bewildered. A firm no and a glaring b-face will get you far in world travels, let me tell you. read more

If you have limited time in Paris, this is a site you can skip. It's striking, yes, but it's definitely not the most amazing thing in all of the city. I find it underwhelming. read more

It's big. It's blocky. It makes a very tempting target for occupying military forces to march through after they've thoroughly overrun your country and basically made of your manliness a mockery that will last the better part of the remainder of the twentieth century, if not permanently. Really? Calling a monument the Arc of Triumph? Yes, invading militaries make use of nationalist monuments from time to time, but when the Soviets did a photo-op at the Brandenburg Gate, although I'm sure it emasculated a bunch of Germans--if they weren't already busy starving and trying to survive--it's not as if Brandenburg means "triumph." It was a symbol of defeat, of course, but that symbolism wasn't reinforced by the name of the stupid monument. And since I brought up the Brandenburg Gate, now's a good time to contrast it with the Arc de Triomphe. One has nice lines, a wonderful scale, and fits well within its urban milieu. The other? It neither has nor does any of these. So yea for French scientists, for the most part, but boo for this monstrosity of architecture, if you can even call it that. read more

This is the famous Arc that the majority of us have seen in pictures about Paris and its famous landmarks. Located near the Champs Eyssey shopping area, this monument is stunning with its intricate and detailed design standing as grand as ever. You do have the opportunity to be able to go all the way to the top of the Arc to look down below, but be prepared for the long lines. Additionally, there is a fee to check out their museum as well. Similar to many places in Paris, the day to night view of the same landmark can pose very different feelings and what you'll notice about them. So make sure if you can, check it out both in the day time when there are lots of tourists around and while the sun is shining on it, to night time where the majority of tourists are gone, and the lights are turned on reflecting all the shadows and bringing out all the details of the monument. Cool fact: So if you look at the Arc de Triomphe and look right through the center of the Arc, you'll notice that the majority of Paris's famous landmarks were designed to be in a straight line of each other. You will see the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousell, Place de la Concorde Ferris Wheel and then the Eiffel Tower all in one straight line back to the Famous Ach de Triomphe (located by Champs Elyssey). Pretty cool fact in my book. read more

loved it. good workout going up all them stairs! nice views of paris and champ elysees read more

The last time I came to Paris, I didn't have time to climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe. No worries, it gave me a reason to come back to beautiful Paris! Lucky for us, it was one of the few landmarks that closed late...I think it was 10PM. It costs about 7 Euros to get to the top and the only way up is to climb a bunch of stairs. The view is awesome from the top. Not only does it give a fantastic view of Paris, it is also cool to see how the streets below meet in middle of the arc to make an asterisk. I love sightseeing and I am a total touristy person, so checking out the Arc de Triomphe is must on the checklist. read more

Interesting point of architecture but to get to the top is a long hike of stairs. There is a hidden elevator for the disabled or otherwise. Tickets can be bought online and you can go directly to the entrance of the building. read more

When in Paris, you can usually see Arc de Triomphe from pretty much every neighborhood. Yeah, it's that triumphant -- and that impressive. Want to be even more impressed? Take the time to run across the crazy roundabout or (even better) use the safe tunnels and behold the Arc up close. You'll never forget it (and it makes for amazing picture-taking). If you do a little reading prior to your visit, you'll learn that every sculptural frieze has significance and tells a story from French military history, making your experience all the richer and more enjoyable. Be warned, the traffic circle is scary with mayhem and the crowds at the Arc aren't that much better, so gird your loins and prepare for a sight-seeing adventure. Just be sure you do it -- it's totally worth it. read more

Triumph indeed! Its nice... and I like it for all the wrong reasons. Much of the attraction for me is to dodge cars to get to it. Yes, I know you're not supposed to... thats exactly why I do what I do. hahahahahaha ;D read more

I was expecting this Arc to be relatively small because I had only seen it in small pictures, but it was really big!! My pants were a little tight, but that's my fault. Pictures pictures pictures!!! These guys did a great job with the Arc! You can go through it in multiple directions, and the guy at the hotel was super helpful with understanding the cartoons and way to squint so it looks like a big box. I am so happy! Way to go! read more

The Arc de Triomphe is one of the best places to get a view of a gigantic traffic circle! With twelve avenues all culminating at the Arc de Triomphe, it was amazing to see all the cars circle around without any traffic lights or signals. Just dive in and go! The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is also located here. If you've got a valid Museum Pass, definitely take advantage of it and climb the circular stairs to the top! It's not as bad as taking the stairs at the Eiffel Tower but it's a bit more claustrophobic. But you'll get to the level before the top where they have a small gift shop and a few exhibits to check out and a place to rest after that steady climb! Don't rest your glutes too long and keep going one more set of stairs to the very top, where you can stretch out and go around the very top to take pictures of each avenue or the Eiffel Tower! We stayed until sunset to watch the city light up. It's a bit more spacious than the Eiffel Tower and the crowds wasn't as dense but we had a gorgeous view. It's also a gorgeous view from the ground at night. Especially when you have a warm cup of hot chocolate and a seat at one of the cafes on the Champs-Elysees. read more

When we went to Paris a while back, the Arc de Triomphe was a landmark we just had to see. Wondered if it would be nicer in person than in photos. Well, duh! Of course, it was better viewed in person!! Too bad, we did not have a chance to take a closer look at this beauty. Did not have the time to admire it up close and personal. Guess, we will just have to return here someday. Do not think my wife will have a problem with that. read more

People might say that there is an arch in NYC by the NYU campus or that there is an arch in St. Louis that bridges the east from the west. However, none of these is surrounded by a road that completely encircles you with cars flying around beeping at other cars and pedestrians. Whether you go during the night or by day, Arc de Triomphe is beautiful. The arch lights up during the night and is really cool. Also, you can literally look down the Champs-Elysee and see everything that goes on. A very nice attraction and a must see. Just hit this place up after going to L'Ouvre because it's literally right there. Then swing by some of the best restaurants on the Champs-Elysee afterwards for some good grub. read more

Grandiose monument that well represents France's history. The views of Paris from the top are magnificent, and even better than from the Eiffel Tower. You are at the center of the "etoile" with grand avenues opening up on each side. The views that I saw at night during the Christmas markets on the Champs Elysees were sparkling and colorful with lights. On the ground under the Arc, you may catch the ceremony of the Unknown Soldier taking place. Unfortunately there is always an infinite line of tourists to go up, therefore to avoid it go in the early morning, before it closes, or off peak season. There are small exhibits inside the Arc de Triomphe. You may go up via spiraling stairs, a unique experience in its own. Costs 10 euros to go up. If you are under 26 years old and a French resident or student in France, you can go up for free. read more

Get ready for a work out, because there's tons of stairs to get to the top for one of the best views of Paris. The is also an area outside where you could get the best frontal view of the entire Arc in the picture. read more

L'Arc de Triomphe - The stairs of Doom - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Paris, 75

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