We have been to Paris many times, but never actually been on top of the Arc de Triomphe. On our Big Bus tour we got out to walk to the Arc and ended up on top. What a pleasant surprise. Great views and a lovely historical monument. Well worth the effort. read more

Amazing sculptures decorate this structure. I didn't go to the top due to poor planning and long ticket lines. I was perfectly happy walking around the building looking at the amazing sculptures. This structure sits in the middle of a crazy roundabout but there are staircases that descend into tunnels below the street to avoid the cars and traffic. Five stars! read more

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Why I have not reviewed the Arc de Triomphe is beyond me, but here we go! Honestly, this is on everyone's to do list going to Paris, but even after many visits to Paris, I still go for the people watching and the insanity of the cars below. First and foremost, don't be a dummy and try to cross the street to gain access to the site, everyone will laugh at you, and you will likely get hit or cause an accident. There are access tunnels underground all over around the roundabout. Once under, and under the Arc, make sure to catch some ground views of the insanity of the drivers on the street, quite entertaining. As for the climb...get your steps in, it's a decent climb to the top. Yes, it's expensive, but you are here for the view, it's worth it. Pro tip, go at night to see the Eiffel Tower light up on the hour, very romantic if you have a partner with you, but likely bring a coat as it can get chilly at the top. Make sure to add it to your list if you have never been! read more

This is the 2nd or 3rd most touristy thing to do in Paris, but its still worthy of your time and money. I visited during the day in 2014, and now I get to see it at night, which is almost as awesome. Its 284 steep steps up to the top where there's a small museum and access to the top to see some lovely views of Paris. However, we were most entertained by all a wicked traffic jam taking place beneath us in the 7 lane traffic circle. Whose bright idea was it to create a 7 lane traffic circle? €13 for adults, but its included in Paris Museum Pass if you got it. But its free if you just want to see it from the outside. read more

The Arc de Triumph is another landmark that you must see if you find yourself in Paris. It's free, and it just straddling the road. You can actually take the train directly to it, as it's a stop. You can get great photos by getting off at that train stop. Beautiful architecture. read more

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Pre-COVID review: The first tourist attraction we went to in Paris (other than Disneyland, which I don't really count it) was L'Arc de Triomphe! Adult entry is €12. If you buy tickets online, they cost an extra €1. So I didn't buy the tickets in advance and got them the day of. Luckily, there was a pretty small line to buy tickets (like 4 people) and to go up the stairs. We arrived after 10:30 am (they opened at 10 am) and didn't have to wait long at all. Frankly, there were more people outside taking pictures. The stair climb can be a little exhausting if you're not used to it, but the view on top is extremely worth it! You also get to have those great Paris skyline photos with the Eiffel Tower in the background too. Well worth a trip! read more

Tonight my partner and I were in luck to see this project called L'Arc de Triomphe, Wrapped. It's a temporary artwork for Paris and will be on view for 16 days from Saturday Sept 18 to Sunday, October 3, 2021. The Arc will be wrapped in 25,000 square meters of recyclable polypropylene fabric in silvery blue and with 3,000 meters of red rope. Sadly the artist Christo who designed it in 1960 couldn't see it happened as he passed away in December 2020. Commissioned by Napoleon, the Arc de Triomphe honours those who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, with the names of all French victories and generals inscribed on its inner and outer surfaces. Beneath its vault lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I. It's a must see for those visiting Paris. read more

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Another must see landmark in Paris. We didn't get a chance to go inside or on top of it, but it was awesome to be able to gaze upon it. Very intricate design. Just beautiful architecture. read more

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

Few monuments live with you forever, Arc de Triomphe is one of them. Since childhood, I was seeing this in ad-movies-posters and Wanted to see it. I am from India and we have India gate (more or less similar structure and same importance). We took the metro from the Louvre museum and get down at Champs street and when you come out of the station and get visual of this monument, that's awesome. This Beautiful architecture holds the flame of the Unknown Soldier. It is at a similar distance from the Louvre Museum or Eiffel tower or if you are at Champs-Elysées street (5th Ave of New York). Built-in the 19th century, it is the largest monument of its kind in the world. The Arc de Triomphe is dedicated to the soldiers who fought in the French armies of the Revolution. The names of 558 generals and the great victories are engraved on the top of the arc. Under the Arc de Triomphe is the Tomb and flame of the Unknown Soldier of France (symbol of the many other unknown soldiers who valiantly died for their country during World War One without ever receiving recognition) If you already climbed the Eiffel tower, you can chuck a ticket from this place. It's more or less the same view. Of course, 12 avenue meeting up here makes awesome view but you can't see it from top of it. is open every day from 10 AM to 10:30 PM and the ticket is 12€ p/p. it is a must-see when visiting Paris. read more

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One of the must sees in Paris. Make sure to use the underground tunnel to get up close to the Arc. You're risking life and limb running across the chaos of the round about if you don't. read more

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

The L'Arc de Triomphe was truly a beautiful sight to see in Paris. On the day of our visit, we walked so much that I had no desire to walk up the stairs inside. Instead I stood outside and took pictures of the buildings and helped other tourists take a photo with the Arc. I loved the detail of the sculptures and the architecture of the structure. I witnessed a veteran style ceremony going on while I was waiting for family to return. It took forever for my family to return, apparently the staircases were crowded, making it hard for people to walk up and down them. Glad I skipped that part. read more

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This is definitely a sight to see when visiting Paris. The day we went, there was some sort of ceremony going on honoring all the fallen soldiers so it was very interesting to watch. Our visit was near Bastille Day so perhaps this was the reason for the ceremony. We were able to buy our tickets at the window and climb all the stairs to the top with ease. I appreciated the military presence that was all around us. Paris like all major cities has had its share of violent acts both in the city and other areas. The Arc de Triomphe is easily located right off the Champs-Elysées. It's stature is so commanding and once you are up on the top, the views are just gorgeous from every angle. The Eiffel Tower is easily seen along with Sacre Couer in the distance. It is a beautiful landmark dedicated to the soldiers that fought in the French Revolutionary and Napolenonic Wars. This was a highlight of our trip to Paris and I know it will be one of yours too. read more

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This is another must when in Paris. We had the Paris PassLib pass so we got to bypass the 2 hr line ups. If going, highly recommend you purchase your tickets on line in advance if you are not getting the PassLib pass. While this was my forth time in Paris, it was my first taking the stairs to the top. The stairwell itself was very unique and the 360 degree views from the top were amazing. The monument was commissioned by Napoleon to celebrate the military victories with names of veterans cut into the stone. And you really have no idea on how large the monument is until you are standing underneath it. It was a positive monument experience and happy to recommend the Arc de Triomphe when in Paris. read more

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Spectacular view from the top of a historic monument. I was a bit crazy and walked across the street to get to the monument...i survived... Then I walked the 284 steps up the stairwell to the attic room and the remaining 46 steps to the terrace. The views are great!! Well worth the time to get up there, see the sights and get great pictures. read more

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

Lucky enough to see Christo's final instillation of Wrapped, we were in Paris for the exhibition's opening day. Just as majestic, mysterious, shimmering in the light, and allowing people to get close enough to touch (with your Covid Passport of course!) We've always been in awe of this monument but seeing Christo's wonderful & creative, final artwork, we felt very honored to be in Paris, to see the Arc again and to be part of this temporary wonder! read more

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Arc at the center of town. Offers a panoramic view of the city of Paris should you pay to visit the top. Price to visit the top is $12 Euro. Be aware that it's closed on Sundays. The arc is located at the edge of the Champs de Elysées shopping area. There are several viewpoints of the arc of not visiting the top and they all make for great photo ops. There are stairs located across the street from the arc that take you under the roundabout and to the center of the arc visiting area. We originally visited on a Sunday so the arc was closed but plan on going again while on the red bus tour which does stop here. Update: we went back to the monument last night for a night view of the city which I highly recommend. We captured beautiful pictures of the Eiffel Tower. Be aware that there are MANY stairs to get to the top! It is a winding staircase and we actually had to stop to rest halfway up, as did others. But the climb is so worth the view you'll experience. On the way back down stop and view the eternal flame. There are restrooms and a small gift shop in the monument before reaching the top. And if you didn't know the Paris pass gets you access here. Stairs that take you under the roundabout are available in order to visit the monument. So worth the trip. Some history----This Arc was inaugurated in 1836 by French king, Louis-Philippe who dedicated it to the armies of the Revolution and Empire. At the base of the arc is a flame that burns in honor of the unknown soldier that was buried here in 1921. The flame is rekindled every evening at 18:30. read more

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When you visit Paris visit the Arc de Triomphe. Walk around and read the inscriptions. Take lots of photos. These landmarks are in a constant state of upkeep. Be thankful for a day when it's fully exposed. Stand in front and get your photo taken. I failed to do that and I regret it now. Not even a photo of my daughter in front. I have an old photo of me at age 20 standing in front. It's such a faded old photo I'm not going to post it here. It's free to look at or pay to go inside. Do the tourist thing and go check it out. Check it off your bucket list and move on. You're welcome. read more

L'Arc de Triomphe - It was a beautiful weather week when we went to Paris! Posted 05/13/19 - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Paris, 75

The Arc de Triomphe is a lot larger than I expected! It can be seen from far away as you look from the far end of the Champs Elysee. Viewing the ADT is free. Climbing stairs to the top is a charge. When we visited the ticket office had not yet opened so we decided to pass. There are also loads of tourists that flock to this monument. I felt like I was in China for a minute! To get to the ADT, you go down stairs through an underground tunnel. The ADT is in the center of a huge roundabout. It fun watching the many cars jostling for space. You'd definitely need to know what you're doing when entering this roundabout. The ADT is more beautiful and impressive up close. I highly recommend visiting at least once when visiting Paris. The day we visited the skies were blue and the weather warm. A perfect Parisienne day! read more

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

Another place you want to scratch off your bucket list is L'Arc de Triomphe. Don't make the mistake we did and cut across the roundabout dodging traffic like a bunch of uneducated tourists, LOL!! There is an underground tunnel that takes you there. This was definitely one of many impressive architectural structures we've seen in Paris. read more

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There are about 634 reviews for the Arc de Triomphe and I certainly don't want to waste anyone's time with another 5 Star review but I do want to provide some guidance for first time visitors. (1) Get your tickets online. It's so easy and inexpensive. It's well worth it. (2) Plan your visit if possible on a late Sunday afternoon. Have the Uber drop you off at one of the side streets and walk around outer banks of all the inter-connecting streets. In front of the Arc de Triomphe, there's a lane where visitors can take a selfie or picture. Do get in this lane and waiting patiently for your turn and try to time to your picture when traffic is light. ( Hence the reason for late Sunday afternoon ). Be very mindful of the following: (a) Cars (b) Scooters, bikes, and motos. (c) People While the Arc de Triomphe is awe-inspiring, pay attention to everything around you. (3) Once you make your way underground and emerge at the Arc de Triomphe, be aware that you'll have your bag searched and go through security. Take your time to walk around the Arc and feel it's presence. All those inscriptions and depictions truly are majestic. While it's tempting to go straight to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, try to resist and save if for after going to the top. (4) On our visit, the elevator was not working and we climbed the stairs to the top. If you're feeling up for it. go for it. (a). It's amazing workout (b), Truly an experience. (c). The pictures are worth it (d). It's an one way up. The stairs for descending are on the other side. (5). There's mid-platform area that is super cool. Take your time and visit every nook and corner. Skip the gift shop until after you come back down. (6) Take some more stairs and make your way to the top. Take a lot of pictures including of the security guard in the clear glass box. ( What a job right? ) There's so many awesome picture opportunities and all the views are splendide!!!! (7) Make your way back down to the platform and check out the gift store. Most of the items are typical, but there's some good stuff albeit pricing. No worries, everyone speaks multiple languages including English (8) Take the elevator or take the stairs back to the bottom (9) Take a moment in silence with your eyes closed at the tomb of the unknown soldier. Reverence and respect and then take your pictures. In summary, there are many monuments in Paris but Arc de Triomphe is one of my favorites. The ease of purchasing tickets, the pricing, and self-guided touring makes it glorious. Vive la France! read more

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L'Arc de Triomphe certainly warrants an upgrade and is deserving of more than an average three-star rating, it's the iconic symbol associated with France and Paris, perhaps the second most iconic and noticeable after the Eiffel Tower. I would recommend visiting here outside of rush-hour at a non-peak time, as it can get really busy with cars/traffic as well as fellow tourists. While it is tall, it isn't the largest of its' kind in Paris, Grande Arche which reminds me of a more modern version of this in La Défense is larger, and that is also worth visiting too! 4* read more

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

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You can't miss one of the most famous monuments in Paris, so go here. I went in the night, took great pictures and paid to go on top to see the Champs-Élysées avenue and the Eiffel Tower and it was worth it. There was little wait to go up and it was a nice time spent in line as we paid our respects to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, homage to the soldiers that died in combat for France throughout history. But do be aware the hike up is tough with 284 steps up, you might need to take breaks as there is spots for that, but it is worth the hike. The architecture of the Arc is beautiful as it is inspired by the Arch of Titus in Rome, it is very detailed and nothing like the lazy buildings they design nowadays. Go see it, the price is right! read more

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A very beautiful monument and also a must visit when in Paris (if you have the time!). I was in Paris for a very short work trip with two other colleagues so we quickly squeezed in a visit in between meetings. We were about to try to run across the crazy busy roundabout when we realized there is an underground tunnel which takes you over to the Arc. Make sure you use the tunnel so you don't become a traffic accident! The monument itself is so beautiful up close, with gorgeous carvings and inscriptions all over the stone. You really feel a sense of history and reverence when you are here. When I visited it was early November so the area was set up with lots of Remembrance Day signs and floral tributes. The eternal flame was burning brightly in the late fall sunshine and it was hauntingly beautiful. I felt a connection here for sure. My maternal grandfather fought in World War II and was stationed in France, namely the Brittany region, which someday would become my namesake. While we didn't have enough time to go up to the top, when I return again someday I will go up to see the view (which I hear is amazing). read more

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Words and pictures could never fully describe how beautiful this building is. Even if you stop by for a few minutes, this is a must see sight while in the city. Pro tip, there is a tunnel that takes you from the side walk, under the major street cross section, and to the actual monument. No need to run across the busy street with no cross walks. read more

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

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Love Arc de Triomphe. I have visited it in the daytime and evening. I personally like the evening time viewing better since you get to see Eiffel Towel and Champs Élysées' beautiful night lights. The steps to the spectacular views are about 200 plus steps. (The elevators are reserved for people with disabilities. ) This is one of the most iconic and patriotic landmarks in Paris. I love the details they have put in for honoring those who fought in many of their different wars. There are sculptures on each of the arc's pillars. The unknown solder is tomb is below the arc and symbolizes those who died fighting and are not identified. This arc should be visited while in Paris. You can buy tickets in the entrance or use Paris Card, which includes the entrance. Side Note: It is open until late compared to other sights to see. Depending on the season until 10PM or 11PM. ~ read more

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Stunning, massive, beautiful, but insanely busy. The crowds are massive... massive. Be patient and time your visit wisely. This is a must if you are in Paris. read more

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The l'arc de triomphe is a very cool sight. Roughly translated to the arch of triumph. It is si cool at night. The lighting makes it much more dramatic. Just driving through town you will drive past it several times. read more

One of many historical and cultural icons that quickly come to mind when thinking of Paris is the Arc de Triomphe! It is quite easy to find at the end of the Avenue des Champs-Elysees. It was actually quite a bit larger than I was anticipating. We didn't climb to the top of the Arc (12 euros), but we did access the island (located in the middle of a traffic circle) by walking thru the underground tunnel to get there. The actual monument to the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars is a beautifully sculpted and detailed salute to the Generals and soliders who died fighting for France! This is a must see for anyone's first visit to Paris and it is quite easy to access via public transportation. How do you give the Arc anything less than 5 stars? I don't have an answer for you. 5 stars. read more

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One of the biggest highlights of my trip. It's such a majestic monument. Bigger than I thought and so grand. It's very cool how you go through an undercover passage way to pop up in the middle. If you're a student or under 24 years old, it's a discounted rate to go to the top! It's 284 stairs, it's not as bad as it sounds though, very manageable. The view at the top is wonderful and unobstructed (whereas at the summit of the Eiffel Tower, there are wires all around). The gift shop at the end is also pretty neat! Paris has these fake 0 euro paper bills and tons of commemorative coins at all the important landmarks (if you like those kinds of souvenirs) read more

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

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FYI, there is an underground padestrian tunnel that takes you straight to the Arc de Triomphe since it's smack dab in the middle of the most busiest roundabout ever. With NO lane dividers, I might add.. I thought New York was crazy, France takes the cake so far. I have yet to experience countries in Asia..HOWEVER, Beautiful architecture. I recommend beating the line by buying your tickets online. Like most of Europe, you have to take the lovely stairs to the top of the Arc in order to see the Paris Skyline. 200+ steps....but who's counting? :) Beautiful view at the top. Even though It was humid and a bit of an overcast, it offered a great 360 view of Paris read more

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

Come here early in the morning at like 8 am and get your best photo op for this grand landmark. Tour buses arrive as early as 8:10 am or so. So get your selfie taken before the hordes. I did go up close and personal several years back. During my recent visit, I only admired the architecture from across the street. Part of the landmark was also undergoing construction. A must see in Paris! Even if you only have 30 minutes in your schedule, squeeze in a visit as it's easily accessible by metro. And take a walk down The Avenue des Champs-Élysées! There is actually room to take a scroll... the street are much wider than 5th Avenue. read more

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

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L'arc de Triomphe is a beautiful landmark that is used in many blockbuster films. The magnificent architecture is stunning up close and personal. I was able to stop here during my recent to Paris. We climbed hundreds of flights of stairs inside the Arc de Triomphe to get to the top for an amazing view of the city. I'm so glad I braved the climb so I was able to mark it off the bucket list. Once you're on the sky deck, you will be captivated by a 360 view of Paris including the Eiffel Tower. I would definitely recommend this tourist spot for first timers in the city. It's so worth the 10,000 + steps to get those photos! read more

We stayed at the hotel two blocks away from the rotunda. And every day we passed by the Arc. Definitely a must to stay in the area! Shop and eat and enjoy! read more

When in Paris this is a must see from the top. Just a couple hundred steps to the top and it's worth it. You can bypass the ticket line by getting online. Enjoy! read more

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This has to be one of the top touristy place in Paris, but it's popular for a reason. The views on top is amazing. I got a chance to see the rooftop view in the daytime. As a first-timer, it can be a bit confusing as to how you can reach the base and enter. To get to the top, you cannot cross the street (as you can tell by the nonstop traffic of cars). You have to go underground through a dark alleyway (almost like you are going down to the train station). As you continue walking down, you will see signs for Arc de Triomphe. Once you pay the fee to go to the top, you will have to climb a spiral staircase of about 284 steps. But once you walked your way up to the top, you can see the hustle & bustle of the cars moving about and the V shaped streets. The views up there is amazing. Very picture worthy. read more

L'Arc de Triomphe - View from the top - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Paris, 75

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Yet another stunning piece of architecture, rich in history, right in the middle of this busy city. This arc is located in the middle of a busy roundabout so look for the underground passage facing the arc to the right side. This is also where you can buy tickets to climb to the top. You can also just walk around underneath the arc for free. The staircase to the top is a staggering 284 steps up a narrow circular staircase. There aren't any places to stop and take a break. There is a gift shop and some displays at the top before you head outside. Make sure you grab a booklet in your language which explains the history of the arc before you head up the last few steps to the very top. Once you get to the top the views are breathtaking! Underneath the arc is a flame lit in memory of the unknown WW1 soldier who is buried underneath. Well worth a visit! read more

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The great alternative to the Eiffel Tower's observation deck, the Arc de Triomphe has a view of Paris that is actually worth climbing the 284 steps (at a cost of a few Euros, of course). Yet even if you don't climb the steps toward the top, the sculptured artwork that adorns the Arc is worth seeing up close. Built between 1806 & 1836, the Arc de Triomphe is the quintessential design that honors French patriots during the country's revolutionary period. Its design is also often replicated in other arcs around the world, yet possibly hardly duplicated in prestige & national pride. Located on the Champs-Elysees, and within a 20-25 walk down George V Boulevard to the Eiffel Tower. Oui, oui! read more

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The closer you get to this arch the more amazed you will be. The detailing is amazing, I don't know how they did it but it's truly a work of art. Now let's talk about crossing the street and getting their safely.. RUN! So it's probably the largest round about in Paris about 5-6 lane wide and it's never not busy. If you're like me a curious little bug then you're gonna wanna take pictures but under it and that's an issue. As there's no actual place to cross and be safe you have to take it upon yourself to run and hope to god you make it. Clearly I did or I wouldn't be writing this review today. On a side not there is a under ground tunnel if you're feeling a little less on the athletic side lol I haven't gone up which is something I would love to do and it's not very expensive either so I would suggest to try it out. Check out my paris life collection for more gotta eat here and historical places to visit ! read more

This was more than I expected. I actually climbed the 274 steps. There are 2 landings to catch your breath. There is a free bathroom, a gift shop and a mini museum before ypu hit the terrace. With all of the people using the gandrail they should have someone spray it down every hour. read more

The Arc de Triomphe is a must stop on your visit to Paris. Not only does it hold a lot of historical significance in regards to Naploean but it is crazy to watch the driving happening around it. As other reviews have stated, in order to go on the tour or get an up close view you must take the tunnel and go under the street in order to get to the arc. Trying to get across the street is a gutsy move and one that puts you in harm's way. Scarily enough we did see one foreign traveler make the trek and it was a close call for her. This is NOT your typical round about. The view from across the street is impressive enough bit standing at the base you see the intricate carving and it is quite breathtaking. There is an eternal flame under the Arc as well, dedicated to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Quite a powerful reminder even in this time. Happy travels! read more

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