Frequently Asked Questions about the Arc de Triomphe, Paris

Frequently Asked Questions about the Arc de Triomphe

Navigate through frequently asked questions about the Arc de Triomphe in Paris right here. We’ve categorized them for easy access: Visiting Tips, Logistics, Rules & Guidelines, and Historical Insights. Dive into succinct answers to enhance your visit with ease and lasting memories.

Visiting the Arc de Triomphe:

Yes, you can go inside the Arc de Triomphe. Inside the monument, there is a museum that tells the history of the Arc de Triomphe with visual displays, pictures and exhibitions. In addition, Visitors can also access the terrace at the top, which provides stunning panoramic views of Paris.

You need to climb 284 steps to reach the rooftop of the monument. But the effort is worth it. You will be rewarded with a great panoramic view of Paris.

Yes, absolutely! From the rooftop, you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Paris. It provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the layout of the city and its architectural beauty. The ascent to the rooftop involves climbing a 248 steps staircase, but the breathtaking views make it a rewarding experience for visitors.

Yes, there is an elevator. But only people who cannot take the steps due to age or health reasons are allowed to use it.

Access to the Arc de Triomphe is not free. While an admission fee is typically required, there are exceptions for certain groups. Under-18s, EU citizens aged 18-25, French jobseekers, and disabled visitors along with their carer (with a valid ID) may qualify for exemptions. However, for most visitors, purchasing tickets in advance is highly recommended to secure your entry and make the most of your visit

>> See Our Overview of Recommended Arc de Triomphe Tickets.

Paris Arc de Triomphe (Triumphal Arch), place Charles de Gaulle in Chaps Elysees at sunset, Paris, France. Architecture and landmark of Paris. Sunset Paris cityscape

The Arc de Triomphe in Paris as seen from under the arch

Logistics

Arc de Triomphe is located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris in the middle of Place Charles de Gaulle at the western end of the Avenue des Champs-Élysées. You can reach the arch easily by following means of public transport:

By metro

Lines 1, 2, 6 and RER A: Charles de Gaulle – Étoile station directly below the arch

By bus

Lines 22: Charles de Gaulle – Étoile stop and 5 minutes on foot
                 Charles de Gaulle – Etoile – Kléber stop and 6 minutes on foot
Line 30: Charles de Gaulle – Étoile – Wagram stop and 5 minutes on foot
               Charles de Gaulle – Etoile – Kléber stop and 6 minutes on foot
Line 52: Charles de Gaulle – Étoile stop and 5 minutes on foot
               Charles de Gaulle – Etoile – Victor Hugo stop and 5 minutes on foot
Line 73: Charles de Gaulle – Étoile – Champs-Élysées stop and 3 minutes on foot
               Charles de Gaulle – Étoile – Grande Armée stop and 3 minutes on foot
Line 92: Charles de Gaulle – Etoile – Marceau stop and 3 minutes on foot
               Charles de Gaulle – Etoile – Mac Mahon stop and 5 minutes on foot

To access the arch, you have to use the underground walkway from the Avenue Champs-Elysées or Grande Armée. Do not cross the roundabout. It is not only prohibited and subject to a fine but also life-threatening!

>> More information: Arc de Triomphe Location, Directions & Traveler Tips

April 1st – September 30th: Daily from 10 am to 11 pm
October 1st – March 31st: Daily from 10 am to 10:30 pm
> Last entry is 45 minutes before closing time.
> Early closure at 4pm on December 24th and 31^st> May 8th (opening at 12 noon), July 14th (opening at 12 noon), November 11th (opening at 12 noon)
> Closed on January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th.
> Official ceremonies or unfavorable weather may lead to partial or complete closures of the Arc de Triomphe on an exceptional basis. Any schedule changes will be communicated on the official website of the monument.

>> More information: Arc de Triomphe Hours

Yes, the Arc de Triomphe is situated near the Champs-Élysées, renowned for its shopping, dining, and entertainment facilities. Furthermore, you can discover other close-by attractions like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum.

Rules & Guidelines

Small bags and backpacks are generally allowed inside. The maximum luggage size allowed is 40x40x20cm. There are no lockers on-site.

>> Find more rules in our Visitor Tips section in our dedicated page: Arc de Triomphe Location, Directions & Traveler Tips

Photography is generally allowed inside the monument for personal use. However, the use of tripods and professional equipment may require special permission or incur additional fees.

There are no specific age restrictions, and the Arc de Triomphe is suitable for visitors of all ages. Children and families can enjoy exploring its history and admiring the panoramic views.

>> See Our Overview of Recommended Arc de Triomphe Tickets.

Yes, the monument is accessible to visitors with disabilities. It has ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and accommodations for individuals with mobility challenges.

Historical Insights

Designed in a neoclassical style, the Arc de Triomphe stands as an architectural masterpiece, symbolizing French artistic prowess. The arch, with its historical significance, was built to honor those who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars.

The enormous structure, measuring 50 meters tall and 45 meters wide, is made of limestone and weighs an estimated 600,000 tons. Located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées and forming a visual axis with the Louvre Pyramid and the Grande Arche de la Défense, the arch offers commanding views of Paris from its rooftop.

The Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 after his victory at Austerlitz to celebrate the French army’s achievements. It was designed by the architect Jean Chalgrin and completed in 1836 during the reign of King Louis-Philippe.

Arc de Triomphe means triumphal arch in English. Such a monumental structure typically feature at least one arched passageway and is constructed to honor an important person or commemorate a significant historical event.

The term “de l’Étoile” refers to the location of the arch. “Étoile” translates to “star” in English, and it specifically denotes the star-shaped configuration of the surrounding roads that radiate from the Arc de Triomphe. The arch is situated at the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle, often referred to as its old name “Place de l’Étoile,” where 12 major avenues converge, forming a star-like pattern. These avenues are named after various French military victories, and they form a symbolic representation of the radiating rays of victory.

In fact, there are two arches that bear the name Arc de Triomphe, but have different suffixes. In the Tuileries Garden near the Louvre Museum is a lesser-known arch called the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel. It was also built in 1806 to commemorate Napoleon’s victories in Italy. It is about half the size, but is often confused by tourists with the world-famous Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile.

Book Arc de Triomphe Tickets

Explore below your Arc de Triomphe ticket options and pick from the finest selection

Paris: Arc de Triomphe Rooftop Tickets

4.6

23.9K Reviews

From €16

GetYourGuide

Instant Confirmation
Entry Ticket
Rooftop Access
Valid 1 day
Free Cancellation

“Easily accessed the arc de triomphe through the underground stairway…”

See Reviews

Check Availability

Combo (Save 15%): Arc de Triomphe Rooftop + Seine River Cruise Tickets

4.3

16.6K Reviews

From €29.70

Headout

Instant Confirmation
Combo Ticket
Arc de Triomphe Access + Rooftop
1-hr Seine River Cruise
No Cancellation

“The ticketing process was very easy, understandable and simple, and the night sailing on the Seine river was mesmerizing. I recommend it…”

See Reviews

Check Availability

Combo (Save 5%): Arc de Triomphe Rooftop + Pantheon Tickets

4.5

11.7K Reviews

From €27.55

Headout

Instant Confirmation
Combo ticket
Arc de Triomphe Access + Rooftop
Skip the line access to Panthéon
No Cancellation

“Very fast and expeditious entrance with the bar code, we entered without major problem…”

See Reviews

Check Availability

Combo (Save 5%): Arc de Triomphe with Rooftop Access + Eiffel Tower Hosted Entry Tickets to Summit or 2nd Floor

4.2

25.5K Reviews

From €102.60

Headout

Instant Confirmation
Combo Ticket
Arc de Triomphe Ticket + Rooftop
Eiffel Tower Ticket
No Cancellation

“The ticketing experience was easy. I loved the view from the rooftop of Paris and the Eiffel Tower…”

See Reviews

Check Availability

Arc de Triomphe French Flag Paris France. Completed in 1836 monument to the dead in the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. Includes tomb to unknown soldier

Paris: Arc de Triomphe Rooftop Tickets

23.9K Reviews

This Arc de Triomphe ticket grants you rooftop access to the famous landmark. Explore the iconic monument at Place de l’Étoile and ascend to the top of the Champs-Élysées for awe-inspiring panoramas of the romantic City of Love. Don’t miss this opportunity to capture the essence of Paris from a breathtaking vantage point.

Access to the Arc de Triomphe’s rooftop
Views over Paris

Meeting Point: L’Arc de Triomphe de l’Etoile, 75017 Paris

Starting Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Valid for 1 Day

5* GetYourGuide traveler; December 23, 2023

Easily accessed the arc de triomphe through the underground stairway. There was a staircase leading to the roof, the rooftop was absolutely incredible and gave a great view 360 degree view of Paris. There was no long lines when we went at about 4pm. It wasn’t very crowded and there was elevator access for disabled visitors as well. Overall a 10/10 experience

From €16.00

Check Availability

GetYourGuide

Instant Confirmation
Entry Ticket
Rooftop Access
Valid 1 day
Free Cancellation

New Year fireworks display over the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. France

World famous Arc de Triomphe at the city center of Paris, France. Sky view

Combo (Save 15%): Arc de Triomphe Rooftop + Seine River Cruise Tickets

16.6K Reviews

This combo ticket gives you access to the roof of the Arc de Triomphe and a boat ride on the river Seine. Climb 284 steps to the 50-meter-high roof of the historic triumphal arch for breathtaking views of the Champs-Élysées and other landmarks of the “City of Love”. Set sail on the Seine for a 1-hour cruise and enjoy the world-famous Parisian sights from a different perspective while listening to interesting facts and anecdotes via the multilingual audio guide.

Access to Arc de Triomphe
Access to the rooftop
Information booklet in 10 languages
1-hour Seine river cruise
Audio guide on board the boat

Addresses:

Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile, Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris
> Go directly to the “Reserved Entry” (Entrée Réservée) line on the right of the arch. To access the arch, you have to use the underground walkway from the Avenue Champs-Elysées or Grande Armée. Do not cross the roundabout. It is not only prohibited and subject to a fine but also life-threatening!
Bateaux Parisiens, Port de la Bourdonnais, 75007 Paris (near Eiffel Tower)

Starting times:

Arc de Triomphe: You can enter the Arc de Triomphe at any point during its operating hours.

River cruises: Daily from 10:30 am every 45 minutes. Last cruise at 10 pm. Departure times are subject to change.

Duration: Take as much time as you want within opening hours to get your fill of Arc de Triomphe.
The river cruise takes 1 hour.

5* Eligijus, Dec, 2023

The ticketing process was very easy, understandable and simple, and the night sailing on the Seine river was mesmerizing. I recommend it.

5* Norberto, Nov, 2023

An excellent experience! The Arco attendant even asked me if I would like to take the elevator or the stairs, noting my age: > 60. She showed herself to be extremely well prepared to assist visitors.

From €29.70

Check Availability

Headout

Instant Confirmation
Combo Ticket
Arc de Triomphe Access + Rooftop
1-hr Seine River Cruise
No Cancellation

Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile (Triumphal Arch of the Star) at the Place Charles de Gaulles (Charles de Gaulles Square), Paris, France

Combo (Save 5%): Arc de Triomphe Rooftop + Pantheon Tickets

11.7K Reviews

This combo deal grants access to both the rooftop of the Arc de Triomphe and a visit to the Panthéon. Climb 284 steps to the 50-meter-high roof of the iconic triumphal arch for panoramic views of the Champs-Élysées and Parisian landmarks. Explore the Panthéon, admiring its adorned interiors featuring mosaics and paintings depicting scenes from French history. Venture into the crypt, the resting place of renowned French writers, poets, and scientists.

Access to Arc de Triomphe
Access to the rooftop
Information booklet in 10 languages
Skip the line access to Panthéon
Visitor’s guide

Addresses:

Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile, Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris
> Go directly to the “Reserved Entry” (Entrée Réservée) line on the right of the arch. To access the arch, you have to use the underground walkway from the Avenue Champs-Elysées or Grande Armée. Do not cross the roundabout.
Panthéon, Place du Panthéon, 75005 Paris; Redeem your ticket at the entrance to the monument.

Starting times: You can enter both sights at any point during its operating hours.

Duration: Take as much time as you want within opening hours to get your fill of Arc de Triomphe and Pantéon.

5* Alejandra, Dec, 2023

Very fast and expeditious entrance with the bar code, we entered without major problems. The Pantheon houses the Foucault pendulum and the remains of the Curie family…in my opinion a must-see for a science teacher in Paris.

5* Patricia, Nov, 2023

Everything was nice and easy! I loved the simplicity of buying tickets beforehand so that I knew what to expect as soon as I got there!

From €27.55

Check Availability

Headout

Instant Confirmation
Combo Ticket
Arc de Triomphe Access + Rooftop
Skip The Line Access To Panthéon
Free Cancellation

Combo (Save 5%): Arc de Triomphe with Rooftop Access + Eiffel Tower Hosted Entry Tickets to Summit or 2nd Floor

25.5K Reviews

Overlook all of Paris with this combo ticket, saving you both money and time. The ticket grants you access to the Arc de Triomphe, including its famous rooftop, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées, Notre-Dame, the hill of Montmartre and more. Additionally, this ticket offers hosted entry to the Eiffel Tower’s summit or 2nd floor. Don’t miss the chance to take in the City of Love from its best viewpoints—book your combo ticket now!

Entry to Arc de Triomphe
Access To Rooftop of Arc de Triomphe
Informative pamphlets in 10 languages for Arc
Entry to the Eiffel Tower
Hosted access to the 2nd floor or summit of Eiffel (as per option selected)

Meeting Point:

Arc de Triomphe Show your ticket at the entrance of Arc de Triomphe. Head straight to the “reserved entry” (Entrée Réservée) line on the right.
Address: Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France.

Eiffel Tower: Please check your final voucher for the meeting point details and specific instructions.

Lisa, July 2024

The ticketing experience was easy. I loved the view from the rooftop of Paris and the Eiffel Tower…

From €102.60

Check Availability

Headout