Arc de Triomphe Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Arc de Triomphe Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Embark on an enchanting visit to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris by familiarizing yourself with its opening hours, closing days and ideal visiting periods. Explore the diverse range of ticket options to guarantee a seamless and unforgettable experience.
Arc de Triomphe Opening Hours
Last entry is 45 minutes before closing time.
Early closure at 4pm on December 24th and 31st, 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.
When is the Best Time to Visit the Arc de Triomphe?
The best time to visit the Arc de Triomphe depends on your preferences for crowds and weather.
For fewer crowds and better views:
- Morning: The Arc de Triomphe is open from 10 am daily, so visiting in the morning or early afternoon on weekdays is a good option to avoid the crowds. Skip the busiest hours from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. Mondays and Thursdays in the morning seem to be good to meet less people. You’ll also have better views of the surrounding area, as the sun will be shining from the front.
- Evening: In the evening, the Arc de Triomphe is illuminated and casts a majestic glow over the Champs-Élysées. It’s a wonderful time to visit if you want to capture the monument in its nighttime splendor. Friday evenings between 6:00 pm and 9:45 pm are recommended for a quieter experience.
In any case, Weekends and Wednesday afternoons tend to be busier.
For better weather
- Spring and fall: These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. The weather is generally sunny and dry, making it ideal for exploring the outdoor areas of the monument.
- Winter: If you’re looking for a more subdued atmosphere, winter can be a good time to visit. The crowds are smaller, and the lights on the Arc de Triomphe are even more striking against the snowy backdrop.
How Much Time Should I Plan to Visit the Arc de Triomphe?
You can visit the Arc de Triomphe in as little as 30 minutes, but most people will want to spend at least an hour or two exploring the monument.
Here is a suggested itinerary for a visit to the Arc de Triomphe:
10 am: Arrive at the Arc de Triomphe. If you want to go to the top of the arch, you’ll need to wait in line for security.
10 am: Ascend to the top of the Arc de Triomphe for breathtaking views of Paris. The climb is 284 steps is worth it for the panoramic views.
11 am: Explore the interior of the arch, which is filled with sculptures and inscriptions.
11:30 am: Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is located beneath the arch. The Eternal Flame burns day and night in remembrance of all French soldiers who have fallen in war.
Arc de Triomphe Entry Tickets
Explore a thoughtfully assembled assortment of entry tickets for the Arc de Triomphe.
Paris: Arc de Triomphe Rooftop Tickets
23.9K Reviews
From €16
GetYourGuide
“Easily accessed the arc de triomphe through the underground stairway…”
Combo (Save 15%): Arc de Triomphe Rooftop + Seine River Cruise Tickets
16.6K Reviews
From €29.70
Headout
“The ticketing process was very easy, understandable and simple, and the night sailing on the Seine river was mesmerizing. I recommend it…”
