Arc de Triomphe

The construction of the Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoleon as a tribute to the glory of his army; it is decorated with bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the battles of the First Republic and the Imperial Era.

It was inaugurated in 1836 (long after the Puerta de Alcalá in Madrid).

It stands at one end of the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, on the  Plaza Charles de Gaulle, formerly known as the Place de l'Étoile. This square, which is also a large roundabout, is where twelve major avenues converge.

This iconic arch stands 50 meters tall and 22 meters wide, and beneath it lies the Tumba al Soldado Desconocido, a memorial monument dedicated to those who fell in World War I.

Fun fact

Climbing the Arc de Triomphe

The arch cuenta con un ascensor allows access to its upper section, from where you can enjoy magnificent views of Paris. It is one of the Paris viewpoints most worth visiting.

You need to climb almost 300 steps to reach the top if you prefer to go on foot.

Inside, there is a small museo that tells the history of the monument through historical images.

Underground passage "Passage du Souvenir"

This underground tunnel allows you to reach the monument calmly and without worrying about traffic. Inside the tunnel you will also find the ticket booth, where you can purchase your tickets if you have not done so in advance.

Useful information about the Arc de Triomphe

Here you will find the essential information with up-to-date opening hours and prices so you can enjoy your visit without any hassle.

Opening Hours

• 10:00 – 22:30 (last admission 21:45)
• Closed on January 1, May 1, May 8 (morning), May 21 (morning), July 14 (morning), July 18, November 11 (morning), and December 25.

Prices

• Adult €16. Buy your Arc de Triomphe ticket here.
• Children under 18 enter free of charge. Photo ID required.
• The Paris Pass includes admission to the Arc de Triomphe
• Free for EU citizens aged 18 to 25. Photo ID required.

Address

• Place Charles de Gaulle

Getting There

• Metro: lines 1, 2, and 6.  
• RER: line A. Charles de Gaulle–Étoile station.
• Bus: 22, 30