Arc de Triomphe: Admission + Rooftop Access

More about Arc de Triomphe: Admission + Rooftop Access

About Arc de Triomphe

Towering over Paris, the Arc de Triomphe is a triumphal arch that serves as a powerful emblem of French national pride. Napoleon I commissioned it in 1806 to memorialize his conquests, and it took over 30 years to finish. This prominent monument stands 164 feet (50 meters) tall at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, a well-known road that leads to the Louvre Museum.

The arch's exquisite carvings portray numerous battles and French victories, while the interior surfaces bear the names of French Revolution and Napoleonic War leaders. Today, the Arc de Triomphe is a renowned tourist attraction and a focal point for Parisian festivities. The annual Bastille Day procession passes by the arch, and the Tour de France cycling competition generally ends there.

Arc de Triomphe Ticket and Opening Hour

Visiting the Arc de Triomphe is a must when in Paris, and planning your visit is easy with clear ticket pricing and opening hours. Both senior and adult Arc de Triomphe tickets are priced at AUD 25.70, offering great value for an enriching experience. The monument provides free access to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, allowing visitors to pay their respects without purchasing an Arc de Triomphe ticket. For a hassle-free experience, you can purchase your Arc de Triomphe ticket through Traveloka.

The Arc de Triomphe is open from April 1st to September 30th, from Wednesday to Monday, 10 AM to 11 PM, and on Tuesdays from 11 AM to 11 PM. From October 1st to March 31st, it operates from Wednesday to Monday, 10 AM to 10:30 PM, and on Tuesdays from 11 AM to 10:30 PM. Please note that the last access to the monument is 45 minutes before closing time, so plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time at this iconic landmark. Don't forget to purchase your Arc de Triomphe ticket in advance on Traveloka to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

What is Special about Arc de Triomphe

Visiting the Arc de Triomphe provides a wonderful combination of history, art, and stunning views. On the ground level, you can freely explore and appreciate the foundation, which is ornamented with four groups of exquisite allegorical sculptures. The most renowned of these is François Rude's "La Marseillaise," which depicts Marianne, the quintessential French woman, encouraging the people to fight. Furthermore, the walls bear the names of over 600 French troops who fought in the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars, with the names of those who died highlighted. This artistic and historical excursion offers a strong connection to France's illustrious history.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier inaugurated two years after World War I ended, is one of the Arc de Triomphe's most poignant features. The perpetual flame started on November 11, 1923, continues to burn and is rekindled every evening at 6:30 PM. For those looking for breathtaking views of Paris, ascending the 284 steps (or using an elevator to the mid-level and hiking 64 more stairs) to the top of the arch is a must. The observation deck provides stunning views of the Eiffel Tower, the Sacré-Coeur, and the Louvre. For a more engaging experience, consider taking a guided tour.

Best Time to Visit Arc de Triomphe

The best time to visit the Arc de Triomphe depends on your preference. However, for the most pleasant views, aim for late afternoon or just before sunset (around 6 PM). This timing allows you to enjoy the panoramic views from the top during daylight and witness the magical lighting of the Champs-Élysées and the Eiffel Tower as the night unfolds. 

If you prefer fewer crowds and pleasant weather, plan your visit during spring (March-April) or autumn (September-October), when you can enjoy mild temperatures and manageable crowds. For those who love a festive atmosphere, early January is an excellent choice, as you can experience the lingering holiday decorations and even a spectacular fireworks display over the arch.

Tips When Visiting Arc de Triomphe

Here are five essential tips when visiting the Arc de Triomphe:

1. Consider buying your tickets online beforehand. Tickets are usually cheaper online than buying them at the gate, and you can often find discounts or package deals. This will save you time and money when you arrive, especially during peak season.

2. Plan your visit for the best time of day and time of year. The ideal time to visit depends on what you prioritize, such as fewer crowds or more pleasant weather.

3. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid crossing traffic. The Arc de Triomphe sits in the middle of a busy roundabout with several lanes of traffic. There is an underground passage that leads to the monument, so use this to avoid crossing directly in front of traffic.

4. Wear comfortable shoes. There are a lot of stairs to climb to get to the top of the Arc de Triomphe, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes that you can walk in easily.

5. Take your time and enjoy the view. The Arc de Triomphe is a beautiful monument with a lot of history. Take some time to walk around the base of the arch, admire the carvings, and then witness the panoramic views from the top.

Arc de Triomphe Location and How to Get There

Arc de Triohe is located in Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France. Getting to the Arc de Triomphe is very convenient with various public transportation options available:

By Metro

The easiest and most popular way to get to the Arc de Triomphe is by metro. Several lines stop at the Charles de Gaulle-Étoile station, which is right below the monument. These lines include Line 1 (yellow line), Line 2 (blue line), and Line 6 (gray line).

By RER

The RER (Réseau Express Régional) is a rapid transit system in France, primarily serving the Paris metropolitan area. It complements the Paris Metro and extends into the suburbs, providing a faster and more extensive network for commuters and travelers. The RER has five lines (A, B, C, D, and E), and its trains run both underground within Paris and above ground in the surrounding regions, connecting major transport hubs and key locations. The RER A line also stops at the Charles de Gaulle-Étoile station, making it another convenient option for getting to the Arc de Triomphe by train.

By Bus

Several bus lines also stop near the Arc de Triomphe. These include lines 22, 30, 31, 52, 73, 92, and the Balabus.

By Taxi or Ridesharing

Taxis and rideshare services like Uber can also be used to get to the Arc de Triomphe. However, be aware that traffic can be heavy in Paris, so this option may not be the fastest.

On Foot or Bicycle

The Arc de Triomphe is located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, so it is easily accessible on foot or by bicycle for those who are staying in central Paris.

Attractions Near Arc de Triomphe

Enhance your holiday experience by exploring other nearby attractions around the Arc de Triomphe. Discover the full potential of your Parisian adventure and add these must-visit spots to your itinerary. Read on for more details!

1. Musée de l'Homme

For those who are interested in humans and their development, this museum is a must-visit! The Musée de l'Homme is a national museum of anthropology located in Paris, France. It is part of the Muséum national d'histoire naturelle (National Museum of Natural History). The museum's collections and exhibits explore the diversity of human cultures and societies from around the world. It is one of the oldest and most important anthropology museums in the world.

2. Jardin d'Acclimatation

Spanning 34 hectares (84 acres), Jardin d'Acclimatation is an amusement park and zoo in Paris, France. It was founded in 1860 by Napoléon III's half-brother, the Duc de Morny, as a site for Parisians to acclimate exotic animals to the French environment. The park offers a range of rides, entertainment, and animal exhibitions.

3. Musée Marmottan Monet

There is also another museum near Arc de Triomphe you can put into your list. The Musée Marmottan Monet is an art museum in Paris, that is home to the largest collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings in the world, including works by Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, and Camille Pissarro. The museum also houses a collection of watercolors, drawings, and sculptures.

4. Aquarium de Paris

Paris, France, is home to the Aquarium de Paris, a public aquarium. It is Europe's largest aquarium, including over 35,000 marine creatures from over 2,000 species. The exhibits in the aquarium include a shark tunnel, a coral reef, and a tropical rainforest.

5. Cité de l'architecture et du patrimoine

The Cité de l'architecture et du Patrimoine is a museum and cultural center dedicated to architecture and heritage in Paris, France. It houses a collection of over 400,000 architectural models, drawings, and photographs. The museum also features a variety of exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs.

Visiting the Arc de Triomphe is an unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into France's history and stunning views of Paris. Make your visit seamless by purchasing your Arc de Triomphe tickets through Traveloka. While you're at it, use Traveloka to book your flights, find the perfect hotel, and explore other exciting activities in Paris. Plan your trip with ease and enjoy all that this iconic monument and vibrant city has to offer.