Arc de Triomphe Tour Guides

Overview

The Arc de Triomphe stands at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle (formerly Place de l'Étoile), from which twelve avenues radiate like a star. Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 after his victory at Austerlitz, this 50-meter-high triumphal arch wasn't completed until 1836, long after his death. The monument is covered with intricate reliefs depicting French military victories and houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where an eternal flame has burned since 1921. The rooftop terrace offers one of Paris's best panoramic views, looking down the Champs-Élysées to the Louvre in one direction and toward La Défense in the other. Paris Museum Pass includes access. Book online to skip ticket queues.

Historical Significance

Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 after his victory at Austerlitz, the arch wasn't completed until 1836, long after his exile and death. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was added in 1921, honoring those who fell in World War I. An eternal flame has burned here ever since, rekindled nightly at 6:30 PM. The arch has witnessed Napoleon's funeral cortege, the liberation of Paris in 1944, and every Bastille Day military parade. Names of 558 generals and 128 battles are inscribed inside.

Architecture

Standing 50 meters tall, the Arc de Triomphe is adorned with intricate neoclassical reliefs. La Marseillaise relief by François Rude (also called "Departure of the Volunteers") is the most famous sculptural group. The rooftop terrace offers panoramic views down the Champs-Élysées toward the Louvre Museum in one direction and toward La Défense in the other. The 12-avenue roundabout of Place de l'Étoile radiates outward in Haussmann's grand urban design.

When to Visit

Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM (October-March until 10:30 PM). Last entry: 45 minutes before closing. Best time: Sunset for golden views down the Champs-Élysées. Flame ceremony: 6:30 PM daily, rekindling at the Tomb

Admission and Costs

Rooftop access: €13. Under 18 (EU): Free. First Sunday (Nov-Mar): Free. Guided tour: €40-60 per person. Private guide: €150-250 for 1.5 hours

Tips for Visitors

Underground access only: Never cross the roundabout above ground. 284 steps: No elevator to rooftop, moderate fitness required. Metro: Charles de Gaulle-Étoile (lines 1, 2, 6). Security screening: Bag checks, allow extra time. December 2: Anniversary of Austerlitz, special ceremony

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best season to climb the Arc de Triomphe?

May and September strike the perfect balance between pleasant rooftop temperatures and manageable crowds for the 284-step climb. Summer months bring the longest views down the Champs-Elysees but also peak tourist queues, while the Bastille Day ceremony on July 14 transforms the monument into a national focal point. The first Sunday from November through March offers free rooftop access with crisp winter views that can stretch remarkably far across Paris on clear days.

When can visitors tour Arc de Triomphe?

How much is the entrance fee for Arc de Triomphe?

Rooftop access: €13. Under 18 (EU): Free. First Sunday (Nov-Mar): Free. Guided tour: €40-60 per person. Private guide: €150-250 for 1.5 hours

What should visitors know before visiting Arc de Triomphe?

Underground access only: Never cross the roundabout above ground. 284 steps: No elevator to rooftop, moderate fitness required. Metro: Charles de Gaulle-Étoile (lines 1, 2, 6). Security screening: Bag checks, allow extra time.