The Arc de Triomphe isn’t just a photo stop—it’s one of Paris’s most iconic monuments with an incredible story, beautiful design, and one of the best rooftop views in the city. If you’re planning to just glance at it from across the Champs-Élysées and walk away—you’re missing out.
Built on Napoleon’s orders in the early 19th century, this arch was meant to showcase French military strength and honor the army. Over the centuries, it has become a powerful national symbol, home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and a place of reflection and ceremony.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to visit it properly, including how to get there, what to expect inside, how to climb it, and why standing on its rooftop is a moment you won’t forget.
#1 Quick History & Symbolism
Commissioned in 1806 by Napoleon Bonaparte, the Arc de Triomphe was inspired by the grandeur of Roman arches—but built on a scale only the French could imagine. Its purpose was to celebrate military victories and to glorify the French army, particularly after Napoleon’s triumph at Austerlitz.
Construction took over 30 years and spanned multiple political regimes. Napoleon never saw its completion, but his legacy lives on in its design. The arch features intricate sculptures, battle names, and military leaders. More than just a monument, it became a sacred space when the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was added after World War I, with an eternal flame that burns to this day—relit each evening at 6:15 PM in a quiet, touching ceremony.
It’s not just a place to admire from a distance—its symbolism and atmosphere make it a must-see experience, especially if you step inside and climb to the top.
Bonus read: Check out these 35 fascinating facts about the Arc de Triomphe.
#2 How to Visit the Arc de Triomphe (and Not Die Trying)
It’s easy to think the Arc is just something you view from a distance—but stepping inside transforms it from a monument to a full-on experience. And yes, you can absolutely climb to the top. The question is: how?
How to Get There Safely
The Arc is in the middle of a massive roundabout where 12 busy avenues intersect. You’ll see plenty of people trying to snap photos from the sidewalk, but if you want to go inside, don’t be tempted to cross the street directly. It’s dangerous and illegal.
Instead, take the pedestrian underpass located at the intersection of Champs-Élysées and Avenue de la Grande-Armée. It’s clearly marked and will lead you directly to the base of the Arc without risking your life in traffic.
Closest Metro station: Charles de Gaulle – Étoile (Lines 1, 2, 6 + RER A)
Getting Inside
Once you’ve arrived at the base of the Arc via the tunnel, you’ll see the entrance on the right side. There’s a ticket counter as well as a security check (bags are inspected, large luggage is not allowed).
If you’ve already got a ticket—great, you can skip the line. Otherwise, it’s usually a quick process unless you’re visiting during peak times like midday or summer weekends.
Tip: Entry is free for EU citizens under 26 and on the first Sunday of each month between November and March. Everyone else: the entrance fee is modest and totally worth it.
Opening Hours
The Arc is open every day, all year round—except for January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th.
Hours: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Last entry: 45 minutes before closing
Accessibility: There is an elevator for visitors with reduced mobility. However, even with the elevator, the final section (about 40 steps) must be climbed on foot to reach the rooftop.
Everyone else: prepare for 284 stone spiral steps. It’s narrow, it’s a bit dizzying, but it’s also part of the adventure.
#3 Is the View from the Arc de Triomphe Worth It?
Short answer? Absolutely.
Once you reach the top—either via the spiral staircase or elevator—you’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree panoramic view that rivals any in Paris. It’s not as high as the Eiffel Tower, but in many ways, it’s better.
You’ll see the Eiffel Tower towering across the Seine, the Sacré-Cœur sitting proudly on Montmartre hill, and the futuristic skyline of La Défense to the west. What makes this spot truly unique is the perfectly symmetrical layout of Paris’s boulevards, all radiating out from the Arc like spokes on a wheel.
Another bonus? You get this incredible view without glass barriers or security fencing in your line of sight. It’s open-air, which makes for cleaner, more natural photos and a completely unobstructed visual experience.
If you can, go around sunset. The golden light over Paris is something else. It’s quieter, the lighting is perfect, and you’ll get photos that look straight out of a postcard.
And best of all? You won’t be shoulder-to-shoulder with crowds like at the Eiffel Tower. It’s peaceful up there, with plenty of space to move around, sit, and enjoy the view. It might just become your favorite memory of the trip.
#4 Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit
To really enjoy your time at the Arc de Triomphe, a little prep goes a long way. Here are some practical tips to help make your visit smooth and memorable:
- Go early or late: Early morning and late evening (especially near sunset) are less crowded and offer the best light for photos.
- Skip midday: Tourist buses peak around lunchtime, and the queues get longer.
- Watch the flame ceremony: Every day at 6:15 PM, the eternal flame is ceremonially rekindled—simple but powerful.
- Wear good shoes: The stairs are steep and spiraled. Comfortable, non-slip shoes help a lot.
- Bring a camera or phone with zoom: The view from the top is detailed, and zoom helps capture all the angles—especially the Eiffel Tower.
- Use the tunnel: Again, don’t be the person trying to cross that crazy roundabout on foot. Use the underpass!
#5 What’s Inside the Arc de Triomphe?
It’s not just about climbing to the top—there’s more inside the Arc than people expect. Halfway up, you’ll find a small exhibition space that tells the story of the monument’s construction, meaning, and symbolism.
There are scale models, old photographs, military artifacts, and interactive displays that explain the importance of the site throughout France’s modern history—from Napoleon’s era to World War I and beyond. It’s a compact but informative space, ideal for a 10–15 minute pause during your climb.
So don’t rush straight to the top—take a moment to explore this section. It adds context and depth to what you’re about to see when you step out onto the terrace.
#6 Tickets for the Arc de Triomphe
You can purchase tickets either online in advance or directly at the Arc. Prices are affordable and include access to all levels, including the rooftop terrace.
Good to know: Entry is free for:
- Children under 18 (regardless of nationality)
- EU residents under 26
- Everyone on the first Sunday of the month (November to March)
No ticket is needed to see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier or admire the Arc from the outside. But the climb and exhibition require a ticket or eligibility for free entry.
Final Thoughts
So, is it worth climbing the Arc de Triomphe? Without a doubt. This isn’t just another monument—it’s a blend of history, architecture, symbolism, and unmatched views of Paris. And unlike the Eiffel Tower, you won’t have to deal with massive crowds or hour-long lines.
Whether you’re visiting Paris for the first time or the tenth, make sure to go beyond the photo-op and head inside. The climb is short, the exhibits are informative, and the rooftop is unforgettable. Bring your camera, wear good shoes, and take it all in—you’ll be glad you did.
Bon voyage—and don’t forget to look up when you’re inside. The ceiling and carvings are just as beautiful as the skyline.
