Background Information
Arc de Triomphe is one of the most iconic monuments in Paris, located at the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle, a roundabout that serves as the intersection between Champs-Elysees and Avenue des Champs-Elysees. Completed in 1836 under the orders of Napoleon Bonaparte, the Arc de Triomphe stands as a symbol of French triumph and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Paris. It is also one of the most visited monuments in the world and receives over 6 million visitors each year.
History of Arc de Triomphe
The original idea for Arc de Triomphe came from Napoleon Bonaparte, who wanted to commemorate the victories of the Napoleonic Wars. The design was commissioned from Jean Chalgrin, a French architect, and construction began in 1806. The Arc de Triomphe is made of stone and stands 50 meters high. It was designed to resemble a Triumphal Arch, a traditional Spots architectural feature during the imperial period.
The original design features four columns with a laurel wreath on top. The columns portray the four main principles of the Napoleonic era: Republicanism, Duty, Justice and Glory. This design was later modified in 1932 to include sculptures of the French Republic, Unity and Freedom. The Arc de Triomphe also houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a shrine to those who laid down their lives during the First World War.
Why Should You Visit Arc de Triomphe?
Arc de Triomphe is a must-visit for anyone who’s planning a trip to Paris. This majestic monument pays tribute to the heroes of the French Republic, and offers breathtaking views from the top of the arch. It’s a great way to take in the beauty and grandeur of Paris from the heights of this iconic monument.
The Arc de Triomphe also provides a great opportunity to take a walk around the Place Charles de Gaulle and explore the area around the monument. Visitors can also take the time to visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is a powerful tribute to those who laid down their lives for their country.
How Much Time to Spend at Arc de Triomphe?
How much time you should spend at Arc de Triomphe really depends on your individual preferences. This monument takes at least an hour to explore, so a minimum of two hours is recommended to ensure you get enough time to get up close and personal with the Arc de Triomphe.
Additionally, if you’re intending to take in the beauty of the surrounding area, it’s advisable to plan for considerably more time than usual. It’s best to set aside an entire afternoon to explore the area, as the Place Charles de Gaulle is home to many other attractions such as the Louvre Museum, the Jardin des Tuileries, and the Musée d’Orsay.
Tips for Visiting Arc de Triomphe
A great way to make the most of your visit to Arc de Triomphe is to purchase a Paris Museum Pass, which will give you access to previous sites with priority entry. It’s also important to plan ahead and purchase your tickets online in advance, as queues can become quite long.
Don’t forget to take your time when visiting the Arc de Triomphe and take in the unique sights along the way. Take in the sculptures, read the inscriptions and explore the surrounding gardens to make the most of your visit.
Take Away
When visiting Arc de Triomphe, it’s important to consider the amount of time you have to explore the monument. While it’s possible to explore the arch and its surroundings in an hour or two, it’s ideal to set aside an entire afternoon to appreciate all the beauty Paris has to offer.
Also remember to purchase tickets and look out for special offers such as the Paris Museum Pass. With a little planning and preparation, you’ll be able to make the most of your visit to this iconic monument.
Admission Fees
Admission fees to visit Arc de Triomphe vary depending on your age and whether you intend to visit other monuments located near the arc. For adult visitors who wish to purchase a regular ticket, the admission fee is €12, while admission for visitors aged between 18 and 25 is €9.50. Admission for visitors aged under 18 is free.
A combined ticket that allows entry to all of the other monuments within the Place Charles de Gaulle is also available for €18 for adults and €14 for visitors aged between 18 and 25. The great thing about this ticket is that it’s anonymous, meaning there is no need to present ID when visiting any of the monuments with this ticket.
Hours of Operation
Arc de Triomphe is open to visitors from 10am to 11pm on weekdays, and from 9am to 11pm on weekends and public holidays. The last admissions are at 10:30pm during the week, and at 10:45pm on weekends and public holidays.
Elevator Access
Elevator access is available at the Arc de Triomphe. This elevator is reserved for visitors with limited mobility, but it is recommended that they contact customer service in advance as the elevator is often full due to its popularity.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Arc de Triomphe
Pros and Cons of Visiting Arc de Triomphe
Pros:
• Access to other monuments located within the Place Charles de Gaulle
• Views of Paris from the top of the arch
• Access to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
• Tickets can be purchased online for convenience
• Combination tickets available for multiple monuments
• Elevator access for visitors with limited mobility
Cons:
• Queues can be long during peak times
• Admission fees can be expensive for multiple monuments
• Limited accessibility for those with mobility issues
Gift Shops
Arc de Triomphe has a range of official gift shops located within the arch, which sell souvenirs, postcards and other items related to the monument. Prices can be expensive due to the limited availability of items, so it’s recommended to buy souvenirs from outside the arch as well.
Travel Tips
If you are planning on visiting Arc de Triomphe, it’s advisable to purchase travel tickets in advance and plan your trip accordingly so as to avoid the queues. Additionally, ensure that you have the necessary identification documents such as passports or EU cards if necessary.
Finally, it’s essential to bring a hat, sunblock, sunglasses and appropriate clothing in order to stay comfortable during your visit. If you are planning to visit other monuments as part of your itinerary, do remember to check their hours of operation to ensure you make the most of your visit.
