Visiting the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe stands proudly in the centre of Paris at the western end of the Champs-Elysees. It is one of the world’s most recognized monuments and a symbol of French nationalism and the country’s proud history. It stands as a striking reminder of the grandeur and power of the Napoleonic Empire, and a powerful testament to the glory of France.
Built as a tribute to Napoleon’s victories, the Arc de Triomphe is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. The structure stands 50 metres tall and is made from stone and sculptured figures. It is adorned with inscriptions and bas-reliefs from both military campaigns and imperial galas.
If you’re planning a visit to the Arc de Triomphe, you may be wondering what time it opens. The traditional hours are 9.30am – 11.00pm, seven days a week, but these can occasionally vary. Check out the official website or give them a call if you’re planning to visit during the holidays or off-season.
Visitors to the Arc de Triomphe can see some of the most impressive portraits of the great French leader, Napoleon Bonaparte. Curators of the monument proudly showcase various weapons and artifacts of the campaigns fought throughout Europe. A colorful light show is projected over the Arc before and after it is opened to the public on special occasions.
However, if you’re hoping to visit the Arc de Triomphe, there are few things to consider first. One of the most important things to remember is that the Arc is a monument to national heroes and events and as such, respectful behaviour and decorum are encouraged.
Also remember to wear comfortable shoes, as the staircase up to the monument (or, for the physically-abled, the ramp) is quite steep and the stairs are often slippery due to the rain and weather. Be prepared for tight security at the doors, and don’t forget to bring your passport and ID, as they are required to enter.
History and Construction of the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe was constructed in 1806 during the French Empire. It is located on the Place Charles de Gaulle, viewed today as the centre of Paris. Napoleon commissioned the construction of the Arc in order to commemorate his victory at the Battle of Austerlitz.
Subsequent emperors, Kings and Presidents added their own engravings and inscriptions to the structure to commemorate the anniversaries and battles of their respective reigns. In 1960 for example, the French Air Force added a plaque in memory of its fallen pilots who had lost their lives in combat.
The Arc de Triomphe also serves as a powerful memento of French military history. The lower level of the Arc is a museum that uses multimedia displays to bring to life the struggles and triumphs of some of the greatest French leaders in history, from Napoleon to the present day.
The monument is also a record of the French Revolutionary Wars and the Napoleonic Wars. The names of 530 generals who fought in those wars are inscribed across the arch, and in 2014, a plaque with 6500 names of French soldiers who had fallen in the First World War was added.
Presently, the Arc de Triomphe is maintained by a committee of historians and engineers. In 2004, the monument was given the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What to do at the Arc de Triomphe
Visitors to the Arc de Triomphe can go on guided tours and admire the many inscriptions and sculptures from different epochs. These can help to provide an insight into the history of France and the battles won by the country. Visitors can also climb to the top of the Arc for a superb view of the city.
At the base of the arch, visitors can read the inscriptions and marvel at the the sculptures and engravings. On the west side of the arch, one can find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a memorial to the thousands of soldiers who lost their lives in battle. On sunny days, the water cascading from the center of the structure is stunning.
On the iconic Place de l’Etoile are buildings like Grand Palais, Place Charles de Gaulle and the Champs-ÉlysÉES, all of which are within walking distance of the arch. On the other side of the arch are the Trocadero Museum, the Gardens of L’Etoile and the Tuileries Garden which are all just steps away.
There’s plenty to explore and admire at the Arc de Triomphe, from its history and monuments, to its location and views. The site provides a fitting introduction to the French capital and its many attractions.
Parking and Transportation to the Arc de Triomphe
Getting to the Arc de Triomphe is easy, as there are plenty of transportation options available. The nearby Charles de Gaulle International Airport (CDG) is just 15 minutes away by public transportation and can be easily accessed via the Paris Metro. A journey by taxi or train will take approximately 30 minutes.
If you’re planning to drive to the monument, you’ll need to use the Parking de Champ de Mars, which is the closest and most convenient parking lot. Be aware that most of the streets surrounding the Arc de Triomphe are restricted on weekends, so parking can be hard to find. It’s always best to check the parking rules in advance.
Once you’ve parked your car and arrive at the Arc de Triomphe, you can enter through the east side and walk alongside the beautiful Champs-ÉlysÉES, taking in the sights and sounds of the city as you go.
Seeing the Arc de Triomphe by Night
The Arc de Triomphe is especially beautiful when illuminated at night with lights that sparkle in the evening sky. Every evening there is a breathtaking light show projected onto the arc, before and after it opens to the public. For those who don’t mind the crowds, a visit to the Arc de Triomphe at night can be a magical experience.
The infamous illuminations show is launched twice a night, at 8 pm and 9 pm. A musical score and brightly colored lasers are projected onto the arch, accompanied by an audio message outlining the history of the monument and many of the famous battles that it commemorates. This is a perfect way to bring to life the stories of the arch and the brave men and women who defended it.
The light show is free of charge and sure to make your visit to the Arc de Triomphe a special one. Be sure to get there early to get the best views.
Events at the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe also hosts a number of cultural events throughout the year. For example, the annual Bastille Day military parade is a big draw, with members of the armed forces marching in formation to commemorate the storming of the Bastille prison during the French Revolution.
The French tennis tournament, the French Open, makes its home at the nearby Roland Garros stadium. As such, the Arc de Triomphe serves as a natural finish line for runners in the event’s marathon each year.
The Arc de Triomphe also hosts a range of other events such as the Tour de France and its associated cycling race. It’s also home to several annual fireworks displays to celebrate November 11th – the end of WWI, and other national holidays.
Accessibility at the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is an accessible monument for people with disabilities. For wheelchair users, a ramp can be found on the east side of the arch that leads up to the lower level of the arch. All of the floors within the monument, as well as the viewing platform , are suitable for wheelchairs.
Visitors who are visually impaired can experience the monument with the tactile guides that are found at the entrance of the arch. Sign language is available and can be requested in advance. Audio guides are also available in English, French, Spanish and German.
Summary of Hours and Admission Fees
The Arc de Triomphe is open to visitors seven days a week, and general admission is free. The usual hours are 9.30am – 11.00pm, but be sure to check the official website or call if planning to visit during the holidays or off-season.
