Introduction to Arc de Triomphe
Paris is undoubtedly one of the most visited cities in Europe, with exotic monuments and illustrious past. A majestic entity that transcends time and other landmarks is the Arc de Triomphe. It is a monument built to commemorate Napoleon’s victories in the Napoleonic wars. It is considered an iconic landmark in Paris and all of France.
It stands proudly in the middle of Paris, on the Place de l’Étoile, and it is surrounded by one of the country’s most famous thoroughfares, the Avenue des Champs-Élysées. Once you visit the monument, you will be amazed by its majestic architecture and remarkable sculptures. The Arc de Triomphe is awe-inspiring with its impressive size and grandeur.
Built to Commemorate Successes of Napoleon
The Arc de Triomphe is a monument of powerful symbolism and history. It was completed in 1806 and was built in honor of Emperor Napoleon’s victories in the Napoleonic wars. The impressive Arc de Triomphe stands 164 feet tall, and is decorated with statues, sculptures, and reliefs that illustrate the story of battles and accomplishments of Napoleon’s reign.
The Arc de Triomphe is breathtakingly beautiful and it marks the end of the famous Champs-Elysées, considered one of the most iconic places of Paris. One of its walls also bears the famous inscription: “Aux grande hommes le reconnaisance de la patrie,” which means “To the great men, the gratitude of the fatherland.”
Things to Do Around Arc de Triomphe
Once you have visited the Arc de Triomphe itself, there are plenty of things to do around it. Here are some of the best things to do around the Arc de Triomphe.
- Visit the Palais de Chaillot: The Palais de Chaillot is a building near the Arc de Triomphe, around 350 meters away. It contains the Musée de l’Homme and other attractions. It offers fantastic views of the Trocadéro Gardens and the Eiffel Tower.
- Stroll the Champs-Elysées: The Champs-Elysées is one of the most famous avenues in the world, where luxury boutiques, upscale restaurants and cafes can be found. It’s a great place to explore and take a stroll.
- Visit the Eiffel Tower: The Eiffel Tower is Paris’ most iconic monument and it’s a must-see for people visiting Paris. It’s located about 1km away from the Arc de Triomphe, on the banks of the Seine river.
- Go Shopping: The area around the Arc de Triomphe is full of boutique stores, designer shops and department stores. You can go shopping, find one-of-a-kind souvenirs, and have a great experience.
These are just a few of the many things to do while visiting the Arc de Triomphe. There are plenty of other activities, and it’s a great place to explore, shop, sight-see, and relax.
Tips for Visiting the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe can be quite crowded and busy, so it’s best to avoid peak times if you want to enjoy it in peace. It’s best to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and to make the most of your visit.
If you want to get the best views of the monument, go top the top of the Arc. There is an elevator that runs from the base of the structure up to the roof, and tickets are available for purchase. The views from the top are spectacular, and you can get a great view of the city.
Additionally, it’s important to note that the area around the Arc de Triomphe can be quite busy, so be prepared for large crowds and bustling streets. There are also lots of street vendors around the area, offering souvenirs and snacks.
Regional Cuisine near Arc de Triomphe
Paris is also renowned for its gastronomy, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafés to choose from while visiting the vicinity of the Arc de Triomphe. Regional specialities such as escargot, steak tartare and foie gras are available at most places. Other Parisian delights like onion soup and steak frites are also on offer.
When visiting the vicinity of the Arc de Triomphe, check out some of the most popular restaurants around the area. Some of the top restaurants in the area include La Maison de l’Aubrac, La Fontaine de Mars and La Durée.
Unique Experiences by Arc de Triomphe
Apart from dining and sight-seeing, there are also plenty of unique experiences near the Arc de Triomphe. The monument is often used for ceremonies, as it’s located at the centre of the French government district. It is also a popular spot for candle-lit gatherings and public meetings.
For music lovers, the surrounding area is also a great place to enjoy some live music. During the summer, the Champs-Élysées become alive with jazz festivals, open-air concerts, pop-up performances and more.
For couples, the Arc de Triomphe is also a great place to take romantic photos. The cityscape of Paris makes a stunning background, and the monument is the perfect spot for selfies with your loved one.
Conclusion
The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most iconic landmarks of Paris, and it’s a must-see when visiting the French capital. It’s located in the heart of Paris and there are plenty of activities nearby. You can explore the area, visit the Palais de Chaillot and Eiffel Tower, and enjoy some delicious Parisian cuisine. You can also take part in unique experiences, such as candle-lit gatherings or open-air concerts.
