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Arc de Triomphe

Landmark

Arc de Triomphe

  • Paris
  • 45 min–1 hour
  • 2 experiences to book

Napoleon's 50-metre arch over the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, with a rooftop terrace above twelve avenues.

Things to do at Arc de Triomphe

About Arc de Triomphe

Napoleon ordered the arch in 1806 after Austerlitz; it was finished in 1836. Beneath it lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, whose flame has been rekindled every evening at 18:30 since 1923.

Climb 284 steps to the terrace, 50 metres up, and twelve avenues fan out below you in a star, with the Champs-Élysées running straight to the Louvre. On the way, a small museum level explains the arch's sculpture.

Know before you go

  • 284 steps to the terrace, mostly a narrow spiral staircase.
  • The small lift is out of service for maintenance until further notice.
  • Reach the arch only through the underground passage.
  • Security check at the entrance; large bags are refused.