Arc de Triomphe Tickets & Visitor Information

The Arc de Triomphe, commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, is a neoclassical monument honoring those who fought for France, particularly during the Napoleonic Wars. Its design, inspired by the Arch of Titus in Rome, embodies the grandeur and power of the French Empire. The monument's construction spanned three decades, finally completed in 1836 during the reign of King Louis-Philippe. Located at the Étoile, the junction of twelve avenues, the Arc de Triomphe serves as a centerpiece in Paris's urban landscape. 

The arch is adorned with detailed sculptures and inscriptions, commemorating key battles and generals. Beneath the arch lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a tribute to the fallen of World War I, with an eternal flame lit in 1923. The Arc de Triomphe is a place of remembrance and national identity. Visitors can ascend to the top of the Arc de Triomphe to experience 360-degree views of Paris. The observation deck provides a unique perspective on the city's layout, including sights such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. The monument is a symbol of French history, art, and national unity.

Booking your tickets online for the Arc de Triomphe offers a smooth and stress-free visit. While tickets can be purchased on-site, booking in advance guarantees your entry, especially during peak tourist season. Purchasing tickets online through our platform provides you with verified  Arc de Triomphe tickets, ensuring a seamless experience. You can also take advantage of potential online deals and special offers. Different ticket options, such as timed entry and combo tickets, enhance your visit, saving you valuable time. Booking online allows you to plan your visit efficiently, making the most of your time in Paris.

The Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile was commissioned by Napoleon I in 1806 after his victory at Austerlitz. He envisioned a monument that would honor the Grande Armée and symbolize French military prowess. Jean-François Chalgrin designed the arch in the neoclassical style, drawing inspiration from ancient Roman triumphal arches. Construction began in 1806 but was halted several times due to political events and funding issues. 

After Napoleon's abdication and the restoration of the monarchy, the project was restarted under Louis-Philippe in the 1830s. The Arc de Triomphe was finally completed in 1836. Over the years, the arch has been the site of numerous historical events, including military parades, state visits, and national celebrations. In 1920, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was placed beneath the arch to honor the fallen of World War I. 

The Arc de Triomphe has become a symbol of French national identity and resilience, witnessing key moments in the nation's history. Today, it remains one of Paris's most iconic landmarks, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Opening hours of the Arc de Triomphe vary by season and day of the week:

• From April 1 to September 30, the monument is open from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM from Wednesday to Monday, and from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM on Tuesdays.
• From October 1 to March 31, opening hours are 10:00 AM to 10:30 PM from Wednesday to Monday, and 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM on Tuesdays.
• The last admission is 45 minutes before closing time.
• Access to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is free and available at all times.

The Arc de Triomphe is closed on certain public holidays and may close early or temporarily during official ceremonies or exceptional circumstances.

The Arc de Triomphe can be visited throughout the day, but timing makes a big difference. Mornings are ideal if you want fewer crowds and a calmer climb to the top. Late afternoon to sunset is the most popular time, offering dramatic light over the Champs-Élysées and Paris’s rooftops, though queues are usually longer. 

Evenings are also a great option, when the city lights up and the monument feels more atmospheric. Weekdays, especially Wednesdays, are generally quieter than weekends and public holidays.

Although the Arc de Triomphe is not a traditional museum, it offers several distinct areas worth exploring. 

At ground level, you can admire the monumental sculpted reliefs, including The Departure of the Volunteers of 1792 and The Triumph of 1810, which capture key moments in French history. Beneath the arch lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, an important national memorial marked by the eternal flame.

Inside the monument, a small exhibition space provides insight into the Arc’s construction, symbolism, and historical role. The highlight of any visit is the climb to the rooftop observation deck, where sweeping panoramic views reveal Paris laid out along the twelve avenues radiating from Place Charles de Gaulle, with landmarks like the Champs-Élysées and Eiffel Tower clearly visible.

Before visiting the Arc de Triomphe, there are a few useful things to know:

• Access to the monument is only via an underground passage from the Champs-Élysées or Avenue de la Grande Armée, allowing you to safely avoid the busy traffic circle above.
• Reaching the rooftop requires climbing around 284 steps. Elevator access is limited to visitors with mobility needs, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
• The rooftop is fully open to the elements and can be windy, especially in cooler months. Bring a light jacket if needed.
• All visitors must pass through security screening, and large bags or suitcases are not permitted inside the monument.
• Photography for personal use is allowed, but tripods and large equipment may be restricted.
• Plan to arrive a little early, as entry lines can form during peak hours, especially around sunset and on weekends.
• Free entry is offered on the first Sunday of January, February, March, November, and December, as well as for children under 18 and EU residents under 25. Free visitors still need to reserve a ticket in advance.

Visitors are expected to adhere to certain rules to ensure the safety and preservation of the monument:

• Food and drinks are generally not allowed inside the monument.
• Smoking is prohibited throughout the Arc de Triomphe. 
• Please be respectful of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
• Follow the directions of the staff and any posted guidelines. 
• Any disruptive or inappropriate behavior may result in expulsion from the site.

The Arc de Triomphe is one of Paris’s most rewarding landmarks, combining powerful history, monumental architecture, and exceptional panoramic views. Standing beneath its sculpted arches offers a tangible connection to France’s past, while the climb to the rooftop reveals a striking perspective of the city’s grand design. From above, the radiating avenues, the Champs-Élysées, and distant icons like the Eiffel Tower come into clear view. Both symbolic and scenic, the Arc de Triomphe captures the spirit of Paris in a single place and remains an essential stop for visitors seeking meaning, scale, and unforgettable views.