Place Charles-de-Gaulle
75008 PARIS
8th arrondissemont
​Your metro station is:
 Charles de Gaulle-Etoile

Nos.22, 30, 31, 52, 73, 92 and Balabus

 Charles de Gaulle-Etoile
Vers St-Germain-en-Laye / Poissy / Cergy

It is not until you see the Arc de Triomphe 'in the flesh' so to speak, that you realise its significance to both Paris and the French people - it's massive - 50 metres tall and 45 metres across and represents a great pride in their military history.
​Sitting at the top of the Champs-Élysées at Place de l'Étoile the Arc de Triomphe is another iconic monument of Paris with great views from the top - if you can cope with the stairs.

It was commissioned by Napoléon Bonaparte in 1806 while he was still basking in his victory at the battle of Austerlitz and at the time dedicated to his Imperial army. Its scale was important to show the world and the people of France that his and their victories had been monumental. The style was adapted from another great empire, the Roman Empire and its similarities to arches such as the 'Arch of Titus' in Rome are obvious. Sadly the Emperor himself did not get to see its completion as he died halfway through its construction. 
Today it is dedicated to glory of the French army and honours important battles, generals and victories in France’s military history. It also contains the tomb of the 'Unknown Soldier'.
To the outside world however it has become, like the Eiffel Tower, an iconic symbol of Paris.

If you want to take in the spectacular view of the city of Paris, go to the top of the Arc de Triomphe as it's location at the highest point of the Champs-Elysees makes it the ideal place.
The climb to the top via the spiral staircase (284 steps) is not for the faint-hearted...but well worth it for the spectacular views.

The arch is at the centre of a a 10 road intersection so to cross over to the arch its best to cross via the underground walkway with accesses located at Avenue Grande Armee and at the top of the Champs Elysées.
 
Tip: We repeat don't try and cross the lanes of traffic to reach the arch - use the underground walkways. Plus if you are looking for some respite stroll along Avenue Hoche to the delightful Parc Monceau.

Here are some key details about this monumental arch:

1. Location: The Arc de Triomphe is situated at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, one of the most famous avenues in Paris. It stands in the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle, also known as the Place de l'Étoile, where twelve radiating avenues converge.
2. Architectural Design: The Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte after his victory at Austerlitz in 1805. The architect Jean Chalgrin designed the arch, drawing inspiration from the ancient Roman Arch of Titus. Construction began in 1806 but was interrupted during political changes in France. The monument was finally completed in 1836.
3. Dimensions: The Arc de Triomphe is an impressive structure, standing at a height of 50 meters (164 feet), with a width of 45 meters (148 feet) and a depth of 22 meters (72 feet). The arch features intricate reliefs, sculptures, and inscriptions that commemorate key military victories and generals of the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars.
4. Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: Beneath the arch, there is a memorial flame that burns in memory of the unknown soldiers who died in World War I. The tomb of the unknown soldier was added in 1921, and it serves as a symbol of remembrance for the sacrifices made during the war.
5. Historical Significance: The Arc de Triomphe is a symbol of French national pride and military triumph. It is inscribed with the names of major victories and generals from the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. The arch has witnessed numerous historical events, including military parades, state funerals, and celebrations.
6. Access and Views: Visitors can ascend to the top of the Arc de Triomphe for panoramic views of Paris. The observation deck provides breathtaking vistas of the city, including landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
7. Traffic Roundabout: The Place de l'Étoile around the Arc de Triomphe is a major traffic roundabout. Traffic circulates around the arch in a counter-clockwise direction. Access to the arch is via underground pedestrian tunnels to ensure safety.

The Arc de Triomphe remains an enduring symbol of French history and is a must-visit landmark for tourists exploring Paris. It stands as a testament to the military achievements of France and has become an integral part of the city's cultural and architectural identity.

​Arc de Triomphe
Opening hours: April to September 10am-11pm; October to March 10am-10.30pm.
Closed: 1st January, 1st May, 8th May (morning), 14th July (morning), 11th November (morning), 25th December.
 Admission : Adults € 16.00 ; children under 26 are free
Official Website: 
www.paris-arc-de-triomphe.fr/

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