Arc de Triomphe
Tickets, Rooftop Views & Visitor Guide to Napoleon's Arch
⏱ 1-1.5 hours👤 All ages$
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Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 to commemorate his military victories, the Arc de Triomphe was completed in 1836 and has stood ever since as one of France's most important national monuments. It anchors the Place Charles de Gaulle (historically the Place de l'Étoile, "the star"), the vast roundabout where twelve avenues, including the Champs-Élysées, radiate out in a star pattern.
The arch is rich with meaning and artistry. Its façades carry monumental sculptural reliefs — most famously "La Marseillaise" (the Departure of the Volunteers) — and its inner walls are inscribed with the names of battles and generals. Beneath it lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, honoring the dead of the First World War, with an eternal flame that is ceremonially rekindled every evening. It's the focal point of national parades and commemorations.
Visitors can climb the roughly 280 steps (there's also a lift for those with limited mobility, with conditions) to the rooftop terrace, which offers one of the finest panoramas in the city: the dead-straight sweep of the Champs-Élysées toward the Louvre in one direction and out to the modern arch of La Défense in the other, with the Eiffel Tower off to the side. Crucially, reach the arch via the pedestrian underpass — never try to cross the chaotic traffic circle on foot. Book a rooftop ticket ahead in peak season, and time a visit for sunset for the best light.
What to Expect
Format
Climb (roughly 280 steps; limited lift access) to the rooftop terrace for panoramic views; the ground level holds the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and sculptural reliefs. Reached via a pedestrian underpass.
Best Time
Late afternoon to sunset for the best light and views down the Champs-Élysées. The evening flame-rekindling ceremony at the tomb is moving.
Duration
About an hour to 90 minutes including the climb.
Tips
Always use the pedestrian underpass to reach the arch — never cross the traffic circle on foot. Book a rooftop ticket ahead in peak season. Sunset offers the best views and light. The eternal flame at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is rekindled each evening.
⚡ Quick Picks
Best For
First-timers and history lovers wanting a great rooftop view and a powerful national monument.
Families
Older kids manage the climb and enjoy the rooftop view; the ~280 steps are a lot for little ones (limited lift access exists).
Couples
A sunset climb with the city laid out below and the Champs-Élysées stretching away is a memorable, romantic stop.
Pair With
The Champs-Élysées (a stroll down toward the Tuileries and Louvre); the Eiffel Tower is visible and not far.
Time Needed
About an hour.
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Get Tickets →Frequently Asked Questions
Can I climb the Arc de Triomphe?
Yes — visitors climb roughly 280 steps to the rooftop terrace for panoramic views (a lift is available for those with limited mobility, under certain conditions). A ticket is required for the rooftop.
How do I reach the arch safely?
Via the pedestrian underpass — never try to cross the busy traffic circle (Place Charles de Gaulle) on foot. The underpass is clearly signed from the Champs-Élysées.
What's beneath the arch?
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from the First World War, with an eternal flame that is ceremonially rekindled every evening — a moving national memorial.
What's the view like from the top?
One of the best in Paris — straight down the Champs-Élysées toward the Louvre, out to La Défense's modern arch, and across to the Eiffel Tower. Sunset is especially beautiful.
Do I need to book ahead?
In peak season, booking a rooftop ticket in advance helps you skip the queue. Otherwise it's a relatively quick visit of about an hour.
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