The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most famous landmarks in Paris, France.
A symbol of French pride, power, and national identity, the monument draws millions of visitors worldwide.
Standing at a height of 164 feet (50 meters) and width of 148 feet (45 meters), the Arc de Triomphe is located in the center of Place Charles de Gaulle. It provides a panoramic view of Paris, second only to the Eiffel Tower.
When planning a visit to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, you must be well-prepared to make the most of your experience.
This monument holds historical and cultural significance, and with proper planning, you can ensure a smooth and memorable visit.
Take advantage of these valuable tips on seeing the Arc de Triomphe and make the most of your experience with this iconic monument.
Plan ahead
The Arc de Triomphe is a popular attraction and can get very crowded during peak hours.
The high season, 1 April to 30 September, can get busier than the rest of the year.
Holidays such as Christmas and Easter, as well as weekends around the 14 July and 15 August, can become crowded too.
To avoid long lines, plan to visit during off-peak hours or book your Arc de Triomphe tickets in advance online.
You must also set aside 45 minutes to an hour of your day to see the monument properly.
Use the underground tunnel
Located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées and the center of a busy roundabout with twelve avenues radiating from it, Arc de Triomphe is difficult to reach by the roads on foot.
Use the underground tunnel to access the monument to avoid crossing the roundabout on foot.
The tunnel beneath the monument leads to the Arc de Triomphe entryway.
To reach the monument safely, without crossing the roundabout on foot, follow the signs that guide you to the underground tunnels.
Be careful to avoid mistaking these signs for the entrances to the Metro, as this could cause confusion and prevent you from reaching the monument.
Book your Arc de Triomphe tickets in advance
The ticket window at the monument tends to get crowded during the day, so it is best to buy the tickets online when planning to visit Arc de Triomphe.
Booking your tickets in advance can save you at least an hour of waiting time, particularly during the busy summer.
You can choose the basic Arc de Triomphe entry ticket, an audio guide ticket, or one of the several city tours.
Everyone can enter the monument for free from November to March on the first Sunday of every month.
European Union (EU) citizens under 25 can visit the Arc for free yearly.
The last entry is 45 minutes before the Arc closes at 10.30 pm; keep it in mind when planning your visit.
You can also purchase the Paris Museum Pass, including the Arc de Triomphe ticket, among other 60 attractions, for 2, 4, or 6 days.
Visit in the morning or evening
The view from the Arc de Triomphe is beautiful at any time, but we suggest going early to beat the crowds or later in the day to see the sunset.
These times of day are the best for avoiding the heat if you visit during the summer.
The morning and evening light also provides excellent opportunities for photography if you are interested in taking photos.
Admire the view
The Arc de Triomphe offers a stunning panoramic view of Paris, showcasing iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, and the Sacré-Cœur.
However, it is important to note that reaching the top of the Arc de Triomphe requires 284 stairs, and no elevator is available.
It would help if you were ready for the physical effort required.
Once at the top, we recommend you take time to appreciate the view.
Learn the history
Built to commemorate the victories of the French Army, The Arc de Triomphe features inscribed names of the generals who fought in the Napoleonic Wars.
The monument has intricately sculpted reliefs and engravings representing significant historical events and individuals.
Throughout the years, the Arc de Triomphe has been the site of numerous important events, including military parades and the annual commemoration of Armistice Day.
The Eternal Flame, rekindled every evening at 6.30 pm, symbolizes France’s appreciation for the sacrifices made by its soldiers.
The monument also houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which contains the remains of an unidentified soldier who died during World War I.
You can learn more about the monument’s significance and history by taking a guided tour or downloading the Arc de Triomphe visitor mobile app.
Watch the traffic
The Place Charles de Gaulle is a busy roundabout where traffic tends to be chaotic.
One of the most useful tips for visiting Arc de Triomphe is to use caution when navigating the roundabout and obey the pedestrian crossings and traffic signals.
Parking tips at Arc de Triomphe include using the nearest underground parking lot, as street parking in the area is limited and expensive.
The underground parking lots in Paris are open 24 hours and seven days a week.
Dress appropriately
The Arc de Triomphe is a place of historical and cultural significance, and it’s important to dress appropriately.
Dress appropriately for the weather and stay away from offensive attire.
Wearing a mark inside the Arc is also recommended.
Consider buying combo tickets
Some of the best things to do near Arc de Triomphe include strolling down the famous Champs-Élysées, going on a river cruise, and visiting the Eiffel Tower.
You can choose from several combo tickets that help you visit the nearby attractions on the same day while saving time and money.
The combo Arc de Triomphe tickets, such as the hop-on-hop-off discovery bus tour and the bus tour with Seine cruise, lets you see the city’s top sights while offering up to 15 percent discount.
The Seine River cruise and Arc de Triomphe rooftop visit are two must-do activities you can merge into a single ticket.
Or combine an Eiffel Tower tour to the day and enjoy a complete Parisian experience.
You can make your trip to the Arc de Triomphe unique and pleasurable by using these tips for Arc de Triomphe.
Remember to take your time, appreciate the history and significance of the monument, and have fun.
Featured Image: Tripadvisor.in