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The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Paris. Located at Place Charles de Gaulle at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, it combines French history, impressive architecture and panoramic views across the city.
For visitors staying at Disneyland Paris, the monument can also be included in a Paris sightseeing day.
Quick Facts About the Arc de Triomphe
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Place Charles de Gaulle, Paris |
| Built | Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 |
| Main purpose | Monument honouring French soldiers |
| Famous feature | Panoramic rooftop |
| Steps to terrace | 284 steps |
| Nearest Metro | Charles de Gaulle-Étoile |
| Metro lines | 1, 2 and 6 |
| RER | Line A |
| Main nearby attraction | Champs-Élysées |
| Visit duration | Around 45 minutes-1.5 hours |
What Is the Arc de Triomphe?
Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, the Arc de Triomphe honours French soldiers and military victories. Today, it is a national monument and one of the most photographed landmarks in Paris.
The monument stands at the centre of a busy traffic circle where twelve avenues meet. Visitors should never cross the traffic circle directly. Instead, use the underground pedestrian passage to reach the monument.
What to See
A visit to the Arc de Triomphe offers much more than an exterior photograph.
Main Highlights
- Tomb of the Unknown Soldier - A memorial dedicated to an unidentified French soldier from the First World War.
- Eternal Flame - Rekindled every evening at 6:30 pm.
- Monumental sculptures - Large carved scenes decorate the façades.
- Historical displays - Learn about the monument and its historical significance.
- Panoramic terrace - See the Champs-Élysées and Paris skyline from above.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier can be visited without entering the paid monument area, while a ticket is required for the interior and terrace.
Arc de Triomphe Opening Hours
Opening times vary according to the season.
| Period | Monday-Sunday | Tuesday |
|---|---|---|
| 1 April-30 September | 10:00 am-11:00 pm | 11:00 am-11:00 pm |
| 1 October-31 March | 10:00 am-10:30 pm | 11:00 am-10:30 pm |
Last admission: 45 minutes before closing.
Opening hours can change because of ceremonies, weather or special events, so check the official visitor information before travelling.
Arc de Triomphe Ticket Prices
| Visitor | April-September | October-March |
|---|---|---|
| Standard admission | €22 | €16 |
| Wednesday admission | €16 | |
| Under 18 | Free* | Free* |
| Eligible EU/EEA visitors aged 18-25 | Free* | Free* |
*Free-admission conditions apply. Check the official ticket information for eligibility.
Booking online can be useful during busy periods.
How Many Steps Are There?
The panoramic terrace requires a climb of 284 historic steps.
The staircase can be tiring, especially for young children, older visitors or anyone uncomfortable with stairs. Wear comfortable shoes and allow time for breaks.
The effort is rewarded by a wide view across Paris, including the Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées, Sacré-Cœur, Les Invalides, the Panthéon and La Défense.
How Long Should You Spend There?
Most visitors can allow around 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
| Visit Style | Suggested Time |
|---|---|
| Exterior and photos only | 15-30 minutes |
| Interior + rooftop | 45-90 minutes |
| Detailed visit + Champs-Élysées | 2+ hours |
Best Time to Visit
| Time | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Early morning | Generally better for a quieter visit |
| Afternoon | Good for sightseeing and photographs |
| Late afternoon | Daylight views with changing city light |
| Around sunset | Excellent opportunity for panoramic photographs |
| Evening | Paris becomes illuminated and the Champs-Élysées looks different |
If you want to see the remembrance ceremony, plan to be at the monument before 6:30 pm.
How to Reach the Arc de Triomphe
The easiest public transport connection is Charles de Gaulle-Étoile.
| Transport | Route/Details |
|---|---|
| Metro Line 1 | Charles de Gaulle-Étoile |
| Metro Line 2 | Charles de Gaulle-Étoile |
| Metro Line 6 | Charles de Gaulle-Étoile |
| RER A | Charles de Gaulle-Étoile |
| Walking | Accessible through the underground pedestrian passage |
If you are travelling from Disneyland Paris, the RER A provides a direct connection towards central Paris. Families with children, pushchairs or luggage may also prefer a private transfer.
For your return journey, you can check the available Paris to Disneyland Paris transfer options.
Visiting With Children
The Arc de Triomphe can be an interesting stop for families because children can see the sculptures, learn about French history and enjoy the rooftop view.
Keep these points in mind:
- The rooftop requires 284 steps.
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- Keep children close around Place Charles de Gaulle.
- Use the underground pedestrian passage.
- Carry water during warm weather.
- Allow additional time for the staircase.
- Check accessibility arrangements before visiting.
Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées
The location makes it easy to combine the Arc de Triomphe with a walk along the Champs-Élysées.
A simple sightseeing route could be: Arc de Triomphe → Champs-Élysées → Place de la Concorde → Tuileries Garden → Louvre
If you are planning a longer Paris day from Disneyland, a pre-arranged private transfer service can be considered around your sightseeing schedule.
Arc de Triomphe From Disneyland Paris
If Disneyland Paris is your base, you can visit the Arc de Triomphe as part of a full-day Paris itinerary.
| Example Route | Main Stops |
|---|---|
| Morning | Arc de Triomphe |
| Late morning | Champs-Élysées |
| Afternoon | Louvre or central Paris |
| Evening | Eiffel Tower area |
| Night | Return to Disneyland Paris |
Avoid making the itinerary too tight. Allow extra time for security checks, meals, walking and transport.
If your Disneyland trip also includes airport travel, you can review Paris airport transfer services when planning your arrival or departure.
Practical Tips
| Tip | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Book tickets in advance | Useful during busy periods |
| Check opening hours | Hours can change for events or ceremonies |
| Use the underground passage | Avoid crossing the traffic circle |
| Wear comfortable shoes | The rooftop requires 284 steps |
| Arrive before sunset | Gives you time to reach the terrace |
| Keep some extra time | Security and queues can vary |
| Check the weather | The rooftop is an outdoor viewing area |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Arc de Triomphe worth visiting?
It is a good choice for visitors interested in Parisian history, architecture and panoramic city views.
2. Can you see the Eiffel Tower from the Arc de Triomphe?
Yes. The Eiffel Tower is visible from the panoramic terrace, along with several other major Paris landmarks.
3. How many steps are there to the top?
There are 284 steps to reach the terrace.
4. Can I visit the Arc de Triomphe without climbing the stairs?
You can visit the area around the monument and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier without going to the rooftop. Visitors who need step-free access should check the latest accessibility information before visiting.
5. Can I visit the Arc de Triomphe and Disneyland Paris on the same day?
Yes. The two locations can be combined in one itinerary, but allow enough time for travel between central Paris and Disneyland Paris.
Plan Your Paris Visit
The Arc de Triomphe combines history, architecture, remembrance and panoramic views in one landmark. With advance planning, it can easily fit into a Paris sightseeing itinerary, including a day trip from Disneyland Paris.
For visitors travelling between Paris, Disneyland Paris and the airport, Paris Disney Cabs offers private transfer options that can be planned around your itinerary.