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Arc de Triomphe hours, directions, tickets, and more: All you need to know

Arc de Triomphe is a monument that honors the people who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic periods. The names of the soldiers are inscribed on the monument, with underlined names to show who died in the war. It was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 and was completed three decades later, in 1836.

Arc de Triomphe at a quick glance

Drone photo Arc de Triomphe Paris France europe

What are the Arc de Triomphe opening hours?

Arc de Triomphe is open as follows:

  • April 1st to September 30th: 10am - 11pm
  • October 1st to March 31st: 10am - 10:30pm

Last access: 45 minutes before the monument closes.

Closed: Arc de Triomphe stays closed for visits on January 1st, May 1st, May 8 (morning), July 14 (morning), November 11 (morning), and December 25.

What is the best time to visit the Arc de Triomphe?

One of the major symbols of Parisian grandeur, the Arc de Triomphe is one of the most visited monuments in France. The City of Lights attracts millions of tourists from across the globe every year. Thus, it is important to plan and pick the right time to visit the monument to avoid huge crowds and experience this iconic monument and its rich history

Here are the best times to visit the Arc de Triomphe Paris:

Peak season vs low season

Peak season vs low season

The best time to visit the Arc de Triomphe is between April to September. However, this is also when the crowds are the largest. The weather is more pleasant at this time and the Arc de Triomphe is open longer compared to the low season.

Winter (November-March) in Paris is beautiful. It is also when there are fewer tourists compared to the peak season in summer. It is the best time to visit the monument if you want a hassle-free visit. You are also likely to save money on flights, accommodation, and food during this period.

Weekend vs weekday

Weekend vs weekday

The Arc de Triomphe sees its most visitors on weekends. To avoid the crowds, plan your visit during the weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday, when the Arc is the least crowded.

Evenings are a wonderful time to spend at the Arc de Triomphe rooftop. The shimmering lights of the Champs-Elysées and the Eternal Flame of Remembrance are a visual treat post-sunset. However, it may also get crowded in the evenings. Instead, visit in the early morning if you want to avoid the crowds.

Where is the Arc de Triomphe located?

Getting to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris

bus

By public transport

By metro: The nearest metro station is the Charles de Gaulle–Étoile (Line 6), a 4-minute walk away. The other nearby metro stations are Porte Dauphine (Line 2) and Château de Vincennes (Line 1). It is the most convenient and fastest way to beat the traffic and make it to the monument on time.

By bus: The closest bus station to Arc de Triomphe is Charles de Gaulle - Étoile - Champs-Elysees, a 2-minute walk away. The bus route connects almost the entire city. It is a budget-friendly way to reach the Arc; however, it is recommended that you plan your travel considering any delays caused by traffic.

By RER: Charles de Gaulle Étoile (Line A) is the closest station and is a 2-minute walk from the monument. It is connected to several important stations including Gare de Poissy, Gare de Rueil Malmaison, Gare de Marne la Vallée Chessy, and Saint Germain en Laye.

Car

By Car

If you are driving to the monument from any part of the city, it is recommended to start early to tackle the traffic. The fastest route from the city center is via Quai d'Orsay.

Once you reach, you can park your vehicle in one of the three parking lots within 1 mile of the landmark:

The rate for parking for 2 hours can vary between €4 to €10, subject to change basis availability.




Book your Arc de Triomphe tickets

Arc de Triomphe Entry Tickets with Rooftop Access
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Audio guide
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Combo (Save 15%): Arc de Triomphe Rooftop + Seine River Cruise Tickets
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€29.70
Combo (Save 5%): Arc de Triomphe with Rooftop Access + Eiffel Tower Hosted Entry Tickets to Summit or 2nd Floor
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€102.60
Combo (Save 5%): Arc de Triomphe with Rooftop Access + Palace of Versailles Tickets
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€34.92
Premium Combo: Arc de Triomphe Fast Track Tickets + Champs-Elysees Guided Tour
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3 hr.
Guided tour
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Combo (Save 7%): Grévin Wax Museum + Arc de Triomphe with Rooftop Access
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€47.80
Big Bus: Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Optional Seine River Cruise
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€38.70

Know before you go to the Arc de Triomphe

Skip the line
Facilities
Accessibility
Visitor tips
Dine
Stay
Nearby
online ticket booking
Elevator access
  • Elevator access
  • Stroller storage
  • Guide dogs allowed
  • Adapted tours
  • Accessible toilets
reserved for visitors with reduced mobility
  • The Arc de Triomphe is accessible by elevator. However, this is reserved for visitors with reduced mobility, pregnant women, and visitors with small children.
  • Strollers are not allowed inside the monument. You can leave them with the access control agents and collect them at the end of your visit.
  • Guide dogs for visually impaired visitors are allowed at the Arc de Triomphe.
  • Entry is free for disabled persons and their companions, upon presentation of valid proof.
  • Visitors with disabilities can be offered, depending on their disability and the facilities provided, a dedicated and adapted service that meets their needs.
  • Devices to help visitors understand and learn about the monument and to improve the quality of their visit are presented in the tour of the monument.
  • Toilets accessible to PRMs are available at the Arc de Triomphe.
  • The underground passage is not accessible to those with reduced mobility. Instead, there is a drop-off point on the median opposite the Avenue de la Grande Armée symbolized on the ground by a blue pictogram.
photo id proof
  • Entry to the monument is free for children under 18, EU nationals under 26, Paris Museum Pass holders, guests with disabilities and one companion, and French teachers with the Education Pass with a valid photo ID.  
  • Anyone availing of free admission must present proof (in the form of a valid photo ID card) at the ticket counter.
  • Use the underground passage to arrive safely at the monument. Trying to cross the traffic circle is not considered safe. You can use the underground tunnel on the Avenue de la Grande Armée side.
  • The summit can be cold on a windy day, so wear warm and comfortable clothing if you are planning to visit the Arc de Triomphe rooftop.
  • There are no lockers available, so please carry only the essentials.
  • Selfie sticks, tripods, motorcycle helmets, scooters, roller blades, sharp objects, and glass bottles are prohibited on the monument premises.
  • Don’t miss the ‘Tomb of the Unknown Soldier’ before heading to the Arc de Triomphe rooftop.
pastry show

There are no restaurants within the Arc de Triomphe. However, you can dine at these places around Arc de Triomphe:

  • L'Etoile 1903: Traditional French cuisine, vegetarian and vegan options.
  • Ladurée: Famous must-visit pastry and macaron shop.
  • Le Cinq: 3-star Michelin restaurant with an opulent dining room and mouthwatering food.
  • Fouquet's: High-end brasserie with traditional Parisian decor and menu.
Eiffel Tower
  • Eiffel Tower: Synonymous with Paris, this iconic iron tower offers spectacular views of the city from the top and is just 1.8 km from the Arc de Triomphe.
  • Palais Garnier: Just 2.9 km away is Palais Garnier, one of the most famous opera houses in the world, known for its opera and ballet performances.
  • Musée d'Orsay: Located 3.3 km away, the Orsay Museum houses French art from 1848 to 1914 and boasts the largest collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces in the world.
  • Louvre Museum: 3.7 km from the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre Museum is one of the world's largest museums and boasts one of the richest collections of art and historical artifacts in the world, including the iconic Mona Lisa.

The Arc de Triomphe roundabout

The Arc de Triomphe roundabout consists of 12 lanes. Twelve different boulevards, including the Champs-Elysées, converge here into one massive roundabout. The sheer size and traffic at this roundabout have to be seen to be believed. There is heavy traffic around the monument at almost any given point in time, making it a bit difficult for tourists to navigate through.

To avoid weaving through the vehicles whizzing by, take the underpass to the Arc de Triomphe.

Arc de Triomphe: Frequently asked questions

What are the Arc de Triomphe hours?

The monument is open from 10am - 11pm from April to September and 10am - 10:30pm from October to March.

What is the last time of entry?

The last admission is 45 minutes before the monument closes.

What is the best time to visit the Arc de Triomphe?

If you want to avoid large crowds, visit the Arc de Triomphe in Winter (November-March). Tuesday through Thursday are relatively less crowded compared to the weekend. Plan your visit to the Arc de Triomphe during the early morning to beat the crowds.

How long does it take to see Arc de Triomphe?

Visitors typically spend 45 minutes to 1.5 hours at the monument.

Where is the Arc de Triomphe located?

Arc de Triomphe is located at Arc de Triomphe, Place Charles-de-Gaulle, 75008 Paris.

What is the best way to get to the Arc de Triomphe?

Metro is the best way to beat the traffic. The nearest metro station is the Charles de Gaulle–Étoile (Line 6), a 4-minute walk away. The closest bus station to Arc de Triomphe is Charles de Gaulle - Étoile - Champs-Elysees, a 2-minute walk away. This is the most budget-friendly way to get to the monument. Charles de Gaulle Étoile (Line A) is the closest RER station and is a 2-minute walk away.

Does the Arc de Triomphe have an elevator?

Yes, the Arc de Triomphe has an elevator. Please note that it is reserved for pregnant visitors, those with reduced mobility, and those with young children.

Is the Arc de Triomphe wheelchair accessible?

Yes. You can head to the Arc de Triomphe rooftop via the elevator at the monument. There is also a designated drop-off point for visitors with reduced mobility.

How can I cross the Arc de Triomphe roundabout to get to the monument?

Do not attempt to cross the Arc de Triomphe roundabout to get to the monument. There are no crosswalks, but there are underground walkways that will get you directly to the monument.

Is there a dress code to be followed at the Arc de Triomphe?

There is no dress code to be followed. However, wear warm and comfortable clothing as the Arc de Triomphe rooftop can be chilly.

Are strollers allowed inside the Arc de Triomphe?

No, strollers are not allowed inside. However, you can drop them off with the access control agents at the entrance and collect them at the end of your visit.

Is photography allowed inside the Arc de Triomphe?

Yes, photography is allowed at the Arc de Triomphe. However, the use of selfie sticks and tripods is strictly prohibited.

Is there a cloakroom or lockers inside the Arc de Triomphe?

No, the Arc de Triomphe does not offer any locker service. Avoid carrying large bags and carry only the essentials.

How do I book tickets to visit the Arc de Triomphe rooftop?

You can buy your Arc de Triomphe rooftop tickets at the site or online. Booking your tickets online allows you to skip the line, avail discounts, and book combo tours.

How much does it cost to visit the Arc de Triomphe rooftop?

Standard entry tickets with Arc de Triomphe rooftop access start at €16.50. However, prices may vary with additional features such as audio guides, guided tours, or combo tours.