Is The Arc de Triomphe Worth Visiting?

Paris has no shortage of iconic landmarks, but the Arc de Triomphe stands apart. It’s more than just a monument—it’s a symbol of France’s history, resilience, and grandeur. Most people admire it from ground level, snapping photos and moving on, but to truly understand the scale and significance of the Arc, you need to climb to the top. Trust me, the 284 steps are worth the effort. Up there, you’re rewarded with one of the best panoramic views in Paris, a perspective that lets you see the city not as a tourist, but as a traveler who truly gets it.

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IS THE ARC DE TRIOMPHE WORTH A VISIT?

Yeah, the Arc de Triomphe is worth visiting, no question about it. Sure, it’s got the historical weight and architectural chops to impress, but what really seals the deal is the view. At 164 feet tall, this hulking piece of stone holds its ground at the western end of the Champs-Élysées like a sentinel over Paris. You can’t fully appreciate its scale until you’re standing right under it, feeling like an ant beneath its arches. But the real magic happens when you drag yourself up those stairs to the top. From the observation deck, Paris opens up in every direction—a full 360-degree sweep, with the Eiffel Tower stealing the show in the distance. It’s one of those moments that makes the climb more than just worth it—it makes you feel like you’ve earned the city’s secrets.

WHY VISIT THE ARC DE TRIOMPHE

1. Iconic Parisian Landmark

Standing at 164 feet (50 meters) tall, the Arc de Triomphe is one of the most recognizable monuments in the world. Commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806, it was built to celebrate French military victories and to honor those who fought for the nation.

Its presence at the western end of the Champs-Élysées makes it a central piece of Parisian culture and history, a must-see for anyone wanting to experience the heart of France’s capital.

2. Panoramic Views of Paris

View of Paris from Arc de Triomphe

While the Eiffel Tower is famous for its views, the Arc de Triomphe offers equally stunning, but less crowded, panoramic vistas of Paris. After climbing the 284 steps to the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping 360-degree views of the city’s most famous sights, including the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre’s Sacré-CÅ“ur, and the picturesque Champs-Élysées.

View of Paris from Arc de Triomphe

This vantage point offers one of the best perspectives of the city and is especially gorgeous at sunset or in the evening. This is one of the best spots to get awesome pics of the Eiffel Tower.

3. Rich Historical Significance

The Arc de Triomphe is not just a pretty face; it’s a monumental piece of French history. Built after Napoleon’s victory at Austerlitz, it stands as a symbol of the nation’s resilience and military prowess.

The monument is adorned with reliefs and carvings depicting key moments in French history, including battles and heroic figures. History buffs will find the stories behind the structure fascinating, and guided tours often offer in-depth insights into its creation and symbolism.

4. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Underneath the Arc de Triomphe lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a moving tribute to soldiers who lost their lives during World War I. The eternal flame, which has been burning since 1923, is relit every evening in a solemn ceremony.

This site serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made in times of war, adding a deep sense of reverence to your visit. Whether or not you have a connection to the military, witnessing this daily ceremony is a poignant experience.

5. Beautiful Architecture and Sculptures

Arc de Triomphe

Even if you’re not a history buff, the Arc de Triomphe is worth visiting for its architectural beauty alone. Its neoclassical design is a stunning example of early 19th-century architecture, and the details are incredible.

Take a moment to admire the intricate reliefs and sculptures, including figures of Roman gods and allegorical scenes representing key moments from the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. The craftsmanship and artistry left us in awe.

6. Central Location for Easy Exploration

Located at Place Charles de Gaulle, the Arc de Triomphe is at the center of 12 grand avenues, including the world-famous Champs-Élysées. This makes it an ideal starting or ending point for a day of exploring Paris.

From here, you can easily stroll down the bustling Champs-Élysées, pop into cafés or luxury boutiques, or visit nearby attractions like the Eiffel Tower or the Tuileries Garden. Its central location makes it easy to fit into any Paris itinerary.

7. Nighttime Magic

While the Arc de Triomphe is beautiful during the day, it becomes absolutely magical at night. The entire monument is illuminated, casting a soft, golden glow that makes it look even more grand and elegant.

The evening atmosphere is quieter and more intimate, allowing you to fully take in its beauty without the hustle and bustle of daytime crowds. Additionally, the nightly relighting of the eternal flame offers a touching ceremony to witness as the city sparkles in the background.

ARC DE TRIOMPHE FACTS

Arc de Triomphe

Napoleon initially wanted to build a monument shaped like an elephant, but eventually opted for the Arc de Triomphe.

Construction took 30 years, starting in 1806 and finishing in 1836, long after Napoleon’s death.

A time capsule, containing coins and documents from Napoleon’s reign, was buried beneath the Arc when the first stone was laid.

In 1919, a French pilot daringly flew a biplane through the Arc in celebration of World War I’s end.

Besides the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, other generals and military heroes from World War I are also buried beneath the Arc.

The Arc de Triomphe is much larger than it seems, standing 50 meters tall and 45 meters wide, making it the second-largest triumphal arch in the world.

Napoleon’s remains passed under the Arc in 1840 during a grand procession when his body was returned to France from exile.

The Arc is at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle, where 12 grand avenues radiate out, forming a star-like shape.

Despite being used by Nazi troops during World War II, the Arc survived the war intact and became a symbol of French resistance.

The Arc has hosted numerous celebrations, including military parades and victory marches, and continues to be central to France’s Bastille Day festivities.

OUR VISIT TO THE ARC DE TRIOMPHE

family standing in front of Arc de Triomphe

On our trip to Paris, the Arc de Triomphe wasn’t just a stop—it was a revelation. Up close, the sheer size of this monument hit me like a punch to the gut. You think you know what it’s like from photos, but standing beneath it, you realize it’s a whole different beast.

But the real prize? That’s up top. The 284-step climb is no joke—especially with two kids in tow, ages 9 and 7—but trust me, it’s worth every breath. We made it, no problem.

And then, there’s the view. It’s like stepping into every iconic shot of Paris you’ve ever seen—the Eiffel Tower rising like a steel giant, the Champs-Élysées stretching out like a glittering artery.

Suddenly, all those postcard-perfect images clicked into place. It’s the kind of experience that makes you feel like you’re really seeing the city, not just visiting it.

HOW TO GET TO THE ARC DE TRIOMPHE

Getting to the Arc de Triomphe is easy thanks to its central location in Paris at Place Charles de Gaulle, where 12 major avenues converge. The closest metro station is Charles de Gaulle–Étoile, served by lines 1, 2, and 6, as well as the RER A train line.

Once you exit the station, you’ll find yourself right at the base of the monument. However, to safely access the Arc, use the underground pedestrian passage located on the Champs-Élysées or Avenue de la Grande Armée, as crossing the busy traffic circle directly is dangerous and prohibited.

For those exploring by foot, the Arc is also within walking distance of several key landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower and the Tuileries Garden.

GET TICKETS TO THE ARC DE TRIOMPHE

Getting tickets to the Arc de Triomphe is fairly easy, but it’s best to buy them ahead of time online. 

You can purchase your tickets here

ENJOY YOUR VISIT TO THE ARC DE TRIOMPHE

The Arc de Triomphe is an absolute must-see when you’re in Paris, but don’t just settle for admiring it from the ground—plan to fully experience it by climbing to the top. Ascending the 284 steps will reward you with one of the best panoramic views in the city, offering stunning sights of iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, and the entire Paris skyline. By making the climb, you’ll not only be visiting a historical landmark but also creating a memorable experience that captures the essence of Paris from above.

Author

  • Jeremiah Pittmon

    Jeremiah Pittmon is a published travel writer and photographer from Cleveland, Ohio. Passionate about exploring the world with his family, he finds inspiration in all types of travel. Through his blog, smilesonarrival.com, and social media channels, he shares captivating experiences and valuable tips for families who love to travel.

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