🏛️ Arc de Triomphe: History and Visitor Info

🏰 Introduction: A Symbol of Victory and Remembrance

Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, the Arc de Triomphe stands as a powerful tribute to France’s military history—and as one of Paris’s most visited monuments. Whether you want to soak up panoramic views or dive into French heritage, here’s how to make the most of your visit.

📖 Quick History of the Arc de Triomphe

🏗️ Commissioned in 1806 after the Battle of Austerlitz
🕰️ Completed in 1836 under King Louis-Philippe
⚔️ Names of 660 generals engraved in the stone
🔥 Home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier since 1921
🔥 Flame rekindled daily at 6:30 PM in honor of fallen soldiers

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🎟️ How to Visit the Arc de Triomphe

🏛️ General Entry Ticket (Viewing Platform)

🪜 Includes access to the top via 284 steps (no elevator)
🌆 Stunning 360° views of the Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées, and La Défense
📷 Best at sunset or night when Paris is lit up

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🗝️ Skip-the-Line or Guided Tours

👨‍🏫 Learn about France’s military history and architectural symbolism
🗣️ Ideal for travelers interested in Napoleonic history
🎟️ Priority access avoids long queues during peak hours

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🔥 Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (Free Access)

🕯️ Accessible without a ticket—located directly beneath the arch
🎖️ Watch the eternal flame ceremony at dusk

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📍 How to Get There

📍 Located at Place Charles de Gaulle, western end of the Champs-Élysées
🚇 Metro: Charles de Gaulle–Étoile (Lines 1, 2, 6 & RER A)
🚶‍♂️ Use the underground pedestrian tunnel—do not cross the busy traffic circle

💡 Arc de Triomphe Visiting Tips

⏰ Best time: Just before sunset for golden light + fewer crowds
🧥 Bring a jacket—even summer evenings can be breezy at the top
📱 Download a self-guided audio tour for extra context
🧳 Travel light—bag checks are mandatory, and lockers are limited
🗓️ Closed on January 1st, May 1st, July 14th (AM), and December 25th

🔗 Related Posts to Link Internally

[Eiffel Tower: Tickets, Tips, and Best Views]
[48 Hours in Paris: A Weekend Itinerary]
[Top 5 Neighborhoods to Stay in Paris]
[Best Paris Hotels with Eiffel Tower Views]

🌆 Wrap-Up: Stand on History and See the City in Full

The Arc de Triomphe is more than a photo stop—it’s a place of pride, memory, and perspective. Climb to the top, watch the flame ceremony, and stand above one of the most breathtaking urban views in the world.