Arc de Triomphe Paris

The Arc de Triomphe is a memorial that has been located at the Place Charles-de-Gaulle in Paris since 1836.

It is placed at the end of the Champs-Elysées and is the centre of 12 avenues, all of which start here and lead towards all cardinal directions in the shape of a star. Originally, the Arc de Triomphe was built by Napoleon after the battle of Austerlitz to glorify all his victories. The construction works of the memorial encompassed a period of 30 years. Within the period of construction, the plans of the facade had been changed six times. You can walk up the 284 steps of the narrow staircase to the top and enjoy the view.

There is a museum inside of the Arc de Triomphe which informs the visitors about the history of the memorial. Meanwhile, the arch has become a memorial for the fallen and non-identifiable soldiers of WWI. The names of generals and wars, depicting the history of France, are engraved on the inside of the arch. Since 1923 the “Eternal Flame of Remembrance” has been set up to commemorate the fallen and never identified soldiers of the First World War. Ever since the flame was lit, it has continuously been burning and is thus a permanent reminder of the loss experienced.

Each year, the final leg of the Tour de France ends at the Arc de Triomphe.

By subway

It's best to get here by metro. Either of the following lines will do: 1, 2 or 6.

By bus

But you can also use the bus lines 22, 30, 31, 52, 73 or 92.

By other means of transport

If you prefer to travel here by the RER, you can do so or just take a taxi.