[FRANCE] Paris Museum Pass Day - Arc de Triomphe

The world famous Arc de Triomphe stands at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle which is formed by twelve radiating avenues. The triumphal arch is built in honour of those who fought and died for France (in particular French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars).

Getting there:

Metro: Charles de Gaulle-Etoile (Line 1、2、6)
RER A: Charles de Gaulle-Etoile

The best spot to take photo of the arch is at the middle of the busy road. Be aware of the vehicles on the road when taking photo.

To enter the arch, you need to enter the underground passage.

Here is the entrance to the arch.

Beneath the arch is tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I. Every evening, the flame is lit on the tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The four sculptural groups at the base of the Arc are The Triumph of 1810 (Cortot), Resistance & Peace (both by Antoine Étex) and Departure of the Volunteers of 1792, commonly called La Marseillaise (François Rude).


Departure of the Volunteers of 1792 is the most renowned sculpture of the four.


Ceiling with sculpted roses.

Its construction was commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 and it took 30 years to complete.

With the height of 50 meters, it was the tallest triumphal arch until the completion of the Monumento a la Revolución in Mexico City in 1938, which is 67 metres high.

Climbing up the spiral staircase. It is around 284 steps to the top.

First World War monument.

Exhibition and information about the arch on display.

The observation deck at its rooftop offers some of the best panoramic views in Paris.

The museum shop offers some unique souvenirs.

Arc de Triomphe is located at the western end of Avenue des Champs-Elysees. After visiting the arch, I continued to stroll on Avenue des Champs-Elysees. Avenue des Champs-Elysees is a famous shopping street which is home to a number of luxury brands.


Enjoying a French crepes from a food stall.

My next stop is Louvre Museum. Stay tuned for the next posting!

Arc de Triomphe
Admission ticket: € 13 for adult, € 11 for reduced fare
Free for Paris Museum Pass holders, person age 18 and below, European residents (age 18 - 25) and person with disabilities.
Opening hours:
9:00 am - 6:00 pm (Jan-Mar)
10:00 am - 11:00 pm (Apr-Sep)
10:00 am - 10:30 pm (Oct-Dec)
Website: http://www.paris-arc-de-triomphe.fr/en/