Arc de Triomphe

Exploring the Iconic Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France

Introduction

Located at the heart of Paris, the Arc de Triomphe is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. This grand arch was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte and is a tribute to his military victories. In this blog post, we’ll guide you on how to make the most out of your visit to the Arc de Triomphe.

Where to Visit

The Arc de Triomphe is situated at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle (previously known as Place de l’Etoile). The square is surrounded by 12 avenues, making it a hub for shopping and sightseeing. Some notable nearby attractions include:

  • The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: A tomb dedicated to the soldiers who have lost their lives in French wars since 1914.
  • The Eiffel Tower: A short taxi ride or metro trip away, the Eiffel Tower is an iconic symbol of Paris.
  • Champs-Élysées: One of the most famous shopping streets in the world.

Where to Eat

There are plenty of restaurants and cafes around the Arc de Triomphe. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Cafe de la Paix: A beautiful, upscale cafe with stunning views of the city.
  • Le Grand Vefour: A historic restaurant that offers exquisite French cuisine.
  • Angelina: A luxurious cafe famous for its hot chocolate and macarons.

Where to Stay

If you’re planning to stay near the Arc de Triomphe, here are some top hotel recommendations:

  • Hotel Plaza Athenee: A 5-star hotel located on Avenue Montaigne, known for its opulent decor and luxurious amenities.
  • Shangri-La Hotel Paris: A 5-star hotel that offers stunning views of the Eiffel Tower and the city.
  • Hotel Le Bristol Paris: A 5-star hotel that’s a member of the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World.

Activities

Here are some fun activities you can enjoy near the Arc de Triomphe:

  • Take a stroll around the Champs-Élysées: This famous shopping street is lined with beautiful gardens, cafes, and restaurants.
  • Visit the nearby museums: The Musée Carnavalet and the Musée du Général Leclerc are just a short walk away from the Arc de Triomphe.
  • Go shopping on Avenue Montaigne: This upscale avenue is home to some of Paris’s most exclusive fashion boutiques.

Tips

Here are some tips for making the most out of your visit to the Arc de Triomphe:

  • Buy tickets online: Buying tickets online can save you time and money.
  • Visit at sunset or twilight: The views of the city from the top of the arch are stunning, especially during sunset or twilight.
  • Avoid visiting on weekends: If you can, try to avoid visiting on weekends when the arch is usually crowded with tourists.

Additional Information

Here are some additional things that might be of interest to tourists:

  • The Arc de Triomphe is open from 10am-10:30pm, except for January 1st and December 25th.
  • The ticket price for the Arc de Triomphe is around €12.
  • You can take the metro or a taxi to get to the Arch de Triomphe.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to make the most out of your visit to the iconic Arc de Triomphe in Paris.