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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 09 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Anna Brooke

This ornate, 50m-high arch is an iconic Parisian landmark, situated at the heart of 12 avenues that branch out from it like the spokes of a wheel.

The Arc was commissioned by Napoleon to honour all those who fought and died for France during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars – the names of all French victories and generals are inscribed on its inner and outer surfaces, and an eternal flame burns in memory of the unknown soldier of World War I (whose tomb lies beneath the arch).

Recommended itineraries by our writers that include this experience

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

Access the arch via the pedestrian tunnel which runs beneath the chaotic roundabout surrounding Place Charles de Gaulle. There are stairs to a small museum and viewing platform at the top of the arch, offering a great view of the city.

Book tickets on the website well ahead of time, as tickets for the roof terrace are limited.

When to do it

The Arc is open all year round, seven days a week, except on days of major ceremonies.

Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Hotel Le Royal Monceau Raffles

Paris, Ile-de-France, France

Soak up the buzz at design legend Philippe Starck’s gloriously decadent take on a grand palace hotel – in a very convenient location for seeing the sights.

Official star rating:

Shangri-La Paris

Paris, Ile-de-France, France

Experience a truly imperial lifestyle in the former residence of Prince Roland Bonaparte (Napoleon’s great nephew), with unbeatable views of the Eiffel Tower.

Official star rating:

Hotel Saint James Paris

Paris, Ile-de-France, France

Live out your country house fantasies at this delightfully eccentric, handsomely revamped chateau hotel in a smart western suburb of the city.

Official star rating:

Le Bristol Paris

Paris, Ile-de-France, France

A legendary Paris grande dame hotel and altar to old-school opulence, at the historical heart of the city. 

Official star rating:

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Paris

Ile-de-France, France

Crammed with iconic buildings, world-class art and a culinary scene steeped in history, Paris is one of the world’s great capitals, overflowing with style, romance, and art de vivre. 

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Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

Quai Branly Museum

Paris, Ile-de-France, France

Fascinating primal art and indigenous artefacts from all over the globe, theatrically presented in Jean Nouvel’s striking modern building. 

Best for ages: 13+ | £10

Eiffel Tower

Paris, Ile-de-France, United Kingdom (UK)

Gustave Eiffel’s eccentric, iron-clad tower built as a temporary exhibit for the World Fair in 1889, has views all over the city and has become iconic symbol of Paris.

Best for ages: 4+ | £23

Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..

Moulin Rouge

Paris, Ile-de-France, France

A long-running, extravagant, colourful cabaret featuring dancers and courtesans has been thrilling Parisian audiences since 1889. See the incomparable Can Can – the enigmatic dance that’s its greatest claim to fame.

Best for ages: 10+ | £74 | 2-4 hours

A front view of the entrance to Dali museum. The museum name is displayed on a black shop banner and there is a squared window with artwork displayed
Experience

Dali Paris

Paris, Ile-de-France, France

This museum in the Montmartre neighbourhood is dedicated to the surrealist Salvador Dali, displaying over 300 of his works. Dali lived and painted in Paris for many years.

Best for ages: 18+ | £8

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Overview >