What to expect
Welcome to the top of the Arc de Triomphe of Paris, the only highest peak of the Champs-Elysées. At 60 metres above sea level it offers one of the most beautiful views of the Capital. The crossroad of 12 Parisian avenues and desired by Napoleon to celebrate French victories, the Arc de Triomphe has been the rendez-vous of all the tourists since its inauguration in 1836. Located on the far West of the Champs Elysées, it rules over the most beautiful avenue of the world. The Eiffel Tower, the place de la Concorde, the area of La défense: few symbolic monuments of Paris are not visible from this 360° viewpoint at the centre of the Place Charles de Gaulle-Etoile.
Arc de Triomphe Opening Hours
High season (April to September): open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Low season (October to March): open from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Important: Last admission 45 minutes before closing time.
Closures: The Arc de Triomphe is closed on January 1st, May 1st, the morning of May 8th, the morning of July 14th, the morning of November 11th, and December 25th.
Last admission is 45 minutes before the monument closes.
Exceptional Closures
Closed on January 1st 2026, May 1st 2026, the morning of May 8th 2026, the morning of July 14th 2026, the morning of November 11th 2025, and December 25th 2025.
In 2025, the Arc de Triomphe will also be closed on July 23rd.
Practical Information
Please note the changes in opening hours on the following dates:
- Thursday, May 1st: monument closed all day
- Thursday, May 8th: monument opens at 3:00 p.m.
- Tuesday, May 6th: monument opens at 12:30 p.m.
Tuesday opening hours that differ:
- From April 1st to September 30th: Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- From October 1st to March 31st: Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Access to the top of the Arc de Triomphe is possible via a staircase of 284 steps or by elevator (only accessible to people with reduced mobility), which takes you to the attic room (museum area). From there, you must climb 46 more steps to reach the terrace.
The duration of your visit to the Arc de Triomphe depends on your preferences. Allow about 30 minutes for a quick visit and up to 1.5 hours if you wish to take your time.
Strollers and tripods for cameras and video equipment are not allowed unless explicitly authorized. However, strollers can be left with the entrance control staff and collected at the end of the visit.
This monument is dedicated to the memory of French soldiers and houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, whose flame is rekindled daily. Visitors are expected to wear respectful attire (although there is no strict dress code).
For reasons of public safety, weather conditions, or ceremonies, the monument may be temporarily closed without refund.
Accessibility for Visitors with Disabilities
For visitors using a wheelchair, access via the tunnel connecting the Champs-Élysées to Place Charles-de-Gaulle Étoile is not possible. A drop-off area is available directly on the roundabout.
The museum area is accessible via an elevator preceded by three steps (assistance will be required).
Access to the terrace is not possible, as it requires climbing more than 40 steps.
The Arc de Triomphe's restrooms are not accessible for people with disabilities.
Arc de Triomphe Visit Fees
Full price: €16
Free admission:
Entry is free for:
- children under 18 (with family and outside school groups)
- young adults aged 18–25 who are EU nationals or regular non-European residents in France
- people with disabilities and one accompanying person
- job seekers, upon presentation of a valid unemployment certificate (dated within the last 6 months)
Good to know: On the first Sunday of each month, from November 1st to March 31st, admission is free for everyone!