Yes, I am aware of it. Isn’t it a tourist trap? Not at all! Because of their natural beauty, history, architecture, or cultural significance, some of the most popular tourist destinations in the world are truly wonders. You’re covered by the Arc de Triomphe, the beautiful focal point of the Champs-Élysées. It’s your pass to the kind of view that makes you exclaim, “Wow, I’m really in Paris!” It’s more than just a historical landmark. There is something enchanted about ascending those 284 steps and landing on a rooftop where the City of Light unfolds in all its splendor, regardless of whether you are an experienced Francophile or a first-time tourist.
What makes the Arc de Triomphe worth seeing?
One of Paris’ most recognizable sights is the Arc de Triomphe, which stands magnificently at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. Why is that?
Emperor Napoleon made the decision to have this stunning structure constructed in remembrance of the French army and the valiant men and women who fought and lost their lives for their nation after his decisive victory at Austerlitz. The Arc was completed in 1836 after more than 30 years of construction and numerous political leaders. It began to represent tenacity and patriotism. If you look closely at its walls, you may read the names of 158 significant battles that the French army claimed victory in during the Napoleonic and French Revolutionary Wars, which took place between 1792 and 1815.
Indeed, it is as remarkable as it appears on paper. The Arc de Triomphe invites visitors to enter the past and take in the magnificence of the city with its elaborate sculptures and inscriptions commemorating battles and generals’ names. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where a flame is rekindled every day in honor of the fallen, is another place military history enthusiasts should visit.
But if all you want is a nice picture, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier has something quite special to offer: a stunning vista from its rooftop patio.
What is seen from the rooftop of the Arc de Triomphe?
One of the greatest 360-degree panoramic vistas of Paris awaits you if you ascend the 284 steps to the top of the Arc de Triomphe. Standing at 164 feet above the ground, this viewpoint offers a 360-degree view of the city. Really! You are, after all, gazing down on Paris’s renowned Étoile, or “Star,” from which twelve avenues radiate outward and farther afield, including the glistening Champs-Élysées.
The Louvre with its glass pyramid, the recently renovated Grand Palais, and the Seine meandering through the cityscape are all visible to the southeast.
To the southwest, the famous lattice structure of the Eiffel Tower can be seen glinting in the sunlight if you turn slightly. This is still, in my opinion, Paris’s greatest view of the Eiffel Tower.
The Basilica of Sacré-Coeur is located atop Montmartre, which is located to the north.
Additionally, to the west are the Grande Arche, which most Parisians have a love/hate relationship with, and La Défense, the capital’s ultramodern business area teeming with gleaming skyscrapers.
You will have the opportunity to observe the wealthiest residents of the city, their opulent residences spread across the 8th arrondissement, rooftop patios, verdant gardens, and other extravagant whimsies. To get a close-up look, use the telescopes made of stainless steel and brass that are positioned throughout the terrace.
The bell towers of Notre Dame, the ghastly Montparnasse Tower, the gilded dome of Les Invalides, Bois de Boulogne, and Paris City Hall may even be visible if you gaze farther away.
Which view—the Arc de Triomphe or the Eiffel Tower—is superior?
I completely understand—it’s the age-old Parisian conundrum: the Arc de Triomphe or the Eiffel Tower?
Both provide distinctive viewpoints, but the Arc de Triomphe is more impressive. The reason for this is that you cannot truly view the Eiffel Tower when you are on top of it! What would Paris be without its most well-known landmark? The Eiffel Tower, however, stands towering and stunning amidst the cityscape, and you can see it from the Arc. Isn’t that the ideal postcard?
Not to mention the height. Because of the height of the Eiffel Tower observatory, the city’s landmarks may appear somewhat far away and little, as to tiny models strewn all over a map. The Arc de Triomphe, on the other hand, is perfectly situated—low enough to take in the fine details of Paris’s avenues, rooftops, and architecture, yet high enough to provide a stunning bird’s-eye view.
In summary, the Arc de Triomphe is the best place to see Paris’s splendor with the Eiffel Tower as the focal point.
How the Arc de Triomphe is visited
To get there via metro, go to Charles de Gaulle-Étoile station on Lines 1, 2, or 6.
On foot: Place Charles de Gaulle is where you’ll find the Arc. To get there safely, use the underground pedestrian walkway (don’t try to cross the busy traffic circle!).
Hours of operation: Daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM (seasonal variations may apply).
45 minutes prior to closing, the last entry is scheduled.
Fees for admission:
Adults: €16
Children under 18 and EU citizens under 26 (with a valid ID) are admitted free of charge.
Advice: To avoid the lineups, get your tickets online. Be aware that tickets are only available for a certain time and date.
For a breathtaking view of Paris during the golden hour, try to visit at sunset.
