Napoleon I ordered the construction of The Arc de Triomphe in 1805, following his first victory at the Battle of Austerlitz. It is still the largest and best-known memorial structure in the world. The Arc receives thousands of visitors each day, and there are a few things that tourists wish they had known before arriving. If you're planning a trip to the Arc de Triomphe anytime soon, here are some things you should know before going to the famous Parisian landmark.
You can order tickets for the Arc de Triomphe online in advance, as is the case with most European attractions. Under-18s and EU residents between 18 and 25 are exempt from paying for tickets. Tickets to the Arc de Triomphe cost 13 euros for everyone else and 20 euros for those who want a guided tour. Those who missed the opportunity to pre-book can always purchase tickets at the gate but don't be shocked if the line is hours long.
The Arc De Triomphe measures 148 feet in width and 164 feet in height, and it can make you feel dizzy just by staring at it. Additionally, the fact that the Arc's ground level is free is helpful. The names of 660 war generals who took part in the conflict and whose names are engraved on the Arc De Triomphe can be seen by visitors as they meander around the monument, pass underneath the main arch, view the statues, and take in the overall setting. However, the Arc De Triomphe experience doesn't finish here because you may also climb to the top of the Arc!
The incredible view from the peak of the Arc de Triomphe of Paris and the intersection of 12th Avenue below is reason enough for tourists to pay for a ticket to the summit. With its rows of trees, the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Champs-Élysées are only some of the city's most famous sights from the top of the Arc de Triomphe.
However, there is a cost: visitors must be prepared to walk more than 280 stairs to get the breathtaking views of Paris. Although there is an elevator inside the Arc, it is only for use by people who are pregnant, have mobility issues, or have young children.
The 280 steps that lead to the top of the Arc de Triomphe are just some of the features inside. One level below the observation deck, within the walls of the enormous monument, lies a modest museum that most tourists frequently overlook. Through several interactive exhibits, the museum traces the development of the Arc de Triomphe from its erection in the early 19th century to the present day. Anyone interested in learning more about the monument they are now standing in should make this stop.
You can use an online guidebook from Arc de Triophe's website to make your visit more accessible and exciting.
