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How to Book The Arc
Updated August 2025
Perched at the glowing crest of the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe stands as an enduring monument to French heroism, commemorating those who fought in the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Beneath its mighty vault lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, tended by an eternal flame. Climb to the top for sweeping panoramic views of Paris, where every avenue—and story—radiates outward.
At a Glance
How Early to Book:
2-3 days if booking in advance as most timeslots will be available until about 48 hours ahead. You can buy tickets day of visit at the on-site ticket office, although there will likely be a queue.
Best Times to Book:
Early morning and sunset will be the least busy times
Ticket price:
€22 for adults during high season, €16 remainder of year
Where to Book:
If the Arc de Triomphe tops your Paris sightseeing list, your best move is to buy an entry ticket online via the official Centre des monuments nationaux platform. Ticket holders bypass lines at the entrance—crucial during peak months and holiday weekends.
The monument welcomes visitors in two seasonal schedules. From April 1 to September 30, it's open Wednesday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. From October 1 to March 31, it closes at 10:30 p.m., with last entry 45 minutes before closing. Annual closures include Jan 1, May 1, May 8 (morning), July 14 (morning), Nov 11 (morning), and Dec 25.
Getting there is easy. Take Metro lines 1, 2, or 6 or RER A to Charles-de-Gaulle-Étoile and use the subway underpass to safely access the monument—do not attempt to cross the traffic circle.
Early morning (right at opening) or late afternoon—especially around sunset (around 4:30–5:30 p.m.)—are smart times to visit. Crowds thin, the city lights up, and you’ll enjoy sweeping views—from the Eiffel Tower to Montmartre—without the press of people.
Late arrivals are usually accepted if the monument isn’t too crowded; there's generally a 30-minute grace period around your slot.
To make your Arc de Triomphe experience seamless: book online, arrive early or time your slot around sunset, use the underground tunnel, and bring your ID if eligible for free or reduced entry. Climb up, take a moment on the terrace, and let the rich sweep of Paris architecture unfold beneath you—elevated history, truly.
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