The Arc de Triomphe: A Parisian Landmark with a View Worth the Climb

I love all things Paris and as you know my passion and focus is all about the food.  As a home school dad I am embarrassed to say that I am actually not a history buff, and I don’t know a ton about France’s military past, Unless you count the fact I have seen Les Mis 5 times.  However, the Arc de Triomphe is impossible to ignore and a must visit location in Paris. As an architectural landmark, it makes it one of the most recognizable structures in Paris. Seeing it up close, with its detailed carvings and sheer scale, was impressive enough—but I had no idea until this trip that you could actually climb to the top.  And I have been to Paris many times before

The Climb: A Surprising Discovery

We arrived around midday and found a moderate 20–30 minute wait, which moved steadily. The entrance fee was €16, a fair price for the experience. Visitors under 18 and EU residents aged 18–25 can enter for free (official website).

Once inside, we faced the 284-step spiral staircase. The climb was no joke, but there’s a midway landing with benches, offering a much-needed break before the final stretch.

At the top, Paris stretched out in every direction, and I was genuinely surprised by how spectacular the views were. The Champs-Élysées extended straight ahead, while the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, and La Défense stood in perfect alignment. We lingered for quite some time, just taking it all in and snapping plenty of photos.

Photographer’s Tip

The midday sun was harsh, making it difficult to capture crisp shots. If photography is a priority, visit early morning or late in the evening for softer light and fewer crowds.

Best Times to Visit

• Early morning for a quiet, reflective experience with soft light.
• Evening for the golden glow of the city lights and the Eiffel Tower sparkling in the distance.

Getting There

The Arc de Triomphe is located at Place Charles de Gaulle, where twelve avenues converge. The Métro (Charles de Gaulle-Étoile station) is the easiest way to get there, but if you’re up for a walk, approaching via the Champs-Élysées makes for a scenic and rewarding route.

Final Thoughts

I came for the architecture and left with one of the best panoramic views of Paris. The history, the climb, and the sheer perspective from the top make this a stop well worth your time.