A famous British comedian once said that the Arc de Triomphe was built in the early nineteenth century in anticipation of the achievement of the French football team in doing the double of winning the World Cup and European Nations Cup in 1998 and 2000 respectively as they had nothing else to be triumphant about! The Arc de Triomphe stands... more

At first sight the Arc de Triomphe is just a big arch in Paris, right? Well, maybe ... but if you have time, there's more to the Arc de Triomphe than meets the eye. Observe the Arc from all sides - not just the side facing the Champs Elysees. Take the stairs (or elevator) up ... we took our time,... more

Like others have said do not try to cross the road, take the well lit tunnel just on from the Metro/RER station exit on Champs Elysees. Be warned there is a lot of climbing and it is all on spiral staircases; I was unaware of this but it was certainly worth it anyhow and you just go at your own... more

From the Champs de Elysses boulevard, take the underground tunnel to get to the ticket office; do not try to run across the massive roundabout to get to the Arc, as it is extremely dangerous/stupid. Look for the brown signs showing stairs and a flat passage to guide you to the tunnel. We paid the 10 euros or so to... more

We visited the Arc de Triomphe last summer. My husband, my two children and myself. It was a great start in Paris. The waves of tourists crowded around it. The monument was truly impressive. The massive structure towered over the roundabout. Those freezes are really incredible. After walking around the arc we headed up the stairs to the exhibition hall... more

The climb is worth the view, it gives you an excellent perspective of the streets and city and is a excellent spot from which to get pictures of the Eiffel tower. more

We toured Paris during a cold, wet January. I thought the long climb up the spiral staircase would get me, but the view on the top was magnificent. Ahh, Paris. It was worth braving the cold elements for such a moment. What a city! Take in each second. more

It was great to look at the exhibition and the view from the top. It's a good way to pass an hour or so. The tomb of the unknown soldier is really moving and emblematic, as are the flags. more

When you come out of Charles de Gaule Etoile metro station (lines 1, 2, 6 and RER line A) take the underground walkway to reach the Arc de Triomphe. Don't try and run across the roundabout - you'll never make it, look very foolish and waste time. At the end of the underground walkway is the ticket office. I went... more