Hotels near Arc de Triomphe

Napoleon commissioned the Arc de Triomphe in 1806 to celebrate his military victories, though the 50-metre arch was not completed until 1836 - fifteen years after his death. It anchors the western end of the Champs-Elysees and sits at the centre of the Place Charles de Gaulle roundabout, where twelve avenues radiate outward in a star pattern. Beneath the arch, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier honours those who died in World War I, and a memorial flame is rekindled every evening at 18:30.

The rooftop terrace, reached by climbing 284 steps (no lift), costs EUR 16 for adults and offers one of the best vantage points in Paris - you can see the Eiffel Tower to the southwest and La Defense's skyscrapers to the northwest along a perfect axis. Open daily from 10:00 to 23:00 (until 22:30 October through March). Access is via an underground tunnel from the north side of the Champs-Elysees; do not attempt to cross the roundabout on foot.

Pro Tip: Time your visit for 30 minutes before sunset. You will catch daylight views, the golden-hour glow, and then watch the Eiffel Tower's lights switch on - all from the same rooftop perch. Queues are shortest on weekday mornings.