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Arc de Triomphe: climb to the rooftop for a view of Paris

By Rédaction My Sweet Paris · Published 5 November 2026

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At the top of the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe rooftop offers one of the best views in Paris: twelve avenues fanning out like a star, the Eiffel Tower and La Défense. In autumn the monument stays open until 10.30 pm. From Hôtel Concortel, it is about 30 minutes on foot (estimate).

On the programme

  • National strike on 5 November

    Nationwide strike called by the CGT union. Disruption expected on SNCF trains; RATP service depends on declared strikers, forecasts published the day before.

    Dates
    5 November 2026
    Venue
    Paris et Île-de-France, Paris
    Price
    Not applicable.
    Official website(opens an external site)

Why climb the Arc de Triomphe?

Commissioned by Napoleon and inaugurated in 1836, the Arc towers over place Charles-de-Gaulle, formerly place de l’Étoile. From the rooftop, the layout of Paris finally makes sense: the twelve avenues radiating from the Arc, the Champs-Élysées axis running to the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower on one side and the towers of La Défense on the other.

Beneath the vault lies the Unknown Soldier, whose flame is rekindled every evening in a short ceremony.

When to go?

  • From 1 October to 31 March, the Arc opens every day from 10 am to 10.30 pm (11 am on Tuesdays); last entry 45 minutes before closing.
  • It is closed on the morning of 11 November for the commemoration.
  • Entry is free for everyone on the first Sunday of the month from November to March: the next one is Sunday 6 December.
  • The climb is up a spiral staircase: wear comfortable shoes.
  • At nightfall, the view over the illuminated Champs-Élysées is well worth it.

Today, a strike day

On Thursday 5 November, 25 metro stations are closed from 11 am, including Charles de Gaulle–Étoile, Madeleine and Concorde: trains pass through without stopping. The metro otherwise runs normally, but RER lines are disrupted. The Arc already closed exceptionally during the 24 October demonstration: check that it is open on the official website before setting off, or keep the visit for another day of your stay. See our tips for getting around.

How to get there from the hotel?

On foot, head along boulevard Haussmann then avenue de Friedland: about 30 minutes (estimate). To reach the Arc, use the underground passage from the Champs-Élysées or avenue de la Grande-Armée; never cross the roundabout. Find the monument on our illustrated map and see the Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe page.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Arc de Triomphe open in the evening?

Yes, from October to March it closes at 10.30 pm, with last entry 45 minutes before. Perfect for seeing the Champs-Élysées lit up.

When is entry free?

On the first Sunday of the month, from November to March, for all visitors. At other times, check prices on the official website.

How do I reach the Arc without crossing the roundabout?

Through the underground passage, accessible from the Champs-Élysées and avenue de la Grande-Armée.

Can I go today despite the strike?

On foot, yes: about 30 minutes from the hotel. Charles de Gaulle–Étoile station is closed from 11 am and the monument may close if there is a demonstration, so check before you go.

Practical information

  • Arc de Triomphe, place Charles-de-Gaulle, 75008 Paris — about 30 minutes’ walk from the hotel (estimate).
  • October to March: every day 10 am – 10.30 pm (11 am on Tuesdays), last entry 45 minutes before; closed on the morning of 11 November.
  • Free for everyone on the first Sunday of the month from November to March; check prices on the official website.
  • Thursday 5 November: Charles de Gaulle–Étoile station closed from 11 am; check the monument is open before setting off.

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