This world famous monument, which sits on a perfectly round island in the center of the Charles de Gaulle Circle at the northwest end of the renowned Avenue des Champs Elysees, was erected in honor of the fallen soldiers of World Wars I & II. Underneath the towering structure burns an eternal flame, marking the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Locals and visitors alike gather around the Tomb to pay homage to the brave yet now sadly unidentified souls that gave their lives to battle. It is an odd scene, really, as visitors stand in silence paying their respects to the dead while throngs of people in cars put their lives in danger as they zoom nearly out of control around the Arc. Indeed, the Charles de Gaulle Circle is one of the most dangerous roadways on the planet! There’s no driving between lanes—just everyman for himself. Fortunately, the city provides an underground tunnel by which pedestrians can reach the monument without risking their lives by crossing the street.

Commissioned by Emperor Napoleon in 1806 to honor his own military achievements, the Arc was finally completed six years later and soon following was formally dedicated to all the armies of the Revolution. Visitors can actually take an elevator to the top of the monument to get an excellent bird’s-eye view of Paris. One can see the sky-piercing Eiffel Tower in the distance, while immediately to the east is the bustling Champs des Elysees. If one takes notice, they will find that this section of Paris was laid out in a star with the Arc standing in the middle, it is a beautiful sight. The Arc de Triomphe is just steps away from the Champs Elysees, the most famous strip in Paris. Along this avenue are some of the city’s best cafes and shops, and at its north end is the Place de La Concord. Keep heading east past Concord and you will find yourself at the world-renowned Musee du Louvre.

The Arc de Triomphe is open--- October 1st to March 31st daily from 10am – 10:30pm. April 1st to September 30th open daily from 9:30am – 11pm. Closed January 1st, May 1st and December 25th.

Riding the Metro? Your nearest stop is Charles-de-Gaulle-Etoile.