Why the Arc de Triomphe offers Paris’ best panoramic views
Yeah, I know. Tourist trap, right? Not so much! Some of the world’s greatest tourist attractions are rightfully so because they are simply wonders, whether for their natural beauty, history, architecture, or cultural significance. Well, the Arc de Triomphe – that magnificent centerpiece of the Champs-Élysées – has you covered. It’s not just a historical monument, it’s your ticket to the kind of view that makes you gasp and say, “Wow, I’m really in Paris!” Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Francophile, there’s something magical about climbing those 284 steps and emerging on a rooftop where the City of Light spreads out in all its glory.
Why should you visit Arc de Triomphe?
Standing majestically at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe is one of Paris’ most iconic landmarks. Why is that?
After his big win at Austerlitz, Emperor Napoleon decided to have this beautiful building made to honor the French army and the brave men and women who fought and died for their country. It took over 30 years and a lot of different political leaders to build, but the Arc was finally finished in 1836. It became a symbol of national pride and resilience. Take a closer look at its walls, and you’ll see the names of 158 major battles fought between 1792 and 1815 during the French Revolutionary Wars and Napoleonic Wars where the French armies claimed victory.
And yes, it’s as impressive as it sounds on paper. With its ornate sculptures and inscriptions of battles and generals’ names, the Arc de Triomphe is an invitation to step into history and marvel at the city’s grandeur. Military history buffs will also want to take a look at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where a flame is rekindled daily in remembrance of the fallen.
But if you’re just looking for a good photo, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier offers something truly unique: a breathtaking view from its rooftop terrace.
What can you see from the Arc de Triomphe rooftop?




If you make your way up the 284 steps to the top of the Arc de Triomphe, you’ll be rewarded with one of the best 360 degree panoramic views in Paris. From this vantage point, at 164 feet high, you can see the city in every direction. Literally! After all, you’re looking down on the famous Étoile, or “Star,” where 12 avenues radiate outward and further afield in Paris, including the glittering Champs-Élysées.
- To the southeast, you can see the Louvre and its glass pyramid, the newly reopened Grand Palais and the Seine is winding its way through the cityscape.
- If you turn slightly, you’ll see the Eiffel Tower to the southwest, and its iconic lattice structure is glinting in the sunlight. To me, this remains the best view of the Eiffel Tower in all of Paris.
- To the north, you’ll find Montmartre, with the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur at the top.
- And to the west, you’ll find the modern skyscrapers of La Défense, the capital’s ultra modern business district riddled with shiny skyscrapers and the Grande Arche with which most Parisians have a love/hate relationship.
- You’ll get to spy on the city’s wealthiest and their luxury apartments throughout the 8th arrondissement, rooftop patios, lush gardens, and other ultra rich whimsies. Use the brass and stainless steel telescopes placed around the terrace to see them up close.
- If you look further afield, you might even catch a glimpse of the bell towers of Notre Dame, the horrific monolith that is Montparnasse Tower, the golden dome of Les Invalides, Bois de Boulogne, and the Paris City Hall.
Which view is better, Eiffel Tower or Arc de Triomphe?

I totally get it—it’s the classic Parisian dilemma: Eiffel Tower or Arc de Triomphe?
While both offer unique perspectives, the Arc de Triomphe has a compelling edge. Here’s why: when you’re on top of the Eiffel Tower, you can’t actually see the Eiffel Tower! What’s Paris without its most famous landmark in sight? But when you’re at the Arc, you get this incredible view of the Eiffel Tower, standing tall and beautiful amidst the cityscape. It’s the perfect postcard, isn’t it?
And let’s not forget the height. The Eiffel Tower observatory is so high up that the city’s landmarks can feel a bit distant and tiny, like tiny models scattered across a map. The Arc de Triomphe, on the other hand, sits at just the right height—high enough to offer a breathtaking bird’s-eye view but low enough to appreciate the intricate details of Paris’s rooftops, avenues, and architecture.
In short, if you want to experience the beauty of Paris with the Eiffel Tower as a centerpiece, the Arc de Triomphe is unbeatable.
How to visit the Arc de Triomphe


- Getting there:
- By Metro: Take Line 1, 2, or 6 to Charles de Gaulle-Étoile station.
- On foot: The Arc is situated at Place Charles de Gaulle. Use the underground pedestrian passage to access it safely (don’t attempt to cross the chaotic traffic circle!).
- Opening times:
- Open daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM (times may vary seasonally).
- Last entry is 45 minutes before closing.
- Admission fees:
- Adults: €16
- Free: Children under 18 and EU residents under 26 (with valid ID).
- Tips:
- Book your tickets online to skip the lines. Know that tickets are issued for a specific time and date.
- Aim to visit at sunset for a magical golden-hour view of Paris.