Arc de Triomphe

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The Arc de Triomphe is situated at one end of the famous Champs Elysees, Paris’s most prestigious shopping avenue. It was erected during the Napoleonic wars to honour France’s fallen soldiers, but its remit has broadened to cover all wars since then as well, and its walls are covered with the names of those wars and the generals involved in them. The tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War 1 was dug into its foundations.

Standing 50 metres high, 45 metres wide and 22 metres deep, the Arc de Triomphe has two vaults, was modelled in 1806 on the 1st century Arch of Titus in Rome, and is the second largest arch of its kind in the world. It was commissioned by Napoleon to celebrate his victory at the battle of Austerlitz, and completed in 1836.

When you visit the Arch from nearby apartments, Paris and its people will delight you in many ways, from the impressive scenery, to locals who love to assist lost travellers with directions. Once you reach the Arch, you’ll see that there are four enormous sculptures in relief at the base of the pillars: The Triumph of 1810, Resistance, Peace and The Departure of the Volunteers. Napoleonic victories are commemorated around the top of the Arch.

The French president lays a wreath at the Arch every Armistice Day, 11th November, and on Bastille Day a military parade starts off from here, on 14th July. A giant French tri-colour is hung from its roof on important state occasions. When you visit the area, make sure and take in the small museum inside the Arch. This traces its history and construction. For a spectacular, panoramic view of Paris, climb the 284 steps or take the lift to the top of the Arch for views down the whole length of the Champs Elysees, the Louvre and gardens of the Tuileries.

The nearest metro station is Charles de Gaulle Etoile, which you can reach from lines 1, 2 or 6. The Arch is open April to September, 10am to 11pm; October to March, 10am to 10pm. Free admission for under-18s.

If planning to rent self-catering apartments, Paris is busiest in the summer months, please book well in advance of your trip in order to avoid disappointment. For more information visit http://arc-de-triomphe.monuments-nationaux.fr/en/

If selecting short-term apartments, Paris has many options to choice from, regardless of group size. This allows tourists to immerse themselves in a legendary culture and explore a city that is steeped in history, without being tied to set mealtimes or other inconveniences. The first target for many first-time visitors to this great city is the Arc de Triomphe, one of its most instantly recognisable icons. When leaving apartments, Paris visitors should secure their valuables since all major cities have some pickpockets. Be sensible with traveller’s cheques, cameras and other possessions.