Arc de Triomphe Private Guided Tour - Optional Boat Cruise

49.00

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Duration
1.5 hours
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Tour Information

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The tour is available on the following languages (audio guide):

• English • French • German • Russian • Spanish • Italian • Portuguese • Chinese • Japanese •

Arc de Triomphe Guided Tour - Discover Paris From One of Its Most Iconic Monuments
Private means - Just you with the guide

Step into French history and enjoy one of the most breathtaking views in Paris with our Arc de Triomphe Guided Tour. Located at the top of the Champs - Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe stands as a monumental tribute to France’s victories, heroes, and national identity. With the help of an expert guide, you will uncover the powerful stories carved into its stone. At the same time, you will explore the symbolic spaces beneath the arch before ascending to the panoramic rooftop terrace.

Whether it is your first visit to Paris or a return trip, the Arc de Triomphe offers a unique combination of history, architecture, and skyline beauty. As a result, it remains one of the most memorable experiences in the French capital.

 

Why Visit the Arc de Triomphe With a Guided Tour?

Bring French History to Life

First of all, the Arc de Triomphe is far more than a landmark. In fact, it is a masterpiece of Napoleonic architecture. Therefore, your guide will share the dramatic story behind Napoleon’s victories, the construction of the arch, and the sculptures that symbolize courage, sacrifice, and national pride. Moreover, from heroic reliefs to the engraved names of French generals, every detail becomes meaningful through expert storytelling.

 

A Place of Remembrance and Honor

Witness the Eternal Flame of the Unknown Soldier

Beneath the arch lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where a flame has burned continuously since 1923. During your visit, your guide explains the emotional importance of this memorial. In addition, you will learn how it plays a central role in modern French remembrance ceremonies. As a result, this moment becomes one of the most moving parts of the tour.

 

Enjoy One of Paris’s Best Rooftop Views

Climb to the Panoramic Terrace

After exploring the monument, you will climb to the rooftop terrace - without a doubt, one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Paris. From here, you can enjoy stunning 360° views of the city, including:

  • Eiffel Tower
  • Champs - Élysées
  • La Défense
  • Sacré - Cœur
  • The Seine
  • The classic Haussmann skyline

Furthermore, morning tours offer softer light, fewer crowds, and exceptional photo opportunities. Consequently, photographers and casual visitors alike find this moment unforgettable.

A Photographer’s Dream

With wide boulevards stretching out like the spokes of a wheel and the Eiffel Tower rising in the distance, the view from the Arc de Triomphe is truly iconic. For this reason, your guide will help you find the best angles for stunning Paris photos. In turn, you leave with memories that last long after your visit.

Perfect For

  • Anyone visiting Paris for the first time
  • Travelers who want to understand the historic importance of the monument
  • Visit to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
  • Couples, families, and solo travelers looking for a memorable cultural experien
  • Guests wanting a guided exploration rather than a quick photo stop

What You’ll See and Learn on This Tour: 

  • The Arc de Triomphe’s Sculptural Masterpieces - Including La Marseillaise by François Rude
  • The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier - Symbol of remembrance and unity
  • Historic Battle Engravings - Showcasing France’s victories and military heroes
  • The Grand Staircase - Leading to the panoramic rooftop
  • Unmatched Sky Views - Paris from above, without the crowds of larger attractions

 

A Must-See Paris Experience

Ultimately, the Arc de Triomphe is much more than a beautiful monument. Rather, it is a gateway into the heart of French identity. From the solemn flame at its base to the sweeping skyline at its summit, the monument captures both the past and the present of Paris.

With our guided tour, you experience the Arc de Triomphe in the most meaningful and enjoyable way possible. In conclusion, this is an essential stop for anyone who wants to truly understand the spirit of Paris.


IMPORTANT: We will send the informations 24h before the start, to your email/whatsapp.


PARIS SIGHTSEEING CRUISE 

Departure point: Dock 1 - At the Eiffel Tower. Departure time: Every 30 minutes between 10:00am-10:00pm Every day

The sightseeing cruise is available on the following languages (audio guide):
Highlights
  • Private guided experience with personalized attention throughout
  • Admission ticket included - no extra fees at the entrance
  • Visit to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
  • Insight into Napoleon’s legacy and the symbolism of the monument
  • Enjoy breathtaking rooftop views of Paris and its monuments
  • Ideal for photographers, history lovers, and first - time visitors
  • Choose an afternoon or evening tour for stunning light and scenery
  • Flexible itinerary tailored to your interests in history, art, or architecture

What’s Included

  • Professional guide
  • Entrance ticket to the rooftop
  • Priority support over Phone/WhatsApp during business hours (9-17h Paris time)

FAQs

Tickets and Confirmation
How can I book a program or guided tour? Choose your preferred program, select the date and number of participants, and follow the online booking steps. The reservation can be completed in just a few minutes. What payment methods are available? We accept online credit and debit card payments through a secure, encrypted system. Is online payment secure? Yes. All payments are processed through certified payment providers using encrypted connections. Will I receive an invoice after booking? Yes. After a successful booking, we send a confirmation email and invoice. Are there any hidden fees? No. Prices always include the services listed in the program description. Do I need to print my ticket? No, mobile tickets are accepted. You can simply present your electronic ticket on your smartphone before boarding.
In which languages is commentary available?
Departure from the Eiffel Tower comments are available : – by individual wired audio guide on the lower deck in 14 languages: French, English, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Polish, Dutch, Hindi, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese and Korean. The comments are coupled with those of the hostess guide on board. There is also a specific commentary for children, in French only. – with the new Smartphone Audioguide for an even more magical and fun experience. Available in 11 languages: French, English, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, German, Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Russian, and Arabic. PS: Don’t forget to bring your earphones, headphones with you! Departure from Notre Dame, commentary is available live in 2 languages: French and English.
Are the cruise routes departing from the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame the same?
The routes are the same; only the departure location differs. The Sightseeing Cruise departing from the Eiffel Tower takes a one-hour route from the Eiffel Tower to Ile Saint Louis. The Sightseeing Cruise departing from Notre Dame takes a one-hour route from Notre Dame to Ile Saint Louis, turning around at the Eiffel Tower. In event of flooding of the River Seine, these routes may be modified without prior notice.
How often are Sightseeing Cruise departures from the foot of the Eiffel Tower?
From April to September: from 10am to 10:30pm, approx. every 30 minutes (except at 1pm and 7:30pm). (On weekends and every day of July and August, from 10am to 11pm). From October to March: from 10:30am to 10pm, approx. every hour and some departures on the half hour. (Weekends and every day during Zone C school holidays, from 10am to 10:30pm).
Do you have child rates for the Sightseeing Cruise?
Yes, we offer child rates as follows: For the sightseeing cruise departing from the Eiffel Tower: Free for children under 4 years old, and specific rates available online for children between 4 and 11 years old. For the sightseeing cruise & Champagne departing from Notre-Dame: €30 for children from 0 to 11 years old inclusive.
Do you have a disabled person rate for the Sightseeing Cruise?
No, we do not offer a specific rate for disabled persons. We advise our disabled guests to select the first departure of the morning so that our crews are available to help them board. For the Notre-Dame cruise, there is no PRM access.
Are there any stops during a Sightseeing Cruise?
No, it is a one-hour, non-stop cruise.
Are pets allowed?
The rules of hygiene on boats and restaurants do not allow us to accept an animal except in the case of accompanying dogs
What are the cancellation conditions?
24-hour, risk free cancellation
Do the boats have toilets?
Yes, all our boats have toilets (except in case of breakdown).
Does Bateaux Parisiens offer free WiFi access?
Yes, we offer free WiFi access at Le Bistro Parisien, on all our boats and in our meeting rooms. You can connect using your smartphone, tablet or PC. WiFi session duration is 24 hours (for meeting rooms, duration can be modified as necessary).
Do you provide customer parking?
Priority is given to tourism professionals (buses and coaches) at our paid car park. The car park has a very limited number of spaces. We therefore invite you to use the Tour Eiffel – Quai Branly public car park (under the Quai Branly museum).
Trust and Background - Why Book with ProgramTickets?
Why should I book through ProgramTickets? We bring more than 30 years of professional tourism experience. Therefore, we offer only reliable and verified programs. Our booking system is transparent and secure. Since when has the company been operating? ProgramTickets has operated since 2022. However, the professional background behind it includes more than 30 years of industry experience. Do you work with real local service providers? Yes. We cooperate only with verified local partners.

Itinerary

Meeting Point – Place Charles de Gaulle (Arc de Triomphe)

Your experience begins at the iconic Arc de Triomphe, located at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle, at the top of the famous Champs-Élysées. Here, you will meet your expert guide, who will introduce the monument and its importance in French history.

Stop 1 - Introduction to the Monument

First, your guide will provide an overview of the Arc de Triomphe, commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 to honor the French army. You will learn how this monumental arch became one of the most powerful symbols of France.

Stop 2 - Sculptures & Symbolism

Next, you will explore the exterior in detail. Your guide will explain the meaning behind the impressive sculpted reliefs, including the famous La Marseillaise and other symbolic artworks.

During this part, you will discover:

  • The stories behind the engraved names of generals and battles
  • The artistic details of the monument
  • The deeper meaning of its design and symbolism

Stop 3 - Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Then, you will stand beneath the arch, where the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located. This important memorial honors fallen soldiers of World War I and features the eternal flame.

Your guide will explain:

  • The history and significance of the memorial
  • The daily flame rekindling ceremony
  • Its role in French national identity

Stop 4 - Interior Exhibition Area

After the exterior visit, you will enter the monument and explore the interior spaces. Inside, you will find exhibitions and displays that рассказывают the story of the Arc’s construction and historical role.

You will learn about:

The creation of the monument
Its role in national celebrations and events
Historical transformations over time

Stop 5 - Climb to the Rooftop Terrace

Next, you will ascend the Arc de Triomphe via stairs (or elevator access where available). The climb takes you through the monument and leads to one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Paris.

The monument includes over 280 steps to reach the top, offering a rewarding experience.

Stop 6 - Panoramic Views of Paris

At the top, you will enjoy breathtaking 360° views over Paris. From this unique vantage point, you can see the Champs-Élysées, the Eiffel Tower, and the grand avenues radiating from the Arc.

This is often considered one of the best viewpoints in the city and a highlight of the visit.

Photo Stops & Free Time

Take your time to capture stunning photos and enjoy the atmosphere from above. Your guide will point out key landmarks and share interesting facts about the Paris skyline.

Personalized Guided Experience

Because this is a guided tour, you will benefit from expert commentary throughout the visit. You can ask questions and gain deeper insights into the history, architecture, and symbolism of the Arc de Triomphe.

End of Tour

Your tour concludes at the Arc de Triomphe. After the guided portion, you may choose to stay longer and enjoy the views or continue exploring the Champs-Élysées area.

Tour Plan

Expand All
Meeting & Welcome

Meet at the Cartier. It is located at the Champs-Élysées,
154 Av. des Champs-Élysées

Introduction to the Monument

First, your guide will explain the origins of the Arc de Triomphe, commissioned by Napoleon to honor the French army. You will learn about its historical significance and why it remains a symbol of national pride.

Discover Sculptures & Hidden Details

Next, you will explore the exterior of the monument. Your guide will highlight the impressive sculpted reliefs, engraved names of generals, and the symbolic details that most visitors overlook.

Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Then, you will stand beneath the arch to see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Your guide will explain its meaning and the importance of the eternal flame, which honors fallen soldiers.

Enter the Monument

After exploring the exterior, you will enter the Arc de Triomphe. Inside, you will discover exhibitions and historical displays that provide deeper insight into the monument’s story.

Climb to the Rooftop Terrace

Next, you will make your way up to the top of the Arc. The climb is part of the experience and leads to one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Paris.

Enjoy Panoramic Views of Paris

At the top, you will enjoy breathtaking 360° views over the city. Your guide will point out major landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, and the grand Parisian avenues.

Photo Stops & Free Time

Take your time to capture stunning photos and enjoy the atmosphere. This is one of the best spots in Paris for unforgettable pictures.

Guided Experience & Interaction

Throughout the tour, your guide will share fascinating stories and answer your questions. This makes the experience more engaging and informative compared to a standard visit.

End of Tour

The tour ends at the Arc de Triomphe. You are free to stay longer, enjoy the views, or continue exploring the surrounding area.

Tour map

Meeting Point, Cartier Paris

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Available Languages

Pick your guide's language. Fee charged per guest.

  • English (FREE) FREE
  • French (FREE) FREE
  • Spanish 50 €
  • Italian 50 €
  • Japanese 50 €
  • German 50 €
  • Chinese 50 €
  • Russian 50 €
  • Portuguese 50 €

Cruise Sightseeing

Optional river cruise add-on, charged per passenger.

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