Things to do (and not to do) around the Arc de Triomphe in Paris (2024)

Things to do around the Arc de Triomphe in Paris

Updated by Jordan on 20/11/2019

If you want a great view of Paris including the Eiffel Tower, you should visit the top of the legendary Arc de Triomphe. But that’s not all, there are so many things to see and do around the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. So come with me and let’s discover this beautiful neighborhood.

A Little History

The Paris Arc of Triomphe was ordered by the Great Napoleon to pay tribute to his many French war victories. Today, the Arc pays tribute a flame is burning endlessly, referring to the First World War and the Unknown Soldier who is buried there.

Out of all the landmarks in Paris, this is one of the most famous ones. I would really advise that you climb to the top of the monument where you will have a wonderful view on the twelve different avenues that make a star all around the Arc. Plan about an hour for visiting the Arc de Triomphe. You canpurchase skip the line tickets for the Arc de Triomphe in advance with our partner tickets.

Relax at Nearby Parc Monceau

Parc Monceau is definitely something you won’t want to miss if you’re visiting the Arc de Triomphe. Just a quick walk from the Arc, this historical park has plenty to see and do inside, all year round. The Duke of Chartres created this stunning park in 1769 and the land spreads out over an impressive 8 hectares! Even the fence around the park is stunning in and of itself; the layers of gold leaf speaking to its bourgeois origins.

Today, Parc Monceau is the perfect destination if you want to have a peaceful or romantic walk in Paris, or if you’re visiting the city with children. There are many surprises in this park: beautiful statues, exotic and huge trees, and a big pond. In warmer months, the park is a popular picnic destination. During the winter time, there’s a carousel and pony rides for children, a snack stand selling hot chocolate and even crêpes!

parc monceau – 35 boulevard de courcelles 75008

open daily from 7AM//dusk

Do Some Shopping on the Avenue des Ternes

This avenue jutting off from the Arc de Triomphe is a commercial street, where you can find many ornate shops. For example, on Avenue de Ternes, you’ll spot a FNAC store in a very beautiful building which is quite similar to the “Grands Magasins”, the Parisian department stores. The only difference is that the place is much less crowded, so that you can enjoy the architecture without being stressed by the pushy crowds! So, if you want to do some shopping around the Arc de Triomphe, there’s all you need here. Even some antique shops!

Chill Out at Hotel Raphael’s Terrace

One of the most breathtaking views of Paris is actually located inside one of the city’s most luxurious 5-star hotels. Hotel Raphael features a gorgeous terrace overlooking the city. You can sit outside and enjoy the view over tea, a drink or small snacks. The terrace is like a suspended garden in the sky. Here, you can marvel at a panoramic view of Paris, on the Arc de Triomphe,the Eiffel Tower, and of course, the Grand Palais.

As you might expect, the place is a little spendy, but it’s all about location. You’re really paying for luxurious service and of course, that gorgeous view! So you don’t wind up too shocked, you can expect to pay about 12 euros for a Coca-Cola, 13 Euros for a pastry and 25 Euros for a co*cktail. But in my opinion, the view here makes it well worth the price!

Enjoy the feeling of being any of the characters from Sex and the City or Pretty Woman. The view is really lovely and romantic. It is a haven of peace in the heart of Paris.

hotel raphael – 17 avenue kleber 75116

terrace is closed during winter

Go See a Movie at the Balzac Cinema

One of the more unexpected things to do near the Arc de Triomphe is to settle in for a movie. You can do just that at the cozy Balzac Cinema.This place is an independent movie theater, which bravely resists to big labels such as Gaumont or UGC.

Here, you’ll only find independent movies which are unknown to most viewers. Moreover, the cinema’s director himself often presents the movies and the reasons why he chose them: what a privilege! Finally,the room is comfortable and the price is very attractive for the area. And what a great chance to discover something new in one of Paris’ most visited areas!

cinema balzac – 1 rue balzac 75008

metro: charles de gaulle etoile

Enjoy the Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle is well-known all around the world because it is the luxury shops’ and wealthier families’ headquarters. It’s considered a veryposh neighborhood and is full of luxurious shops, hotels and restaurants. The limits are the Champs-Elysées, Montaigne and Georges V avenues. Today, this is your ultimate destination for luxury shopping in Paris. For example, on Montaigne Avenue you’ll find all the very famous designer brands including Chanel, Valentino, Dior and Gucci.

Also of note; the nearby Four Seasons George V hotel is reputed to be one of the best in the entire world! Known for being one of the go-to spots for celebrities and royalty, it’s truly a sight to behold. Maybe it’s not in your budget to pay 1000 Euros or more for a night at the George V, but you can still go to the tea salon or the bar which will make for some exceptional memories!

four seasons at george v hotel – 31 avenue george v 75008

Try Some Delicious French Macarons at Ladurée

Located just a couple of blocks from the Arc de Triomphe is one of the best sweet shops in the city: Ladurée. There are a few locations across Paris, but the one on the Champs-Elysées is one of the most impressive. Definitely one to try on your visit!

Ladurée is known as the best macarons shop in Paris, and perhaps even in the whole world! But just what is a macaron? Let’s just say that it is a delicious airy little almond and meringue biscuit, filled with different flavored ganache or jam such as chocolate, lemon, strawberry. Now you’ll just have to try for yourself; I can’t say anything else about them. My favorites are the pistachio and the chocolate ones, but actually they’re all wonderful!

Ladurée is also famous for their tea, which makes the perfect accompaniment to their delightful cakes and macarons. This shop also puts on an excellent lunch, so if you’re hungry you can enjoy a full spread in their tea salon.

ladurée – 75 avenue des champs-elysées 75008

metro: george V

open daily 7AM//11PM

Meet the Bluebells Girls at Lido

Of course, your trip to Paris wouldn’t be complete without a trip to a legendary French cabaret. And one of the best in Paris is located just next to the Arc de Triomphe.

The Lido is one of the most famous cabarets in the whole world, and located in the heart of Paris. There, you will be able to admire the talent of the Bluebells Girls, women who have all trained as classical dancers but were ‘too tall’ to dance for ballets.

At the Lido, they execute the well-known “French cancan” perfectly, and there are plenty of surprises in store. If you want your night to be perfect, you can even book a delicious and tasty dinner with your show: three different menus are possible.

lido – 116 avenue des champs-elysées

metro: george V

You now know some of the things to do around the Arc de Triomphe in Paris! I hope you’ve enjoyed reading this article and that it has been useful!

There are a few other articles you might find interesting, such as a list of things to do between Montmartre and the Eiffel Tower, but also a list of things to do from the Champs Elysees to the Louvre. The area around the Arc de Triomphe in Paris is very luxurious. Our guided walking tour of the right bank of Paris is a great introduction to the city, because you get to see all the greatest landmarks of Paris.

Hope to see you soon in Paris!