Think of Paris and tourists will conjure up images of the Eiffel Tower but the Arc de Triomphe won’t be far from their thoughts since its one of France’s symbolic landmarks. The structure stands tall at the centre of Charles de Gaulle and is actually towards the west of the Champs Elysees.
This monument has a sentimental attachment to those in France, since it is in remembrance of all those who died fighting for France, especially in the Napoleonic wars. Beneath the arch as tourists will discover is a tomb for the Unknown Soldier where the eternal flame burns. At the roof of the structure and the interior is a collage of names of slain generals and the battles they were part of. The arc has a lot of historical significance as well. So for history enthusiasts it is an absolute must.
The Arc de Triomphe de l’Etoile is positioned in a strategic location which begins the sight seeing route of a series of historical structures within the vicinity. It stretches from the Lourve Palace courtyard to the suburbs of Paris. It’s a ready made route for enthusiastic travellers to get them going from one monument to another.
Tourists who want to catch a closer glimpse of the Arc de Triomphe could gain access through an under pass. There is a lift at the Arc that takes tourists to a level which is beneath the exterior level of observation. Travellers have two options of reaching the top. That is to climb 284 steps or walk 46 steps after taking the lift.
Either way there is a bit of walking to be done to reach the top, so having on a pair of comfortable shoes is essential when visiting the structure. The tiring struggle up the steps is worth the amazing view of Paris and its avenues and the round about amid which the Arc stands.
After an exciting day of wandering about and taking in the popular tourist attractions, some pampering at a Paris hotel would be ideal. The Le Royal Monceau, Paris France is a luxury hotel in Paris that offers facilities for business and leisure travelers.