Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel

The Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel stands proudly in the 1st arrondissement, marking the eastern entrance to the Tuileries Garden. This smaller counterpart to the more famous Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile was commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 to commemorate his military successes. The arch is adorned with intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the Battle of Austerlitz and other campaigns. Atop the arch, a bronze quadriga (a four-horse chariot) originally from the Basilica of Saint Mark in Venice was placed, though it was later replaced by a replica after the original was returned. Visitors can walk through the arch and admire the detailed sculptures, including figures of soldiers and allegorical representations of French victories. The location offers a direct line of sight through the Louvre's Cour Carrée to the Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile, making it a key point in the historic axis of Paris. The surrounding area is bustling with tourists and locals alike, with the Louvre museum just steps away and the Jardin des Tuileries offering a peaceful retreat. The arch itself is free to view from the outside, and its central position makes it a perfect photo opportunity.

Don't miss

• Admire the detailed bas-reliefs depicting Napoleon's victories, including the Battle of Austerlitz.
• See the bronze quadriga atop the arch, a replica of the original from Saint Mark's Basilica in Venice.
• Walk through the arch to experience the historic axis from the Louvre to the Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile.
• Photograph the arch with the Louvre's pyramid in the background for a classic Parisian shot.
• Visit the nearby Tuileries Garden for a relaxing stroll after viewing the monument.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel

Cheapest way inArc de Triomphe Entry Ticket4.3★ · 30 travelers1–2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$28 per personSee dates →Most bookedArc de Triomphe Rooftop Tickets - Optional Private Guide4.1★ · 401 travelers1–2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$37 per personSee dates →Private & flexiblePrivate Paris Golf Cart City Tour: Eiffel Tower & Hidden Gems4.9★ · 24 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$186 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• The arch is outdoors and always accessible; no opening hours apply.
• Best photos are from the side facing the Louvre or from the Tuileries Garden.
• Combine with a walk through the Tuileries Garden to the Place de la Concorde for a scenic route.
• Look for the small plaques on the ground marking the historic axis of Paris.

A bit of history

Built between 1806 and 1808 to honor Napoleon's Grande Armée, the arch was inspired by the Arch of Constantine in Rome. It originally supported a quadriga taken from Venice, which was returned after Napoleon's fall and replaced with a new sculpture by François Joseph Bosio in 1828.