Napoleon was a tiny guy, but he sure did know how to think big! The Arc de Triomphe is a huge monument that he built to honor the Grand Army and just so happens to lie at the center of a traffic hellhole. One of my favorite things about going to the top of the Arc is to view the mad traffic that surrounds it. It is absolutely hilarious and a perfect example of why you don’t want to drive in Paris. However, be aware that there are 284 steps (and no elevator) to the top to see this.
In addition to the view from the top, the monument also houses the tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It was built to commemorate the lives lost in the two world wars, but it also serves as a solemn reminder of all the lives lost in history’s darkest times. A flame and a memorial where people lay flowers mark the spot.
Inside the Arc, there is an excellent exhibit of photos from World War II. I think that there is supposed to be another area that covers more information on the building of the Arc, but it was closed for remodeling. The price of the Arc de Triomphe is also covered in the museum pass if you have it. Oh, by the way, make sure to take the underground passageway to the Arc. We actually saw people risking death by trying to run across the 12 lanes that encircle the monument.