The Arc de Triomphe will be free this weekend for Heritage Days 2026.

You read that correctly: the Arc de Triomphe, the iconic monument that crowns the famous Champs-Élysées, can be visited for free and without advance booking during this Heritage Days weekend 2026, on September 19 and 20! Here’s what you need to know.

Great news for lovers of French heritage, as the famous Heritage Days return to Paris and Île-de-France this autumn. For two days, Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, 2026, residents of Île-de-France as well as Parisians are invited to step through the doors of iconic monuments, sometimes hidden, unusual or little-known, to dive into our rich cultural heritage.

From museums to institutions, passing by the châteaux and cultural centers... countless venues participate each year in the Heritage Days.

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For the Journées du Patrimoine 2026 à Paris, it’s hard to overlook the Arc de Triomphe. Standing proudly at the end of the avenue des Champs-Élysées, this historic monument has witnessed numerous defining moments in the history of Parisians and of France. From the return of Napoleon I’s ashes to football victory celebrations and the many military parades, the Arc de Triomphe remains a true symbol of Paris.

Under its arch, it houses the tomb of the Unknown Soldier, whose flame burns eternally. At the top, it offers an incredible view of the capital. But to discover theArc de Triomphe from head to toe, you'll need to be brave: no fewer than 284 steps await you. And since what goes up must come down, we'll let you do the math. But believe us, it's well worth the effort.

If you’ve always wanted to discover the Arc de Triomphe but have never had the chance, seize the 43rd edition of the Heritage Days — this year taking place on Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, 2026 — to admire this iconic Parisian monument. It’s a chance to delve into the history and construction of this monumental edifice.

European Heritage Days 2026 at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris:

The ceremony to relight the Eternal Flame on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier — 103 years since its inception
Every evening since November 11, 1923, the Eternal Flame atop the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, beneath the Arc de Triomphe, is reignited.

All day long, come and discover this century‑old gesture, understand how the daily ceremony is organized, and view a selection of historical artifacts from our history.

From 5 p.m., we’ll prepare the day’s ceremony for 6:30 p.m., which you can attend.
Participation requirements: Free | No reservation required
Hours: Saturday, September 19, 2026 from 09:30 to 17:00 | Sunday, September 20, 2026 from 09:30 to 17:00
Whirlwind tour of the Arc de Triomphe
Dive into history by visiting the Arc de Triomphe during European Heritage Days! Explore its architecture and sculptures for free and enjoy self-guided tours and quick guided tours.

Our interpreters will be on site along the route until 5 p.m., on the forecourt and inside the monument, with no reservation needed, in French and English. These thirty-minute tours will cover the following themes: an introduction to the Arc de Triomphe’s history, its architecture and iconography, and Paris and its monuments.

Meanwhile, visitors can also take this weekend to admire the installation La tempête by Jérémy Pradier-Jeauneau, presented as part of Paris Design Week.

The monument will be open from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. (last entry 45 minutes before closing).
Participation conditions: For self-guided and guided tours, no reservation is required. Free admission; just turn up on site. - Free | No booking required
Hours: Saturday, September 19, 2026 - 10:00 ⤏ 17:00 | Sunday, September 20, 2026 - 10:00 ⤏ 17:00