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Paris metro line 9

Paris metro line 9 map.

Beware of Pickpockets

Pickpockets are unfortunately very well implemented on the Parisian metro network. Around 100 new snatching cases are held by the police in Paris every day. That doesn’t mean that you should be worried nor avoid taking the metro, but you should be extremely careful, more than you usually are. Having a wallet or a phone stolen while traveling on a metro line in Paris without noticing it on the moment, is something that happens many times a day, so you should take your precautions to not be the next victim. The parisian police highly recommends to travel with anti-theft bags. Those bags are manufactured in a way that it makes it very different to open them quickly to take what is inside. Therefore, it is extremely difficult for the pickpockets to deal with those bags. Different sizes are available, from the backpacks ( available here ), to the handbags ( here is how it looks like ) or shoulder bags ( example here ).

Paris Metro 9

Line 9 of the metro of Paris connects the city of Boulogne-Billancourt, in the southwest of Paris, to Montreuil, a city in the eastern suburbs of Paris, through the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Élysées avenue. Launched in 1922, it is one of the longest and most-used metro line of the parisian network, with 130,000,000 passengers using the line every year.

Tourist attractions on Paris metro line 9

Paris metro line 9 is very helpful for tourists, as it serves the 2 most important tourist sites of the French capital, the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Élysées avenue.

• The Eiffel Tower is located at walking distance from the Trocadéro square where metro station Trocadéro stands.
• The Champs-Élysées avenue is served by metro station Franklin D. Roosevelt. The station is located in the middle of the avenue, you can therefore walk it up to the Arc de Triomphe , or down to the Place de la Concorde square.
• Parc des Princes , stadium of Paris Saint-Germain football team, where the Champions League home games of PSG are played, is served by station Porte d’Auteuil.

Paris metro line 9 stations

In addition to the tourist stations listed below, line 9 of the parisian metro also serves major metro stations and offers great connections to other metro and RER lines.

• Porte de Saint-Cloud station is located at walking distance from the Parc des Princes, stadium which hosts the home games of the Paris Saint-Germain football team.
• Trocadéro metro station is located next to Trocadéro square, which offers a close opened view on the Eiffel Tower .
• Saint-Augustin is connected to Saint-Lazare train station, which is served by several other metro and RER lines.
• Place de la République square, the biggest square in Paris and the main meeting point of parisian street protests, stands next to metro station République .
• Nation square is located right next to the metro station Nation , which offers good connections to other metro and RER lines.

Paris metro line 9 is connected to the following metro lines

• Metro 10 at Michel-Ange Molitor and Michel-Ange Auteuil.
• RER C at La Muette.
• Metro 6 at Trocadéro.
• RER C at Alma Marceau.
• Metro 1 at Franklin D. Roosevelt.
• Metro 13 at Miromesnil.
• Metro 14 at Saint-Augustin.
• Metro 3 , RER A and RER E at Havre – Caumartin.
• Metro 7 at Chaussée d’Antin – La Fayette.
• Metro 5 and RER C at Gare d’Austerlitz.
• Metro 8 at Richelieu Drouot.
• Metro 4 and metro 8 at Strasbourg – Saint-Denis.
• Metro 3 , metro 5 , metro 8 and metro 11 at République.
• Metro 5 at Oberkampf.
• Metro 1 , metro 2 , metro 6 and RER A at Nation.

Ticket price

Standard ticket.

The price of a metro ticket is €2.15 . T-ticket is valid for 1 journey between 2 stations only , you cannot use it again after exiting the metro of Paris. You can find more details on the website of RATP .

TIP : Use The 4 Day Paris All-Inclusive Pass and get FREE entrance to the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Palace of Versailles, the Arc de Triomphe, 1 day hop-on, hop-off Paris bus tour, a Seine river cruise, a French wine tasting in the Louvre cellar and many other activities. You would pay much more if you would buy the tickets for those attractions separately.

Paris metro line 9 schedule

Paris metro 9 runs every day of the week including saturdays and sundays. It runs every 1 to 10 minutes on weekdays , and every 4 to 13 minutes on weekends .

The first metro leaves station Pont de Sèvres at 5:30 and station Mairie de Montreuil at 5:24 every day, including weekends. The last metro leaves stations Pont de Sèvres and Mairie de Montreuil in both directions at 0:26 every day during the week, and at 1:26 on saturdays and sundays.

How to get to the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is located in the heart of Paris, in the 7th arrondissement, and is very easy to access. We recommend taking public transport to come here: metro, RER, or bus. The Eiffel Tower is very well-connected to the metro – there are three stations in the nearby area. On line 6, the Bir Hakeim station is the closest, less than 10 minutes’ walk from Entrance 1 (Allée des Refuzniks) of the monument. Metro stations Trocadéro (line 9) and Ecole Militaire (line 8) are 15 minutes by foot from the Tower.  Another option is line C of the RER train network, which serves the Champ de Mars-Tour Eiffel station, located 5 minutes’ walk from Entrance 1. You can also come by bus: lines 82, 30 and 42 serve stops 5 minutes’ walk from Entrance 2 of the Eiffel Tower (Allée Jean Paulhan). Bus lines 69 and 86 stop at the Champ de Mars, 7 minutes ...

The Eiffel Tower is located in the heart of Paris, in the 7th arrondissement, and is very easy to access. We recommend taking public transport to come here: metro, RER, or bus. The Eiffel Tower is very well-connected to the metro – there are three stations in the nearby area. On line 6, the Bir Hakeim station is the closest, less than 10 minutes’ walk from Entrance 1 (Allée des Refuzniks) of the monument. Metro stations Trocadéro (line 9) and Ecole Militaire (line 8) are 15 minutes by foot from the Tower.  Another option is line C of the RER train network, which serves the Champ de Mars-Tour Eiffel station, located 5 minutes’ walk from Entrance 1. You can also come by bus: lines 82, 30 and 42 serve stops 5 minutes’ walk from Entrance 2 of the Eiffel Tower (Allée Jean Paulhan). Bus lines 69 and 86 stop at the Champ de Mars, 7 minutes from Entrance 1. The 72 drops you off near Trocadéro, around 15 minutes away by foot.  If you want to drive to the area near the Eiffel Tower, we recommend parking in a public parking lot. You have several options for paid parking lots, including the Quai Branly – Tour Eiffel parking lot located just over 5 minutes by foot from Entrance 2 (Allée Jean Paulhan).  Use our interactive map below to explore the area and see various modes of transport and routes to get to the Eiffel Tower.  

The Eiffel Tower is accessible to all publics on public transport and cars.

Find out how to come here

• On the Metro Line 9, line 8 & line 6
• On the RER Line C
• By bus Line 82, line 42
• By Vélib Free bike loan
• By car Car park list
• By boat You can travel to the Eiffel Tower by boat along the Seine

On the Metro

You can travel to the Eiffel Tower on different Metro lines. Find out which stations serve the Eiffel Tower

• Trocadéro metro  walk
• Bir-Hakeim metro  walk
• Ecole militaire metro  walk

You can travel to the Eiffel Tower on line C of the RER. Find out which station serves the Eiffel Tower

• Champ de mars - Tour Eiffel  walk

You can travel to the Eiffel Tower on different bus routes. Find out which stops serve the Eiffel tower

• Eiffel Tower  walk
• Tour Eiffel  walk
• Champ de Mars  walk

Velib is 24/7 self-service bike hire service. A pleasant way to travel to the Eiffel Tower is by riding through the streets of Paris! !

• 2 Av. Octave Gérard station 1 min walk
• 2 Quai Branly station  walk
• 43 avenue Rapp station 2 min walk
• 36 Avenue de Suffren station  walk

If you want to come to the Eiffel Tower in your car we suggest you park in one of the covered car parks close to the tower such as the quai Branly less than 300 metres from the Tower! !

• Quai branly-Tour Eiffel car park  walk
• Parking Pullman Tour Eiffel  walk
• 443 Avenue Joseph Bouvard,  walk
• 2 Place Joffre, 75007 Paris  walk

You can travel to the Eiffel Tower by boat along the Seine

• Batobus Tour Eiffel  walk

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Champs-Élysées

The Champs-Élysées is 1.2 miles (1.9 km) long and is the most beautiful and well-known avenue in Paris . It connects Arc de Triomphe with the Place de la Concorde and is considered one of the world’s most famous commercial streets. 

The origins of the Champs-Élysées can be traced to 1640 when space was cleared to plant a line of trees, which would later become an avenue. The name translates to “Elysian Fields” from the Greek mythology, meaning resting place of Greek gods and dead heroes, similar to the Christian paradise.

In 1724, the avenue was extended and acquired its current size and in 1994 the city renovated the street’s sidewalks, improving the Champs-Élysées considerably. Nowadays, its buildings are high-end stores, cafés and offices , ideal for shopping or going for a stroll down one of the most beautiful avenues of the city.

The Champs-Élysées is also renowned worldwide, especially among sports fans, as it is the site of the Tour de France’s last stage.  

A walk down the Champs-Élysées

The avenue is divided in two. The lower part, closest to the Place de la Concorde, runs through a park with  imposing buildings such as the Palais de la Découverte (Discovery Palace), the Petit Palais and the Grand Palais.

The higher part of Champs-Élysées begins at place Charles de Gaulle, where the magnificent Arc de Triomphe is situated, with numerous high-end stores , restaurants , cinemas and large department stores .

The Champs-Élysées ends at the opposite side of the Arc de Triomphe , where the avenue de la Grande Armée leads to the Grande Arche de la Défense and the district of La Défense .

From the Grande Arche, visitors have an amazing view of Champs-Élysées. 

Between the Arc de Triomphe and Place de la Concorde.

Metro : Champs-Élysées-Clemenceau , lines 1 and 13; Franklin D. Roosevelt , lines 1 and 9; George V , line 1; Charles de Gaulle – Étoile , lines 1, 2 and 6.

Nearby places

Petit Palais (329 m) Place de la Concorde (746 m) Musée de l’Orangerie (907 m) La Madeleine (932 m) Musée des égouts de Paris (943 m)

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Paris Metro Map

Explore Paris the easy way with a free Paris Metro Map to help you get around the city. The Paris Underground system can be tricky to navigate but if you  download our printable Paris transport map in PDF format  it’ll make getting from A to B stress-free.

The  Paris Metro and the RER  is a regular and reliable network and starts running from 5.30am until 1.15am in the week, and until 2am on Fridays and Saturdays – great if you want to explore Paris after dark. 

Navigating the Paris Metro Map and Zones

In the heart of Paris, understanding the metro map is crucial. It's an intricate system with defined Paris zones, aiding in seamless commutes across the vibrant city.  

The Importance of a Metro Pass in Paris

Securing a metro pass is your key to effortless travel in Paris. These passes offer unlimited access to all zones transport Paris, unlocking the city's rich cultural fabric for you.

Your Paris Visite paper travelcard is your ticket to travel across the Paris transport system, within zones 1 – 3. This covers the whole of Central Paris, so your sightseeing is taken care of!

Paris attractions and nearest metro stations

Plan your trip to Paris in advance once you’ve downloaded the Paris Subway Map. With a list of  top Paris attractions  to visit make sure you’re not wasting any time so plan your journey and find the nearest metro station before you set off.

Below is a list of the top Paris attractions and their nearest metro stations to help:

Metro lines and stations

Plan your visit in advance and familiarise yourself with the stations around Paris. With over 300 stations covering 214 kilometres (133 mi) underground the Paris Metro system is also one of the oldest transport networks in the world.

Here is the full list of stations in the Paris Metro, as well as the lines they serve and zones they cover:

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Guide to the Champs-Elysées Neighborhood

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

The Champs-Elysées is one of the iconic Paris boulevards. Who hasn’t dreamed about strolling glamorously along its tree-lined streets towards the towering Arc de Triomphe? While the famous thoroughfare is known for its belles promenades (beautiful thoroughfare/walks), it also has much to offer in terms of shopping, eating, and entertainment.

In the neighborhood surrounding the famous street, you’ll find a brief respite from the intense crowds, a less touristy feel, and a return to old Paris. The Champs-Elysées and its environs definitely merit a visit, especially on a first visit to the French capital.

Finding the Neighborhood

The Champs Elysées neighborhood is located on the right bank of the Seine, in the western 8th arrondissement of Paris , with the Avenue running through the area on a diagonal. The city of Paris is divided into twenty arrondissements municipaux , administrative districts, more simply referred to as arrondissements. 

The elegant Tuileries Gardens and adjoining Louvre Museum sit to the east, just past the vast Concorde plaza and Obelisque column. The military monument known as the Arc de Triomphe marks the western edge of the neighborhood. The Seine river lies to the south, with the St. Lazare train station and the bustling Madeleine business district situated to the north.

The main streets around the Champs Elysées are Avenue des Champs Elysées, Avenue George V, and Avenue Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Getting There

To access the area, the easiest option is to take Metro line 1 to any of the following stops: Champs-Elysées-Clemenceau, Franklin D. Roosevelt, George V or Charles-de-Gaulle Etoile. Alternatively, for a long stroll up the avenue from its beginning point, take line 12 to Concorde and walk from the bustling, dramatic square into the neighborhood from there.

Historical Importance

The formally planted trees lining the Avenue des Champs Elysées, which have become synonymous with the famed street, were first planted in 1724. Up until that date, the now-famous avenue was a smattering of fields and market gardens.

The Champs Elysées has played host to numerous military parades over the years, such as the Free French March by the 2nd Armored Division on August 26, 1944, and the American 28th Infantry Division on August 29, 1944, both marking the Liberation of Paris from the Nazi Occupation during World War II. The largest military parade in Europe passes down the street each year on Bastille Day , marking France’s national holiday.

Places of Interest

While visitors flock to the Champs Elysées, they may only encounter one or two of the important sights. The must-see places in the neighborhood include the monuments and theaters.

• Arc de Triomphe - At the center of the Place de l’Etoile lies this most famous of arches, commissioned by Emperor Napoleon and inspired by ancient Roman arches. Impressive in scale, a trip to the top offers exceptional views of the wide, elegant Avenue des Champs Elysées.
• Grand Palais/Petit Palais - Rising up from the Champs Elysées are the splendid geometrical glass rooftops of the Grand and Petit Palais, built for the Universal Exposition of 1900. The Petit Palais houses a fine arts museum while the Grand Palais has a science museum and regularly hosts events and exhibitions, including the major international art fair known as the FIAC.
• Théâtre des Champs Elysées - This famous theater, located at 15 Avenue Montaigne, was built in 1913 in the Art Deco style and instantly became notorious for its hosting of Igor Stravinsky's then-scandalous Rite of Spring . It's an opulent setting for an evening out in Paris.
• Lido Cabaret - Lido is one of the city's famed cabarets, offering a borderline kitschy but always entertaining revue that rivals the Moulin Rouge .

Eating and Drinking

There are eateries ranging from neighborhood bistros to fine dining restaurants. We've chosen a few of the more popular haunts.

• Fouquet’s - After hours of strolling and window shopping along the grand avenue, sink into one of Fouquet’s leather armchairs and treat yourself to a coffee or cocktail—it's perhaps the only thing you’ll be able to afford here. Portions are small and prices are steep, but Fouquet’s is frequented by the likes of post-César film award party-goers and the French president. The famous brasserie has even been named a Historical Monument of France.
• La Maison de l’Aubrac - Enter this relaxed, ranch-like eatery and you’ll almost forget you’re in one of the chicest areas of Paris. The theme here is beef, and you should only come here if you’re willing to make a meal out of it. All the meat is organic and hails from cows raised in the Midi-Pyrénées region. Pair your steak with one of their 800 wine selections from southwest France.
• Al Ajami - If you’re starting to get tired of French cuisine, head for this swanky Lebanese restaurant just off the Avenue des Champs Elysées. Here, you’ll find rare Middle Eastern dishes such as minced lamb, onion, and cracked wheat croquettes plus delicious vegetarian classics like hummus and tabbouleh. Unlike most restaurants in Paris, Al Ajami serves food until midnight.
• Ladurée - Looking for some of the best macaroons in the city? Stop into Ladurée and you might just find Utopia. Aside from macaroons—which come in delicious flavors such as pistachio, lemon, and coffee, sold in the trademark light-green boxes—Ladurée offers some of the most scrumptious pastries and sugary delights available in the city.

One of the city's major shopping districts , the Champs-Elysées neighborhood is host to both global chains and exclusive couture designers. There's little in the mid-range here, however.

On the Avenue des Champs-Elysées, you'll find worldwide, affordable chain stores like Zara, Gap, and Sephora (flagship Paris store) in addition to upscale names, including Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Hugo Boss, and Louis Pion

Off of the grand avenue, many more shopping hotspots await. The ultra-chic Avenue Montaigne boasts boutiques for couture designers Chanel, Christian Dior, Emmanuel Ungaro, Versace, and others. The equally prestigious Rue Saint-Honoré isn't far, either, offering a collection of boutiques.

The exclusive Champs-Elysees, called the "Champs" is probably not where you're going to find nightlife where the locals hang out. Its famed club scene often attracts tourists who haven't made it past the  Eiffel Tower  and straight-out-of-school suburbanites in search of the big city experience.

Dedicated clubbers will find some good choices for dancing and all-night partying in the area, though. If you want to go to the smaller clubs, dress Parisian-chic to get past the doormen—and expect some sobering cover charges. 

Some options for a fun night on the town aside from the touristy Lido include:

• Le Queen  (102 avenue des Champs-Elysees): A gay club and one of the better spots for a dance.

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How to get to the Eiffel Tower in Paris using public transport

Eiffel tower transport map of metro lines, trains, bus lines with stops, connections and street plan.

How to get to Eiffel Tower public transport maps available:

Eiffel Tower Metro lines

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How To Get to the Eiffel Tower From Anywhere in Paris

Wherever you’re in Paris, a metro stop is never far away. Add a superb RER and bus network, and it really doesn’t matter where you choose to stay. Whether you’re in a budget-friendly arrondissement or a suburb, you can be in the center of Paris with, at most, one changeover.

The Eiffel Tower is arguably the most important sight to search out for visitors to the City of Light. While you can stay in a nearby hotel or even get a room with a view of the Eiffel Tower , chances are that you’ll stay in a different arrondissement. 

Luckily, Paris has a fabulous public transport system, with reliable buses, very regular metro lines, and fast RER trains that connect you with the suburbs. Here are the best and fastest ways to get to the Eiffel Tower from wherever you are staying inside or just outside of Paris.

Pro tip: If you’re a first-timer in Paris, don’t try to maneuver through Châtelet station. While it offers many options and great connections, it’s vast and confusing. You’ll likely end up spending more time getting between lines than you’ll save using one of the options avoiding Châtelet.

From the 1st arrondissement to the Eiffel Tower

If you’re lucky enough to stay in the 1st arrondissement, then you’re right in the heart of Paris. You’re close to the Louvre with access to all the best connections across the city. 

While you could easily walk along the Seine to the tower, you can also hop on the bus 72 at Louvre-Rivoli, toward Parc de Saint-Cloud, and exit at Pont Bir-Hakeim, at the foot of Trocadéro, and walk across the bridge. 

Or take metro 1, toward La Défense, and change at Franklin D. Roosevelt into the metro 9 toward Point de Sèvres and exit at Trocadéro to walk down to the Eiffel Tower, along one of the most iconic approaches.

See the Eiffel Tower with a local guide

2éme, the fashionable sentier.

From the 2nd arrondissement, the easiest and direct way to get to the Eiffel Tower is by metro line 9, from Grand Boulevards direction Pont de Sèvres, and exciting at Iéna. From there it is a lovely 7 minute walk along the Seine, or you can hop onto bus 82 toward Luxembourg and get out at Tour Eiffel.

3éme, the hip Haut Marais

The lovely old quarter of the Haut Marais is a hugely popular quarter to stay in. With the station République in the northern part, you have plenty of options. The metro line 8, direction Balard, takes you to Ecole Militaire at the bottom of the Champ de Mars, with a nice approach. Line 9, direction Pont de Sèvres, allows you to walk down from Trocadéro.

For a bus ride, take the 69 toward Champ de Mars and exit at RAPP- La Bourdonnais, basically in the middle of the Champ de Mars.

  4éme, Marais and Saint-Paul

This little arrondissement is spread between the Haut Marais and the Seine. You have Saint-Paul in the north, where metro 1, direction La Défense takes you to Franklin D. Roosevelt. From here, you change into the metro 9 toward Point de Sèvres, and exit at Trocadéro.

Or take the 69 from Saint Paul toward Champ de Mars and exit at RAPP- La Bourdonnais. You could also take the 72 from Pont Marie in the direction of Parc de Saint Cloud, and exit at Le Notre, at the bottom of Trocadéro.

5éme, the Latin Quarter

From the Latin Quarter , on the same side as the Eiffel Tower, you can, if you are staying near the Seine, hop into the RER C at Saint-Michel Notre Dame, heading westwards, either in direction Versailles or Pontoise. Both stop at Champ de Mars Tour Eiffel, after just four stations.

For a ride with a view, take the 86 bus from Rue de l’École de Médecine just off Odéon, which takes you to Rapp La Bourdonnais by the Champ de Mars.

6éme, Saint-Germain-de-Prés and Luxembourg

Metro line 10 meanders through this quarter around Saint-Germain-de-Prés and you can take it from stations such as Odéon, Sevrés-Babylon or Duroc toward Boulogne Pont Saint Cloud. From here, either change onto line 6 toward Charles de Gaulle Étoile to Bir-Hakeim, at La Motte Picquet Grenelle, or walk — it’s not far.

 7éme, Home of the Eiffel Tower

Congratulations, you are staying in the same arrondissement as the Eiffel Tower, and it is perfectly walkable from anywhere. The furthest away point would be Sevrés Babylon, where you could always catch bus 86, coming from the 6 th arrondissement.

8éme, Champs Élysées and Beyond

If you’re staying in the swanky south of the 8éme arrondissement, chances are you can just walk the few steps along the Seine to the Eiffel Tower. If you’re closer to the Champs Élysées in the north of the area, take the 42 bus from either Champs Élysées Clemenceau or Champs Elysées Rond Point direction Cours de l’Île Seguin, and get off at Champ de Mars – Suffren.

9éme, Theatreland

The hip 9éme arrondissement with its many beautiful covered passages stretches from the top of the 2éme to the south of Montmartre. It’s crisscrossed by various metro and bus lines.

The fastest and easiest way to get straight to the Eiffel Tower is by taking metro line 8 toward Balard from Chaussée d’Antin La Fayette or Opéra to École Militaire. If you’re closer to Pigalle, take bus 30 from Pigalle, direction Hôpital Européen George Pompidou, and get off at Tour Eiffel.

10éme, Canal Saint-Martin and More

Handy for the national and international train connections from Paris, it’s a little harder to get to the Eiffel Tower from the 10éme than other arrondissements.

Metro line 4 direction Bagneaux Lucie Aubrac takes you to Odéon, where you can hop on bus 86 from Rue de l’École de Médecine to Rapp La Bourdonnais. You can also take metro 5 toward Place d’Italie, change at République into line 9 toward Pont de Sèvres, and exit at Trocadéro.

11éme, From Oberkampf to Bastille

Quite spread out, the 11éme has the handy République in the north, and Bastille in the south, both excellent hubs.

For République connections, see 10éme, and from Bastille, take metro line 5, direction Place d’Italie, and change into RER C at Gare d’Austerlitz, into direction Versailles or Pontoise, and exit at Champ de Mars Tour Eiffel.

Alternatively, take the metro line 1 toward La Défense, and change at Charles de Gaulle-Étoile into metro line 6 (direction Nation) to either Trocadéro or Bir-Hakeim.

12éme, Around Gare de Lyon

Although it’s at the other end of Paris, the 12éme has a couple of direct connections to the Eiffel Tower, even if they take time. 

If you’re taking the bus, estimate about an hour. However, you’ll get to indulge in plenty of sightseeing along the way. Bus 72 (direction Saint Cloud, takes you all the way from Gare de Lyon to Pont d’Iéna, all along the Seine.

If you’d rather ride the metro, take line 6, direction Charles de Gaulle Étoile, to either Bir-Hakeim or Trocadéro.

13éme, Modern Architecture and Floating Restaurants

From this often wrongly over-looked arrondissement, you can take the RER C from Bibliothèque François Mitterrand toward Versailles or Pontoise, and exit at Champ de Mars Tour Eiffel.

You can also take the fast metro line 14 from Bibliothèque François Mitterrand or Olympiades (direction Saint-Denis) to Madeleine and change into the 8 (direction Balard) to École Militaire.

14éme, Observatory and Catacombs

Throughout the Montparnasse neighborhood , you’ll not only spot the Eiffel Tower, but can also grab some great connections.

Take metro line 6 across the arrondissement, which will drop you right at Bir-Hakeim (direction Charles de Gaulle Étoile) to bus 82 from Montparnasse Cinémas (direction Hôpital Américain). This lets you get to stop Champ de Mars — Suffren within 20 minutes.

15éme, Many Hidden Treasures

This arrondissement either sees you staying within steps from the Eiffel Tower, or right down at the outer south-western edge of the city.

If you’re near the Seine and don’t fancy the stroll, catch the RER C from Pont du Garigliano to Champ de Mars Tour Eiffel. Alternatively take metro line 8, which traverses the arrondissement in the direction of Créteil, and emerge at École Militaire, after a few short stops.

16éme, Passy and Fine Living

This arrondissement is the largest in Paris, made up of two merged arrondissements and encompassing the Bois de Boulogne.

If you’re near the Seine, or anywhere in Passy, the Eiffel Tower is just steps away. If you’re closer to the Arc de Triomphe , then trusty metro line 6, direction Nation, will take you to La Dame de Fer, the Iron Lady.

17éme, Parks and Cafés

The 17 th has various ways to get to the Eiffel Tower. If you’re near Pereire or Porte Maillot in the north of the arrondissement, then the RER C (into direction Saint Martin d’Étampes) takes you straight to Champ de Mars Tour Eiffel.

If you’re near Avenue de Ternes, hop onto metro line 6, direction Nation at Charles de Gaulle Étoile and get out at Bir-Hakeim.

Or take Bus 30 from Place de Ternes toward Hôpital Européen George Pompidou, and get off at Tour Eiffel. The bus option is the most scenic of the lot.

18éme, Montmartre and Beyond

If you’re staying in the north of Montmartre , there’s a nearly one-hour long bus route, number 80 (direction Porte de Versailles), that takes you from Lamarck Caulaincourt to Bosquet Rapp on the Seine, or a bit further to École Militaire.

If you’re on the western side of the neighborhood, metro line 13, direction Châtillon-Montrouge from Guy Môquet or La Fourche, will take you to Invalides. From here, you can easily walk or change into the 8 to Balard, and get out at École Militaire.

19éme, Urban Art and Canals

On the outer north-eastern edge of Paris, this arrondissement might look far away from the Eiffel Tower, but you’re just one change away.

From Ourcq take metro line 5 toward Place d’Italie, and change at Oberkampf into the 9 to Pont de Sèvres. Then exit at Alma-Marceau for a brief walk along the Seine. 

You could also continue on the 5 to Place d’Italie and change there into the 6, in the direction of Charles de Gaulle Étoile and exit at Bir-Hakeim. The 6 is overground so you’ll get a chance to see Paris on your ride.

20éme, Home of Père Lachaise

The hip 20éme spreads along the outer eastern edge of Paris. If you’re staying closer to Nation, it’s an easy hop onto metro line 6, direction Charles de Gaulle Étoile, for a lovely ride to Bir-Hakeim.

If you’re closer to Père Lachaise , catch metro line 9 (direction Pont de Sèvres) at Voltaires and exit at Alma-Marceau for a brief walk. Or hop on the bus 72 direction Parc de Saint-Cloud for one or two stops.

Disneyland Paris

If you are doing Euro Disney and staying at the Disneyland Paris resort, it’ll take just over an hour to get to the Eiffel Tower. Get onto RER A toward Poissy and change at Charles de Gaulle-Étoile onto metro line 6 toward Nation and exit at Bir-Hakeim.

From both the Versailles train stations, Versailles Chantier, and Versailles Château Rive Gauche, you can take RER C (the merge after a couple of stations) toward Paris and exit at Champ de Mars Tour Eiffel. The exit closest to the Eiffel Tower is clearly marked. 

It’s easy to get to the Eiffel Tower

Paris is very much about walking and taking public transport. Unless you’re low on time, I recommend you take buses or metro line 6 to get the beautiful views of the city.

Whatever your method of transport, be sure to enjoy the Eiffel Tower and everything else the city has to offer. If you want to make the most of your time at the Eiffel Tower, be sure to sign up for one of our guided tours . They’re the best way to see the Iron Lady.

See the Tower up close

Related guides.

Best Views of the Eiffel Tower: 6 Top Spots for Photos

Everything You Can See From the Eiffel Tower (All 3 Levels)

Paris Architecture: 5 Must-Sees Compared to the Eiffel Tower

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Jordan has been writing a Paris blog for two years and became a Discover Walks writer in early 2018. While most of our Paris writers are born and raised Parisians, Jordan is not. She is a Californian who moved to Paris in 2013. We like her different point of view when she writes - of course our tour guides are a great source of tips and inspiration in her articles. We hope you enjoy all of them.

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Guide to The Arc de Triomphe: How To Visit + Tips For Visiting

O ne of the most iconic landmarks in Paris is the Arc de Triomphe, a monumental structure that is both a symbol of the city’s architectural beauty and fascinating history.

Standing tall at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, this iconic monument allows visitors to not only learn about the country’s military history, but offers panoramic views from the observation deck, which are simply breathtaking.

This was my third visit to Paris and the first time climbing up to the top of the Arc De Triomphe. I’m not even sure I knew you could do that before. 

On previous visits, this huge monument was just something pretty to look at as I walked up Champs Elyssee or gawked at the insanity of the cars driving around the Charles De Gaulle roundabout.

One simple climb up the 282 steps on the winding spiral staircase completely changed my perspective of this iconic Paris attraction from a fleeting glance to one of my favorite things to do in Paris. 

Even better, our girls (aged 15 and 11) loved it just as much!

If you’re thinking of visiting the Arc de Triomphe but you’re not sure what there is to see, how to visit it, or even know about its history, then you’ve come to the right place. 

Keep reading to explore our complete guide to the Arc de Triomphe and unravel why this is such an iconic destination in the City of Light.

About the Arc de Triomphe: A History

The Arc de Triomphe has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the early 19th century.

It was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte (1806) after his victory at Austerlitz.

Construction began in 1806, but due to various delays including wars and financial constraints, it took nearly three decades for the monument to be completed and was finally inaugurated on July 29, 1836.

The Arc de Triomphe is best known for its architecture, which was the vision of French architect Jean Chalgrin. This architectural bias refers directly to ancient arches such as the Arch of Titus in Rome (85 AD), which we later saw in the Roman Forum ! 

It not only features ornately decorated reliefs featuring scenes of war, but it has the lists of names of French military leaders and battles engraved on its pedestals.

Standing at a height of 50 meters, the arch is a symbol of French patriotism, and serves as a reminder of the country’s military victories and the sacrifices made by those who fought for France.

It was built not only as a commemorative monument to those who fought and died in the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars, but also serves as a focal point for various national events and celebrations.

After World War I, The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was placed beneath the arch in 1921, which further emphasizes its significance as a symbol of remembrance and respect for fallen soldiers.

The flame was lit for the first time on November 11, 1923, by Maginot, surrounded by a multitude of veterans; it has never been extinct. Here you can see the eternal flame is rekindled every evening at 6.30pm – you may want to add that to your Paris itinerary!

A daily worship service is given to the Great Dead: every evening, at 18:30 pm, the Flame is revived by the association La Flame under the Arc de Triomphe which represents the hundreds of veterans’ associations in France.

Today, the Arc de Triomphe remains an iconic landmark in Paris, attracting millions of visitors each year.

It’s also the meeting point of 12 avenues in Paris, including the famous Champs-Élysées, and has become more famous in recent years for its heavy traffic and buzzing atmosphere.

The best way to experience the awesomeness of that is to climb to the top and see it from above. 

Skip the Line Tickets

As Paris is one of the most popular destinations in the world, and the Arc De Triomphe one of the top attractions, I highly recommend purchasing a skip the line ticket – or timed entry pass – before your visit. 

That means you can avoid waiting at the ticket desk by purchasing your e-ticket and head straight to the admissions entrance.

The lines were quite long when we visited. Be warned that Paris attractions can be unorganized and the Arc de Triomphe was no exception. 

We had a similar experience at the Eiffel Tower . There are no marked lines to distinguish between those who have pre-purchased time entry tickets and those who have bought tickets upon arrival. 

Once you arrive at the bottom of the arch, there is just one line. We waited on a very slowly moving line for about 10 minutes, before I decided to walk up and ask the attendant if we had to line up with our timed ticket. 

“Oh no. I’ll let you through” she said as she opened up the gate for me. 

Why was there no sign telling people this?

So whatever you do in France, always ask before you line up! And always pre-purchase your tickets! 

How to Visit the Arc de Triomphe

One of the most commonly asked questions we get asked about visiting the Arc de Triomphe is how to get there.

If you’re planning to visit by metro, the nearest metro station to the Arc de Triomphe is Charles de Gaulle – Étoile, which is served by lines 1, 2, and 6. From there it’s just a short walk to the Arc.

The closest bus station to the Arc de Triomphe is also Charles de Gaulle – Étoile – Champs-Élysées. Many bus lines stop here, so if you’re traveling by bus, it’s very easy to reach the monument from most parts of the city.

However, we don’t recommend the bus because the traffic in Paris is crazy!

Once you arrive at the Arc de Triomphe, you will need to cross the crazy roundabout…

Beware the Crazy Roundabout

The Arc de Triomphe is well known for its vibrant atmosphere, which is largely created by the bustling traffic circle surrounding the arch. 

Remember that this roundabout has 12 avenues of traffic coming onto it. It’s complete and utter chaos, and I would add at least five minutes into your schedule to stand by and watch all manner of vehicles maneuver themselves around. 

While this creates a sense of energy and dynamism, it is also pretty dangerous to cross, so do keep an eye on your children and be sure to look for the underpass which takes you to the arch. You’d have to be insane to attempt crossing it (possibly even more insane to try and drive on it).

There are actually two underground passages on the outer ring of the roundabout (which are both on the same path as the metro stations). One is on the north side of the Champs-Élysées, just before you reach the roundabout. The second is on the northern side of the Avenue de la Grande Armée. 

Both are right next to the roundabout so if in doubt just keep walking around until you find one. The passages will take you directly to the Arc, so you don’t need to cross the traffic.

Opening times and entrance fees

The Arc de Triomphe is open seven days a week from 10.00am – 11.00pm from April 1st to September 30th, and 10.00am – 10.30pm from October 1st to March 31st.

The Arc closes on January 1st, May 1st, the morning of May 8th and July 14th, as well as on December 25th.

 It may also be closed when weather conditions are bad and during unofficial ceremonies.

It’s free to enter the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, you only need to pay to access the museum and the observation deck which costs €13.

It’s also free to enter if you are under the age of 18, or if you visit on the first Sunday of January, February, March, November, and December.

The Spiral Stairs & The Mezzanine

Once you clear security, you will walk up a gorgeous spiral iron staircase, which was renovated just last year (2022).

 After looking up and down at its stunning circular design, I Knew we had made the right choice to pay to walk to the top. I could tell by the looks on everyone else’s face we were not the only ones enamored with it. 

Before you get to the top-level viewpoint, there is a small museum inside the top of the arch (mezzanine) that you may want to spend time perusing. There are mediation screens, the molding and the model of the monument. 

Don’t miss the replica of the winged woman that’s on The Departure of Volunteer high relief on the outside of the arch. She’s uttering a cry of alarm in the face of the enemy invasion as she brandishes her sword inviting the people to fight.

I absolutely loved this magnetic sculpture, which is the face of the warrior in the Departure of Volunteers sculptured group (also known as La Marseillaise) on the north-east pier of the arc.

There was something about the face on it that represented fierce commitment and strength.

When you get back down to the bottom of the arch, stand in front of it and look up at where that sculpture is on the outside of the arch. It’s quite amazing to see it. 

Views from The Arc De Triomphe

One of the main reasons why people visit the Arc de Triomphe is for the views. I think it has some of the best views of Paris, especially the Eiffel Tower as you’re quite close to it.

Here is where you can find some of the best views…

The Observation Deck

The Observation Deck of the Arc de Triomphe is one of the best places to see views of Paris. 

Located 60 meters above the ground, it provides a unique vantage point to admire the City of Lights and see the Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and Champs-Élysées.

It also allows you to take in the sight of the 12 Parisian avenues radiating out from the roundabout. It’s a captivating experience in Paris that showcases the architectural beauty and charm of this remarkable city.

Is it worth it to climb the stairs?

There are 282 steps to climb to get to the observation deck, or you can take an elevator and climb a further 60 steps.

The queue for the elevator is often quite long, so if you are able and fit, then it’s recommended to climb the stairs. Since you need to climb 60 steps anyway, it’s worth it to climb all the way (and can sometimes even be quicker!).

Best Place for Views of The Outside

 The best place to view the Arc de Triomphe is from the Champs-Élysées on the first Sunday of every month when they close the street to cars, making it completely pedestrianized.

 However, if you are not visiting on the first Sunday of the month, you can head to the rooftop restaurant of the Hôtel Raphae l, which has incredible views of the Arc de Triomphe up close, as well as the Eiffel Tower.

Outside the Arc de Triomphe

Apart from watching the traffic, spend time either before or after the stair climb to appreciate the beauty of the marble monument from the outside. 

Walk around and get your photos from different angles.

Spend time looking at the sculptured groups adoring the pedestals of the arch. Made between 1833 and 1836, these masterpieces evoke specific events.

The Departure of Volunteers showing the conscription of 1792; the Triumph of Napoleon illustrating the year (1810) of his empire expansion; The Resistance symbolizes the 1814 resistance against foreign invasion; and Peace representing the return of peace to France after the 1815 Treaty of Paris. 

Tips for Visiting the Arc de Triomphe

• Be sure to use one of the underground passages to cross the road!
• You can download a free guidebook from the official website.
• Leave your luggage at your hotel as you cannot take a bag larger than 40 x 40 x 20cm, which is roughly the size of an aircraft carry-on. You also cannot bring in selfie sticks (good!), tripods, motorcycle helmets and glass bottles.

Things to do Near the Arc de Triomphe

Explore Champs Elysee, one of the most famous streets in the world, with high end brands. We think it’s overrated but still worth looking at. We had a great craft coffee from right near the Arc at  Azur Cafe  just off the Champs Elysee.

On Champs Elysee you’ll find really long lines outside Laduree Bakery and Tearoom for their famous macarons. You’re in France. Macarons are pretty good anywhere. Why waste your precious Paris exploration time lining up here? But if that’s your obsession go for it! 

If you’re up for it, walk all the way down to the beautiful Tuileries Garden and the Louvre (30 – 40 mins)

The Eiffel Tower is also about a 30-minute walk – although quite a boring one!

FAQs About the Arc de Triomphe

Here’s what people usually ask us about visiting the Arc de Triomphe…

When is the best time to visit the Arc de Triomphe?

The best time to visit is on the first Sunday of every month when the Champs-Elysées is pedestrianized, allowing you to get amazing pictures of the Arc from the road. Be sure to visit early morning or after sunset to beat the crowds. Visiting at night offers a whole new perspective of the city when it’s awash in glowing lights, allowing visitors to see why it’s called the City of Lights.

Is it worth going to the top of Arc de Triomphe?

Absolutely! I found it to be one of the best viewpoints in Paris. As you’re overlooking 12 avenues meeting at the point you’re standing on, it’s very unique. I also loved the spiral staircase and the opportunity to be inside such an iconic monument. It’s a relatively affordable price for a great reward. And kids are free! 

How long do you spend at the Arc de Triomphe?

Depending on how much you want to see, it shouldn’t take longer than 45 minutes to 1 hour to see the Arc, visit the Observation Deck and the small museum at the Arc de Triomphe.

Is the Arc de Triomphe wheelchair accessible?

Since 2018, the Arc de Triomphe is now much more wheelchair-friendly! The Center for National Monuments made some awesome improvements, including an elevator that takes visitors from the Museum Hall to the observation deck. Plus, there are ramps for wheelchair users to move around the deck’s various levels. Just one thing to note: the underpass isn’t accessible by wheelchair, so you’ll need to get there by car or taxi drop off at the entrance.

Looking for a place to stay in Paris?

Use the map below to help you find hotels and apartment rentals in your desired locations in Paris. We recommend the Latin Quarter or St Germain.

Final Thoughts

Visiting the Arc de Triomphe is an unforgettable experience that allows visitors the chance to see some of Paris’s rich history, admire the architectural beauty, and observe a unique perspective of Paris from the viewpoint.

It’s a must-see attraction that will leave you in awe of France’s cultural heritage and impressive buildings. It’s no wonder this is one of the most famous attractions in Paris !

We also have other guides on Paris, you may find helpful. Please share them with friends, on your socials, or Pin for later on Pinterest.

• 39 Essential Things to know before Going To Paris
• Your Guide To A Montmartre Food Tour
• 17 Best Things to Do in Paris
• For your First Time Visit to Paris : The essentials
• How to visit The Eiffel Tower
• 18 of the Best Views in Paris
• How to spend the perfect day at the Palace of Versailles
• Paris Itinerary: Things to do in Four Days

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3D Puzzles of Famous Buildings and Landmarks

As you know, traveling is a passion. Just like you, we were born to travel and there is nothing in the world that we would rather do. Architecture is another passion of ours. Therefore, we have a gorgeous collection of 3D puzzles of famous buildings. There is something magical in creating 3D puzzles of the landmarks you visited and love. We have selected the best 3D puzzles of the most iconic buildings on our planet. We are sure these will take you back to your favorite places and make you want to keep on traveling forever.

3D Puzzles of Paris

Who doesn’t love Paris ? We can all agree that the city is a dream to behold. Few cities in the world have so many iconic structures. Featured in books, movies, operas, paintings, and all art forms, these are immediately recognizable. Though there are several 3D puzzles of Paris, we have selected one of the city’s skyline. Made entirely in premium paper and foam board, this beauty includes the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Louvre Museum with the crystal pyramid, Arch de Triomphe, and Champs Elysees. It is for travelers as young as 8 years old. When assembling it, you will be back in Paris!

Eiffel Tower

We love our Ravensburger 3D puzzle of the Eiffel Tower of 216 pieces. This premium plastic model reproduces the tower to the utmost detail. You can also get this Ravensburger 3D puzzle with LED lights. The 18.5 inches tall (47 cm) model comes with everything you need to assemble it, except the batteries. You can set it to a permanent white or to change colors.

Since we like foam and paper models, we have the Cubicfun 3D puzzle Eiffel Tower collection. Both models are sturdy and will last a lifetime. You don’t need any tools or glue to assemble your models. Punch out the 84 pieces and follow the instructions. Both models are 30.7 inches (78 cm) tall. The model with LED lights is a beautiful lamp.

The Wrebbit 3D puzzle Eiffel Tower is a much bigger and complex model. We are talking about an 816 piece model. Since lasers cut the pieces, these fit like a glove. This 40 inches (102cm) tall model is our biggest tower. Assembling it wasn’t easy, and that’s why we had so much fun. After all, that’s the whole point of puzzles: to relax and complete a challenge.

Without a doubt, Notre Dame is the most famous church in the world. Ravensburger has a 3D puzzle of Notre Dame Cathedral done to the utmost detail. It has 324 plastic pieces that fit perfectly. Due to its complexity, it’s perfect to assemble with your kids. They learn about architecture and culture, while you have fun.

Of course, we love our paper foam models too. We assembled the Cubicfun National Geographic 3D puzzle of Notre Dame de Paris with our nephews. The one with LED lights we built ourselves over a glass of wine. It looks wonderful on our bookcase. We gave our 15-year-old niece the 293 piece model and she loved it.

Now, if you are as passionate about grand architecture as us, you should assemble a Wrebbit 3D puzzle of Notre Dame. Set some time for yourself and have fun with its 830 pieces. To be honest, we built it in over a week. Each day we would build a section. The result is stunning!

3D Puzzles of London

We’ve never met anyone who doesn’t love the biggest most amazing city in the UK. London is an architect’s dream. The city has captured the imagination of the entire world. Thus, there are 3D puzzles of London for every kick and fancy. We began our collection with the Cubicfun city line 3D puzzle of London that features the city’s most recognizable icons like the Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace and London Eye. We were staying with some friends in London and assembled it together one rainy afternoon. Since then, they are all 3D puzzle enthusiasts.

Then we decided to get the Ravensburger 3D puzzle of Big Ben, the most recognizable clock tower in the world. The company has three 216 piece models. The classic one is a reduced-size replica of the original tower. The 3D puzzle of Big Ben with lights in our living room. The one that comes with a real clock that works is perfect to gift!

Another option is to get any Cubicfun 3D puzzle of Big Ben . As mentioned before, the company produces top-quality paper foam puzzles. Both models reproduce the iconic tower to the utmost detail. That’s why they are wonderful presents. The classic one has 44 pieces and is 20.28 inches (51.5 cm) tall. The one with LED lights has 28 pieces and is perfect for kids as young as 5 years old.

For die-hard fans, we recommend the Wrebbit 3D puzzle of Big Ben. You will have a blast building the 28.75 inches tall model. All you have to do is punch out the 890 cardboard foam pieces and relax. We’ve built this one with our friends one Saturday night, remembering our trips to London.

Tower Bridge

The other London landmark we absolutely love is Tower Bridge. That’s why we have selected two models. Ravensburger has a 3D puzzle of the Tower Bridge for kids and adults that looks exactly like the real bridge. This model is big and fun to play with. At home we have the Cubicfun 3D puzzle of the Tower Bridge. We assembled it with our nephews. It comes with information on the bridge, so we all learned a lot about London. They had so much fun that we had to get one just for them.

3D Puzzles of New York

Eitan has been several times to New York . I haven’t and I’m dying to go! Therefore, we have more than one New York 3D puzzle. The first we built together is the Cubicfun 3D New York Cityline that reproduces the most iconic structures in the city. We are talking about such classics as the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and the Chrysler Building. Not only that, but this beauty includes the new Calatrava metro station and the World Trade Center. It has 123 pieces and includes easy-to-follow instructions.

Statue of Liberty

We had to assemble a model of the colossal Liberty Enlightening the World statue. The first one we bought is the Ravensburger 3D puzzle of the Statue of Liberty. Since we liked it so much, we got the one that comes with LED lights. We are talking about a reduced-size replica of the magnificent statue. Now, if you are looking for a one-of-a-kind memento of your travels to New York City, get the pop art edition.

Then we moved to cardboard foam. Thus, we got the Cubicfun 3D puzzle of the Statue of Liberty of 39 pieces that includes the pedestal and Liberty Island. Since it’s just 10.3 inches high, it fits perfectly on desks. The one that comes with LED lights we bought to gift. We like to give things that represent us, and that makes us stand out too!

Empire State Building

When we found the Ravensburger 3D puzzle of the Empire State building we couldn’t help but buy it. Then we realized there are three models. All are made in plastic, have 216 pieces, and are approximately 18.2 inches tall (48.5 cm). The 3D jigsaw puzzle that comes with lights is a real lamp you can use to decorate your home or office. The Ravensburger Empire State Building flag edition is a piece of art that makes a wonderful present.

Cubicfun has a 3d puzzle of the Empire State building done in collaboration with National Geographic. Therefore, it is a top-quality toy. It has 66 cardboard foam pieces that fit like a glove. At 26 inches tall, this one is quite impressive. The model comes with a model with loads of information on the structure. The 3D Empire State with LED lights it’s a bit smaller, 16.14 inches tall. Thus, it’s perfect for smaller spaces.

Once again, we have to recommend the Wrebbit 3D puzzle Empire State Building. With its 975 foam pieces, you can build a 3 feet (104cm) tall replica of the original building. Wrebbit excels in the quality of its graphics. Due to its complexity, it’s for kids and adults 14 years old and up. Assembling it takes time and dedication. The result is more than worth the effort!

3D Puzzles of Barcelona

I moved to Barcelona almost 15 years ago and fell in love with the city immediately. As an architect, I couldn’t stop admiring the impressive architecture that dots the city. Even now, every time we visit, I rekindle my love. Therefore, I have every 3D puzzle of Barcelona I could lay my hands on. Begin your collection with the Cubicfun city line 3D puzzle of Barcelona. The model includes the Park Guell, Pedrera House, Batllo House, Guell Park, Mila House, and the one and only Sagrada Familia. This paper model is as colorful as the city. I saved this one just for me. I set some alone time and built my favorite buildings in the whole of Spain!

Sagrada Familia

As you know, we lived in Barcelona and now spend several months a year there. The first 3D puzzle we got was one from Barcelona. We assembled our Cubicfun city line 3D puzzle in no time. This wonderful model includes the city’s most iconic landmarks. Then we had to assemble the Cubicfun National Geographic Sagrada Familia 3D puzzle . The highly detailed 13 inches (33cm) tall model is a modernist piece of art. The company has another 3D jigsaw puzzle of Sagrada Familia for kids 5 years old and up.

3D Puzzles of Moscow

The capital of the biggest country on earth does not disappoint. Our 3D puzzle collection of Moscow doesn’t either. Russian architecture is unique, grand, elegant, and colorful. The Cubicfun 3D puzzle Moscow City Line includes such Russian classics as St. Basil’s Cathedral, Moscow Armory Museum, Ivan the Great Bell Tower, Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, and the incredible Kremlin. My lovely nerd Eitan is a big reader and to him, the Russians and the Japanese are the best writers in the world. According to him, great architecture and great books are connected. Thus, he built this one on his own.

Saint Basil Cathedral

We’ve been twice to the Russian capital and we hope to go many times more. We wanted a 3D puzzle of Moscow that captures the best of the city. That’s why we got the Cubicfun St. Basil Cathedral 3D puzzle. After all, the church is the quintessential Russian building. There are two models, with and without LED lights. Since it has fewer pieces, the one without lights is a bit simpler to assemble. We have the one with lights at home. Since the church is so colorful, the LED lights make it shine. The set comes with everything you need to assemble the church, except the batteries for the lights.

3D Puzzles of Other Buildings and Landmarks

As you know, our webpage centers on nature and architecture. Actually, when we say architecture we mean archaeology too. We travel to see the world’s best structures and natural sites. That’s why we collect 3D architectural puzzles. Assembling our puzzles is not only relaxing but gives us a chance to understand different cultures. Indeed, humans are creative all over the world. Besides, the more we travel the more we realize that our planet is outstandingly beautiful.

India needs no introduction. Some of us even call it mother India. When thinking about the subcontinent, which building pops into your mind? That’s why we got the Ravensburger 3D puzzle of the Taj Mahal, the most incredible mausoleum on Earth. Done entirely in premium quality plastic, the assembled model is 13.4 inches long and wide, and 9.5 inches tall.

Once again, Cubicfun has a National Geographic 3D puzzle of the Taj Mahal that will take your breath away. The company uses state-of-the-art printers to achieve realistic graphics. Though done in cardboard foam, the assembled model is sturdy and resistant. You can assemble it with your kids and learn with them about this magnificent palace.

For adults and kids with a passion for architecture, we recommend the Wrebbit 3D puzzle of the Tah Mahal. Assemble your puzzle and travel to 17th Century India, when the mausoleum was built. Due to its complexity, it is for young adults older than 14 years old. Besides, you will need talent to assemble this 950 piece sculpture.

Neuschwanstein Castle

Europe’s most famous castle is in Germany. We are talking about the most photographed building in Germany. Ravensburger created a 3D puzzle of Neuschwanstein Castle that reproduces to the utmost detail the original 19th Century Romantic castle. We assembled the CubicFun 3D Puzzle of Neuschwanstein Castle that comes with LED lights. This model is a real lamp meant to be displayed. If you want the biggest model, we recommend the Wrebbit 3D puzzle of Neuschwanstein Castle of 890 pieces. All you have to do is punch out the pieces and follow the instructions. You won’t believe what you are capable of doing.

Roman Colosseum

The latest model we assembled is the Cubicfun National Geographic 3D puzzle of the Colosseum in Rome. Every time we go to Rome we fall in love with the coliseum so we decided to have one at home. It looks exactly the same as the 2000-year-old amphitheater. It took us about 2 and a half hours. We like the fact that we never used tools or glue to assemble our collection of 3D puzzles of famous buildings. You can also get a top-quality model if you assemble the Ravensburger 3D puzzle of the Colosseum. Don’t worry, the pieces fit perfectly so they will never fall.

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2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

In Transit: Notes from the Underground

Jun 06 2018.

Spend some time in one of Moscow’s finest museums.

Subterranean commuting might not be anyone’s idea of a good time, but even in a city packing the war-games treasures and priceless bejeweled eggs of the Kremlin Armoury and the colossal Soviet pavilions of the VDNKh , the Metro holds up as one of Moscow’s finest museums. Just avoid rush hour.

The Metro is stunning and provides an unrivaled insight into the city’s psyche, past and present, but it also happens to be the best way to get around. Moscow has Uber, and the Russian version called Yandex Taxi , but also some nasty traffic. Metro trains come around every 90 seconds or so, at a more than 99 percent on-time rate. It’s also reasonably priced, with a single ride at 55 cents (and cheaper in bulk). From history to tickets to rules — official and not — here’s what you need to know to get started.

A Brief Introduction Buying Tickets Know Before You Go (Down) Rules An Easy Tour

A Brief Introduction

Moscow’s Metro was a long time coming. Plans for rapid transit to relieve the city’s beleaguered tram system date back to the Imperial era, but a couple of wars and a revolution held up its development. Stalin revived it as part of his grand plan to modernize the Soviet Union in the 1920s and 30s. The first lines and tunnels were constructed with help from engineers from the London Underground, although Stalin’s secret police decided that they had learned too much about Moscow’s layout and had them arrested on espionage charges and deported.

The beauty of its stations (if not its trains) is well-documented, and certainly no accident. In its illustrious first phases and particularly after the Second World War, the greatest architects of Soviet era were recruited to create gleaming temples celebrating the Revolution, the USSR, and the war triumph. No two stations are exactly alike, and each of the classic showpieces has a theme. There are world-famous shrines to Futurist architecture, a celebration of electricity, tributes to individuals and regions of the former Soviet Union. Each marble slab, mosaic tile, or light fixture was placed with intent, all in service to a station’s aesthetic; each element, f rom the smallest brass ear of corn to a large blood-spattered sword on a World War II mural, is an essential part of the whole.

The Metro is a monument to the Soviet propaganda project it was intended to be when it opened in 1935 with the slogan “Building a Palace for the People”. It brought the grand interiors of Imperial Russia to ordinary Muscovites, celebrated the Soviet Union’s past achievements while promising its citizens a bright Soviet future, and of course, it was a show-piece for the world to witness the might and sophistication of life in the Soviet Union.

It may be a museum, but it’s no relic. U p to nine million people use it daily, more than the London Underground and New York Subway combined. (Along with, at one time, about 20 stray dogs that learned to commute on the Metro.)

In its 80+ year history, the Metro has expanded in phases and fits and starts, in step with the fortunes of Moscow and Russia. Now, partly in preparation for the World Cup 2018, it’s also modernizing. New trains allow passengers to walk the entire length of the train without having to change carriages. The system is becoming more visitor-friendly. (There are helpful stickers on the floor marking out the best selfie spots .) But there’s a price to modernity: it’s phasing out one of its beloved institutions, the escalator attendants. Often they are middle-aged or elderly women—“ escalator grandmas ” in news accounts—who have held the post for decades, sitting in their tiny kiosks, scolding commuters for bad escalator etiquette or even bad posture, or telling jokes . They are slated to be replaced, when at all, by members of the escalator maintenance staff.

For all its achievements, the Metro lags behind Moscow’s above-ground growth, as Russia’s capital sprawls ever outwards, generating some of the world’s worst traffic jams . But since 2011, the Metro has been in the middle of an ambitious and long-overdue enlargement; 60 new stations are opening by 2020. If all goes to plan, the 2011-2020 period will have brought 125 miles of new tracks and over 100 new stations — a 40 percent increase — the fastest and largest expansion phase in any period in the Metro’s history.

Facts: 14 lines Opening hours: 5 a.m-1 a.m. Rush hour(s): 8-10 a.m, 4-8 p.m. Single ride: 55₽ (about 85 cents) Wi-Fi network-wide

Buying Tickets

• Ticket machines have a button to switch to English.
• You can buy specific numbers of rides: 1, 2, 5, 11, 20, or 60. Hold up fingers to show how many rides you want to buy.
• There is also a 90-minute ticket , which gets you 1 trip on the metro plus an unlimited number of transfers on other transport (bus, tram, etc) within 90 minutes.
• Or, you can buy day tickets with unlimited rides: one day (218₽/ US$4), three days (415₽/US$7) or seven days (830₽/US$15). Check the rates here to stay up-to-date.
• If you’re going to be using the Metro regularly over a few days, it’s worth getting a Troika card , a contactless, refillable card you can use on all public transport. Using the Metro is cheaper with one of these: a single ride is 36₽, not 55₽. Buy them and refill them in the Metro stations, and they’re valid for 5 years, so you can keep it for next time. Or, if you have a lot of cash left on it when you leave, you can get it refunded at the Metro Service Centers at Ulitsa 1905 Goda, 25 or at Staraya Basmannaya 20, Building 1.
• You can also buy silicone bracelets and keychains with built-in transport chips that you can use as a Troika card. (A Moscow Metro Fitbit!) So far, you can only get these at the Pushkinskaya metro station Live Helpdesk and souvenir shops in the Mayakovskaya and Trubnaya metro stations. The fare is the same as for the Troika card.
• You can also use Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.

Rules, spoken and unspoken

No smoking, no drinking, no filming, no littering. Photography is allowed, although it used to be banned.

Stand to the right on the escalator. Break this rule and you risk the wrath of the legendary escalator attendants. (No shenanigans on the escalators in general.)

Get out of the way. Find an empty corner to hide in when you get off a train and need to stare at your phone. Watch out getting out of the train in general; when your train doors open, people tend to appear from nowhere or from behind ornate marble columns, walking full-speed.

Always offer your seat to elderly ladies (what are you, a monster?).

An Easy Tour

This is no Metro Marathon ( 199 stations in 20 hours ). It’s an easy tour, taking in most—though not all—of the notable stations, the bulk of it going clockwise along the Circle line, with a couple of short detours. These stations are within minutes of one another, and the whole tour should take about 1-2 hours.

Start at Mayakovskaya Metro station , at the corner of Tverskaya and Garden Ring,  Triumfalnaya Square, Moskva, Russia, 125047.

1. Mayakovskaya.  Named for Russian Futurist Movement poet Vladimir Mayakovsky and an attempt to bring to life the future he imagined in his poems. (The Futurist Movement, natch, was all about a rejecting the past and celebrating all things speed, industry, modern machines, youth, modernity.) The result: an Art Deco masterpiece that won the National Grand Prix for architecture at the New York World’s Fair in 1939. It’s all smooth, rounded shine and light, and gentle arches supported by columns of dark pink marble and stainless aircraft steel. Each of its 34 ceiling niches has a mosaic. During World War II, the station was used as an air-raid shelter and, at one point, a bunker for Stalin. He gave a subdued but rousing speech here in Nov. 6, 1941 as the Nazis bombed the city above.

Take the 3/Green line one station to:

2. Belorusskaya. Opened in 1952, named after the connected Belarussky Rail Terminal, which runs trains between Moscow and Belarus. This is a light marble affair with a white, cake-like ceiling, lined with Belorussian patterns and 12 Florentine ceiling mosaics depicting life in Belarussia when it was built.

Transfer onto the 1/Brown line. Then, one stop (clockwise) t o:

3. Novoslobodskaya.  This station was designed around the stained-glass panels, which were made in Latvia, because Alexey Dushkin, the Soviet starchitect who dreamed it up (and also designed Mayakovskaya station) couldn’t find the glass and craft locally. The stained glass is the same used for Riga’s Cathedral, and the panels feature plants, flowers, members of the Soviet intelligentsia (musician, artist, architect) and geometric shapes.

Go two stops east on the 1/Circle line to:

4. Komsomolskaya. Named after the Komsomol, or the Young Communist League, this might just be peak Stalin Metro style. Underneath the hub for three regional railways, it was intended to be a grand gateway to Moscow and is today its busiest station. It has chandeliers; a yellow ceiling with Baroque embellishments; and in the main hall, a colossal red star overlaid on golden, shimmering tiles. Designer Alexey Shchusev designed it as an homage to the speech Stalin gave at Red Square on Nov. 7, 1941, in which he invoked Russia’s illustrious military leaders as a pep talk to Soviet soldiers through the first catastrophic year of the war.   The station’s eight large mosaics are of the leaders referenced in the speech, such as Alexander Nevsky, a 13th-century prince and military commander who bested German and Swedish invading armies.

One more stop clockwise to Kurskaya station,  and change onto the 3/Blue  line, and go one stop to:

5. Baumanskaya.   Opened in 1944. Named for the Bolshevik Revolutionary Nikolai Bauman , whose monument and namesake district are aboveground here. Though he seemed like a nasty piece of work (he apparently once publicly mocked a woman he had impregnated, who later hung herself), he became a Revolutionary martyr when he was killed in 1905 in a skirmish with a monarchist, who hit him on the head with part of a steel pipe. The station is in Art Deco style with atmospherically dim lighting, and a series of bronze sculptures of soldiers and homefront heroes during the War. At one end, there is a large mosaic portrait of Lenin.

Stay on that train direction one more east to:

6. Elektrozavodskaya. As you may have guessed from the name, this station is the Metro’s tribute to all thing electrical, built in 1944 and named after a nearby lightbulb factory. It has marble bas-relief sculptures of important figures in electrical engineering, and others illustrating the Soviet Union’s war-time struggles at home. The ceiling’s recurring rows of circular lamps give the station’s main tunnel a comforting glow, and a pleasing visual effect.

Double back two stops to Kurskaya station , and change back to the 1/Circle line. Sit tight for six stations to:

7. Kiyevskaya. This was the last station on the Circle line to be built, in 1954, completed under Nikita Khrushchev’ s guidance, as a tribute to his homeland, Ukraine. Its three large station halls feature images celebrating Ukraine’s contributions to the Soviet Union and Russo-Ukrainian unity, depicting musicians, textile-working, soldiers, farmers. (One hall has frescoes, one mosaics, and the third murals.) Shortly after it was completed, Khrushchev condemned the architectural excesses and unnecessary luxury of the Stalin era, which ushered in an epoch of more austere Metro stations. According to the legend at least, he timed the policy in part to ensure no Metro station built after could outshine Kiyevskaya.

Change to the 3/Blue line and go one stop west.

8. Park Pobedy. This is the deepest station on the Metro, with one of the world’s longest escalators, at 413 feet. If you stand still, the escalator ride to the surface takes about three minutes .) Opened in 2003 at Victory Park, the station celebrates two of Russia’s great military victories. Each end has a mural by Georgian artist Zurab Tsereteli, who also designed the “ Good Defeats Evil ” statue at the UN headquarters in New York. One mural depicts the Russian generals’ victory over the French in 1812 and the other, the German surrender of 1945. The latter is particularly striking; equal parts dramatic, triumphant, and gruesome. To the side, Red Army soldiers trample Nazi flags, and if you look closely there’s some blood spatter among the detail. Still, the biggest impressions here are the marble shine of the chessboard floor pattern and the pleasingly geometric effect if you view from one end to the other.

Keep going one more stop west to:

9. Slavyansky Bulvar.  One of the Metro’s youngest stations, it opened in 2008. With far higher ceilings than many other stations—which tend to have covered central tunnels on the platforms—it has an “open-air” feel (or as close to it as you can get, one hundred feet under). It’s an homage to French architect Hector Guimard, he of the Art Nouveau entrances for the Paris M é tro, and that’s precisely what this looks like: A Moscow homage to the Paris M é tro, with an additional forest theme. A Cyrillic twist on Guimard’s Metro-style lettering over the benches, furnished with t rees and branch motifs, including creeping vines as towering lamp-posts.

Stay on the 3/Blue line and double back four stations to:

10. Arbatskaya. Its first iteration, Arbatskaya-Smolenskaya station, was damaged by German bombs in 1941. It was rebuilt in 1953, and designed to double as a bomb shelter in the event of nuclear war, although unusually for stations built in the post-war phase, this one doesn’t have a war theme. It may also be one of the system’s most elegant: Baroque, but toned down a little, with red marble floors and white ceilings with gilded bronze c handeliers.

Jump back on the 3/Blue line  in the same direction and take it one more stop:

11. Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square). Opened in 1938, and serving Red Square and the Kremlin . Its renowned central hall has marble columns flanked by 76 bronze statues of Soviet heroes: soldiers, students, farmers, athletes, writers, parents. Some of these statues’ appendages have a yellow sheen from decades of Moscow’s commuters rubbing them for good luck. Among the most popular for a superstitious walk-by rub: the snout of a frontier guard’s dog, a soldier’s gun (where the touch of millions of human hands have tapered the gun barrel into a fine, pointy blade), a baby’s foot, and a woman’s knee. (A brass rooster also sports the telltale gold sheen, though I am told that rubbing the rooster is thought to bring bad luck. )

Now take the escalator up, and get some fresh air.

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21 Things to Know Before You Go to Moscow

Featured city guides.

Most Beautiful Metro Stations in Moscow

Visiting Moscow? Get yourself a metro card and explore Moscow’s beautiful metro stations. Moscow’s world-famous metro system is efficient and a great way to get from A to B. But there is more to it; Soviet mosaic decorations, exuberant halls with chandeliers, colourful paintings and immense statues. Moscow’s metro is an attraction itself, so take half a day and dive into Moscow’s underground!

The best thing to do is to get on the brown circle (number 5) line since the most beautiful metro stations are situated on this line. The only exception is the metro stop Mayakovskaya one the green line (number 2). My suggestion is to get a map, mark these metro stops on there and hop on the metro. It helps to get an English > Russian map to better understand the names of the stops. At some of the metro stops, the microphone voice speaks Russian and English so it’s not difficult at all.

Another thing we found out, is that it’s worth taking the escalator and explore the other corridors to discover how beautiful the full station is.

Quick hotel suggestion for Moscow is the amazing Brick Design Hotel .

These are my favourite metro stations in Moscow, in order of my personal preference:

1. Mayakovskaya Station

The metro station of Mayakovskaya looks like a ballroom! Wide arches, huge domes with lamps and mosaic works make your exit of the metro overwhelming. Look up and you will see the many colourful mosaics with typical Soviet pictures. Mayakovskaya is my personal favourite and is the only stop not on the brown line but on the green line.

2. Komsomolskaya Station

Komsomolskaya metro station is famous for its yellow ceiling. An average museum is nothing compared to this stop. Splendour all over the place, black and gold, mosaic – again – and enormous chandeliers that made my lamp at home look like a toy.

3. Novoslobodskaya Station

The pillars in the main hall of Novoslobodskaya metro station have the most colourful stained glass decorations. The golden arches and the golden mosaic with a naked lady holding a baby in front of the Soviet hammer and sickle, make the drama complete.

4. Prospect Mira Station

The beautiful chandeliers and the lines in the ceiling, make Prospekt Mira an architectural masterpiece.

5. Belorusskaya Station

Prestigious arches, octagonal shapes of Socialistic Soviet Republic mosaics. The eyecatcher of Belorusskaya metro station, however, is the enormous statue of three men with long coats, holding guns and a flag.

6. Kiyevskaya Station

The metro station of Kiyevskaya is a bit more romantic than Belorusskaya and Prospect Mira. Beautiful paintings with classical decorations.

7. Taganskaya Station

At the main hall Taganskaya metro station you will find triangle light blue and white decorations that are an ode to various Russians that – I assume – are important for Russian history and victory. There is no need to explore others halls of Taganskaya, this is it.

8. Paveletskaya Station

Another and most definitely the less beautiful outrageous huge golden mosaic covers one of the walls of Paveletskaya. I would recommend taking the escalator to the exit upstairs to admire the turquoise dome and a painting of the St Basil’s Cathedral in a wooden frame.

Travelling with Moscow’s metro is inexpensive. You can have a lot of joy for just a few Rubbles.

• 1 single journey: RMB 50 – € 0,70
• 1 day ticket: RMB 210 – € 2,95

Like to know about Moscow, travelling in Russia or the Transsiberian Train journey ? Read my other articles about Russia .

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Wow! It is beautiful. I am still dreaming of Moscow one day.

It’s absolutely beautiful! Moscow is a great city trip destination and really surprised me in many ways.

My partner and I did a self guided Moscow Metro tour when we were there 2 years ago. So many breathtaking platforms…I highly recommend it! Most of my favorites were along the Brown 5 line, as well. I also loved Mayakovskaya, Arbatskaya, Aleksandrovski Sad and Ploshchad Revolyutsii. We’re heading back in a few weeks and plan to do Metro Tour-Part 2. We hope to see the #5 stations we missed before, as well as explore some of the Dark Blue #3 (Park Pobedy and Slavyansky Bul’var, for sure), Yellow #8 and Olive #10 platforms.

That’s exciting Julia! Curious to see your Metro Tour-Part 2 experience and the stations you discovered.

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