Paris: Arc de Triomphe Ticket & Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour

A day exploring Paris with a Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off ticket costs around $72 per person and can stretch across 1 to 2 days. This experience combines convenient sightseeing, timed entry to the Arc de Triomphe, and an optional scenic cruise on the Seine River. At its core, it’s a practical way to cover the city’s most famous sights without the hassle of navigating public transportation or planning complicated itineraries.

What we love most about this tour is the flexibility to hop on and off at iconic locations like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Champs-Élysées, plus the engaging audio commentary that makes history come alive. Plus, the scenic river cruise offers a peaceful break from bus-hopping, providing stunning views of Paris from the water.

A possible consideration is the long climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe, which some might find physically demanding. Also, if you’re not a fan of open-top buses, a little wind or rain might hamper your experience. This tour is perfect for visitors who want a rundown of Paris at their own pace, especially those eager to tick off multiple top sights in one go.

If you’re someone who enjoys a self-paced exploration with expert commentary and appreciates unique views from the top deck, this experience will suit you well. It’s especially good if you want to see many landmarks without the stress of organizing individual tickets or transportation.

Flexible travel with a hop-on, hop-off ticket lasting 24 or 48 hours.
Includes timed entry to the Arc de Triomphe, avoiding long lines.
Engaging audio commentary in multiple languages enhances understanding.
Optional Seine River cruise offers a relaxing perspective on Paris.
Multiple stops allow you to customize your day based on interests.
Wheelchair accessible buses ensure inclusivity for all travelers.

What’s Included and How It Works

This tour package is designed to give you a broad overview of Paris with minimal stress. For $72, you get a 24- or 48-hour hop-on hop-off ticket aboard a bright red double-decker bus. The buses run every 10-20 minutes, so you’ll never wait long before hopping on to catch the next landmark.

The highlight of the experience is admission to the Arc de Triomphe, which includes a timed ticket. This means you won’t waste time waiting in line and can plan your visit precisely. Once there, you’ll learn about the monument’s history as a memorial built to honor those who fought and died in the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. The view from the top offers a sweeping panorama of Paris’s iconic avenues, which many reviews describe as breathtaking.

If you choose, you can upgrade to include a 1-hour Seine River cruise. This is operated by Les Bateaux Parisiens and departs from Port de la Bourdonnais (near the Eiffel Tower). The cruise runs every 45 minutes between 10:30 am and 9:00 pm, giving you a chance to see Paris’s riverside landmarks from a different perspective. Many reviewers praise the cruise for its relaxing atmosphere and beautiful views.

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The Route and Major Stops

The bus route covers the most famous sights of Paris, starting from the Louvre-Pyramide/Big Bus Info Centre and stopping at key locations such as Notre Dame, Musée d’Orsay, Champs-Élysées, Grand Palais, Trocadéro, and Tour Eiffel.

Notably, the stop for the Arc de Triomphe is at Stop 8: Champs-Elysées, where you can step off and enjoy your visit. The Arc de Triomphe opens daily from 10 am to 9 pm, with free entry for those under 18 and EU citizens aged 18-25.

The buses are equipped with audio commentary in several languages, including French, English, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Korean, Chinese, and Russian, offering context and stories behind each landmark. Many visitors find the commentary informative and engaging—some even note the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, like the reviewer who said, “Amira was great!”

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What’s the Experience Like?

Onboard, you sit back on the open-top deck, soaking in the sights and sounds of Paris. The panoramic views from the top deck allow you to see the Eiffel Tower, the Seine River, and Montmartre from a vantage point that’s hard to beat. The audio guide enhances this experience by sharing stories and historical insights, making the sightseeing feel more personal and educational.

Many reviews mention the value for money—for just around $70, you cover major attractions at your own pace, with the added bonus of timed access to the Arc de Triomphe. This combination makes it a cost-effective way to get a broad overview of Paris without paying multiple entrance fees or navigating confusing public transit.

The Arc de Triomphe Experience

The Arc de Triomphe is a must-see. The timed entry helps you beat the lines, and once inside, you’ll uncover the story behind this monumental arch. At top, the view is spectacular: a spiral of avenues radiating from the monument, stretching across Paris like a web of history and life.

A review from a visitor notes, “The view when you get to the top is amazing, but be ready for a long climb of steps—it’s worth it though.” If you’re physically able, this climb is a highlight, providing a unique perspective of the city.

The Scenic Seine River Cruise

The upgrade option to a 1-hour river cruise is highly recommended by many travelers. It’s a calm, relaxing way to see Paris’s riverside landmarks—from the Pont Alexandre III to Notre Dame—while listening to narration about their cultural and historical significance.

Reviewers describe the cruise as comfortable and lovely, especially when they bring a drink aboard to sip while enjoying the view. This is a perfect break from bus touring and offers great photo opportunities.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Paris in a single day or two. It’s perfect if you prefer self-guided exploration but want the benefit of expert commentary. It’s also well-suited for families, first-time visitors, or anyone who values flexibility—you can hop off at any stop to explore longer and hop back on when ready.

If you enjoy panoramic city views and are comfortable with some physical activity (like climbing the Arc), you will find this tour well worth the price. The accessibility features make it inclusive for all travelers, including those in wheelchairs.

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What Could Be Better?

Some travelers mention that downstairs buses lack air conditioning, which might be an issue on warm days. Also, if you’re not a fan of open-top buses, expect some exposure to wind or rain—so plan accordingly. The long climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe could also be physically demanding for some.

This Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour combined with Arc de Triomphe access offers a fantastic way to get a broad, flexible view of Paris. It’s especially valuable for those who want to see many landmarks without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets separately. The engaging narration and stunning views make it a pleasant way to learn about the city as you travel.

While not designed for travelers seeking personalized guided tours, it’s an excellent value for money option that captures the essence of Paris at a relaxed pace. It’s suitable for families, first-timers, and anyone eager to maximize their Paris experience without feeling rushed.

Can I start the tour from any stop? Yes, the tour allows you to hop on at any of the designated Big Bus stops listed on the route map.
Is the ticket valid for multiple days? Yes, you can choose a 24- or 48-hour ticket, giving you flexibility over 1 or 2 days.
Does the tour include access to the Eiffel Tower? No, the tour does not include Eiffel Tower entry, but you can see it from the bus and get close at the stop.
Is there a guided option? The tour provides audio commentary in multiple languages; a live guide is not part of this package.
How long does the full bus loop take? About 2 hours and 15 minutes, depending on traffic and stops.
Are the buses wheelchair accessible? Yes, all buses are equipped with ramps for wheelchair access.
What should I bring for the river cruise? Bring a drink, some sun protection in summer, and a camera.
Can I hop off and explore longer at certain sights? Absolutely, the flexible hop-on, hop-off concept allows you to explore at your own pace.
What happens if I miss my scheduled Arc de Triomphe entry? Since your ticket is timed, it’s best to arrive during your scheduled window to avoid missing it.

In essence, this tour balances convenience, value, and a taste of Paris. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want a broad overview without sacrificing authentic sights and experiences. Whether you’re in a rush or want to take your time, this experience offers the perfect blend of guided commentary and freedom.