Climbing the Eiffel Tower in Paris offers breathtaking views of the French capital, making it a must-do activity on any trip to the city. To ensure you have the best experience, it’s important to plan ahead. This article provides all the information you need to make your ascent smooth and enjoyable. Will you join us on this journey to the heights?
The History of the Eiffel Tower
Origins and Construction
The Eiffel Tower, an iconic symbol of France, was constructed between 1887 and 1889 as the entrance arch for the 1889 World’s Fair. Designed by the engineer Gustave Eiffel, this wrought-iron lattice tower was initially met with criticism from some of Paris’s leading artists and intellectuals. Despite this, it has become one of the most recognizable structures in the world.
The Eiffel Tower’s construction was an engineering marvel of its time. Gustave Eiffel and his team faced many challenges, from the logistics of assembling such a large structure to the opposition from influential figures. They worked tirelessly, using innovative techniques to piece together over 18,000 iron parts with 2.5 million rivets. The result was a 324-meter-tall masterpiece that now defines the Paris skyline.
Key Milestones
- 1887-1889: Construction period
- 1889: Opened to the public during the World’s Fair
- 1909: Scheduled for demolition but saved due to its usefulness as a giant radio antenna
- 1980s: Extensive renovation to restore and preserve the tower
These milestones highlight the tower’s historical significance and its transformation from a controversial structure to a beloved monument. Each period marks a significant chapter in its journey, reflecting the changing attitudes and technological advancements of the time.
Price and Timing for Ascending the Eiffel Tower
Ticket Prices and Access Methods
The cost of ascending the Eiffel Tower varies depending on how you choose to go up and how far you wish to go. Here are the details:
- Elevator to the Second Floor: €16
- Stairs to the Second Floor: €10
- Elevator to the Summit: An additional €9 on top of the second-floor price
These options cater to different preferences and budgets. Whether you prefer a leisurely elevator ride or a more adventurous climb up the stairs, there’s a choice for everyone.
Discounts are available for certain groups:
- Young people (ages 12 to 24): Half price
- Disabled visitors: Reduced admission
- Children under 4 years: Free entry
These discounts make the experience accessible to a broader audience, ensuring that more people can enjoy this iconic landmark.
Operating Hours
The Eiffel Tower is open all year round, except on December 8th. The operating hours are as follows:
- June to September: 9:00 AM to 12:45 AM
- Rest of the Year: 9:30 AM to 11:45 PM
- Winter (stairs only): Closing time is 6:30 PM
Knowing the operating hours helps in planning your visit to avoid disappointment. The extended hours in the summer allow for late-night visits, offering a magical view of Paris illuminated at night.
Tips for a Seamless Visit
Buying Tickets in Advance
To avoid long queues, it is highly recommended to buy tickets online in advance, especially for the elevator. Stairs tickets can only be purchased at the tower’s ticket offices. Here are some tips to streamline your visit:
- Plan Your Visit: Check the weather forecast to choose a clear day for the best views.
- Arrive Early or Late: Visiting early in the morning or late in the evening can help you avoid the crowds.
- Combine with Other Attractions: Consider combining your Eiffel Tower visit with a Seine River cruise for a full day of Parisian sights.
Planning ahead ensures a smoother experience. Buying tickets online not only saves time but also helps in securing your preferred time slot, especially during peak tourist season.
Exploring the Different Floors of the Eiffel Tower
The Ground Floor
The ground floor is where your journey begins. Here, you can admire the tower’s intricate iron latticework up close. This floor also features:
- Information Booths: Get maps and guides for your visit.
- Gift Shops: Purchase souvenirs before or after your ascent.
- Cafes and Restaurants: Enjoy a snack or meal with a view of the tower.
The ground floor sets the stage for your ascent. The information booths provide valuable insights and tips, while the gift shops offer a variety of souvenirs to commemorate your visit.
The First Floor
The first floor of the Eiffel Tower is known for its unique oblique architecture and glass floor, offering an exciting perspective of the ground below. Highlights include:
- Transparent Floor: Walk on the glass floor for a thrilling experience.
- Interactive Displays: Learn about the history and construction of the Eiffel Tower.
- Cultural Exhibits: Explore exhibits that showcase the tower’s role in popular culture.
This floor is not just about the views but also about interactive and educational experiences. The transparent floor is a highlight, giving you a unique perspective and a bit of a thrill.
The Second Floor
The second floor offers an impressive vantage point and various attractions:
- Jules Verne Restaurant: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering gourmet meals with a view.
- Macarons Shop: Indulge in this classic French treat.
- Panoramic Views: See famous landmarks such as:
- Louvre Museum
- Grand Palais
- River Seine
- Montmartre
- Les Invalides
- Notre Dame Cathedral
The second floor is a hub of activity and attractions. The Jules Verne Restaurant offers a fine dining experience with unparalleled views, while the panoramic views provide a sweeping vista of Paris.
The Summit
The summit, at 277 meters high, offers two levels:
- Outdoor Level: Perfect for fresh air and unobstructed views.
- Covered Level: Provides a sheltered area with the same panoramic views.
- Gustave Eiffel’s Office: Visit a recreation of Eiffel’s office for historical context.
- Champagne Bar: Celebrate your ascent with a glass of champagne.
Reaching the summit is a rewarding experience. The outdoor level gives you a breath of fresh air and an expansive view, while the covered level ensures you can enjoy the views regardless of the weather.
Dining at the Eiffel Tower
Restaurant Options
Dining at the Eiffel Tower is a unique experience that combines exceptional cuisine with stunning views.
- 58 Tour Eiffel: Located on the first floor, offering a brasserie-style menu.
- Le Jules Verne: A Michelin-starred restaurant on the second floor with gourmet French cuisine.
- Buffets: Located on the ground, first, and second floors, offering quick bites and refreshments.
Each dining option provides a unique experience. Whether you prefer a quick bite at the buffets or a luxurious meal at Le Jules Verne, dining at the Eiffel Tower is an unforgettable experience.
Tips for Dining
- Reservations: Make reservations well in advance, especially for Le Jules Verne.
- Dress Code: Smart casual attire is recommended for dining at Le Jules Verne.
- Timing: Plan your meal timing to coincide with sunset for an unforgettable dining experience.
Dining at the Eiffel Tower requires a bit of planning. Reservations are essential for the popular spots, and timing your meal with the sunset adds a magical touch to your dining experience.
Special Events and Nighttime Visits
Illuminations
The Eiffel Tower is illuminated every evening, creating a magical nighttime spectacle. The lights sparkle for five minutes every hour on the hour after sunset.
- Best Viewing Spots: Trocadéro Gardens, Champ de Mars, or from a Seine River cruise.
- Photography Tips: Use a tripod for night shots and capture the tower’s reflection in the Seine.
The nighttime illuminations are a sight to behold. The sparkling lights add a touch of enchantment to the tower, making it a perfect backdrop for evening strolls and photos.
Seasonal Events
The Eiffel Tower hosts various events throughout the year, including:
- Christmas Celebrations: Special illuminations and festive decorations.
- Bastille Day: Spectacular fireworks display on July 14th.
These events add an extra layer of excitement to your visit. The special illuminations during Christmas and the grand fireworks on Bastille Day are not to be missed.
Other Panoramic Viewpoints in Paris
While the Eiffel Tower provides an unmatched view, there are other spots in Paris where you can enjoy magnificent views of the city.
Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Located on Montmartre Hill, the dome of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica stands at 130 meters and offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Paris.
- How to Get There: Take the funicular or climb the steps to reach the basilica.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening to avoid crowds.
The Sacré-Cœur Basilica offers a different but equally stunning view of Paris. The climb is worth the effort for the panoramic vistas from the dome.
Tour Saint-Jacques
The Tour Saint-Jacques, the only remaining part of the former Saint Jacques de la Boucherie church, provides another excellent viewpoint.
- Height: 52 meters
- Historical Significance: Important landmark on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela.
This historic tower offers a more intimate view of Paris. Its central location and historical significance make it a worthwhile visit.
Notre Dame Cathedral
The rooftops of Notre Dame Cathedral allow you to see the center of Paris, the Île de la Cité, and the River Seine.
- Access: Currently undergoing restoration, check for updates on public access.
- Key Highlights: Gargoyles, bell towers, and detailed architecture.
Although currently under restoration, the Notre Dame Cathedral remains an iconic viewpoint with its intricate architecture and historical charm.
Montparnasse Tower
At 210 meters high, the Montparnasse Tower offers a viewing platform on the 56th floor, where you can see all the major monuments of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower.
- Panoramic Observation Deck: Offers indoor and outdoor viewing areas.
- Best Time to Visit: Sunset for a stunning view of the city lights.
The Montparnasse Tower provides a different perspective of Paris, with the added bonus of a view of the Eiffel Tower itself.
Enjoying Parisian Terraces
Relax and unwind at Paris’s scenic terraces while savoring picturesque views of the cityscape.
Recommended Locations
- Hotel Terrass Montmartre: Experience a historic ambiance and panoramic views from this renowned hotel terrace.
- Hotel Península: Located in Paris’s elegant 16th district, offering luxurious surroundings and breathtaking vistas.
Parisian terraces offer a relaxing way to take in the city’s beauty. These recommended locations provide stunning views and a comfortable atmosphere to unwind.
Accessibility and Visitor Services at the Eiffel Tower
Accessible Facilities
The Eiffel Tower strives to accommodate visitors with disabilities, providing accessible services and facilities.
- Elevator Access: Available for easy access to different levels of the tower, accommodating wheelchair users and mobility aids.
- Accessible Restrooms: Equipped with accessible facilities on each floor for convenience and comfort.
- Multilingual Assistance: Information desks staffed by multilingual guides to assist visitors with diverse language needs.
These services ensure that everyone can enjoy the Eiffel Tower. The accessible facilities and multilingual assistance make the visit more inclusive and welcoming.
Visitor Services
- Information Desks: Obtain maps, guides, and information about the tower’s history and attractions from friendly staff.
- First Aid and Emergency Services: Ensure safety and security with on-site medical assistance and emergency response capabilities.
- Lost and Found: Recover misplaced items through the tower’s lost and found services, located on the ground floor for convenience.
These visitor services enhance the overall experience. Having information readily available and knowing there’s support for emergencies adds peace of mind during your visit.
Planning Your Eiffel Tower Visit
Best Times to Visit
Plan your Eiffel Tower visit for optimal experiences and fewer crowds.
- Weekday Visits: Visit during weekdays for less crowded conditions and shorter wait times for tickets and elevators.
- Seasonal Considerations: Choose spring or fall for mild weather and picturesque views of Paris’s seasonal landscapes.
- Early Morning or Late Evening: Arrive early in the morning or visit late in the evening for tranquil moments and stunning sunset views.
Timing your visit can significantly impact your experience. Weekdays and off-peak seasons generally mean shorter lines and a more relaxed visit.
Essential Items to Bring
Prepare for your Eiffel Tower adventure with essential items to enhance your visit.
- Comfortable Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and exploring the tower’s various levels.
- Camera or Smartphone: Capture memorable moments and panoramic views of Paris from different vantage points.
- Weather-Appropriate Attire: Dress in layers and bring a jacket or outerwear to stay comfortable in changing weather conditions during your tower visit.
Packing the right items ensures you stay comfortable and can fully enjoy your visit. Comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate attire are particularly important for an enjoyable experience.
Exploring Nearby Attractions
Enhance your Eiffel Tower experience by exploring nearby Parisian landmarks and attractions.
- Champ de Mars: Stroll through this expansive park adjacent to the tower, offering scenic views and relaxation opportunities.
- Musée du Quai Branly: Explore indigenous art and cultural exhibits at this museum near the Eiffel Tower, enriching your cultural experience in Paris.
- Trocadéro Gardens: Visit these picturesque gardens for stunning views of the Eiffel Tower and enjoy museums and fountains within the vicinity.
Exploring nearby attractions adds depth to your visit. The Champ de Mars offers a beautiful space to relax, while the Musée du Quai Branly provides a cultural enrichment close to the tower.
Additional Tips for Your Eiffel Tower Visit
Safety and Security
Ensure a safe and secure visit to the Eiffel Tower with practical safety tips and guidelines.
- Security Procedures: Be prepared for security screenings and bag checks upon entry to the tower for the safety of all visitors.
- Prohibited Items: Familiarize yourself with restricted items, such as large bags and alcohol, which are not permitted inside the tower premises.
- Personal Safety: Maintain awareness of your surroundings and safeguard personal belongings during your visit to the Eiffel Tower.
Being aware of safety and security measures helps in having a worry-free visit. Understanding the procedures and being prepared ensures a smooth experience.
Shopping for Souvenirs
Discover unique souvenirs and memorable gifts at the Eiffel Tower’s onsite shops and artisanal boutiques.
- Gift Shops: Browse a diverse selection of Eiffel Tower-themed souvenirs, including apparel, accessories, and collectibles, available on the ground floor.
- Artisanal Boutiques: Explore local craftsmanship and artisanal products, such as handmade jewelry and artwork, offering authentic Parisian mementos for your visit.
Shopping for souvenirs at the Eiffel Tower adds a personal touch to your visit. The variety of items available ensures you’ll find something special to remember your trip.
Conclusion
Climbing the Eiffel Tower in Paris is an unforgettable experience that combines architectural marvel with panoramic views of the City of Light. Whether you choose to ascend to the second floor or summit, the Eiffel Tower offers breathtaking perspectives of Paris’s iconic landmarks and scenic beauty. Plan your visit in advance to optimize your experience, from purchasing tickets online to exploring nearby attractions and enjoying dining options with unparalleled views. Capture the magic of Paris from the Eiffel Tower, a symbol of French heritage and global admiration.
By planning carefully and making the most of the tower’s offerings, you can ensure a memorable and enriching visit. From the historical significance to the modern-day marvels, every aspect of the Eiffel Tower visit promises to be a highlight of your Parisian adventure.