Paris is a city that comes alive at night, and the Eiffel Tower takes center stage. This iconic landmark transforms after sunset, radiating a magical glow that captivates Parisians and visitors alike. Let’s delve into the secrets of the Eiffel Tower’s nocturnal allure.
The Iron Lady’s Sparkling Transformation
The Eiffel Tower has been a beacon of light ever since its creation for the 1889 World’s Fair. Gustave Eiffel, the tower’s architect, recognized the need for a spectacular illumination. Today, the nighttime spectacle continues to dazzle.
From Gaslight to Glittering Gold
Initially, the Eiffel Tower was illuminated by external gas lamps. For its grand opening, over 10,000 gas burners were lit, bathing the tower in a warm glow. A decade later, electricity replaced gas, integrating over 5,000 light bulbs directly into the structure. This not only facilitated nighttime access but also showcased the tower’s elegant lines. Over time, special lighting displays were implemented for various events.
In 1985, the Eiffel Tower donned a golden dress during a major restoration, and in 2000, a new lighthouse and sparkling effect were unveiled for the millennium. The twinkling lights were initially intended to be a temporary feature but have become a beloved Parisian tradition.
A Nighttime Symphony of Light
The Eiffel Tower’s golden illumination is activated by light sensors at dusk, captivating the night sky. Every hour, the tower sparkles for five minutes. For example, if the sun sets at 8:20 pm, the tower will illuminate in a warm yellow hue within the next ten minutes, with the first sparkle at 9 pm.
The tower’s lighthouse, installed at the top, synchronizes with the lighting, rotating at nightfall.
As part of a citywide energy conservation effort, all the lights on the Eiffel Tower switch off at 11:45 pm. The final twinkle occurs at 11 pm. However, during the summer, the tower remains open until 12:45 am, with the lights and lighthouse shutting down at 1 am, and the final sparkle continuing for five minutes.
Lighting the Way: Energy Efficiency and the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower’s energy consumption has been a concern for many years. In 2004, the power of the 336 projectors was reduced by 40%, representing a 4% decrease in the tower’s overall energy consumption.
The sparkle duration was also shortened from 10 to 5 minutes in 2008 to minimize the tower’s environmental footprint. The 20,000 xenon bulbs that create the sparkle consume only 0.4% of the tower’s total energy costs. This figure has further decreased since the implementation of the energy conservation plan, with the nighttime sparkles ending at 11 pm.
Since 2016, the energy performance of the Eiffel Tower’s lighting has continuously improved, with an average annual reduction of 9% in energy consumption.
A Beacon of Light: The Eiffel Tower Lighthouse
From the very beginning, a lighthouse was installed atop the Eiffel Tower to illuminate Paris’s major landmarks, such as the Arc de Triomphe, the Opéra Garnier, and the Louvre Museum. In 1947, light beams were utilized for aerial navigation. Today, the lighthouse remains a universal symbol.
The current lighthouse was inaugurated in 2000. It consists of two electrical harnesses with a range of 80 kilometers, making it a powerful beacon in the Parisian sky.
A Nighttime Journey to the Top
The Eiffel Tower is open in the evening, offering a unique glimpse into the magic of Paris at night. At the end of the day, the tower’s golden illumination transforms the experience. You can enjoy the same attractions as during a daytime visit, but we recommend taking the stairs for a more intimate and impactful experience.
If you’re fortunate enough to arrive just as the sun sets, head to the top floor and the champagne bar for a glass of bubbly as you witness the breathtaking panorama of Paris as the city lights begin to twinkle.
For a romantic dinner with a view, reserve a table at Madame Brasserie on the first floor or at the Michelin-starred Jules Verne restaurant on the second floor.
To fully embrace the magic of the Eiffel Tower’s sparkle, arrive early after dark. The second floor offers an immersive view of the golden lights surrounding you. Look up and be awestruck by the tower’s glittering spire.
For a spectacular vista of Paris at night or to witness the lighthouse in action, a visit to the top of the tower is a must.
Capturing the Nighttime Magic
Do you want to immortalize your magical evening near the golden glow of the Eiffel Tower? Feel free to capture this enchanting scene with photos and videos. Share your memories on social media and let the world share in the experience.
For professionals, the Eiffel Tower’s golden illumination and sparkle are subject to copyright protection. To use these images, you will need authorization from the Société d’Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel.
A Day vs. Night Experience
Visiting the Eiffel Tower during the day and at night offers entirely different experiences. At nightfall, the tower’s golden illumination transforms the visit into a magical and unforgettable event.
Continue Your Exploration
Learn more about the history of the Eiffel Tower, its construction, and its fascinating evolution. This enduring symbol of Paris holds countless stories and captivating details waiting to be discovered.
