Our family recently took a trip to Paris and, naturally, the Eiffel Tower was a must-see. We decided to ascend to the very top, but our plans were slightly disrupted. My husband, overcome with anxiety at the height, decided he couldn’t continue. While I pressed on, he went back to the ticket office to see if a refund was possible. Sadly, no refund was offered, despite the fact that we had only purchased our tickets mere minutes earlier. It was a bit of a disappointment, but we decided to make the best of it.
Eiffel Tower: Tips for Your Visit
There are a couple of ways to reach the top. You can take the lift all the way, or you can take the stairs to the second level and then use the lift to the top. The latter option is slightly cheaper and allows you to enjoy the tower at a more leisurely pace. We chose the second option and took a break at the first level. It was the perfect opportunity to rest, grab a bite to eat, and use the restroom. We also had a chance to soak in the atmosphere, listening to the music and mingling with other tourists. After our break, we climbed the stairs to the second floor before taking the lift to the top. I highly recommend bringing a sweater with you, as it can get quite chilly and windy up there. The views from the top are absolutely breathtaking. As the sun began to set, the tower lit up, its twinkling lights casting a magical glow over the city. It was truly mesmerizing!
Planning Your Eiffel Tower Visit
To avoid long lines, book your tickets online in advance. We booked our tickets for the second floor during peak hours and arrived 20 minutes early. Despite the long line, we were able to get through in good time. While you’re at the top, be sure to take advantage of the binoculars. They’re worth the couple of euros, offering a closer look at the panoramic views.
Don’t Miss the Eiffel Tower’s Sparkle
Remember that the Eiffel Tower closes later than you might think, so don’t plan on staying out too late. I was surprised to find it closed at 10:45 PM on a Friday night, with the restrooms and RER train closing even earlier. It’s a good idea to check the closing times beforehand.
First-Time Paris Visitors: Don’t Miss the Eiffel Tower!
For anyone visiting Paris for the first time, climbing the Eiffel Tower is a must. To enhance your experience, consider booking a guided tour. You’ll not only get to enjoy the stunning views, but you’ll also gain a deeper appreciation for the history and engineering behind this iconic structure.
Beyond the Eiffel Tower: Exploring Paris
While the Eiffel Tower is a highlight of any trip to Paris, there’s so much more to explore. Our family enjoyed relaxing on the grass around the tower, enjoying a bottle of wine and some cheese and crackers as we watched the tower sparkle at night. Just be sure to bring a blanket to sit on.
What Other Tourists Say
Other visitors have shared some great tips and insights that might be helpful. One traveler recommended skipping the Louvre and Champs-Élysées, suggesting instead to explore the Tuileries Gardens, the Latin Quarter, and to take advantage of Paris’s public transportation system. Another traveler recommended finding the hidden playgrounds and visiting the Jardin du Luxembourg, a lovely park with a carousel.
Conclusion
The Eiffel Tower is a symbol of Paris, a must-visit for any traveler to the city. Whether you’re taking in the breathtaking views from the top, strolling through the gardens, or simply enjoying a picnic on the grass, the Eiffel Tower is sure to leave a lasting impression.
