Imagine yourself standing at the base of the Eiffel Tower, its intricate design towering above you. You could simply take the elevator to the top, but wouldn’t it be more adventurous to climb the stairs? This is exactly what we decided to do on our last visit to Paris, and it was a fantastic experience!
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Scaling the Iron Lady
We strolled from our hotel on a crisp autumn day, taking in the Parisian charm as we approached the iconic structure. The Eiffel Tower is far more imposing in person than in photographs, its four massive legs firmly anchored to the ground. We gazed up at the first level, where a restaurant sits behind a glass wall, and the enormity of the tower truly hit us.
You might hear that the Eiffel Tower is over 1,000 feet high, but the number doesn’t really register until you’re standing beneath its imposing height. It makes you feel truly small!
Ready to Conquer the Steps
We were ready to tackle the climb. We’d bought tickets without asking how many steps we were committing to, which might have been a smart move! It was time to conquer the Eiffel Tower!
Discover the Design’s Intricacy
Walking up the Eiffel Tower offers a unique perspective. You can see the structure close up, admire its intricate design, and stop whenever you need a breather. The tower’s complicated design is far more complex than it appears from afar. Millions of rivets hold the metal pieces together, each playing a vital role in supporting this massive marvel. It’s truly remarkable that it’s been standing tall since 1889, when it was unveiled to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. A section of the original staircase from 1889 has even been preserved.
Unforgettable Views from Above
And then, there are the spectacular views! The Eiffel Tower offers two observation decks, and climbing the stairs gives you unlimited vantage points from within the tower. On a day with a gentle breeze, we enjoyed breathtaking sights as we climbed. If you’re looking for a career change, consider becoming an Eiffel Tower maintenance worker! You get to hang out high above Paris, lean back for photos, and wear a harness. Just be sure you’re not afraid of heights!
A Stairway to Success
Once we reached the top, we took a moment to savor the views. It was only when we returned to the ground that we learned we’d climbed 700 steps each way! Don’t worry, though, we had taken plenty of breaks to appreciate the scenery, so it wasn’t too taxing. I highly recommend this way of experiencing the Eiffel Tower! You’ll see the city from a whole new perspective, and you’ll have a story to tell for years to come!
Eiffel Tower Facts and Fun
Did you know that the Eiffel Tower wasn’t always brown? Originally painted dark red, it’s gone through several color transformations over the years. It was even yellow at one point! Today, it’s painted in a special shade called “Eiffel Tower Brown,” developed in 1968. Every seven years, 60 tons of paint are used to refresh the tower. They use three different shades, with lighter tones higher up to enhance its silhouette against the Parisian sky.
More Parisian Adventures
Want to explore more of this incredible city? Consider a walking tour with Take Walks Paris!
Planning Your Trip to Paris
For those visiting Paris for the first time, here are some tips to help you plan your trip:
- The official Eiffel Tower website is a great resource for buying tickets online before your visit and learning more about its history.
- If you’re a die-hard fan, you can even buy an original rivet from 1889 for a whopping 525 euros!
Discover Normandy’s History
For a historical side trip, venture out to the D-Day Beaches in Normandy. Just a two-hour train ride or drive from Paris, these beaches offer battle sites, museums, and somber cemeteries where you can pay respects to those who fought for freedom. Stay in the charming town of Bayeux and make the most of your trip.
Find the Perfect Parisian Hotel
Paris boasts hundreds of hotels, so it can be overwhelming to choose. Here are a few suggestions for charming hotels near some of the must-see sites:
- Near the Invalides: The Hotel de Varenne offers exquisite décor and a beautiful patio. It’s within walking distance of the Invalides and the Rodin Museum.
- Near the Pantheon: Hotel des Grand Hommes and Hotel les Dames du Pantheon, both elegant options, are just across the street from the Pantheon. I had a balcony room at the Grand Hommes and woke up to stunning views of the iconic Pantheon.
- A gem in the Latin Quarter: Hotel Serotel Lutece is a comfortable, attractive hotel in the Latin Quarter, within easy walking distance of the Pantheon, Notre Dame, and Sainte-Chapelle. The staff is incredibly helpful, providing directions and information.
- Central location: Hotel Moliere, themed after the famous French poet, is a delightful hotel near the Louvre. It’s surprisingly affordable for this upscale area.
No matter where you choose to stay, the Paris Metro system makes it easy to reach all the sights with a little planning.
For more Parisian adventures, check out these posts:
- The Invalides – Where Paris History Comes Alive
- Tips for Your First Trip to Paris
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