The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Paris and a marvel of engineering, offers a captivating experience for every visitor. Whether you choose a daytime stroll or an evening ascent amidst the twinkling city lights, the Eiffel Tower promises a unique and unforgettable experience. It’s a must-do for any trip to Paris, attracting millions of visitors each year.
A Monument to Modernity
Designed by the brilliant Gustave Eiffel, the tower was built for the 1889 World’s Fair. It took a massive effort – 300 workers toiling tirelessly for two years, using 2.5 million rivets – to bring this iconic structure to life. Upon its completion, the tower proudly stood as the tallest man-made structure in the world at an impressive 324 meters, a record it held until the Chrysler Building in New York eclipsed it in 1930. While a symbol of modern progress, the tower faced criticism from the artistic and literary elite of Paris, who disparagingly dubbed it the “metal asparagus.” Initially slated for demolition in 1909, the tower was spared due to its practicality as a platform for the emerging technology of radiotelegraphy.
A Tower of Color and Change
The Eiffel Tower has sported a variety of hues throughout its history, but since 1968, it has donned a red and bronze coat. Currently, a massive project is underway to strip away the 19 layers of paint and restore the tower’s original yellow-brown shade, envisioned by Gustave Eiffel. This restoration promises to give the tower a golden glow in time for the 2024 Olympics.
A Journey Through the Levels
The tower boasts three floors, each offering a distinct experience. The first floor (57 meters) is the most spacious but offers the least impressive views. The glass-enclosed Pavillon Ferrié houses an immersive film, a cafe, and a souvenir shop, while the outer walkway features a discovery circuit highlighting the tower’s ingenious design. Dare to walk over the glass flooring, offering a thrilling glimpse of the bustling city below. This floor also houses the Restaurant 58 Tour Eiffel. The first floor’s commercial areas are powered by two sleek wind turbines within the tower.
Panoramic Views and Culinary Delights
The second floor (115 meters) offers the most captivating views, providing a perfect balance between height and detail. Telescopes and panoramic maps help you identify landmarks in Paris and beyond. The story windows showcase the mechanics of the lifts, and the vision well allows you to gaze through glass panels to the bustling city streets. This floor also features toilets, a souvenir shop, a macaron bar, and the Michelin-starred Restaurant Le Jules Verne.
The Top of the World
The top floor (276 meters) is a truly breathtaking experience, offering panoramic views that stretch up to 60 kilometers on a clear day. The panoramas, while sweeping, offer less detail due to the height. Celebrate your ascent with a glass of bubbly at the Champagne bar (open from 10:15 am to 10:15 pm). Afterward, peek into Gustave Eiffel’s restored top-level office, also known as the “secret apartment,” where lifelike wax models of Eiffel and his daughter Claire greet Thomas Edison.
Practical Information
Before entering the tower, you must pass through security at the bulletproof glass barriers surrounding its base. The entrance is located on Avenue Gustave Eiffel, while the exit is on Quai Branly.
You can ascend to the second floor by foot or lift, and from there, a separate lift takes you to the top floor (closed during heavy winds). Pushchairs must be folded in lifts, and bags or backpacks exceeding the size of airline cabin baggage are not allowed. The top floor and stairs are not accessible to people with limited mobility.
Planning Your Visit
For a smoother experience, pre-purchase tickets online to secure an allocated time slot and avoid lengthy queues. You can either print your ticket or show it on your phone. If you are unable to reserve tickets in advance, be prepared for longer waits during peak seasons.
Stair tickets cannot be reserved online and must be purchased at the south pillar, where the staircase is located. The climb involves 360 steps to the first floor and another 360 steps to the second floor.
Restaurant guests enjoy direct access to the lifts after security.
The Light Show
For the best views of the Eiffel Tower’s light show, head across the Seine River to the Jardins du Trocadéro.
Getting There
The nearest metro stop is Bir Hakeim, while the nearest train station is Champ de Mars–Tour Eiffel (RER C).
Enjoy your visit to this iconic Parisian landmark!
