Picture the City of Lights, and you immediately envision the Eiffel Tower, a majestic symbol standing tall above the cityscape. This iconic structure, originally intended as a temporary installation, has become an integral part of Paris’s identity, as inseparable from the city as the River Seine.
A Symbol of French Ingenuity and Resilience
Designed as the centerpiece for the 1889 Exposition Universelle, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution, the tower was initially slated for dismantling after 20 years. Parisian artists and intellectuals, however, protested against this “monstrous” addition to the elegant cityscape, fearing it would mar the city’s charm. Fortunately for us, the Eiffel Tower proved its worth beyond aesthetics. It played a vital role in scientific experiments, including early radio transmissions, solidifying its importance and ensuring its survival. This impressive feat of engineering, weighing a staggering 10,000 tons, has stood the test of time, a testament to its resilience and enduring legacy.
A Global Icon: From Parisian Icon to World-Renowned Attraction
Today, “La Dame de Fer” (the Iron Lady) is a symbol of French ingenuity, captivating imaginations across France and the world. Celebrating its 130th anniversary in 2019, its inauguration on March 31, 1889, and its opening to the public on May 15 of the same year, marked the beginning of a global phenomenon. The Eiffel Tower has become a beacon of Parisian charm, drawing tourists from every corner of the globe.
Unveiling the Secrets of “La Dame de Fer”
Delving into the lore surrounding this architectural marvel, we discover fascinating anecdotes that border on travel mythology. Did you know that con artist Victor Lustig, in a audacious scheme, “sold” the landmark to a scrap-metal dealer, not once but twice? Or that Gustave Eiffel, the mastermind behind the tower’s design and construction, kept a private office at the summit, hosting distinguished guests like Thomas Edison, who arrived with a gramophone as a gift?
A Tower That Inspires and Captivates
The Eiffel Tower’s influence transcends borders. It has inspired countless imitations, with miniature versions popping up all over the world, from Prague to Shenzhen, and even Sin City. Yet, the original remains unrivaled, a testament to its enduring allure. A trip to Paris is incomplete without ascending to its peak, making a visit an absolute must-do.
Visiting “La Dame de Fer”: Planning Your Trip
The Eiffel Tower welcomes visitors every day of the year, with extended hours during summer, from mid-June to late August. The rest of the year, it remains open from 9:30 a.m. until 11:45 p.m. For spontaneous explorers, it’s best to avoid weekends and peak hours, between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. For the adventurous, consider climbing the 704 steps to the second level. This invigorating climb provides a unique perspective on the tower’s construction, offering interesting informational boards along the way and breathtaking panoramic views. Remember, reaching the summit requires purchasing a separate elevator ticket from the second to the third floor. Pregnant women are given priority access to the tower. For the most up-to-date ticket prices, which start at €10.20 (approximately $11.50 USD) for one adult, refer to the official website. Avoid third-party resellers, who often inflate prices.
Staying Informed and Avoiding Disruptions
Even with tickets secured, it’s prudent to check the official website and Twitter account for real-time updates on weather and security measures. Occasionally, the Eiffel Tower’s opening might be delayed. In such cases, if tickets were purchased through the official website, you’ll receive an email suggesting an alternative visit time. Otherwise, refunds are available.
Be aware of potential labor disruptions, as workers at the tower have been known to strike, most recently in August 2018 and June 2013.
Accessing the Eiffel Tower: Transportation Options
Reaching the tower is straightforward, with multiple transportation options available. For a stunning view of the Iron Lady from a privileged vantage point above the Seine, take the metro to Trocadéro (lines 6, 9). This location is also ideal for witnessing the Bastille Day fireworks and the mesmerizing spectacle of the Eiffel Tower shimmering on the hour. A pleasant 15-minute walk across the Pont d’Iéna will take you directly to the tower.
Alternatively, the Bir-Hakeim metro station (line 6) is a 10-minute stroll along the Quai Branly. The École Militaire metro station (line 8) is a 15-minute walk from the landmark. For the closest access, the Champ de Mars-Tour Eiffel stop on the RER C line is your best bet. Remember to check for station and route closures before heading to the tower.
Unveiling the Hidden Gems of the Eiffel Tower
Beyond the obvious attractions, the Eiffel Tower holds a treasure trove of lesser-known facts and experiences. Rumors abound, some true, some false. A zipline was indeed set up during the French Open, but a wall is not planned around the landmark.
For an immersive experience, consider a private guided tour that offers “behind-the-scenes” access to areas usually off-limits to the public. Cultival offers such tours, providing access to the original machinery room and the “bunker” under the Champ de Mars. These guided tours unveil intriguing details often overlooked by visitors, like the camouflaged wind turbines, painted the same color as the Eiffel Tower.
New Experiences Await at the Eiffel Tower
New attractions add to the Eiffel Tower’s appeal. The transparent glass floor on the first level, not for the faint of heart, offers a thrilling perspective. In winter, an ice skating rink adds a festive touch. And if you’re visiting in March, you might catch a glimpse of “la Verticale de la Tour Eiffel,” a unique race where runners sprint to the top of the tower, conquering all 1665 steps.
Capturing the Eiffel Tower’s Beauty: Photography Tips
The Eiffel Tower is a photographer’s dream, a coveted subject for capturing iconic Parisian moments. As one of the most photographed attractions in the world, it provides ample opportunities for stunning shots from various locations throughout the city.
Popular vantage points for capturing the Eiffel Tower include the Trocadéro and the Champ de Mars.
Photographer Mary Quincy, a seasoned Instagram influencer with over 122,000 followers, shares lesser-known spots for exceptional Eiffel Tower photographs. From the Avenue de Camoens, she suggests, “it’s a nice perspective to take photos, especially if you want personal portraits with the Eiffel Tower in the background and no one else around.”
She recommends the Square Rapp as another hidden gem, offering “an original view of the Eiffel Tower between two buildings.”
Quincy also suggests the Rue Saint-Dominique, along the walk from Invalides to the Champ de Mars; the top of the Sacré-Cœur basilica; and the summit of the Arc de Triomphe, due to its proximity to the Eiffel Tower and breathtaking panoramas. The observation deck at the top of the Montparnasse Tower also provides a magnificent view of the iconic landmark.
Eiffel Tower Dining: Indulging in Parisian Delights
If indulging in a meal at Le Jules Verne, the magnificent restaurant perched on the Eiffel Tower’s second floor, isn’t within your budget, nearby eateries offer delicious alternatives without the tourist trap prices.
The Café de l’Homme, situated within the Musée de l’Homme (Museum of Mankind) on the Trocadéro, boasts one of the city’s finest terraces, where you can savor the Eiffel Tower views alongside innovative French cuisine featuring seasonal ingredients.
Les Ombres, the rooftop restaurant atop the nearby Quai Branly museum, and the seasonal Krug Terrace at the Shangri-La Hotel also offer breathtaking Eiffel Tower vistas.
Philippe Excoffier, a renowned chef who spent over a decade at the American Embassy, operates an eponymous bistro just a 10-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower. This charming bistro draws a loyal following, drawn to its prix-fixe lunch.
For dining in Paris, it’s wise to make reservations in advance by phone or email. If you’re unable to secure reservations, the famous Rue Cler market street is conveniently located, offering picnic items from the specialty food stores lining this pedestrianized thoroughfare.
A Lasting Legacy: The Eiffel Tower’s Enduring Charm
The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Parisian beauty and ingenuity, continues to captivate the world. From its fascinating history to its captivating views, the tower remains a must-see attraction for visitors to Paris. Its enduring legacy is a testament to its architectural brilliance, its historical significance, and its unwavering ability to inspire awe and wonder in all who experience it. As the city of lights continues to shine, so too will the Eiffel Tower, forever etched in the hearts and minds of those who have witnessed its grandeur.
