The Eiffel Tower is one of Europe’s most iconic landmarks, drawing millions of visitors each year. While it’s true that Paris boasts many breathtaking vistas, ascending the Eiffel Tower offers a unique and unforgettable experience. It’s a thrilling adventure that places you among the 250 million people who have made this monumental structure a global symbol of France.
A Monument of Ingenuity
The Eiffel Tower was constructed for the 1889 Paris World’s Fair as a testament to France’s engineering prowess. This intricate marvel, built like a giant 18,000-piece erector set of iron beams, was initially meant to be a temporary display. However, its practical uses quickly changed its fate. When Gustave Eiffel added a radio antenna and telegraph transmitters to the tower, the French government saw its value beyond mere aesthetics. During World War I, these very additions helped jam German radio communications, solidifying the tower’s importance to the nation.
Planning Your Eiffel Tower Excursion: Tips for a Smooth and Memorable Visit
To enjoy this architectural wonder, you’ll need to prepare for crowds and fees. However, with a little planning, your visit can be both fun and efficient.
Secure Your Spot: Booking Tickets in Advance
The most important tip for conquering the Eiffel Tower is to book your tickets ahead of time. Showing up without a reservation can lead to extensive wait times, especially during peak seasons. Summertime lines can stretch for one to two hours, and weekends and holidays can be even worse. Fortunately, reserving your spot is fast, easy, and free online. Don’t delay; book well in advance, as tickets can sell out quickly, especially during popular periods.
Remember to create an account and select your desired ticket type –top level, second level, or stairs– based on your preferences and budget. Be mindful of your chosen date, as reservations are nonrefundable. You can either print your ticket or have it sent to your phone.
Navigating Line-Ups and Exploring the Tower’s Levels
If all the top level tickets are taken, don’t despair! Consider visiting the second level instead. You can also explore Fat Tire Tours’ “Skip the Line” tours or book a table at one of the tower’s elegant restaurants. Last-minute slots for the summit occasionally open up, so it’s always worth checking a week before your visit.
Arrive early, late, or in less-than-ideal weather to avoid the longest queues. For the best views, plan your visit around sunset. Enjoy the light show at the top of every hour, which illuminates the tower with thousands of sparkling lights. Allocate three to four hours for your visit, including time for lines, exploring the levels, and enjoying the exhibits.
Inside the Eiffel Tower: Secrets and Hidden Treasures
The Eiffel Tower offers three levels with observation platforms. Take the elevator or climb the stairs to the second level and then hop on another elevator to reach the summit. Don’t miss Gustave Eiffel’s secret apartment, a hidden treasure tucked away on the top level.
Finding the Best Views and Unique Experiences
While the summit offers breathtaking panoramic views, the second level is a personal favorite. This level provides an ideal perspective to spot all of Paris’s famous landmarks. Don’t forget to venture down to the first level and explore its shops, exhibits, and glass floor.
Making Your Descent Memorable
To avoid the notoriously long elevator lines, consider taking the stairs down. The walk between each level takes just five minutes, offering a more memorable way to return to the ground.
A Final Glance at Paris’s Iconic Symbol
Once back on the ground, take a stroll across the Seine River to Place du Trocadéro for a final view of the Eiffel Tower. The tower’s enduring beauty and engineering marvel will leave a lasting impression.
Remember to keep your valuables safe, especially in crowded areas. The Eiffel Tower is a truly magical experience that will remain etched in your memory long after your visit.
