Paris, the City of Lights, is synonymous with romance, art, and iconic landmarks, and none are more recognizable than the Eiffel Tower. What began as a temporary structure for the 1889 Exposition Universelle has become an enduring symbol of the city, rivaling the Seine River and French pastries in its fame. But beyond its majestic presence on the cityscape, the Eiffel Tower offers a unique experience, beckoning visitors to ascend its heights and witness Paris from a breathtaking perspective.
From Showpiece to Landmark
The Eiffel Tower wasn’t built out of necessity, but rather as a stunning showpiece to celebrate the centennial of the French Revolution. The French sought to showcase their engineering prowess by constructing the world’s tallest structure, intending to dismantle it two decades later. However, Gustave Eiffel, the tower’s namesake, saved his creation by installing an antenna, making it a vital hub for early radio transmissions.
During the Nazi occupation of France, the Eiffel Tower faced a perilous fate. Hitler ordered the destruction of Paris’s most prominent landmarks, but thankfully, this order was never carried out. The tower’s enduring charm has captivated locals and tourists alike, inspiring the construction of over 50 replicas worldwide. Yet, nothing compares to the original, making it a must-visit for any Paris itinerary.
Ascending to the Top: Costs, Logistics, and Views
Eager to climb the Eiffel Tower? Ticket prices fluctuate based on factors like age, method of ascent, and whether you aim for the summit. The second floor, reaching a height of 116 meters, offers breathtaking views, but the summit, understandably, demands a higher price tag and sells out quickly. Advance booking is essential for summit access.
If you’re on a budget, opt for the stairs. However, the staircase from the second floor to the summit is closed to the public, requiring 674 steps before reaching the elevator. We opted for the lift, costing €25.50 per person at the time of our visit. Climbing the stairs would have saved us over €6. Choosing to bypass the summit offers even greater savings. As ticket prices are subject to change, check the official Eiffel Tower website for accurate pricing.
Standing beneath the Iron Lady’s grandeur is a mesmerizing experience. Its impressive scale becomes even more remarkable when considering its construction in just over two years! When it’s time to ascend, follow the lines designated for your ticket type and time slot.
A World of Wonders Await: The Second Floor and Summit
Though a summit ticket grants you top access, the elevator stops on the second floor. While some suggest ascending from top to bottom to avoid elevator queues, we chose to gradually build the excitement. The second floor houses the most renowned observation deck, offering panoramic, unobstructed views of Paris. Capture that perfect photo with a clear background from this vantage point.
Once you’ve soaked in the views, board the next elevator and ascend to the summit. Contrary to expectations, the summit is less bustling than the second floor. The glass-walled elevator journey itself offers incredible views. Coin-operated binoculars are scattered throughout the platform, allowing you to focus on details of the cityscape.
Hidden Gems: Gustave Eiffel’s Secret and a Unique Overnight Stay
Few know that the summit hides a fascinating secret: Gustave Eiffel’s private apartment nestled beneath the spire. This cozy space served two purposes: entertaining distinguished guests and inspiring envy among Parisians. Eiffel succeeded on both fronts, with many reportedly offering fortunes for a single night’s stay!
Eiffel, however, was selective about his guests, turning down all offers. He instead used the apartment for his experiments and as a gathering place for the scientific elite. While no longer secluded, the apartment remains off-limits to visitors, allowing only a glimpse through the window at its homely interior, a striking contrast to the tower’s industrial design. Life-like wax figures of Eiffel, his daughter Claire, and Thomas Edison, a guest of Eiffel’s, add a touch of history.
If you dream of sleeping in the Eiffel Tower, you’re not alone! In 2016, to celebrate the UEFA Euro 2016 tournament, a rental company transformed an unused conference room on the first floor into a designer flat. Four lucky competition winners were awarded the ultimate Parisian experience, while 500 people could visit the space daily. The French certainly know how to celebrate in style!
Dining with a View and a Parisian Cliché
For a luxurious dining experience, head to the second floor’s Le Jules Verne restaurant, a haven of contemporary French gourmet cuisine. This establishment is helmed by a triple Michelin-starred chef who draws inspiration from the Eiffel Tower and 20th-century Paris. For more affordable options, several buffets on the ground, first, and second floors offer light snacks for all tastes.
Summit Views: Worth the Splurge?
The debate rages on: is the summit worth the extra cost? My personal experience suggests the views from the second floor are more spectacular, thanks to the unobstructed deck. However, there’s something truly special about standing atop the Eiffel Tower. While the wind made getting a good photo challenging, the sense of accomplishment was unparalleled.
Summit tickets sell out quickly, so book well in advance and be flexible with your dates. We were lucky to secure tickets last minute by diligently checking the website daily. If your plan falls through, head directly to the tower and try your luck with last-minute tickets. Good luck and bon voyage!
