The Eiffel Tower stands tall as a symbol of Paris, its intricate structure a recognizable silhouette against the city’s skyline. This magnificent landmark, however, was initially conceived as a temporary structure, destined to be dismantled after just 20 years. Its creators envisioned it as the centerpiece of the 1889 Exposition Universelle, a grand celebration marking the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution.
A Towering Legacy
The tower’s intricate wrought-iron design, painted a vibrant red, faced fierce opposition from Parisian artists and intellectuals who deemed it an eyesore. They argued that the tower’s presence marred the city’s elegant cityscape. Fortunately, the tower’s significance transcended its initial purpose. It soon proved invaluable for scientific endeavors, serving as a platform for pioneering radio transmissions. The tower’s enduring strength, embodied in its 10,000-ton structure, withstood the test of time.
A Century of Marvels
The Eiffel Tower, affectionately nicknamed “La Dame de Fer” (The Iron Lady), has become a global symbol of Paris. It celebrates its 130th anniversary in 2019, marking the passage of a century since its inauguration on March 31, 1889, and its public opening on May 15 of the same year. This iconic structure has become a source of countless legends and stories, some bordering on myth.
Unveiling the Tower’s Secrets
Have you ever heard the tale of Victor Lustig, a cunning con man who successfully “sold” the Eiffel Tower, not once but twice, to unsuspecting scrap metal dealers? Or the story of Gustave Eiffel, the tower’s designer and builder, who maintained a private office at the top, welcoming guests like the renowned inventor, Thomas Edison, who arrived bearing a gramophone as a gift? These anecdotes, as well as countless others, contribute to the tower’s allure and its enduring place in history.
A Worldwide Inspiration
The Eiffel Tower’s iconic status has inspired numerous imitations worldwide. From Prague to Shenzhen, even Sin City, mini-versions of the tower grace skylines across the globe. However, there’s only one true Eiffel Tower, a must-see for any visitor to Paris. A trip to the top of the Eiffel Tower is a quintessential Parisian experience, a tradition deeply ingrained in the city’s fabric.
Navigating the Tower’s Heights
The Eiffel Tower stands open every day of the year, welcoming visitors from 9 a.m. to midnight during the summer months (mid-June to late August) and from 9:30 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. the rest of the year. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours, especially between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., when the crowds swell.
A Stairway to the Summit
For the adventurous, a strenuous climb up the tower’s 704 stairs is a rewarding experience, offering a unique perspective on its construction and providing breathtaking panoramic views. The climb also offers a chance to learn about the tower’s history through informational boards along the way. Note that the climb only reaches the second level; a separate ticket is required for the elevator journey to the summit. Pregnant women enjoy priority access to the elevator, allowing them to bypass the queues.
Planning Your Visit
Before venturing to the tower, it’s always wise to consult the official website and Twitter account for up-to-date information regarding weather conditions, security measures, and potential closures. In rare instances, the tower’s opening might be delayed due to unforeseen circumstances. If you’ve purchased tickets through the official website, you’ll receive an email notification with alternative visit times or instructions for refunds.
Navigating Potential Disruptions
Keep in mind that workers at the tower have occasionally engaged in labor strikes, as recently as August 2018 and June 2013. To avoid potential disruptions, it’s best to stay informed through official channels.
Reaching the Tower’s Base
The most convenient way to reach the Eiffel Tower is by metro, with several nearby stations offering easy access. Arriving at Trocadéro (lines 6, 9) provides a magnificent vista of the tower from across the Seine, offering the perfect spot for capturing the dazzling light show that illuminates the tower every hour. It’s a 15-minute walk across the Pont d’Iéna from Trocadéro to the Eiffel Tower.
Alternative metro options include Bir-Hakeim (line 6), a 10-minute walk along the Quai Branly, and École Militaire (line 8), a 15-minute walk away. The closest station is Champ de Mars-Tour Eiffel on the RER C line. Remember to check for any station or route closures before embarking on your journey.
Unveiling Hidden Gems
The Eiffel Tower is a magnet for rumors, some true and others false. A zipline was indeed set up during the French Open, while the rumor of a wall being erected around the landmark is unfounded. To truly unlock the tower’s hidden secrets and discover its lesser-known stories, a guided tour is a great option.
A Behind-the-Scenes Journey
A “behind-the-scenes” tour offered by Cultival provides access to areas usually off-limits to the public, such as the original machinery room and the “bunker” located beneath the Champ de Mars. A knowledgeable guide will point out intriguing features often overlooked by visitors, like the newly installed wind turbines, cleverly camouflaged to blend seamlessly with the tower’s paint.
New Experiences Await
The tower’s constant evolution brings new experiences with each visit. The first level features a transparent glass floor, offering a breathtaking yet slightly daunting view for those who dare. In winter, the same space transforms into an ice skating rink, adding a unique twist to the tower’s allure. In March, the tower becomes the stage for a unique race, “la Verticale de la Tour Eiffel,” where runners sprint to the top, conquering all 1665 steps.
Capturing the Perfect Shot
The Eiffel Tower is a photographer’s dream, a captivating subject often featured in the most beautiful Parisian shots. Numerous spots throughout the city offer stunning views of the iconic tower, making it a constant presence in the city’s visual landscape.
Finding the Right Angle
The Trocadéro and the Champ de Mars are popular spots for capturing the Eiffel Tower’s grandeur, but professional photographer Mary Quincy, with over 122,000 followers on Instagram, suggests venturing beyond the well-trodden paths. She recommends capturing the tower from the Avenue de Camoens, especially for portraits featuring the tower as a majestic backdrop. Another unique perspective is offered by the Square Rapp, with the tower framing the view between two buildings.
Additional Vantage Points
Quincy also suggests photographing the tower from Rue Saint-Dominique, a street linking Invalides to the Champ de Mars; the summit of the Sacré-Cœur basilica; and the top of the Arc de Triomphe, offering close proximity and stunning panoramas. The observation deck at the Montparnasse Tower provides a breathtaking view of the city, including a unique perspective of the Eiffel Tower.
Dining with a View
If you can’t snag a table at Le Jules Verne, the acclaimed restaurant perched on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower, don’t despair. Paris offers numerous dining options with equally captivating views of the iconic landmark.
Gourmet Views
The Café de l’Homme, located within the Musée de l’Homme (Museum of Mankind) on the Trocadéro, boasts a terrace offering exceptional views of the Eiffel Tower while indulging in creative French cuisine. Les Ombres, the rooftop restaurant at the Quai Branly museum, and the Krug Terrace at the Shangri-La Hotel also offer breathtaking views and gourmet experiences.
A Local Gem
Philippe Excoffier, a renowned chef with over a decade of experience as head chef at the American Embassy, runs an eponymous bistro within a 10-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower. This bistro is a local favorite, attracting a devoted crowd of regulars who enjoy the bistro’s prix-fixe lunch.
Planning Your Meal
Remember that reservations are highly recommended in Paris, so it’s always best to call or email ahead. If you haven’t made reservations, the famous Rue Cler market street, a short walk from the Eiffel Tower, offers a delightful alternative. Stroll through the pedestrianized street and select picnic items from the specialty food stores lining its charming path.
A Lasting Impression
The Eiffel Tower remains an enduring symbol of Paris, its majestic structure captivating visitors from around the world. Whether you choose to climb its 704 steps or enjoy its beauty from a distance, the Eiffel Tower promises a memorable experience that will leave a lasting impression on your Parisian journey.
