The Eiffel Tower, Paris’ iconic landmark, beckons visitors from around the globe with its romantic charm and architectural splendor. But securing tickets to ascend this architectural wonder can be a daunting task, especially during peak tourist seasons. The fear of endless queues, sold-out tickets, and hours wasted in waiting can easily turn your Parisian dream into a frustrating nightmare. Fear not, intrepid traveler! We’ve scoured the internet for tips and tricks to help you conquer the ticket challenge and ensure a smooth journey to the summit.
Understanding Eiffel Tower Ticket Options
Before embarking on your quest for tickets, let’s first familiarize ourselves with the different options available. The Eiffel Tower boasts three levels accessible to visitors: the first floor, the second floor, and the summit. You’ll find four distinct ticket types, all granting access to the first floor:
- Second Floor Access via Elevator: Purchase online or in person.
- Second Floor Access via Stairs: Purchase online or in person.
- Summit Access via Elevator: Purchase online or in person.
- Summit Access via Stairs to Second Floor & Elevator to Summit: Available exclusively in person.
The Official Website: Your First Stop for Eiffel Tower Tickets
The official website is your primary source for obtaining tickets. However, be prepared for a competitive race as tickets often sell out within seconds of becoming available. Here’s a guide to navigate the online ticket system:
- Dates & Times: Remember, tickets are tied to specific dates and times. Choose your desired visit window carefully, knowing that tickets are non-refundable and cannot be modified.
- 60-Day Countdown: Tickets open for purchase 60 days prior to your desired date, precisely at midnight Paris time. Set your alarms and be ready to act swiftly!
- Time Zone Tango: Ensure your device’s time zone is synchronized with Paris’ time zone. If your device is in a different time zone, the desired date might not be activated for sale even if it’s open in Paris.
- The ‘Backdoor’ Trick: For those who prefer not to adjust their device’s time zone, try a ‘backdoor’ trick (though not guaranteed). Select a date within the week prior to your desired date. On the next screen where you choose your desired floor, change the date to your preferred one. This works if availability exists for the prior week.
When Official Tickets Fail: Alternative Options
If securing tickets through the official website proves challenging, don’t despair! Additional tickets may be released later, though this is not guaranteed. Consider checking back periodically for any newfound opportunities.
Alternatively, explore third-party tour operators like GetYourGuide and Viator. While tickets bought through these sites might cost more, they offer greater flexibility regarding changes and refunds (subject to their policies). You can also purchase them closer to your trip date, eliminating the need to plan two months in advance.
These tours often include a guide, enhancing your visit with insightful commentary. A clever strategy is to book a cancellable tour while simultaneously trying to obtain tickets from the official website. If you successfully secure official tickets, simply cancel your tour for a refund.
Paris Passlib: A Multi-Attraction Pass
The Paris Passlib provides access to a range of attractions, including the Eiffel Tower. Remember that even with the Passlib, you’ll need to reserve your time slots in advance.
Last-Minute Tickets: The Gate Approach
If you haven’t purchased tickets in advance and prefer not to pay a premium for guided tours, you can try your luck at the Eiffel Tower’s entrance on the day of your visit. But be warned: queues can be extensive, potentially adding hours to your waiting time.
Here are some tips to navigate this approach:
- Early Bird Gets the Worm: Arrive before 11 am to avoid the afternoon crowds. Remember that queues can form before the official opening hours, so it’s wise to arrive early.
- Sunset Strategy: While evening views are alluring, it’s best to avoid visiting late in the day as ticket availability might be limited if queues haven’t subsided.
- The East Entrance: The East entrance typically boasts shorter queues compared to the other side.
- Stairway to Savings: Opt for tickets that allow you to climb the stairs for a quicker route. This option only takes you to the second floor, but you can then use the elevator to reach the summit. Remember to purchase the correct ticket; once inside, you won’t be able to buy elevator tickets to the summit. The stair climb takes approximately 30-45 minutes and involves 674 steps.
Eiffel Tower Restaurants: Dining with a View
The Eiffel Tower houses two restaurants: Madame Brasserie on the first floor and the one-Michelin-starred Jules Verne on the second floor. Reservations at these restaurants grant access through dedicated entrances, providing a delightful dining experience with stunning views. While these restaurants don’t offer access to the summit, they guarantee a memorable culinary adventure.
- Advanced Ticket Advantage: If you have a pre-booked ticket, you’ll enjoy a separate queue for security checks. However, remember to factor in time for security clearance, arriving 15-30 minutes before your scheduled time slot. Note that arriving more than half an hour late invalidates your ticket.
- Top to Bottom: You’ll start your visit at the highest floor and gradually descend downwards.
- Peak Season Planning: June to August sees the highest visitor numbers, so advance booking is highly recommended during these months. For less crowded experiences, consider visiting during October-November or January-February.
Stay Connected in Paris: Nomad Travel eSIM
Stay connected throughout your Parisian adventures with a Nomad travel eSIM for France. Nomad offers affordable data eSIMs in over 170 destinations worldwide, including France. Choose from various local, regional, and global data plans, purchase and install your eSIM before departure, and enjoy instant mobile network connectivity upon arrival. If you run out of data, simply purchase an add-on through the Nomad app.
Planning a trip to Paris? Get a France travel eSIM to stay connected during your adventure.
