Planning a trip to Paris? The Eiffel Tower is a must-see, but knowing the opening hours and best times to visit is key to maximizing your experience. Let’s dive in!
Eiffel Tower Opening Hours: A Detailed Guide
The Eiffel Tower welcomes visitors from 9:15 am to 10:45 pm every day of the week. The staircase is open from 9:30 am to 10:45 pm during spring and summer, but closes earlier at around 5 pm during other months. Elevators operate from 9:30 am to 11 pm daily and maintain a consistent schedule year-round.
Pro Tip: If you’re planning a late-night visit, grab an elevator ticket, as the elevators close 15 minutes after the staircase.
Don’t forget to check the official Eiffel Tower website for the most up-to-date information before you go. Opening hours are subject to change without prior notice!
Extended Hours in June: A Special Treat
Get ready for extended hours in June! From June 15th to 30th, the Eiffel Tower will open earlier at 8:45 am. This means you can explore the monument until 12:45 am, as closing hours are pushed back to later in the evening!
Staircase access will be extended as well, from 9 am to 10:45 pm. The elevators will also follow suit, operating from 9 am to 12 am.
Important Note: Remember to check the official website for any time changes before booking your trip, especially for July and August, as the Olympic Games might affect the schedule.
Sparkling Light Shows: A Visual Delight
The Eiffel Tower light shows begin every evening after sunset and illuminate the night sky for five minutes every hour until 1 am. The final show is truly magical, showcasing a dazzling display of flashing and moving lights that’s unlike anything else.
During summer months, the light shows extend until 2 am. For the best viewing experience, head to the Seine River, Trocadero Gardens, or Montparnasse Tower.
The Eiffel Tower During the Olympic Games
Don’t worry if you’re visiting during the Olympic Games! The Eiffel Tower will remain open throughout the event, except on July 26th, the opening day.
It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your visit. The Summit may be closed in case of strong winds or reduced visibility to ensure everyone’s safety. It also undergoes maintenance for a few weeks in January each year.
Stay updated on closures by checking the news page on the Eiffel Tower website or their official Twitter account.
Choosing the Best Time to Visit
Early birds rejoice! The Eiffel Tower is least crowded in the mornings, between 9:15 am and 10:30 am or 11 am. Arrive at least an hour before your desired time slot to avoid long queues.
Sunset offers stunning views of the city, but it’s also the most popular time for visitors. After sunset is a good alternative to beat the evening crowds.
Weekdays, particularly during the quieter months of October to March, are the best days to avoid crowds.
Peak season runs from June to August, so expect larger crowds. Valentine’s Day is especially busy as it’s a popular spot for couples.
If you’re not a fan of crowds, consider checking out our “Best Time to Visit the Eiffel Tower” article for more information!
How Long Does It Take to Explore?
The time you need to explore the Eiffel Tower depends on your plans. Visitors who only want to see the first and second floors can complete their visit in about 1.5 hours.
Adding the Summit will take at least 2.5 hours.
Using the staircase to reach the first and second floors will add about 10 to 15 minutes to your visit per level.
The elevators offer a quick ascent to the upper floors, taking just a few minutes.
We recommend allocating three hours for your visit to account for potential queue time, especially during peak hours.
