A complete guide to visiting the Eiffel Tower! Tickets and Second Floor Access!
The Eiffel Tower. You’ve seen it in a million photos, but nothing beats seeing it in real life. Gustave Eiffel’s iron masterpiece stands proudly in the Paris skyline and has been doing so since 1889.
Fun fact: it was supposed to be temporary, but here we are over a century later. Visiting the Eiffel Tower is a must when you’re in Paris.
It’s not just a pile of metal; it’s the pile of metal. You’ll get jaw-dropping views from the top and a serious appreciation for how many steps it takes to get there.
1. Best Time to Visit
Visiting the Eiffel Tower can be a bit like trying to squeeze onto a packed metro during rush hour—except with a much better view.
To avoid the biggest crowds, aim to go early in the morning or later in the evening. If you’re not an early bird, at least skip weekends and public holidays.
Also, the Eiffel Tower is open year-round, so the season matters.
Summer brings long lines and tourists everywhere, but hey, it’s Paris in the sunshine.
Winter, on the other hand, has fewer crowds, but it’s colder.
Pro tip: going on a rainy day can save you lots of time—plus, the views from the top of the Eiffel Tower are still epic even with a few clouds.
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2. Ticket Options & Booking Tips
Let’s talk tickets. Buying Eiffel Tower tickets in advance is key to saving yourself hours of waiting in line.
You can either take the stairs or the elevator to reach the second floor.
Stairs tickets are cheaper and give you a bit of a workout (668 steps to the second level), but the elevator is the way to go if you’re not feeling sporty.
If you’re planning to go all the way to the top of the Eiffel Tower, you’ll need a special ticket to the summit, which includes access to the second floor.
If you show up without tickets, you’ll have to wait in line with the rest of the unprepared souls. Not ideal.
3. Navigating Security & Entry Points
Getting into the Eiffel Tower is pretty straightforward, but there are a few things you should know to make it a smooth experience.
The site has two main entrances: one near the south pillar and another by the east pillar. Both require going through a security checkpoint, and if you’re bringing a stroller, it needs to be foldable.
Bags are checked, and large items like suitcases or glass bottles aren’t allowed.
Pro tip: if one line seems too long, walk over to the other entrance—it might be shorter. The security checks move quickly because no one is buying tickets here; it’s all about getting through the scanner.
Once you’re inside, the real line-waiting begins if you haven’t bought your tickets in advance.
And trust me, you don’t want to waste time in those ticket lines.
You’ll thank yourself when you see the queue!
Just as an aside: in recent years, a 3-meter-high glass wall was added around the tower for security, so don’t be surprised when you see it.
4. How to get to the Eiffel Tower
There are plenty of ways to get to the Eiffel Tower, so it depends on how you want to roll.
If you’re a fan of public transport, the metro is your best friend. Line 6 takes you to Bir-Hakeim, just an 8-minute walk from the tower.
Line 9 stops at Trocadéro, which gives you that perfect postcard view as you step out. École Militaire on Line 8 is also nearby if you’re coming from another part of Paris.
Prefer buses? Line 82 and Line 42 drop you right by the Eiffel Tower.
You can also hop on Line 69, which stops at Champ de Mars, just a short stroll away.
For something a little different, take a Batobus along the Seine.
The boat stop is about a 4-minute walk from the tower, and you’ll get to enjoy the riverside views on your way.
5. What to Do on Each Level of the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is split into three main levels, and each one has its own charm.
- First floor: This is the least crowded and has a fun glass floor that lets you peer down 57 meters to the ground below.
It’s a great spot to learn more about the tower’s history through its exhibits. Plus, if you need a snack, there’s a small café here.
Visitors often miss this floor, so it’s a good place to relax a bit. - Second floor: This is where the magic really starts. You’ll find breathtaking panoramic views of Paris, with key landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe, the Seine, and Sacré-Cœur all visible.
It’s also home to Madame Brasserie, a French dining restaurant with spectacular views.
If you’re in the mood for something fancy, Le Jules Verne is here too, a Michelin-starred restaurant that’s a must if you love fine dining and can book well in advance.
Want to avoid waiting for the elevator?
This floor is a great stop to take the stairs (668 of them) instead. - Summit: The top of the Eiffel Tower is where you’ll find Gustave Eiffel’s office, restored with wax figures of Eiffel himself and his daughter.
There’s also a champagne bar, because why not?
The views from the top floor are unbeatable, giving you a bird’s-eye view of Paris from 276 meters up.
If you’ve bought tickets to the summit, this is your grand finale.
6. Photography & Views from the Eiffel Tower
From the Eiffel Tower, you get stunning 360° views of Paris. On a clear day, you can spot iconic landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe, Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre, Notre-Dame, and even Les Invalides.
The Seine River winds through the city, making the view even more picturesque.
The second floor is a great spot for capturing the main sights, while the summit gives you a bird’s-eye view of the entire city.
For photos of the Eiffel Tower itself, head to Trocadéro for a wide-angle view, or stroll to Rue de l’Université and Pont de Bir-Hakeim for a more unique perspective.
7. Dining at the Eiffel Tower
Eating at the Eiffel Tower? Talk about dinner with a view! On the first floor, you’ll find Madame Brasserie, a relaxed spot perfect for families, friends, or anyone craving some good old-fashioned French cuisine.
Chef Thierry Marx, who’s kind of a big deal, whips up dishes using local ingredients. You’ll get to enjoy your meal while taking in views of Paris and the Eiffel Tower’s inner workings.
Pro tip: if you’re coming for dinner, book in advance. It gets busy!
Now, if you’re feeling fancy, head up to the second floor to Le Jules Verne, where you’ll dine on Michelin-starred cuisine by Chef Frédéric Anton.
You’ll feel like you’ve won the lottery as you taste dishes like foie gras and lobster, all while looking out over Paris.
Plus, you get to take a private elevator up to the restaurant—because why not?
It’s a bit pricier, but let’s be honest, you’re not just paying for the food. You’re paying to tell everyone back home that you dined on the Eiffel Tower.
And for those who want to toast to a perfect day, there’s the Champagne Bar at the top.
Just be careful—it can get windy up there.
8. How to visit the Eiffel Tower cheaply
Visiting the Eiffel Tower can be pricey, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. If you’re looking to save some euros, here’s what you need to know.
First off, skip the elevator and take the stairs to the second floor—it’s cheaper and gives you bragging rights. Plus, you’ll burn off that croissant from breakfast.
If dining at the Eiffel Tower sounds like a splurge, you can still enjoy the views without paying for a full meal.
Grab a sandwich or some pastries from a nearby bakery and set up a picnic at Champ de Mars, the park beneath the tower.
It’s free to visit, and the Eiffel Tower will be your dinner backdrop.
Who needs a fancy restaurant when you’ve got that view?
And don’t forget to book tickets in advance. This not only saves time but sometimes money too.
You can often find good deals online, and it’ll help you avoid the long lines.
Want to go to the summit without splurging? Try a guided tour that includes summit access.
It might seem like a bit more upfront, but it can actually save you time and stress, and you’ll learn something along the way.
9. Accessibility Information
The Eiffel Tower is surprisingly accessible for visitors with limited mobility or strollers. The elevator access will take you up to the first and second floors, but wheelchair users won’t be able to reach the top.
That said, you’ll still get great views from the 2nd floor.
Make sure to use the north elevator if you need it.
For families, foldable strollers are allowed, and there are elevators to help you avoid the stairs.
Just remember to keep an eye out for pickpockets while moving around the more crowded areas.
10. Unique Experiences at the Eiffel Tower
A visit to the Eiffel Tower is magical at any time of day, but going at night takes it to another level.
As the sun sets, the city transforms, and you get to experience Paris by day, at sunset, and then fully lit up at night.
The tower sparkles with 20,000 lights every hour, turning it into the “Iron Lady” of light. From the second floor, you’ll spot landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, and Notre-Dame glowing in the distance.
Nighttime visits are quieter, so you won’t be battling crowds as much. Plus, the view of Paris at night is romantic, making it perfect for couples or photography buffs.
If you’re feeling fancy, combine your visit with dinner at Le Jules Verne or Madame Brasserie.
Winter also brings its charm with a magical ice skating rink on the first floor, and during Bastille Day, the fireworks display around the tower is unforgettable.
There are special behind-the-scenes tours that let you explore areas closed to the public, like Gustave Eiffel’s office or the engine room that operates the elevators.
These tours often include fast-track access, so you won’t have to wait in the dreaded elevator line.
11. Eiffel Tower’s Surrounding Area
The area around the Eiffel Tower has more to offer than just jaw-dropping views of the tower itself.
Right across the Seine, you’ll find Place du Trocadéro, one of the best spots to view the Eiffel Tower from a distance. It’s the go-to place for photos and is especially stunning at sunrise when the city is just waking up.
A few steps away, Jardins du Trocadéro is perfect for a stroll, with its fountains and gardens offering a relaxed vibe.
For history lovers, Les Invalides, home to Napoleon’s tomb and the Army Museum, is just a short walk away.
If you’re in the mood for a leisurely picnic, head to Champ de Mars. This park stretches out right beneath the Eiffel Tower and is ideal for families or those who just want to kick back with a baguette and some cheese while taking in the view of the iron tower.
If you’re up for more sightseeing, the Seine River offers plenty of options for boat tours, and many cruises depart from near the Eiffel Tower, giving you another way to experience the city.
12. Safety & Practical Tips for visiting the Eiffel Tower
Visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris is an unforgettable experience, but like any major tourist attraction, it comes with a few challenges.
First and foremost, pickpockets. The Eiffel Tower is one of the most visited monuments in the world, and that makes it a prime spot for thieves. Stay alert, especially in crowded areas like the elevator line or the base of the tower.
Keep your belongings close, use crossbody bags, and avoid putting valuables in easy-to-reach pockets. You don’t want your trip to Paris ruined by a missing wallet.
Aside from that, practical tips: book your tickets in advance to avoid long queues. If you’re heading to the top level, plan for 1.5 to 2.5 hours, especially in peak season.
Consider taking the stairs if you’re up for it, as it’s not only cheaper but saves time waiting for the elevator. Plus, you’ll feel accomplished by the time you hit the second floor!
Lastly, dress for the weather. Winter visits come with cold winds, but the sparkling lights are worth it.
In summer, crowds and heat can make for a sweaty experience—early morning or evening visits will save you some discomfort.
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