rihanna a paris tour eiffel

• The Eiffel Tower

  Official Eiffel Tower Ticket Office

The Eiffel Tower will be open during the Olympic Games except on July 26. Exceptionally, tickets for visits from June 17 will go on sale later than usual (instead of 60 days before the day of the visit). No tickets for this summer (including during the Olympic Games) are currently on sale, so do not buy tickets from websites promoting such offers. Keep an eye on our official online ticket office.

• Contact information

When do you want to visit the Eiffel Tower?

How many tickets do you need.

Young (12-24 years)

Children (4-11 years old)

Small children (younger than 4 years old)

Disabled individuals

RSA (earned income supplement) recipients

An order may include a maximum of 9 tickets

An order may only contain a maximum of 5 children’s tickets (4 years or younger)

An order may only contain a maximum of 2 RSA (earned income supplement) tickets

An order containing only children’s tickets (-4 years old and 4-11 years old) is not permitted.

“Adult”: Normal rate for adults 25 years old and over.

“Youth (12-24 years old)”: Rate for youth between 12 and 24 years old. Proof of age required.

“Children” (4-11 years old)”: Rate for children between 4-11 years old. Proof of age required. Mandatory purchase of an adult or youth ticket.

“Small children (younger than 4 years old)”: Free for children younger than 4 years old. Ticket and proof of age required. There is no left luggage office available, in particular for strollers.

“RSA (earned income supplement) recipients”: Rate applied to French RSA (earned income supplement) recipients only, available at the Tower's ticket offices.

“Disabled individuals”: Rate for disabled individuals only applicable upon presentation of valid certificate. Access to the Summit and stairs is not permitted for individuals with reduced mobility.

Online help

How much does it cost to visit the eiffel tower.

To check the prices for the Eiffel Tower, please visit this page on the official Eiffel Tower site . The Eiffel Tower online ticket office provides the official prices. The adult price applies to adults 25 years and over.  There are discount rates for young people (12-24 years old), children (4-11 years old) and for those with disabilities. Admission is free for children under 4 years old. The price of the ticket varies upon how you go up (elevator and/or stairs) and the destination (2nd floor or the upper floor) you select. 

The desired visit date is not available, what should I do?

Certain days (weekends, days during peak season between July and August) are in high demand and we sell out quickly, especially for e-tickets for the top floor, which are the most popular. If you are flexible, select another date that is shown as available. The dates marked in orange indicate that the last tickets are available. Lined out or grayed out dates are no longer available. If there is no more online availability, note that tickets to visit the Eiffel Tower are also sold on site at the ticket offices at the monument. Regardless, we sell our tickets online up to 60 days in advance (for lift tickets) and 14 days in advance (for stairs tickets to second floor). If you can, plan your visit well in advance, so you will have the choice of date, destination and time.  

How many tickets can I buy?

On the online ticket shop, you can buy up to 9 tickets for the same order. Groups who want to buy tickets, regardless of the number, must use the ticket office site reserved for groups.

The Eiffel Tower’s online box office allows you to purchase your ticket online for the 2nd floor or the Summit at the official rate. You can purchase individual e-tickets for up to 9 people. Tickets can also be purchased several weeks in advance. With the e-ticket system, experience no lines! You will directly receive your ticket by e-mail so you can print it at home or store it on your smartphone. If e-tickets are sold out for the date/time or destination that you search, it is always possible to purchase tickets on the spot on the day of your visit.  At the scheduled hour, go directly to the lifts or stairs without having to wait at the ticket stands. There are mandatory security checks at the Eiffel Tower’s entrance and before entering one of the pillars.

Tourism professionals, schools, associations:  professional ticketing website .

Destination to the top

An engrossing experience

« The Eiffel Tower Summit »

The most marvelous view of Paris

At the top of the Eiffel Tower, enjoy the highest view of Paris and its surroundings. With its 2 floors (one open-air and the other indoor), experience for yourself the majesty of Paris from all angles: witness the most eye-catching architectural beauties, monuments, and the Seine.

The office of Gustave Eiffel

At the top of the Tower, you will also discover a reconstitution of Gustave Eiffel’s office, the Tower’s creator. With its wax models, this scene depicts Gustave Eiffel and his daughter Claire receiving the famous American inventor, Thomas Edison.

Destination to 2nd floor

At the heart of the Tower :

« The Eiffel Tower’s 2nd floor »

The most all-encompassing experience

On the 2nd floor, you’ll be transported with amazement: With several monoculars located on both levels, Paris and its monuments will offer a scintillating pleasure to your delighted eyes. Take advantage of the large selection of activities, boutiques and restaurants!

Be at the forefront of a spectacular lighting show

During evening visits, the 2nd floor is the best spot to be to witness the Tower and its magnificent lit structure. Also don’t forget, Paris is the “City of Lights.” On the 2nd floor, you’ll have a front row seat for an unforgettable moment of scintillation at all hours!

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Eiffel Tower Concert Series

Until June 23, 2024

Choose your date From 29€/person

• Information

No intermission

Classical concert

For all audiences

No dialogue

Highlights: Eiffel Tower Concert Series

A magical classical concert with the most gorgeous view to be found in the City of Lights - what’s more to love? Enjoy this symphonic spectacle at the Eiffel Tower, featuring some of the most beautiful classical arias from the greatest composers of all time: Vivaldi, Strauss or the greatest arias from the greatest soprano of all times: Maria Callas. Allow yourself to be bewitched by the sublime melodies of the strings and orchestra, atop the one of the most iconic monuments in the world: Paris would not be Paris without its celebrated landmark and renowned musicians and singers!

Don't forget that all tickets also include a free Elevator Pass giving you access to the 1st floor, and if you wish, you can also access the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower by stairs to enjoy Paris from new heights! 

Story: Eiffel Tower Concert Series

Talented musicians offer you the jewels of classical music for violin, voice, and orchestra. From Vivaldi to Maria Callas, enjoy the most beautiful arias of the repertoire to spend an evening surrounded by the famous Iron Lady, the true symbol of Paris. A memorable and timeless experience. What could be more intense than a classical concert in the air above Paris!?

Premium Experience

Want a little more than just a ticket to the show? To make your experience unforgettable, you can choose the option to include a glass of champagne to enjoy upon arrival. 

Concert Programme

Sunday, June 16th, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. Famous Opera Arias With the Paris Classik Orchestra conducted by Bertrand Cervera (violin soloist for the Orchestre national de France) Arias by Bizet, Mozart, Donizetti... Schubert/Caccini: Ave Maria Mozart: A Little Night Music

Sunday, June 16th, 2024 at 8:30 p.m. With the Paris Classik Orchestra conducted by Bertrand Cervera (violin soloist for the Orchestre national de France) Vivaldi: The Four Seasons Strauss: Waltzes and polkas

Sunday, June 23rd, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. Famous Opera Arias With the Paris Classik Orchestra conducted by Bertrand Cervera (violin soloist for the Orchestre national de France) Arias by Bizet, Mozart, Donizetti Schubert/Caccini: Ave Maria Mozart: A Little Night Music

Sunday, June 23rd, 2024 at 8.30 p.m. With the Paris Classik Orchestra conducted by Bertrand Cervera (violin soloist for the Orchestre national de France) Vivaldi: The Four Seasons Strauss: Waltzes and polka

Flawless music, famous scores, engaging musicians - a truly excellent performance.

Awesome performance!! Great experience. Highlight of my Paris trip.

Excellent concert in a unique location for a very memorable evening!

The Gustave Eiffel Lounge

The Gustave Eiffel Lounge is the only venue of its kind in Paris. This 200-seat modular concert hall, function room, and theatre is located inside of the city’s most iconic monument: the Eiffel Tower. The Lounge was completely renovated in 2013 as part of a bid to revamp the tower's expansive first floor. Situated nearly 60 meters above ground level, the state-of-the-art venue is designed to incorporate the distinctive historical architecture of the Eiffel Tower, while giving it a stylish contemporary update. A criss-cross of oblique lines on glass revives the iron latticework that was Gustave Eiffel’s signature touch when he designed his tower back in 1884. Even the seats themselves pay tribute to this heritage, a nod to the architectural structure for which Paris has come to be known.

Sandwiched in-between the room glass and steelwork is, of course, the most famous panorama in Paris. To one side of the Gustave Eiffel Lounge, guests enjoy a close-up view of the architecture of the tower; on the other, a spectacular perspective of the illustrious skyline of Paris. Since its opening, the lounge has housed a programme of exclusive events and soirées.

Fast facts Capacity: 200 Handicap Accessible: Yes Air conditioning: Yes Heating: Yes Coat Check: Yes

How do I get to Eiffel Tower in the 7th arrondissement of Paris?

The Eiffel Tower accessible by: Metro lines: The Eiffel Tower is accessible by the metro lines 6, 8, 9 which run until the following metro stations: Bir-Hakeim, École Militaire or Trocadéro. RER subway lines: The Eiffel Tower is accessible by taking the RER C to the station Champ de Mars - Tour Eiffel. Bus lines: The Eiffel Tower is accessible by the bus lines 82, 30, 42, 72 which run until the following bus stations: Tour Eiffel or by the bus lines: 69, 86 which run until the station: Champ de Mars. We invite you to consult the map in the "photos" section of the theatre to better understand how to arrive at the Gustave Eiffel Lounge at the Eiffel Tower. In case of difficulty, our hotline can be reached during our business hours. Please see the footer of this page for our contact details.

What do I do when I get to the Eiffel Tower?

Please arrive at least 1 hour before the time indicated on your ticket. Late arrivals will not be admitted to the show. The last elevator leaves 15 minutes before the show. When you arrive near the Eiffel Tower, you will go through a security checkpoint. Then head to the Gustave Eiffel kiosk (near the north pillar of the Eiffel Tower) to collect your free elevator passes that will give you access to the first floor where the concert will take place. Once you arrive on the 1st floor, please report to the Gustave Eiffel Lounge entrance, where Eiffel Tower staff will guide you to your seats. Before or after the concert, you can explore the second floor by taking the stairs and showing the staff your concert ticket. Please note that, in the Eiffel Tower, anyone carrying a bag that exceeds the standard dimensions (32cm height, 50cm width, 21cm depth) will be refused entry. We invite you to consult the map in the "photos" section of the theatre to better understand how to arrive at the Gustave Eiffel Lounge at the Eiffel Tower.

Where will I be seated?

Seating for this event is unallocated. We recommend arriving in good time to ensure you have the widest choice of available seats.

How long do the concerts at the Eiffel Tower last?

Can i take photos during the concert, are the concerts at the eiffel tower for an international audience or for french speakers.

Both! The Eiffel Tower has been welcoming people from all over the world for more than 130 years ago. With a programme of composers originating from all across Europe, this concert can be enjoyed by speakers of any language.

Does the Eiffel Tower have a specific dress code?

No, there is no dress code for the Eiffel Tower concert series. However, guests are recommended to dress between formal and casual. We suggest avoiding the use of shorts, crocs, and caps.

If I'm late, will I still be allowed into the show?

What is included with the eiffel tower concert ticket.

A ticket to the Eiffel Tower Concert Series grants you access to a free elevator pass that goes to the first floor, access to the second floor by stairs, and the concert itself. There is no need to purchase an additional ticket to climb the Eiffel Tower.

Visit the Eiffel Tower in Paris — A Complete Guide

By: Author Emily

Posted on Last updated: November 27, 2023

Going to the top of the Eiffel Tower is a quintessential bucket list item for anyone visiting Paris. However, long lines, crowded observation decks and sold-out tickets can make the excursion seem like more of a chore than the romantic experience it’s made out to be.

Don’t let these things deter you. With a little bit of planning and flexibility, you can have a truly magical trip to the Eiffel Tower summit.

This post will guide you through a perfect visit to the Eiffel Tower. We’ll break down how to get tickets (even if online tickets are sold out), explain the layout of the tower and ensure you know exactly what to expect when you arrive. We’ve filled this post with all of our best tips for reducing wait times, too, so you can have the most enjoyable time with the Iron Lady of Paris.

Let’s get started!

In this Post

Here’s what we’re covering in this post. We invite you to read the full guide or jump ahead to the section you’re most interested in.

About the Eiffel Tower

Getting around the eiffel tower — stairs vs elevators.

• How Much Does it Cost to Visit the Eiffel Tower
• Eiffel Tower Ticket Options
• Advance Tickets for the Eiffel Tower

How to Avoid Lines at the Eiffel Tower

Plan your visit, tips for visiting the eiffel tower.

The Eiffel Tower is the symbol of Paris. It was designed and built by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World’s Fair. A cool 7 million people visit the Eiffel Tower annually, making it the most visited monument with an entrance fee in the world.

You can go inside the Eiffel Tower and visit three floors open to the public.

The first floor of the Eiffel Tower sits at 187 feet above ground. On this level you will find quick-service dining, gift shops and spacious, open-air seating with views overlooking Champ de Mars.

Also on the first floor is Madame Brasserie, which opened in June 2022. This restaurant is billed as contemporary cuisine with a rotating, seasonal menu. Reservations are recommended, but not required.

The second floor is the largest observation deck at the Eiffel Tower, showcasing 360-degree views of Paris. The second floor is 377 feet high, which is roughly 34 stories. Central Paris doesn’t have many other skyscrapers, so the views from here are uninterrupted and expansive.

On the second floor, there is a quick-service cafe and bar, macaron shop and gift shop. The Michelin-starred restaurant, Jules Verne, is also located on the second floor. Reservations for the restaurant are required and can be made online up to 90 days in advance.

The Eiffel Tower reaches 1,083 feet at its tallest point, but the highest publicly accessible floor sits just below that at 906 feet. The observation deck at the top of the Eiffel Tour offers a birds-eye view of the City of Lights.

The top of the Eiffel Tower comprises both indoor and outdoor (fenced-in) observation decks. There’s  a small bar at the top of the Eiffel Tower that sells Champagne, caviar and macarons. Also at the top of the Eiffel Tour is a restored replica of Gustave Eiffel’s office.

Each of the three public levels at the Eiffel Tower can be accessed by stairs and/or elevators (lifts).

Let’s start with stairs. You can take the stairs between the ground, first and second levels of the Eiffel Tower. You cannot take the stairs all the way to the top of the Eiffel Tower.

From the ground to the first floor is 327 steps, and from the first floor to the second floor is 347 steps. That’s a total of 674 steps from the ground to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower. That’s roughly the same as taking the stairs to the 35th floor of a building. It takes about 30 – 45 minutes to climb the stairs to the second floor at the Eiffel Tower.

If stairs don’t appeal to you, there are two primary elevators that run in both directions between the ground floor and the second floor of the Eiffel Tower. There is a separate, single elevator that runs between the second floor and the summit.

Navigating the first floor via elevator is a bit more complicated. You can only get to the first floor on the elevator by coming down from the second floor. There is not standard elevator access from the ground level to level one or from level one up to level two. If you’re taking the elevator, it’s best to visit the first floor last on your way down.

It’s also worth noting that the second floor and top floor of the Eiffel Tower actually have two floors each. Even if you take the lift to these floors, there is a single flight of stairs required to access the primary observation deck and amenities on that floor.

Lastly, restaurant patrons at either Madame Brasserie or Jules Verne can take a separate elevator directly to the restaurants. These restaurants have special check-in locations on the ground level at the base of the Eiffel Tower.

How much does it cost to visit the Eiffel Tower?

Tickets to the Eiffel Tower vary in price based on how high you go and how you get up there.

It costs 26.80€ to go to the top of the Eiffel Tower via the elevator. This requires taking one elevator from the ground floor to the 2nd floor, and then switching to a different elevator from the second floor to the summit.

If you want to visit the summit and save a bit of money, you can select the stairs and elevator option. For 20.40€, you can take the stairs from the base of the Eiffel Tower to the second floor (674 steps), and then take the elevator from the second floor to the summit.

You can save even more money by skipping the summit completely. It costs 17.10€ to visit the second floor of the Eiffel Tower via elevator and only 10,70€ if you take the stairs.

Ticket prices for all levels of the Eiffel Tower include access to that level and all lower levels. There are also reduced ticket prices for children and visitors with disabilities. Do note that individuals with reduced mobility, including wheelchairs, are unable to access to the summit.

How to Purchase Eiffel Tower Tickets

There are two main ways to purchase tickets to go inside the Eiffel Tower.

The first option is to buy Eiffel Tower tickets online in advance. These advance tickets are often called eTickets, priority tickets or skip the line tickets.  Advance tickets for the Eiffel Tower are limited and sell out very quickly, especially tickets for the summit.

If you purchase Eiffel Tower tickets in advance, you will need to select a specific date and time for your visit. Guests with advance eTickets will have access to an expedited security queue and will be able to skip the line at the Eiffel Tower ticket office.

You can also buy tickets for the Eiffel Tower on the day of your visit from the ticket offices located at the base of the tower. Same-day tickets are for immediate entry and will not have a return time. There are two ticket office locations, one near each of the two entrances.

Please note, same-day Eiffel Tour summit tickets are limited and can sell out midday if capacity is reached.

One final way to get a ticket to the top of the Eiffel Tower is to take a paid tour. Several tour companies, such as Tripadvisor or Viator , offer tours of the Eiffel Tower. These tours are more expensive than the standard ticket pricing, and include added commentary.

If you choose to do a paid tour, do your research first. Not all tours include summit access.

How to Get Advance Tickets to the Eiffel Tower

There are a limited number of advance tickets for the Eiffel Tower available for purchase each day. Each advance ticket is for a specific date and time, which you must select when purchasing the ticket and cannot be modified.

Advance tickets for the Eiffel Tower are released 60 days in advance. Summit tickets can sell out within a few days of being released, and time slots can become limited within hours. Second floor only tickets remain available for purchase much longer.

For the best chance of getting summit tickets and the best selection of entrance times, check for tickets 60 days before your visit. Tickets are usually released around 9 AM Paris local time, so that’s the best time to snag your ideal entrance time.

The price of an advance eTicket to the Eiffel Tower is the same as tickets purchased same-day at the ticket office.

Skip the Line Tickets for the Eiffel Tower

Advance eTickets for the Eiffel Tower are sometimes called “skip the line” tickets, but that’s not exactly accurate. There are no true “skip the line” tickets for the Eiffel Tower, just “skip some of the lines” tickets.

Guests with advance eTickets can go through expedited security and skip the queue at the ticket office. However, all guests regardless of ticket type, will have to wait in the same queue for the elevator to the summit and back.

Summit elevator queues at 11:20 AM on a June Monday morning

For that reason, we suggest selecting an early morning time for your advance eTicket if possible. While advance tickets will save you time getting to the second floor, you’ll have to wait in lines for all subsequent elevators just like everyone else. These lines will be shortest early in the day.

If you want to go to the top of the Eiffel Tower at night, try selecting a time after 8 PM for the shortest evening lines.

Pros & Cons of Advance eTickets to the Eiffel Tower

Advance eTickets for the Eiffel Tower are appealing for two reasons: they guarantee entry and eliminate wait times at the ticket office. This is important because day-off tickets to the summit of the Eiffel Tower can sell out midday if they hit capacity.

For guests who want to visit the Eiffel Tower in the evening, advance tickets make this experience substantially more pleasant. There is no stress of summit tickets selling our or multi-hour queues at the ticket office.

The down side to advance tickets, though, is that it illuminates flexibility. Advance eTickets for the Eiffel Tower are for a specific date and time. If there are changes to your travel plans or the weather doesn’t cooperate, you’re out of luck.

All this to say, advance eTickets are overall good to have, but don’t panic if you can’t get them.

If you want to avoid long queues at the Eiffel Tower, the answer might surprise you. The trick isn’t getting advance eTickets; it’s simply arriving early.

While an advance eTicket will reduce wait times at security and the ticket office, arriving early is the best way to reduce wait times at all elevator queues. How early you need to arrive at the Eiffel Tower will vary based on when you visit.

If you’re visiting the Eiffel Tower on a weekday, we suggest arriving at the scheduled open time (typically 9 AM). If your schedule in Paris requires a weekend visit to the Eiffel Tower, it’s best to arrive 30-60 minutes before it opens.

Eiffel Tower Ticket Office queue at 1 PM on a Monday in June

The Eiffel Tower is the most crowded during the summer months of June, July and August. During these months, expect wait times to get longer, faster. Even if you arrive early and get to the summit quickly, you may still experience waits for descending elevators. The waits will still be shorter earlier in the day than later.

Weather can also impact wait times. If the weather is less than ideal, you can comfortably plan to arrive within the first hour of opening and still experience minimal waits. (NOTE: The tower doesn’t typically close for poor weather, but extreme weather can cause disruptions and occasional closures.)

In our personal experience, we arrived one hour after open on a cloudy Monday in June and barely waited in any lines. However, by the time we were leaving, lines for the elevator to the summit were already quite long.

The official Eiffel Tower website has great crowd information which can help you plan for and avoid busy times. There’s also a handy live crowded tracker on their homepage .

As your Paris travel plans begin to take shape, start thinking about how your visit to the Eiffel Tower will fit into your itinerary.

In this section, we’ll breeze through some planning questions to help you pick the best month, day and time to visit the Eiffel Tower.

When is the Eiffel Tour Open?

The Eiffel Tower is open every day of the year except one — the Eiffel Tower is closed on Bastille Day on July 14. Unlike most museums in Paris that close on Tuesdays, the Eiffel Tower is open every day of the week.

On most days of the year, the Eiffel Tower opens at 9 AM. During parts of May and June it opens at 9:30 AM, so be sure to check the official hours before your visit.

What’s the best time to visit the Eiffel Tour?

The summer months and weekends are the most popular times at the Eiffel Tower. According to their website , the Eiffel Tower is the busiest from late June through early September. It’s more crowded on weekends versus weekdays, and it reaches its peak daily crowds between 11 AM – 5 PM.

If you’re looking to avoid some of the peak crowds, try targeting shoulder season in April/May and September/October. You do face a greater chance of poor weather during the spring and fall months, though. Be sure to set your expectations accordingly.

When considering specific days, we suggest visiting the Eiffel Tower on a Tuesday if possible. Most other museums are closed on Tuesdays, so it’s a great way to fill an otherwise quiet tourism day in the city. It’s also one of the least crowded days at the Eiffel Tower.

I personally believe that nothing beats Paris in the Fall. The weather is crisp, the foliage is delightful, and the fashion is on point. I would suggest visiting the Eiffel Tower on a Tuesday morning in early October for the ideal visit.

Should you go to the Eiffel Tower during the day or at night?

Day and night at the Eiffel Tower are two completely different experiences. Daytime at the Eiffel Tower will offer the clearest views of the city, but they don’t call Paris the City of Lights for nothing. The evening view from the top of the Eiffel Tower can be spectacular, too.

Personally, we would recommend daytime at the Eiffel Tower. Specifically, we recommend visiting in the early morning. The daylight allows you to find Paris landmarks around the city and appreciate the pops of color from the parks around town.

Of course the Eiffel Tower at night is magical, too. From sundown till 1 AM, the Eiffel Tower lights up with a sparkling light show. The best way to appreciate the glistening Eiffel Tower at night, though, is from the ground, not inside the tower.

If you want to see the Eiffel Tower at night, we suggest finding a spot at Trocadero Gardens at dusk. It has the best view of the tower and is the perfect place to relax after a long day in Paris.

How long does it take to visit the Eiffel Tower?

Depending on when you visit and how high up you go, a trip to the Eiffel Tower can take anywhere from 2 – 4 hours.

We suggest spending 30-60 minutes at the summit and another 30 minutes each on the second and first floors. If you’re planning on dining, we suggest eating on the first floor for the shortest waits. Lunch can take another 30-60 minutes.

In a perfect world, we’d spend two hours at the Eiffel Tower, but that does not account for wait times. Buffer in an extra 1-2 hours for queues at the ticket office and elevators.

To be safe, we would recommend blocking off 4-5 hours in your day for a leisurely visit to the Eiffel Tower. It might not take that long, but you don’t want to be rushing through it.

• Visit the Eiffel Tower from top to bottom . If you have a summit ticket, start by going all the way to the top and working your way down. This will help ensure you have the shortest waits and least crowded experience on each floor. It’s also the easiest way to access all of the floors via elevator.
• Take the stairs down from the second floor . The lines to take the elevator down can be long, but the waits for the stairs are usually low or non-existent. Even if you have an elevator ticket, you’re still allowed to take the stairs down if you choose. If you’re able to take the stairs, it’s a great way to cut out a few lines.
• Buy souvenirs and food on the first floor . There are souvenir shops on the first and second levels, and a coin press at the summit. The store on the first floor is the least crowded and has mostly the same items available as the upper floors, even the summit souvenir coin. Cafe lines are also much shorter on the first floor and the options are similar.
• Take advantage of imperfect weather. Don’t be deterred if it’s a little cloudy on the day you visit the Eiffel Tower. In fact, it will keep crowds down and might actually be better! We visited on a cloudy day and the views were still incredible.
• Buy your tickets from the ticket office near Entrance 2 . There are two entrances at the Eiffel Tower, each with a ticket office nearby. The ticket office near Entrance 1 (south pillar) is more crowded, because that’s the more popular entrance. Head to the ticket office near the eastern pillar by Entrance 2 for a shorter line.

Closing Thoughts

I’m not going to lie, I was not excited about visiting the Eiffel Tower. Reports of huge crowds and long lines made it sound awful. I also like my views of Paris to include the Eiffel Tower, which I wasn’t going to get from the Eiffel Tower.

I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised by my Eiffel Tower experience. With an early arrival and weekday visit, the crowds were very low. This made the our visit low stress and super easy.

The open air observation deck at the summit feels like you’re at the top of the world. I’ve been to the top of a lot of tall buildings, but nothing quite compares to standing on that tiny observation deck at the top of the Eiffel Tower.

While I didn’t expect to love a Paris view without the Eiffel Tower in it, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t impressed. The sweeping views highlight the sheer size of the city of Paris and it’s fun to hunt down all the other icons.

The view from the second floor was way better than I expected, too. Some things (like Montmartre) were even more impressive from the second floor than from the top.

It was a real bucket-list moment that I didn’t expect to love, but did. I definitely don’t think I’d have loved it as much if I had to wait in line for 3 hours, though.

At the end of the day, I would say that a visit to the Eiffel Tower is absolutely worth it. It’s definitely something worth doing once in a lifetime in the City of Lights. I’m not sure I’ll do it again, but I’m glad I did it once.

Want even more great views of Paris, including a great view of the Eiffel Tower herself? Consider a visit to the top of Montparnasse Tower , too!

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• Best Views of Paris that Aren’t the Eiffel Tower
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Visiting the Eiffel Tower: Highlights

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Lisa Alexander has lived in France, and visited the Eiffel Tower most recently in the spring of 2023.

The world's most-visited tourist attraction has caused a stir ever since it first appeared in Paris over a century ago.

When it was presented at the Exposition Universelle in 1889, visitors were awestruck. No one had ever seen a building this tall or this modern. Nearly two million people made the journey to attend the exposition over several months. Some came just to get a glimpse of the tower. Other brave souls climbed the stairs all the way to the top, which, at that time, required 1,710 steps!

Today, the Eiffel Tower receives around seven million visitors every year. This must-see monument is well-designed to welcome tourists. However, it helps to come prepared for your visit.

To avoid waiting in line, purchase your ticket(s) in advance. Also, consider how much time you'd like to spend here. Giving yourself several hours at the Eiffel Tower allows you to enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants and to go all the way to the top of the tower.

Though the tower was only meant to last for 20 years, it has become the most recognized feature of the Paris skyline. For tourists, visiting this icon is often a highlight of their trip to Paris.

Pillars of the Eiffel Tower

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The esplanade at the base of the Eiffel Tower is dominated by four massive pillars, which support the entire weight of the 10,100-ton monument. Gustave Eiffel's engineers Emile Nouguier and Maurice Koechlin worked on mathematical principles to ensure stability.

Because the tower's weight is so well-distributed throughout the framework, the curved base succeeds at securing the structure even in extreme winds. At the ground level, the pressure exerted is only four kilograms per square centimeter, roughly the same weight distribution of a normal-sized adult on the seat of a chair.

The gigantic pillars provide a striking first impression. Much larger than one would expect, the pillars are spacious enough to hold staircases and elevators.

To enter the esplanade and then ascend the Eiffel Tower, you will need a ticket for a specific entrance time. It's recommended to purchase your ticket in advance . Arrive 15 minutes prior to the ticket time.

You may enter the esplanade at the East entrance (from the Avenue de Suffren, walk into the gardens at Rue Buenos-Ayres) or at the South entrance (from the Avenue de la Bourdonnais, walk into the gardens at Rue de l'Université).

Tip: The East entrance is usually less crowded.

To take the elevator to the first and second floors, go to the East Pillar (Pilier Est) or West Pillar (Pilier Ouest). The East Pillar and West Pillar have ticket offices , where you can purchase tickets on the spot (if you did not pre-purchase a ticket). However, keep in mind that you will have to wait in line (and ticket lines can be very long).

If you prefer to climb the stairs (up to the first and second floors) should head to the South Pillar (Pilier Sud) ticket office , where tickets for the stairs can be purchased on the spot. The ticket line is usually not as long when you take the stairs, as compared to the elevator.

The gardens around the Eiffel Tower's esplanade have been recently updated with romantic landscaping. You can admire the lush greenery while waiting in line to enter the tower.

Tip: the East entrance in the gardens is usually less crowded than the South entrance.

The esplanade has a food & beverage kiosk and a buffet-style cafeteria, where you can grab snacks or have a casual meal before exploring the Eiffel Tower. There are also cafeterias on the 1st floor and 2nd floor of the tower.

You can choose to ride the elevator or walk up 360 steps to the 1st floor . At an altitude of 57 meters , the 1st floor floats just above the Paris monuments and provides the perfect viewing platform to appreciate the city's architecture.

Designed with a transparent floor and glass pavilions, the 1st floor features more than 2,000 square meters of outdoor space. There is an open-air terrace with a snack bar, where you can relax and take in the sensational panoramas.

This level has public restrooms; a souvenir shop with many products that are made in France; a buffet-style cafeteria that serves sweets, snacks, and quick meals; and a restaurant, Madame Brasserie , which serves modern French cuisine prepared from seasonal local ingredients.

At an altitude of 125 meters , the 2nd floor offers awe-inspiring vistas of the Paris cityscape. The buildings along the Seine River can be easily distinguished, whereas the 1st level has less perspective, and on the top of the Eiffel Tower, the sights appear small in the distance.

You can take the elevator or climb 344 steps to reach the 2nd floor , which has public restrooms, two gift shops, a buffet-style cafeteria , and a macaron shop. The viewing platform includes telescopes for admiring the scene of Paris. You can see the Louvre, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the meandering Seine River, and Montmartre in the distance.

For gastronomic dining with unforgettable view, try the Michelin-starred Le Jules Verne restaurant. Blending classic French culinary heritage with a contemporary twist, the restaurant presents tantalizing multi-course menus. When arriving at the Eiffel Tower, guests may take the private elevator from the South Pillar that leads directly to the restaurant.

Not for the faint of heart or for those with a fear of heights, the top floor of the Eiffel Tower stands at a dizzying altitude of 276 meters . (The summit with its radio antenna is several meters higher.) To arrive at the top level, you must take the elevator from the second level.

There is a small viewing area inside under a roof and another viewing platform in the open air. From this thrilling vantage point, the astonishing panoramas extend as far as 70 kilometers on a clear day. Paris' monuments look small from this height.

The top level includes Gustave Eiffel's office , which appears exactly as it did when Gustave Eiffel worked here. Wax models show Gustave Eiffel and his daughter Claire meeting with Thomas Edison.

Also on display is the 1:50 scale model of the Eiffel Tower's top floor , which was created in 1889 and shows a previous version of the floor plan.

In the evening, the Eiffel Tower is among the most magical places to visit in Paris. Special lighting effects lend a romantic glow.

At sunset, Golden Lighting illuminates the tower from lamps placed inside the tower's framework. The Golden Lighting was created by electrician and engineer Pierre Bideau in 1985.

Since the year 2000, the tower has featured a dazzling light show that is superimposed on the Golden Lighting. Every night, on the hour from sundown until 11:45pm at night, a Beacon light is cast in a 360-degree rotation, and Sparkling Lights glitter for five minutes.

The Sparkling Lights system is made up of 20,000 light bulbs and required 25 mountain climbers to install over a five-month period. Efficient six-watt light bulbs reduce the energy consumption, making the show more sustainable.

If you are looking for the perfect photo-op with the Eiffel Tower in the background, there are two excellent options: the Place du Trocadéro and the Champ de Mars.

Across the river from the Eiffel Tower, the Place du Trocadéro offers a gorgeous viewpoint. This expansive balcony provides a wide open space and enough distance from the Eiffel Tower to capture the ideal photo.

Closer to the tower, the Champ de Mars allows you to take photos right next to the monument or a little farther away, depending on where the snapshots are taken in the park.

From either of these locations, it is easy to take photos that will become much-cherished memories of the visit. The ideal time to take a photo in front of the Eiffel Tower is in the morning or late afternoon.

The Eiffel Tower presides over the Left Bank of the Seine River in Paris' 7th arrondissement, a chic quartier (neighborhood) with tree-lined avenues and classy Haussmann buildings. As residential neighborhoods, the 7th and the nearby 16th arrondissements give visitors a taste of fashionable Parisian life. Tourists can immerse themselves in the local ambience at sidewalk cafés, open-air markets, and old-time French restaurants.

Luxury Hotels :

• Parisian sophistication and chic contemporary style define the four-star Pullman Paris Eiffel Tower , which is just steps away from the Eiffel Tower and the Seine River. The sleek guest rooms are outfitted with coffee machines and luxuries such as slippers and robes. Many rooms have private balconies, and some rooms have windows that frame the Iron Lady. Amenities include a concierge, room service, and fitness center.
• In the category of hotels overlooking the Eiffel Tower, the Shangri-La Paris Hotel boasts the most stunning views. This lavish five-star hotel in the 16th arrondissement occupies the former residence of Prince Roland Bonaparte. Guest rooms feature classical French decor with sweeping outlooks onto the Eiffel Tower or the Jardins du Trocadéro. Amenities include a pampering spa, indoor swimming pool, and three restaurants.
• The ultimate in luxury and refinement, The Peninsula Paris is an opulent five-star hotel on a quiet residential street in the 16th arrondissement, within easy walking distance of the Eiffel Tower. The minimalistic guest rooms feature fine bed linens, marble-accented bathrooms, and state-of-the-art entertainment centers. The hotel has a spa, fitness center, indoor pool, and six restaurants including one on the rooftop terrace.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Tucked away on a side street just a few steps from the Champ de Mars park and the Eiffel Tower, the Hôtel de Londres Eiffel appeals to travelers who prefer boutique accommodations. This four-star hotel has a quaint interior decorated in a cheerful style with classic French touches. The cozy guest rooms are outfitted with coffee machines and l'Occitane toiletries; some rooms have Eiffel Tower views.
• The Hôtel La Bourdonnais , across from the Champ de Mars and a short walk from the Eiffel Tower, provides four-star accommodations with a cosmopolitan vibe. This classy boutique hotel has an inviting library and breakfast room where a French-style petit dejeuner buffet is served. The plush interior features rich colors and travel-themed accents. Guest rooms include coffee machines, slippers, bathrobes, and fancy toiletries.
• Nestled in a peaceful residential area, the Hôtel Villa Saxe Eiffel is within easy walking distance of the Champ de Mars and the Eiffel Tower. This four-star hotel offers top-notch amenities: a concierge, fitness center, café, snack bar, and room service. Decorated in a chic contemporary style, the guest rooms feature complimentary coffee and tea and Fragonard toiletries. A typical French breakfast buffet is available.
• The three-star Hôtel Le Cercle - Tour Eiffel is found on a pleasant tree-lined street in a lively residential area near the Eiffel Tower and the Champ de Mars. Tourists will appreciate the wide selection of cafés, restaurants, and shops nearby on the Avenue de la Motte-Picquet. The hotel's spacious guest rooms feature sophisticated decor and flat-screen televisions. Amenities include concierge services and a generous breakfast buffet.

Budget Hotels :

• The three-star Hôtel Eiffel Rive Gauche is found in a charming area of the 7th arrondissement, just a short walk from the Champ de Mars and close to shops and restaurants on the Rue Saint-Dominique and the Rue de Grenelle. The guest rooms are small but stylish and up-to-date. One of the rooms has a view of the Eiffel Tower, while others look out onto the Parisian rooftops. A continental-style breakfast buffet is available.
• In the 7th arrondissement, the Hôtel de France Invalides faces the gilded dome of Les Invalides (about a 15-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower). The cozy guest rooms feature vibrant decor and updated bathrooms. Some of the rooms have views of the Invalides dome. For those traveling alone, the single-person rooms are a good deal. A gourmet breakfast buffet is available.
• On a quiet street behind the bustling Rue Saint-Dominique, the Hôtel de la Tour Eiffel is in a fabulous location near the Eiffel Tower. This two-star hotel has a 24-hour front desk and paid parking available nearby.

• Les Ombres (27 Quai Branly) is a hidden gem on the garden rooftop terrace of the Musée du Quai Branly. In this sublime setting, the dining room delivers impressive panoramas of the Paris cityscape with the Eiffel Tower at center stage. The restaurant serves contemporary French cuisine for dinner. It's a wonderful choice for a romantic dinner near the Eiffel Tower.
• Ducasse sur Seine (19 Port Debilly) delivers a memorable dining experience on a Seine River cruise, with multi-course seasonal menus featuring the refined cuisine of famous chef Alain Ducasse. Options include two-hour lunch cruises and dinner cruises. The cruises board at Port Debilly, a short walk from the Eiffel Tower across the Pont d'Iéna (bridge).
• L'Ami Jean (27 Rue Malar) is an acclaimed restaurant just a short walk from the Champ de Mars and Eiffel Tower. The restaurant serves classic French cuisine in an intimate dining space.
• Restaurant Auguste (54 Rue de Bourgogne) is a Michelin-starred establishment that delights guests with its delicate haute cuisine based on traditional French techniques. Open Monday through Friday for lunch and dinner, this sophisticated gastronomic restaurant is a short walk from the Eiffel Tower, past Les Invalides and the Musée Rodin.
• Café Lignac (139 Rue Saint-Dominique) presents the refined cuisine of chef Cyril Lignac in an intimate dining room. This small but upscale restaurant offers a menu of Parisian classics.
• Astrance (32 Rue de Longchamp) is about a 20-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower across the Seine River in the 16th arrondissement. In an airy contemporary-style dining room, the restaurant specializes in contemporary French cuisine with hints of Far East flavors.
• La Fontaine de Mars (129 Rue Saint-Dominique) is tucked away in a quiet courtyard off the bustling street, just steps away from the Champ de Mars and the Eiffel Tower. Opened in 1908, this atmospheric, traditional establishment is one of the oldest bistros in Paris. The restaurant serves old-fashioned French cuisine for lunch and dinner.
• Le Violon d'Ingres (135 Rue Saint-Dominique) is a chic fine-dining restaurant managed by the renowned Parisian chef Christian Constant. The restaurant has earned a Michelin star thanks to its elegant ambience, impeccable service, and superb culinary offerings prepared from seasonal ingredients. The restaurant is open every day for lunch and dinner.
• Arpège (84 Rue de Varenne) treats guests to a gastronomic experience in a sleek modern dining room, which is open Monday through Friday for lunch and dinner (closed on weekends). Boasting three Michelin stars, the restaurant has its own organic gardens to supply fresh seasonal produce. The location next to Les Invalides is a bit of a walk from the Eiffel Tower but can be taken as a leisurely jaunt through the 7th arrondissement.
• David Toutain (29 Rue Surcouf) wows guests with its sensational multi-course menus. With creative and contemporary flair, this upscale yet casual restaurant offers avant-garde cuisine prepared from the finest ingredients. The restaurant has two Michelin stars.
• Brasserie Thoumieux (79 Rue Saint-Dominique) is a classic Parisian brasserie with red-velvet-upholstered banquettes and Art Deco lamps. This brasserie dates back to 1923, the Jazz Age, and today presents musical performances on the weekend evenings.

• Le Petit Cler (29 Rue Cler) is a quaint bistro restaurant that serves simple, traditional French dishes at reasonable prices. The restaurant has a cozy dining room, full of old-fashioned charm, and a sunny terrace for enjoying meals al fresco. Le Petit Cler is open everyday for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Café du Marché (38 Rue Cler) draws many locals who enjoy the reasonably priced bistro menu, which is one of the best deals in Paris. Besides its dinner options, the café also offers coffee, croissants, and other snacks. On warm days, the sidewalk terrace is an inviting place to savor a meal while soaking up the neighborhood ambience.
• Café Central (Rue Cler) is another classic French restaurant on Rue Cler that serves high-quality cuisine in a cozy dining room. The menu includes a mix of French classics, Italian appetizers and pasta, and American favorites such as cheeseburgers.
• Bistro Saint Dominique (131 Rue Saint-Dominique) is an inviting French bistro on the bustling Rue Saint-Dominique. The menu includes classic French bistro dishes and some Italian specialties. The restaurant has a pleasant outdoor terrace in a quiet courtyard.
• Le Bistro Parisien (Port de la Bourdonnais) has spectacular outdoor terrace seating by the Seine River banks and a dining room that overlooks the Eiffel Tower. The restaurant focuses on seasonal French cuisine and is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner. This restaurant is one of the most scenic places to eat near the Eiffel Tower.
• Les Deux Abeilles (189 Rue de l'Université), a short walk from the Eiffel Tower, provides a relaxing retreat in a dainty dining room decorated with floral wallpaper and handsome antiques. The restaurant/tea salon serves brunch, lunch, and afternoon tea.
• Pottaka (4 Rue de l'Exposition), a few blocks from the Champ de Mars, is a casual restaurant that serves simple, fresh cuisine including innovative takes on classic French dishes and specialties of the Basque region. The restaurant offers outdoor dining on the terrace (or to-go meals) from Wednesday through Sunday for lunch, dinner, and tapas.
• Zia (22 Avenue de Tourville) is a family-run coffee shop and eatery that serves American-style breakfast, brunch, and lunch. With its light, market-fresh cuisine and friendly atmosphere, this friendly neighborhood spot is a great place for a casual meal break near the Eiffel Tower. They also offer gourmet "picnics to-go" that may be ordered ahead of time.
• Bistrot Le Champ de Mars (45 Avenue de la Bourdonnais) serves up a traditional French bistro cuisine, along with international favorites, in a quintessential 1940s Parisian-style dining space. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this stylish bistro is in the heart of the 7th arrondissement just 400 meters from the Eiffel Tower.
• Les Cocottes (135 Rue Saint-Dominique) caters to locals and tourists seeking a trendy ambience and hearty cooking. This stylish little bistro serves classic French dishes for lunch and dinner (Tuesday through Saturday).
• Brasserie Le Suffren (84 Avenue de Suffren), just steps away from the Champ de Mars, is a typical French brasserie that serves affordably priced, traditional French cuisine in a contemporary-style dining room or on the pleasant outdoor terrace.

• Maison Bergeron (112 Rue Saint-Dominique) is a destination for croissants, bread, sandwiches, and traditional pâtisserie specialties such as macarons, fruit tarts, eclairs, cannelés , and mousse cake.
• Maison Le Roux (52 Rue Saint-Dominique) makes visitors swoon over its handmade chocolate truffles, caramels, and other sweets. This artisanal boutique is also a great place to pick up gift boxes of chocolate candies to bring home.
• Jean-Paul Hévin (23 Bis, Avenue de la Motte-Picquet) is another artisanal chocolatier that offers chocolate truffles, chocolate bars, macarons, and chocolate cakes. Tourists will also appreciate the boxed chocolates and creative gift items.
• Lenôtre (36 Avenue de la Motte-Picquet) is one of the finest pâtisserie shops in Paris with a wide selection of artisan chocolates, classic French pastries, macarons, and decadent desserts.
• À la Mère de Famille (35 Rue Cler) holds the distinction of being the oldest chocolaterie in Paris. Founded in 1761, this esteemed chocolate shop creates chocolate truffles and other confections in the traditional artisanal manner. The boutique also sells cakes, macarons, and ice cream, as well as fancy gift boxes filled with the house specialties.

• Avenue de la Motte-Picquet , just a short walk from the Champ du Mars, is lined with exquisite pâtisserie shops, artisan chocolate boutiques, high-end retail boutiques, trendy restaurants, and tempting pâtisserie shops.
• Rue Cler is a pedestrian street where open-air markets are held daily in the morning. This street in the 7th arrondissement is well known by locals as a place to shop for high-quality groceries and gourmet specialty foods. There are also authentic French restaurants, bistros, cheese shops, bakeries, colorful flower boutiques, and chocolate shops (including two renowned Parisian chocolatier s: Alain Ducasse and À la Mère de Famille).
• Saxe-Breteuil Market is an open-air farmers market in the 7th arrondissement, where locals shop for fresh produce. It's also a good place for tourists to pick up supplies for a picnic.
• Rue de Grenelle near the Champ de Mars also has many casual restaurants, cafés, bakeries, retail shops, and grocery stores (handy for those who want to pick up picnic supplies).
• Rue de Passy : A short walk from the Eiffel Tower across the Seine River, the Rue de Passy, in the chic 16th arrondissement, is an upscale bourgeois address. The street is brimming with clothing stores, jewelry boutiques, enticing chocolate shops, and bakeries.
• Avenue Montaigne in the 16th arrondissement is the go-to shopping street for fashionistas in search of the latest designer clothes. This elegant avenue is lined with haute-couture fashion boutiques such as Chanel, Christian Dior, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Valentino.
• Beaugrenelle Shopping Center (12 Rue Linois) in the neighboring 15th arrondissement is about a 20-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower. Open every day, this multi-purpose shopping center is filled with fashion boutiques, home decor stores, restaurants, cafés, and sweet shops. The center also has a state-of-the-art cinema that screens the latest film premieres.

• Scenic Cruise on the Seine River: For many tourists, a Seine River cruise is a highlight of their Paris vacation. Docked on the Seine River near the Eiffel Tower are several companies that offer boat tours, including Bateaux Parisiens (Port de la Bourdonnais) and Vedettes de Paris (Port de Suffren). Another option is a Paris Sightseeing Tour that includes a Seine River cruise and skip-the-line entry to the Eiffel Tower.
• Picnic on the Champ de Mars : In the shadow of the Iron Lady, this expansive green space offers inspiring views. The spacious lawn is a popular spot among locals for picnics. Tourists can pick up a baguette, cheese, and other picnic foods on Rue Cler, Rue Saint-Dominque, or Rue de Grenelle, which have traditional bakeries and cheese shops. The Avenue de Suffren, parallel to the park, has a couple of supermarkets.
• Visit the Musée du Quai Branly : Considered one of the top museums in Paris , the Musée du Quai Branly displays ethnic art from all over the world. The wide-ranging collection, from African tribal masks to Japanese drawings, is sure to expand horizons. This museum is one of the best places to visit in Paris to learn about the art and civilizations of various regions in Africa, the Americas, Asia, and Oceana.
• Stroll in Trocadéro Gardens : A leisurely ramble through the Jardins du Trocadéro gives tourists a chance to admire the Eiffel Tower in all its glory. The spacious fountain-adorned gardens provide the perfect perspective of the Iron Lady's graceful metal structure. During the day, this is a favorite spot for photo ops. In the evening, the garden's 20-cannon fountains are illuminated, creating a breathtaking scene.
• Amusing Activities for Kids : At the foot of the Eiffel Tower, the Carrousel de la Tour Eiffel (on the Promenade Quai Branly) is a double-decker merry-go-round that kids will adore. In the Jardins du Trocadero, the Aquarium de Paris dazzles kids with colorful fish from all over the world. The Champ de Mars has an old-fashioned Théâtre de Marionnettes (puppet theater) that presents enchanting fairy-tale stories (French language only).
• Learn About France's Military History : About a 15-minute walk away from the Eiffel Tower is one of the top tourist attractions of Paris . The Hôtel National des Invalides, also known as Les Invalides, was created by King Louis XIV as a hospital for disabled war veterans. The 17th-century building continues to operate as a hospital for injured soldier and also houses the Musée de l'Armée (Army Museum), as well as the Eglise du Dôme (Church of the Dome) that contains the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte.
• Tours of the Eiffel Tower: To avoid an hours' long wait, tourists can book an Eiffel Tower Skip the Line 2nd Level Access Ticket . This one-hour tour whisks participants ahead of the crowds and straight up to the Eiffel Tower's second level, where a tour guide shares interesting details about the Eiffel Tower and the Paris landmarks seen from viewing platform.
• Paris Sightseeing Tours : A more comprehensive sightseeing tour, the Eiffel Tower Priority Access Summit Option with Seine River Cruise and City Tour is a four-hour itinerary that includes skip-the-line access to the Eiffel Tower, a Seine River Cruise, and a coach tour of Paris' beautiful boulevards and historic monuments.
• Tickets: Prices vary depending on the type of visit. A lift ticket to the first and second floors is more expensive than a stairs ticket to the same levels. The ticket cost also increases if it includes access to the top of the tower. To avoid waiting in line, you can buy lift tickets online two months in advance and up to three hours before your visit.
• Discount Tickets : Discount ticket prices are available for children age four to 11, and youth under 24 years old. Admission is free for children age three and younger.
• Opening Hours : The Eiffel Tower is open year-round. For most of year, the hours are from 9:30am until midnight. During summertime, the hours are extended from 9:00am until 1:45am. More information about the Eiffel Tower opening hours is found on the official website.
• Avoiding the Crowds: With nearly seven million visitors a year, the Eiffel Tower is one of the most-visited tourist attractions in the world, so it gets crowded. The least crowded times are around 9am and after 6pm (in summer, the Eiffel Tower is open later in the evening).
• Climbing the Eiffel Tower: You can skip the elevator lines by taking the stairs, saving a few euros as well. Keep in mind that there are 360 steps to the first floor and another 344 steps (for a total of 704 steps) to the second floor. The top of the tower is not accessible by stairs.
• Watch Your Valuables: Pickpockets know that this is the top tourist attraction in Paris, and unfortunately, thefts occur here, especially in the crowded areas and elevators. Be sure to attach a camera strap to avoid dropping it from the viewing platforms.
• Accessibility: The 1st floor and 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower are wheelchair-accessible by elevator. The top of the Eiffel Tower (third level) is not accessible to wheelchair users. Tip: At the ticketing entrance at the base of the Eiffel Tower, the Groups Counter at the West Pillar (Pilier Ouest) provides faster service to visitors with disabilities.
• Getting to the Eiffel Tower: The nearest Métro stations are Bir-Hakeim, Trocadéro, Iéna, and Passy. The RER train stops at the Champ de Mars - Tour Eiffel station. The most relaxing way to arrive is by Batobus (a boat that makes nine stops along the Seine River), which drops passengers off at the Port de la Bourdonnais, within easy walking distance of the Eiffel Tower.
• Parking : The most convenient parking near the Eiffel Tower is at the Parking Pullman Tour Eiffel lot (18 avenue de Suffren) just 300 meters away from the entrance to the monument. Another option is the Parking Quai Branly lot (25 Quai Branly), 500 meters away from the Eiffel Tower.
• La Tour Eiffel, Champ de Mars, 75007 Paris
• https://www.toureiffel.paris/en

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More on France

Ticket to the Second Floor via the Stairs

Advantages of the stairs ticket to the second floor.

A spectacular visit experience

With your ticket to the second floor via the stairs in hand, you are completely free to explore the heart of the Tower’s structure. All the charm of Gustave Eiffel's creation and the beauty of the whole of Paris will gradually be revealed as you climb the 674 steps.

It is also the cheapest and easiest option for visiting the Eiffel Tower: there's always room, you can book online in advance (staircase tickets go on sale 14 days in advance) or buy your tickets on site, and there is generally little or no waiting time at the entrance to the pillar. The ascent to the second floor via the stairs is accessible to all, except for parents with very small children and babies and people with reduced mobility.

The visit experience

Set... Go! Your ascent of the SOUTH pillar has begun! Don’t worry, you can climb at your own pace, the steps are large and you can take breaks. Take the opportunity to admire the metal structure of the Tower, read the informative panels and start to discover the Parisian skyline and the surrounding monuments. Allow 15 to 20 minutes to climb each floor.

02: Visit in complete liberty

Once on the first floor, you are free to organize your visit as you wish, whether you first explore the first floor or go directly up to the second. Remember that the first floor offers fantastic surprises and is absolutely worth discovering. You will find places to eat and drink on the terrace, in the bistro or Madame Brasserie, as well as museographic displays for learning more about the history of the Tower and a large shop.

03: Proud to reach the second floor!

After climbing the 674 steps, you can proudly say you’ve reached the second floor! The whole of Paris can be seen from the two levels on the second floor, so take time to admire the 360-degree view. You can also buy food and drink, let yourself be tempted by the Pierre Hermé Paris x Eiffel Tower macarons and browse the shops. In the evening, the second floor is the ideal place from which to admire the Tower's illuminations and sparkles. You will go back down via a different staircase, allowing you to enjoy different points of view.

Also available

Ticket to the Top via the Lift

Experience the most comprehensive visit of the Eiffel Tower!

Ticket to the Second Floor via the Lift

An amazing experience at the heart of the Tower

Ticket prices

Visit the Eiffel Tower up to the second floor in complete liberty and at your own pace for a maximum price of €11.30 (adult price, from 25 years old).

For all reduced-rate tickets, proof of eligibility may be asked for at the entrance to the monument.

• Adult : 11.80 euros
• Young from 12 to 24 : 5.90 euros
• Children from 4 to 11 : 3.00 euros
• Children under 4 : free

If you have chosen a time-stamped ticket, please arrive at the esplanade at the start of the time slot indicated on your ticket.

There is no left luggage service at the Eiffel Tower for strollers, bags, etc.

For those with a ticket to the second floor, it is not possible to purchase a supplement to the top on site. There is no such ticket.

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Paris in a Day Tour with Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Seine River Cruise

See the mona lisa, sacre-coeur, and moulin rouge with organized transportation and an expert guide.

Want to see the best of Paris in just one day? With long admission lines and attractions spread out over the city, this can be a real challenge. But don’t worry, this amazing tour makes it easy! Join a local guide to see the city’s iconic highlights, including the Louvre, Sacre-Cœur, Notre Dame, a Seine River Cruise, and the Eiffel Tower (entry times might fall outside of the tour time). With a small group, skip-the-line Louvre tickets, and transport, there’s no better way to see Paris in a day!

Skip the Line

• Meet your guide at Place des Abbesses
• Basilica of Sacré Coeur
• Ile de la Cite
• Lunch break
• Louvre Museum

Eiffel Tower

*IMPORTANT* This Paris in a Day tour includes a self-guided Eiffel Tower ticket. Your tour will end around 4pm, but the Eiffel Tower entry could be from 4pm to 10pm. Don't worry, we will contact you in advance with your unique entry time so you can plan. If the time doesn't work for you, you can modify your tour booking up to 24 hours before the tour! The Eiffel Tower comes alive at night-- it's even home to bars and restaurants! For later tickets, we recommend you Eiffel Tower Restaurants: Guide to Elevated Eating" title="rihanna a paris tour eiffel"> book a table, which may be a highlight of your trip!

You'll meet your guide this morning in the famous art district of Montmartre for a walking tour of this historic part of Paris, including a visit to the magnificent Basilica of Sacre-Cœur. Along with your small group, you'll continue to the city's literary heartland, the Latin Quarter, where your guide will tell stories of the famous writers who once called this place home. Here, you can also see the famous Notre Dame Cathedral from the outside—it's still undergoing repairs from the recent devastating fire, so entry isn't currently allowed.

Next, you'll catch the metro to the famous Louvre museum, home to the Mona Lisa and countless other iconic works. You'll skip the line at the Louvre so your super knowledgeable guide can show you the museum's highlights without the famously long wait. Finally, you'll cruise down the River Seine by boat, and finish you tour at France's most recognizable landmark : the Eiffel Tower. Learn the fascinating stories about the most iconic monument in Paris, before parting ways with your guide and using your entry ticket to ascend to the second floor, or enjoy a scenic river cruise on the Seine.

Paris in a Day Tour Description

Your 7-hour Paris tour includes: 

Guided walking tour of the Latin Quarter and Montmartre neighborhoods

Visit Sacre-Cœur and see Notre Dame Cathedral (from the outside)

Skip-the-line Louvre ticket and guided tour

Free time in Paris for lunch (not included)

Ticket for a 1-hour river cruise on the Seine

Entry tickets to the Eiffel Tower

Metro tickets included

A fun, professional English-speaking guide

A maximum group size of 18 people

Please note that the order of this tour could be different based on ticket times for the Louvre and Eiffel Tower.

Montmartre, Sacre-Cœur and the Latin Quarter

Home of the Moulin Rouge, Montmartre is Paris' famous art district. Your guide will show you the best of the neighborhood this morning, and you'll learn the best spots to return to if you're planning a big night out in the city. In addition to the nightlife of the neighborhood, Montmartre was also the epicenter of the Belle Époque.

Once home to Renoir, Van Gogh, Picasso, and Modigliani, the neighborhood produced countless famous pieces of art between the 1870s and 1920s. You will pass the café where Van Gogh painted one his most scandalous works—he dared to paint a woman reading!

After visiting the Basilica of the Sacre-Coeur, you'll follow your guide to the Latin Quarter. Montmartre is the center of art, but the Latin Quarter is the center of literature. You will see the café and bookstore where Hemingway and Joyce spent their ex-pat lives in Paris. Then, you can take photos of the magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral from the outside—sadly, the cathedral suffered a terrible fire in 2019 and is still being reconstructed.

Louvre Museum Tour

Skip past the famously long lines at the Louvre and see the museum's most influential works on a 90-minute tour of the Louvre. These works include the two of the most important Greek statues still standing: the Venus of Milo and The Winged Victory of Samothrace . These two famous statues are full of mystery and history, and you guide will bring them to life with stories of their meanings and origins. 

You'll also see Eugene Delacroix's Liberty Leading the People. A symbol of French independence, strength and culture, it is the most politically important work at the Louvre. The painting is the most famous artistic depiction of the French Revolution and is often compared to the Washington Crossing the Delaware piece found in New York at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

The Mystery Behind the Mona Lisa

Why is the Mona Lisa so famous? For starters, Mona Lisa’s expression has been often debated since its creation in the 16th century. Is she happy or sad or playful? Another intriguing thing about Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa is that it's the highest insured work of art at a whopping $800 million.

Leonardo Da Vinci's masterpiece (called La Gioconda in Italian), portrays the wife of a Tuscan aristocrat named Francesco del Giacondo. Though she has been in the Louvre for over 200 years, the portrait became famous when it was stolen in 1911 in a global scandal. Now she is protected with bulletproof glass and personal body guards.

Finally, led by your professional guide, you'll head to the pièce de résistance of this Paris in a Day Tour. The guide will regale you with tales of the tower's construction, its significance to the City of Light, and the initial public reactions to this daring design. After saying goodbye to your guide, with your tickets in hand, you will have the opportunity to savor the magic of the Eiffel Tower.

Paris by Boat

With your tickets in hand, sit back and relax with beautiful views along the Seine. Paris river cruises are a great way to take in the ambiance of the city and get a taste of the luxury that Paris is known for. Cruise around the city and get a new perspective on the iconic landmarks, including the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Notre Dame, and of course, the Eiffel Tower in all its glory.

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What you get with this tour

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256 total reviews

We had a great time and learned so much from our friendly guide, Ruth!

Aida was an excellent guide. This tour gave us everything we could hope for in one day in Paris. The only downside was the Eiffel Tour visit was at 930 pm, and we had tickets to a soccer match so we’re unable to include this in our tour as it could not be changed. Otherwise, an excellent day!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

This tour is primarily a walking tour, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes.

Is the Eiffel tower summit (top level) included on this tour?

Eiffel Tower second floor tickets are included in this tour. If you'd like to head to the coveted summit (with a stop at the second floor), check out our Eiffel Tower Summit Evening Tour .

What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?

If you have any doubts about your mobility, we suggest taking a Private Paris in a Day Tour so your needs can be better accommodated in terms of navigating attractions and the pace of the tour. Please note, Montmartre includes stairs and steep inclines, which may not be ideal for strollers or wheelchairs.

Can I use my Paris Museum Pass to get a discount on the Louvre tour?

We pre-book all of our reservations and tickets for the Louvre Museum in advance, so personal museum passes are not valid for entry or a discount.

How do we get around the city?

Your guided tour includes metro tickets to travel the longer distances between attractions. Other areas will be explored on foot, particularly Montmartre.

Will we enter Notre Dame?

Sadly, no. The cathedral is still undergoing extensive renovations following the 2019 fire, so no one is allowed inside yet. You'll be taken to it to see its progress up close though! And you can see it during your river cruise.

Do we enter the Eiffel Tower?

Yes, Eiffel Tower Tickets are included in this tour. Please note, entry times vary based on availability, meaning that the time of entry could be in the evening or the afternoon of the tour based on the day.

When can I take my Seine River Cruise?

Your tickets will be sent to you via email within 24 hours of your tour departure time. To redeem the boat tickets, please bring them to the Bateaux Parisiens boarding line. This is located below the Carousel at the Eiffel Tower, under the bridge to your right on the river. These tickets are valid for any date for boats between 10:30 am and 10:00 pm so you have lots of flexibility to enjoy this cruise during your time in Paris.

Free 24-hr cancellation on group tours! Learn more

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