Lattes and Runways

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.

guide tour eiffel paris

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.

guide tour eiffel paris

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.

guide tour eiffel paris

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.

guide tour eiffel paris

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.

guide tour eiffel paris

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.

guide tour eiffel paris

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.

guide tour eiffel paris

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.

guide tour eiffel paris

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.

guide tour eiffel paris

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.

guide tour eiffel paris

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.

guide tour eiffel paris

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.

guide tour eiffel paris

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.

guide tour eiffel paris

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.

guide tour eiffel paris

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.

guide tour eiffel paris

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.

guide tour eiffel 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.

guide tour eiffel paris

  • 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.

guide tour eiffel paris

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.

guide tour eiffel paris

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!

guide tour eiffel paris

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Savvy Travel Advice

Complete Guide to Visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris

Last updated: December 18, 2023 - Written by Jessica Norah 31 Comments

The Eiffel Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks, not just in Paris, but in the world. The iron tower is both an amazing feat of engineering and an inspiring symbol of the City of Lights. It’s a must see for all visitors to Paris.

The problem is, everyone else wants to visit the Eiffel Tower too! The Eiffel Tower is the most visited paid monument in the world and receives an average of 25,000 visitors a day! New security screenings can slow down the visiting process, and tickets often sell out. If you value your time, you’ll want to do a bit of pre-planning before visiting the Eiffel Tower.

We’ve visited the Eiffel Tower several times and our post has all the information you need to plan your visit to the Eiffel Tower, including how to get there, how to buy tickets, where to get the best views, how to book a guided tour, where to eat, and how to save time and money. We’ll also share tips on where to get the best photographs of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

Tour Eiffel Guide to Visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris France Eiffel Tower tips

Table of Contents:

Some Eiffel Tower Facts and History

Before we get started with how to plan your visit to the Eiffel Tower, we thought we’d share a brief history and some interesting facts about this iconic Parisian landmark. 

What is the Eiffel Tower?

The Eiffel Tower is a 1,083 foot tall (330 m) wrought iron lattice tower in Paris France. It’s both a marvel of 19th century engineering and a symbol of the city. A popular nickname for the tower is “La Dame de Fer” or “The Iron Lady”.

It is Paris’ most famous and most visited tourist attraction. Every day thousands of visitors flock to the tower to enjoy the marvelous views from the top and the evening light shows.

The Eiffel Tower is composed of three levels, the 1st floor, 2nd floor, and the summit (top level). The first floor has museum exhibits, a glass floor, changing exhibitions, souvenir shops, and restaurants. The second floor has more eateries and shops, the Jules Verne restaurant, and an observation area.

The summit is primarily an observation area that is 276 meters (905 feet) above the ground, making it the highest observation deck in Europe. The top floor is split across two levels and you’ll also find a champagne bar and a recreation of Gustave Eiffel’s office.

In addition to being used as a tourist attraction, the Eiffel Tower has long been used as a communications tower. Today, it is still used to transmit both radio and digital television signals.

Who Built the Eiffel Tower?

The Eiffel Tower takes its name from the primary engineer of the firm who created the design for the structure, Gustave Eiffel . Gustave Eiffel was a French civil engineer who also built the framework for the equally iconic Statue of Liberty in New York City.

Eiffel did not design the tower himself; the design for the tower was created primarily by two of his employees Maurice Koechlin and  Émile Nouguier . The design of the tower was inspired by the former wooden Latting Observatory Tower in New York City, but with greater attention paid to both form and beauty.

The Eiffel Tower is made from wrought iron (puddled iron to be more specific) and is the most famous example of a lattice, or free-standing framework, tower. At the time of its construction it was quite a daring design due to its delicate form and economy of design.

Today you can pay homage to Gustave Eiffel by checking out a bronze bust of Eiffel at the base of the north leg of the tower that was created by French sculptor  Antoine Bourdelle in 1929. You can also see a restored version of Eiffel’s office with wax figures at the very top of the Eiffel Tower.

Why was the Eiffel Tower built?

The tower was commissioned as a centerpiece of the World’s Fair ( Exposition Universelle ) of 1889 held in Paris. The design for the Eiffel Tower was selected from over 100 proposals. The tower was not meant to serve any practical purpose, it was merely to impress visitors as they entered the fair and to show off the technological skills of the French.

Construction of the tower began July 1, 1887 and took only 22 months. This was an amazing speed given the building practices of the day. When it opened it had three restaurants and a bar on the first floor. It was initially painted a reddish-brown color.

Originally the tower was only supposed to stand for 20 years, and part of the selection criteria for the building for the Exposition Universelle was that it would be easy to disassemble. However, by 1909 the tower was so well liked and useful for communications that the government decided to keep it.

The Eiffel Tower celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2014!

Gustave Eiffel office Eiffel Tower travel guide

Why is the Eiffel Tower so popular?

While the tower’s construction was initially controversial, over time it has become the most iconic structure in Paris. In fact, it is one of the most well-known buildings in the entire world.

People flock to the Eiffel Tower to take pictures in front of its classic facade, to enjoy the amazing views from the observation decks inside, and to see its dazzling nightly light shows. It’s also the focal point of many important events, including Paris’ Bastille Day and New Year’s fireworks celebrations.

The Eiffel Tower is not just an important architectural landmark, it’s a cultural symbol that has appeared in hundreds of books, television shows, video games, posters, and movies. It has been used in hundreds of films as a way of letting the audience know that a scene is taking place in the City of Lights without having to state it.

Interesting Facts about the Eiffel Tower?

  • At the time of its construction the Eiffel Tower was the tallest man-made structure in the world, surpassing the Washington Monument by over 100 meters. It remained the tallest building until 1930, when the Chrysler Building in New York City was completed.
  • The Eiffel Tower is composed of over 18,000 metallic parts , including 7,300 tons of iron. It’s held together by 2,500,000 rivets.
  • Not everyone has always loved the Eiffel Tower, and a group called The Committee of Three Hundred, composed mainly of French artists, writers, and intellectuals, tried to have its construction stopped. Opponents at the time described it as “monstrous”, “vulgar”, and “useless”, and compared it to a “metal asparagus” and a “black smokestack”.
  • Gustave Eiffel built a personal office at the very top of the Eiffel Tower. The apartment has been restored and you can visit it on the top floor of the tower.
  • The tower is the most visited paid monument in the world, with approximately 7 million people paying for entrance annually. Since 1889, it has hosted over 300 million visitors!
  • The Eiffel Tower has to be repainted by hand about every 7 years to prevent rust and damage by pollution, requiring about 60 tonnes of paint! The initial color of the Eiffel Tower was reddish brown and it changed over the years. The current “Eiffel Tower Brown” paint color has been used since 1968.
  • The Eiffel Tower has inspired buildings around the world . There are over a dozen near exact replicas (usually on a much smaller scale) around the world, including in China, Mexico, Russia, and several places in the United States. You can also find its influence in many buildings around the world, including the Tokyo Tower.
  • It takes 20,000 light bulbs to illuminate the Eiffel Tower. Originally the tower was lit by gas lamps until electric lights were installed in 1958.
  • An American woman, Erika Labrie , took such a love to the Parisian monument during her 2004 visit, that she “married” the Eiffel Tower in a commitment ceremony in 2007. She even changed her name to Erika Eiffel!
  • The Eiffel Tower continues to grow taller over time. The initial total tower height was 312 meters when it was completed but it has gotten taller due to the addition of various communications antennas. Its most recent height adjustment came in March 2022 when a new digital radio antenna was installed making the tower a total height of 1,083 feet (330 meters), adding 20 feet (6 meters) to its prior height of 1,063 feet (324 meters).

Guide to Visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris France Eiffel Tower tips

Planning your Visit to the Eiffel Tower in Paris

You definitely need a strategy for visiting one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, especially if you plan to visit in summer. Below you will find all the details you need to plan your trip, including how to get to the Eiffel Tower, how much it costs to visit, how to save time, and how to avoid the crowds at the Eiffel Tower.

Where is the Eiffel Tower Located?

The Eiffel Tower is located on the north end of the Champ de Mars, a large public park in the 7th arrondissement of Paris. You can find the tower at the intersection of the Quai Branly and the Pont d’Iéna.

Once you are within walking distance of the tower, it’s pretty hard to miss! In fact, as you explore Paris, you’ll probably find yourself getting glimpses of it from throughout the city.

How to Get to the Eiffel Tower in Paris?

There are a number of ways to reach the Eiffel Tower in Paris, including public transport, car, sightseeing bus, river boat, and day tours.

Eiffel Tower by Public Transport

This is probably the least stressful way to arrive at the Eiffel Tower because you don’t need to worry about parking or time restraints. You can easily get to the tower via Metro, RER commuter rail or public bus.

Eiffel Tower By Metro and RER

There are three metro stops and one RER commuter rail stop within walking distance of the tower:

  • Line 6 (Nation – Charles de Gaulle Etoile) stop: Bir-Hakeim (8 minute walk)
  • Line 9 (Pont de Sévres – Mairie de Montreuil) stop: Trocadéro (12 minute walk)
  • Line 8 (Balard – Créteil) stop: Ecole Militaire (15 minute walk)
  • RER Line C stop : Champ de Mars – Tour Eiffel (7 minute walk)

Eiffel Tower By Public Bus

There are several bus stops within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower:

  • Bus 82 , stops: “tour Eiffel” or “Champ de Mars” (5 minute walk)
  • Bus 42 , stop: “tour Eiffel” (5 minute walk)
  • Bus 87 , stop: “Champ de Mars” (6 minute walk)
  • Bus 69 , stop: “Champ de Mars” (6 minute walk)

Eiffel Tower by Sightseeing Bus

If you are planning to take a hop on, hop off bus while in Paris, all of them have routes that include a stop near the Eiffel Tower. Stops are usually noted as either “Eiffel Tower” or “Champ de Mars”. There are several sightseeing bus companies, which include Big Bus and  TootBus .

Note that a 1 day hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus ticket is included for those who have a Paris Pass .

If you are staying at Disneyland Paris, you can also take a tour which stops at the Eiffel Tower if you want to spend part of a day in the city center.

Eiffel Tower by River Boat

You can actually reach the Eiffel Tower by river if you are taking the hop-on, hop-off river cruise on the Batobus. One of the stops and main spots for embarkation is near the Eiffel Tower. It is about a 3 minute walk from the Tour Eiffel stop to the Eiffel Tower.

You can purchase tickets for the Batobus  online here  in advance or in person once in Paris.

Eiffel Tower by Car

If you are driving, there are several paid parking garages located near the Eiffel Tower:

  • Parking Pullman Tour Eiffel (18 avenue de Suffren) – 5 minute walk from Eiffel Tower
  • Parking Quai Branly (25 quai Branly) – 6 minute walk from Tower
  • Parking Bouvard (443 Avenue Joseph Bouvard) – 6 minute walk from Tower
  • Parking Sainte Dominique (133 rue Sainte Dominique) – 10 minute walk from Tower
  • Parking Joffre Ecole Militaire (2 place Joffre) – 12 minute walk

If you are going to be driving and parking in Paris, you can read more about parking guidelines and tips on the city’s website here .

Note that we don’t recommend driving in central Paris if it can be avoided. If you have a car while in Paris, you may instead wish to park it (parking garages further outside the city center are less expensive) and take public transportation to get around the city.

Eiffel Tower by Day Tour

If you’re staying outside of central Paris, it’s possible to visit the Eiffel Tower on a day tour into the city. Just be sure to check what is included in your tour and what kind of Eiffel Tower ticket is included (is it to the 1st, 2nd, or summit).

There are several day tours offered from London, for example:

  • This  tour from London via Eurostar includes a Paris sightseeing bus tour, a champagne lunch at the Eiffel Tower (Madame Brasserie, 1st floor), Seine cruise, and optional guided Louvre tour.
  • This full day tour by Eurostar includes a guided visit to the 2nd floor of Eiffel Tower with lunch, guided bus tour, Seine River cruise, and an optional Louvre museum visit.

Guide to Visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris France Eiffel Tower tips

What is there to See and Do at the Eiffel Tower?

Most people visit the Eiffel Tower because it is a world-famous landmark and to get the nice views over Paris. But you may be wondering what else there is to do at the tower.

We’ll give you an overview of the main things to do at the Eiffel Tower to help you plan your visit.

Esplanade of the Eiffel Tower

The esplanade is the area of the ground around the tower which is free to visit although you do need to pass through security to access this area. There are gift shops and fast service food options here, as well as the information center and ticket offices.

If you are on a really tight budget, this is a great place to go to get the free classic view of the Eiffel Tower from below. You can examine the architecture of the structure up close, check out the bronze bust of Gustave Eiffel sculpted by Bourdelle at the base of the north leg of the tower, and peek up at the 19th-century lift machines.

Guide to Visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris France Eiffel Tower tips

Eiffel Tower Gardens

Depending on which entrance you use, you’ll likely walk through the gardens on your way to the esplanade and to go up the Tower. The gardens were finished in 2018 and there are paths you can follow to explore the different highlights of the gardens which include trees, ponds, belvederes, and even a cave. The gardens offer different views of the tower.

There are fish in the ponds and they often attract birds like ducks and geese. You may even spot what is left of the red-brick chimney that once served to evacuate the steam from the machinery that once powered the Tour Eiffel’s elevators.

The gardens are located within the secure perimeter but are free to visit. We recommend having a short wander through before or after visiting the tower.

Eiffel Tower Gardens Eiffel Tower guide

First Floor of Eiffel Tower

The first floor of the tower features rotating cultural and educational exhibitions, a cinema projection, a section of the former spiral staircase, a children’s play area, and a unique transparent floor that allows you to see what’s happening below on the esplanade. There are also a variety of gift shops and dining options, including the Madame Brasserie restaurant (formerly the 58 Tour Eiffel).

You do get some nice city views from this level, but they are not as great as those you will get from the upper floors.

The first floor is accessible by stairs or the elevators. For those visiting by elevator, you will start your journey at the highest level of your ticket (2nd floor or summit) and then you can visit the 1st floor on your way down the tower.

This floor is often skipped by visitors taking the elevator but it is well worth a visit to get a different view and to visit the exhibits here.

Eiffel Tower First Floor Eiffel Tower Visitor Guide

Second Floor of Eiffel Tower

The highlight of the second floor of the Eiffel Tower is its large observation deck which provides stunning views over Paris. There are also a variety of gift shops and dining options, including fast service, a macaroon bar, and the Michelin-starred Jules Verne fine dining restaurant.

The 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower is accessible by stairs or the elevators. This is usually the busiest floor of the attraction.

Eiffel Tower guide second floor couple Paris Eiffel Tower guide

Summit of Eiffel Tower

The summit allows for a bird’s eye view over Paris and is the top floor that can be visited on the tower. There is also a champagne bar and the former office of Gustave Eiffel.

The top floor of the Eiffel Tower is accessible only by elevator, and is not currently accessible to wheelchair users.

Eiffel Tower Summit Top Floor viewing area Eiffel Tower travel guide

Eiffel Tower Ticket Prices?

It is free to visit the Champs de Mars where the Eiffel Tower is located and this gives you a great view of the tower. Security barriers around the tower though prevent you from simply being able to walk up to it as you were able to do in the past.

But it is still free to walk underneath the Eiffel Tower, but you have to go through the barriers and security line to access this area.

If, like most people, you want to actually go up into the Eiffel Tower, there is an entrance fee. There are several tiers of pricing for visiting the Eiffel Tower depending on how high you wish to go and whether you want to take the stairs or the elevator.

Here are the prices (as of April 2023):

  • A ticket to the top of the Eiffel Tower with access to the elevator is 28,30€ for adults, 14,10€ for ages 12-24, and 7,10€ for children aged 4-11 and disabled visitors with proper ID.
  • A ticket to the top of the Eiffel Tower with stair access to the second floor and a lift to the top is 21,50€ for adults, 10,70€ for ages 12-24, and 5,40€ for children aged 4-11 and disabled visitors.
  • A ticket to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower with access to the lift is 18,10€ for adults, 9,00€ for ages 12-24, and 4,50€ for children aged 4-11 and disabled visitors.
  • A ticket to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower with stair access only is 11,30€ for adults, 5,60€ for ages 12-24, and 2,80€ for children aged 4-11 and disabled visitors.
  • Access to all levels is free for children under age 4 accompanied by their parents or guardians, but they still need to collect a free ticket.
  • Ticket to the top via elevator with a glass of champagne is €47.30 (adults only)

A couple of Paris attraction passes, including the Paris Pass include access to the Eiffel Tower via a guided tour. If you plan to purchase one of these passes, you will probably not want to book separate tickets.

Visitors who make a reservation online at one of the Eiffel Tower’s two main restaurants (Madame Brasserie or Le Jules Verne) will not need a separate ticket to get to the restaurants as it should be included in your online booking.

You just need proof of your restaurant reservation to use the lifts. However, entrance to the restaurant does not include entrance to the rest of the tower, so you will still need to buy a separate ticket to access the upper level(s).

Those with Madame Brasserie reservations can pick up a 1st floor lift ticket at the Welcome Desk located at the esplanade and can join the priority queue. Le Jules Verne has its own private elevator to the second floor, so those with reservations should use that elevator to access the restaurant.

Guide to Visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris France Eiffel Tower tips

How to Buy Tickets to the Eiffel Tower?

You can buy tickets to the Eiffel Tower either online or in person at the Eiffel Tower ticket booths (located at the foot of the tower once you pass the barriers and first security checkpoint).

The only tickets you cannot purchase online are the “stairs + summit elevator access”. These can only be purchased at the Tower itself and are for same day use only. The only way to pre-purchase these tickets is to do so as part of a guided tour such as this one .

The prices online on the Eiffel Tower website and in person at the Eiffel Tower are the same. But buying a timed ticket ahead of time online is the best way to save time and skip long lines. If you plan to use the elevators or do the stairs to the 2nd floor (no summit access), we recommend that you pre-purchase your tickets as you’ll be able to skip the ticket lines and join the priority access elevator security lanes.

While there are many websites and businesses in Paris that are happy to resell you tickets to the Eiffel Tower, there is no benefit to buying an individual ticket anywhere but on the official Eiffel Tower website. The prices are the same no matter where you purchase the tickets.

However, if you want to have a guided tour or extra experience, then it may make sense to purchase your ticket elsewhere as these kinds of experiences are not offered by the Tour Eiffel staff. We discuss this in the Guided Tours section below. However, be sure to read all the inclusions so you know what kind of ticket is included with your tour (e.g., do you have access to the 2nd floor, top floor, etc.).

Keep in mind that tickets purchased online must be printed before your arrival on standard white A4 paper, or presented on a mobile phone with a legible bar code (make sure your phone supports this function).

If you pre-purchase a timed Eiffel Tower ticket, be sure to get to the base of the Eiffel Tower for that time. There are entry lines for those with pre-booked tickets. When planning your arrival, be sure to take into account the initial security check which can take 30 minutes or so.

Eiffel Tower tickets, specifically elevator tickets, often book out well in advance, especially in the summer, holidays, and other peak visitor times. So be sure to book well in advance unless you are flexible with the date and time of your visit.

What to do if Eiffel Tower Tickets are Sold Out Online?

Don’t panic if Eiffel Tower tickets are sold out online on the Eiffel Tower website during the dates of your trip. You can still visit the Eiffel Tower.

First, note that tickets for the stairs + elevator to the summit are NOT sold online and are only available for in-person purchase. So just purchase these on the day in person at the ticket booth.

The tickets for the stairs do not normally sell out in advance as these are not as limited as elevator tickets. But if they are sold out online, your options for Eiffel Tower stair access tickets are:

  • You can purchase them in person at the Eiffel Tower for use that day for the stairs. You can purchase stairs tickets to the 2nd floor only or the stairs + elevator to the summit tickets.
  • You can book a guided tour that includes stairs access such as this tour (can upgrade the ticket to include summit access if you wish).
  • You can purchase the Paris Pass which includes a guided Eiffel Tower by stairs.

If you want to access the elevators, here are your options:

  • You can purchase tickets in person at the Eiffel Tower for use that day for the elevator. Just note that you’ll have to wait in the general non-priority elevator line which can be long, so I’d recommend visiting at non-peak hours if you want to take the elevators with pre-booked tickets.
  • You can book a guided tour of the Eiffel Tower that includes timed entry tickets such as this tour or a hosted activity with a greeter such as this one .
  • You can book a walking tour of Paris that includes either Eiffel Tower access or Eiffel Tower tickets such as this one or this one .
  • You can book a Paris pass that includes a guided elevator tour of the Eiffel Tower such as the Go Explorer Pass .
  • You can book dinner at Jules Verne which gives you private elevator access to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower (but not the summit). We’ve dined here and it was a wonderful experience. Recommend asking for a window seat for the best views.
  • If your budget stretches to it, you can check if more expensive options are available such as the ticket to the top with a glass of champagne. We have actually bought this ticket in the past when other types of tickets are sold out. Sure, it’s more expensive, but it’s hard to beat sipping a glass of champagne with a gorgeous view of Paris!

Should I get Tickets to the Second Floor or Summit?

If you want to see the top floor and view from the very top, then you’ll want to book tickets that allow you to go to the summit (very top).

But there is a great observation deck and views from the second floor and there are places to eat and get gifts on both the first and second floors. So you can save money by only purchasing a ticket to visit the second floor.

You need to decide whether you want to visit the summit  BEFORE you buy your tickets. Once you are headed up the stairs or in the elevator for the second floor, you cannot buy a “summit only ticket” later within the tower.

If you have a ticket for the 2nd floor, and now want to visit the summit it is possible but it will cost you time and money. You will have to return to the ticket booth and purchase a new ticket with summit access.

2nd floor view Guide to Visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris France Eiffel Tower tips

Are Discounted Eiffel Tower Tickets Available?

The Eiffel Tower offers discounts to disabled patrons with proper identification and to young people under the ages of 12. Children under the age of 4 can visit for free, but they still need to collect a free ticket to access the tower.

If you purchase a reduced price ticket or a ticket for a child, be sure to have photo IDs (and proof of disability if relevant) as they may be requested to verify identity, age, or disability status.

The Eiffel Tower does not offer any student discounts or other discounts to any card or pass holders.

The Eiffel Tower does not resell any of its tickets at a discounted price as far as we are aware. So if you find tickets that are discounted, we’d recommend being wary of them. Only purchase tickets from the official website or reputable travel companies.

Which Paris Passes Cover the Eiffel Tower?

The Go Paris Explorer Pass and Paris Pass both allow you to visit the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower and provides a guided tour of the tower. The Go Paris Explorer Pass tour includes elevator access, whilst the Paris Pass tour is via the stairs. Note that in both cases these tours only run at certain times of the day, and they need to be booked in advance.

You can see Eiffel Tower tour times for the Go Paris Explorer Pass here , and the Paris Pass here .

The Paris Passlib’ gives you the option of adding a visit to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower, but this does not save you money.

The Paris Museum Pass does not include entrance to the Eiffel Tower. So if you have this pass, you will still need to purchase your Eiffel Tower tickets separately.

Which pass might be best for you is going to depend on which attractions you plan to visit and how many days you have in Paris, but our top pick for those who want a pass with the Eiffel Tower included is the Paris Pass . However, note that this only includes access by stairs. You can read our Paris Pass review for more details.

Tour Eiffel Guide to Visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris France Eiffel Tower tips

Is there an AudioGuide Available for the Eiffel Tower?

No, there used to be an audioguide that you could download but they seem to have replaced this with a free mobile tour guide that includes lots of information and maps of the tower. It is free to access and is currently available in 4 languages: English, French, Chinese, and Spanish. Guide can be viewed and accessed with a smartphone.

The Eiffel Tower also has a Follow Gus experience aimed at children aged 6-10 and publish an activity book (in French and English), which can be downloaded for free from their website.

Booking a Guided Tour of the Eiffel Tower?

If you are wanting to learn more about the Eiffel Tower and its construction and history, you might want to consider booking a guided tour. Make sure to check the fine print to see what kind of tour you are booking. Almost all such tours include pre-purchased timed tickets for faster entry.

Here are a several options for guided Eiffel Tower tours:

  • 1 Hour Walking Tour – This 1 hour walking tour takes place outside the Eiffel Tower and covers the nearby Trocadéro and the Champ de Mars (great areas for photos of the tower). Guide accompanies guests to Eiffel Tower elevator and then guests do self-guided tour of Eiffel Tower themselves. Includes elevator tickets to 2nd floor or summit, depending on option selected.
  • 2 Hour Summit Tour – This 2 hour guided tour includes a guided tour of the Eiffel Tower and elevator access to all floors, including the summit (if option is selected). This is a great tour to consider for those who want to use the elevator and have access to the very top.
  • 2 to 2.5 Hour Stairs Tour – This 2-hour guided tour includes access to the second floor via the stairs with a guide. A good value if you don’t mind taking the stairs. You can also add-on the option at booking to have access to the summit elevator if you wish to see the top floor (not accessible by stairs).
  • Guided Tour at Night – This 1.5 hours guided tour includes a guided tour of the Eiffel Tower at night and elevator access to the second floor.
  • 6 Hour Paris Tour – This highlights walking tour of Paris includes a fully guided tour of the Eiffel Tower (including access to the summit) as well as a Seine river boat cruise, a visit to Notre Dame Cathedral, and other Paris highlights.

Also note that if you plan to purchase the Paris Pass or the Go Paris Explorer Pass that guided tours of the Eiffel Tower are currently included as options on those passes. Be sure to check details and book them in advance.

What is the Average Queue Time at the Eiffel Tower?

The time you will wait in line depends on a number of factors, primarily the time of day, time of year, if you’ve pre-booked tickets or a tour or not, and if you want to take the elevator or the stairs.

Generally speaking, if you wish to be at the top at a specific time (like sunset), it’s advisable to book your timed entry to the tower about 90 minutes ahead of that time to ensure you get there in plenty of time.

Perimeter Security Line: It is advised to allow 30 minutes to go through the perimeter security, more at peak times. There is no way to skip the security line and even if you are not planning to visit the tower, you still need to go through security to walk underneath the tower. Those with pre-booked tickets and restaurant reservations may be able to join a priority fast-track lane.

Elevator Ticket Line: You can skip the ticket buying line entirely by purchasing a timed entry ticket online ahead of time or booking a guided tour. You may still have to wait to board the elevators, but at least you won’t be stuck in a long ticket line which can be a 1 hour wait at peak times. Those wishing to take the stairs will need to purchase their tickets here.

Elevator to 2nd Floor Line: The general ticket queues for the elevators from the esplanade to the second floor can be long and can take up to 2 hours (although normally 1 hour or less) during peak times of the year. But if you have a timed ticket, you will have access to a fast-track line that you can join to go through the second set of security and access the elevator.

Stairs Ticket Queue: The line is normally fairly short to purchase stairs tickets as more people take the elevator; however, in the busy summer months this line can be over 1 hour long. You can avoid this line by pre-purchasing your stairs access ticket online. However, this is the only way to currently purchase a Stairs + Lift to Summit ticket.

Stairs Access Queue: If you have pre-booked your ticket or after you purchase your ticket, there is normally only a short wait, or no wait, to access the stairs as the line moves quickly. On average it takes visitors about 30 minutes to walk up the stairs (674 steps to 2nd floor), and a bit less to walk down.

Summit Elevator Line: If you are planning to access the summit, the line during busy times can be up to a 1 hour wait as there is no timed entry. Although this line is normally no longer than 20 to 30 minutes. There are no public stairs to the top floor of the tower, so the elevator is the only access point.

Eiffel Tower lines queue Eiffel Tower travel guide

Eiffel Tower Entrance Locations

The Eiffel Tower currently has two entrances open for visitors, which are located in the east and south: east entrance and south entrance. This is where you’ll need to wait to go through a security line to get inside the perimeter to visit the Eiffel Tower.

Once inside the perimeter, if you have tickets, you can join the appropriate lines for those with tickets to go up one of the elevators (normally East and West Pillars) or to walk up the stairs (South pillar). If you don’t have tickets, you will need to first go to one of the ticket lines (there are usually two open).

Exits are generally located in the west and north sides of Eiffel Tower (opposite ends of entrances).

Note, due to security issues, operating issues, and changes, entrance/exit locations and operating elevators do change over time so be sure to follow signs and make sure you are in the correct lines.

NOTE : If you are meeting a guide or joining a tour to visit the Eiffel Tower, it is likely you will meet off-site (such as at a nearby cafe or tour office) and not at the Eiffel Tower entrance. Please check your booking details to ensure you go to the right place to meet your guide.

Best Ways to Save Money on Visiting the Eiffel Tower?

Eiffel Tower tickets prices are standardized, so the best way to save money is buying one of the less expensive ticket options. Here are several ways you can save money at the Eiffel Tower:

  • Take the stairs. If you are fit enough to take the stairs (there are 674 steps from the esplanade to the 2nd floor), we recommend those to anyone on a tighter budget. In addition to saving you money, it will also save you time by avoiding the long queues for the elevators and is healthy exercise. Not recommended however for those with mobility issues or those with very young children or babies. Note that if you are visiting outside of the summer, the stairs close much earlier than the elevators (around dark) so be sure to check closing time for the stairs if you want to visit in the evening.
  • Only go to the 2nd floor. If you are OK with not going to the summit, you can save money by not going to the top floor. Many people feel the best view is from the 2nd floor anyway.
  • Bring your own water. Carry a reusable water bottle with you so you can bring your own water as purchasing drinks at Tour Eiffel can be expensive. Note that glass bottles are not allowed through security.
  • Eat before or after your visit to the Eiffel Tower. Meal prices at the Eiffel Tower are more expensive than you can find elsewhere in Paris, so you can save money by eating elsewhere. Note that picnics are not allowed within the Eiffel Tower security zone.
  • Buy a pass like the Go Paris Explorer Pass or the Paris Pass, which includes Eiffel Tower access. Of course this will only make sense if you plan on visiting some of the other attractions that the passes covers.

Eiffel Tower stairs Guide to Visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris France Eiffel Tower tips

Tips for Going Through Security at the Eiffel Tower

In response to recent terror attacks in France, the Eiffel Tower has had a security barrier in place since 2016. Since summer 2018, the Eiffel Tower has been surrounded by a 3 meter high (almost 10 feet) perimeter fence made of bullet proof glass. Anyone trying to access the tower or the area underneath it will need to go through airport style security that includes metal detectors.

The Eiffel Tower website advises giving yourself at least 30 minutes before your timed elevator time to go through security. The best way to get through the security line efficiently is to ensure that you don’t have any objects that are likely to be confiscated.

The following objects are forbidden inside the Eiffel Tower and will be confiscated at security: weapons, knives (including pocket knives), tools like screwdrivers and wrenches, glass bottles or containers any kind, and any sort of canned beverage.  “Excessive food or drink” is also prohibited although it appears the definition of this is up to security guards.

Additionally, non-folding strollers, bulky luggage, and all animals (aside from guide dogs with documents) are prohibited. There is no left-luggage storage or cloakrooms at the tower, so don’t bring your luggage to the tower.

NOTE : The Eiffel Tower due to the COVID-19 pandemic currently has additional security and health measures in place and changes to its ticketing process, screening, and opening hours. Please be sure to check ahead before booking.

How to Skip the Security Lines at the Eiffel Tower?

Everyone who visits the tower needs to go through security, and there is no way to skip the security checks. There is a security check to get inside the perimeter barriers and then another security check for those entering the monument via the stairs or elevators.

However, patrons who buy their tickets ahead of time online can save time with fast-track security checks for the elevators. The electronic timed tickets purchased online in advance save you time with fast-track security checks and no need to queue at the Eiffel Tower ticket offices.

If you booked a guided tour of the Eiffel Tower, almost all tours included timed tickets with priority access as well. Those with same-day Jules Verne restaurant reservations also get priority security access.

Note that even with a pre-booked ticket, there is no guarantee of priority access as security protocol procedures are subject to change at any time.

How to Skip the Entry Queues at the Eiffel Tower?

You can avoid queuing at the ticket booths by buying your ticket ahead of time online. Tickets can currently be purchased up to 60 days in advance.

For the elevator tickets, the tickets include a pre-booked timed access slot for the lifts. Pre-booked timed tickets include priority line access to the elevators.

For the stairs tickets, the tickets include a pre-booked time period for you to access the stairs. Note these tickets do not allow access to the Summit.

There is no such thing as a “skip the line” ticket for the Eiffel Tower. The “priority entrance tickets” that many companies advertise are simply the pre-booked entrance tickets that anyone can buy on the official Eiffel Tower website. They will get you out of waiting in the ticket line, but you will still have to wait in line to board the elevators with the rest of the pre-booked ticket holders.

Note that you should bring your photo ID if visiting the Eiffel Tower, especially if you have pre-booked tickets or plan to book reduced-price tickets. This may be used to confirm identity, age, or disability status.

How Long Is an Average Visit at the Eiffel Tower?

We would recommend planning to be at the Eiffel Tower for at least 1.5 hours if you plan to visit the 2nd floor or 2.5 hours if you also plan to go up to the summit. These are average times of visits for visitors provided by the Eiffel Tower.

You’ll want to allow more time if you are planning to eat here.

Restaurants at the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower has two major restaurants, a champagne bar, and several other self-service eateries and snack bars.

Jules Verne is the gourmet fine dining French restaurant on the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower. The restaurant was closed for several months and reopened in July 2019 with a new menu created by Michelin-star chef Frederic Anton and a refurbished interior. The restaurant is best known for its stunning dining views over 400 feet above the ground. Reservations needed. We’ve dined here and had a lovely experience.

Madame Brasserie (formerly 58 Tour Eiffel) is a more casual restaurant on the 1st floor that can be accessed with or without a reservation (if there is availability). It offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as a lounge area where you can have snacks and drinks. In the evening the ambiance is more formal, with a wine list and 3 course menu featuring classic French dishes. The menu was created by chef Theirry Marx. Reservations recommended.

The Champagne Bar is located on the top floor of the Eiffel Tower. Here visitors can enjoy a glass of bubbly while looking out over Paris. Reservations are not possible here but lines here are generally not too long.

The second floor has a macaroon bar that offers a rainbow of macaroon choices. Additionally there are several quick-service eateries selling casual sandwiches, meals, and snacks on the 1st and 2nd floors as well as the esplanade (ground) where diners can grab quick meals for eat in or takeaway.

Jules Verne restaurant Eiffel Tower, Paris France

Other Facilities at the Eiffel Tower

There are free restrooms on the esplanade, first, second, and top floors of the Eiffel Tower. There are baby changing facilities on the esplanade, first, and second floors.

You’ll find dining options and gift shops on the esplanade, first floor, and second floor of the Eiffel Tower. There is also the champagne bar at the summit.

The first floor also has a children’s play area.

Accessibility at the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower was not built with accessibility or wheelchairs in mind, but modifications have been made to make the tower more accessible.

For those with mobility issues, all floors can be accessed via elevator. There are 674 steps from the ground to reach the second floor. The stairs are obviously not recommended for those with mobility difficulties.

Visitors with wheelchairs can visit the first and second floor via lift, but wheelchair users are prohibited from visiting the top floor for safety reasons.

Disabled toilets are available on the esplanade (behind the East pillar), first, and second floors. Most of the eateries and shops are wheelchair accessible as well.

Walking Tours Visiting the Eiffel Tower

While many walking tours will take you around the outside of the Eiffel Tower, only a few include tickets and a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Here are a couple of good options:

  • This 6 hour highlights tour  of Paris includes a fully guided tour of the Eiffel Tower (including access to the summit) as well as a Seine river boat cruise, a visit to Notre Dame Cathedral, and other Paris highlights.
  • This full day tour offers an extensive 9 hour full day Paris tour that includes a guided tour of the Louvre, Notre Dame, Montmartre, and Trocadéro Plaza. It also includes entrance tickets to the Eiffel Tour (access to the 2nd floor via elevator) and Seine River cruise tickets. If you only have one day to see the highlights of Paris, we recommend this tour!

Best Time to Visit the Eiffel Tower

We have enjoyed visits to the Eiffel Tower in the morning, afternoon, and evening, and we can say that there is no bad time to visit. In the morning and afternoon you can really take in great views of Paris.

In the evening the tower is illuminated with a beautiful yellowish glow and you can see all the city lit up from above. Sunset is a beautiful, but very popular, time to visit the Eiffel Tower. As it gets later in the evening, you get great city night views over the illuminated city but it does get harder to see the city and take photos as it gets darker.

If you prefer a quieter and less crowded visit, we recommend visiting either in the morning or the evening after dark. The least busy times are generally 9:00am to 11:00am and 8:00pm to 10:00pm.

The Eiffel Tower is normally open 365 days of the year, but the top observation decks occasionally close for maintenance in the winter and for weather-related reasons. It may also close or close early on Bastille Day.

Although unusual, it has also shut down several times in recent years for terrorist threats, the COVID-19 pandemic, strikes, and riots.

You can find out about any planned closures on the official website .

Best Views from the Eiffel Tower

There are two different main observation areas in the Eiffel Tower: the 2nd floor observation deck, which is 115 meters (377 feet) above Paris, and the summit observation deck, which is a staggering 276 meters (905 feet) above the city. Opinions vary on which is the better view, and both are well worth seeing.

The second floor gives you a better view of Paris and its landmarks. You are still low enough to see some of the nuances and details of the surrounding buildings and areas. You have a clear view of city landmarks like the Louvre, Montmartre, and Notre Dame Cathedral. This is our preferred viewpoint.

The top floor gives you a bird’s eye of the city. This is the highest viewpoint in the city and all the details below blend together, making it more difficult to make out individual landmarks. The effect can be dizzying!

Timing of the Evening Lights at the Eiffel Tower

Every night 20,000 bulbs twinkle in tandem alongside 336 projector spotlights to create an amazing sparking light show. The light show occurs every night, on the hour, from sunset until 1:00am.

The shimmering display of sparkling lights lasts 5 minutes, except for the last, 1AM show, which is 10 minutes long. The last show of the night is also the most dramatic because the yellow lights that illuminate the tower itself are turned off, giving the twinkling lights a backdrop of darkness.

The best way to view the Eiffel Tower light show is actually at a distance, not from the Eiffel Tower itself. You can watch the show from anywhere in Paris where you can see the Eiffel Tower.

These locations include along the Seine River between Île de la Cité is and the Pont d’Iena, and you will likely catch the lights from any evening Seine river boat cruise or Seine River dinner cruise . Or you can get a closer view from the Place du Trocadéro or Champs du Mar. You can also get a nice view from the Montparnasse Tower.

How to Avoid the Crowds at the Eiffel Tower

Because it is such a popular attraction, avoiding the crowds at the Eiffel Tower can be tricky. There is almost always a crowd. That said, there are a few things you can do to work around the crowds:

  • Purchase your entrance tickets online ahead of time to avoid long lines for the ticket booth and get priority access to the elevator line to the 2nd floor. Or book a guided tour or walking tour that includes timed tickets.
  • The peak times to visit the tower are 11:00am to 5:00pm, with 5:00pm to 8:00pm as moderately busy. The quieter times are 9:00am to 11:00am and 8:00pm to 10:30pm. The late evening hours (after 8:00pm) are almost always the quietest and the best if you want to avoid lines if you don’t mind the dark.
  • Weekends are busier than weekdays.
  • The best time to visit for the least crowds is a weekday in January, February, November, or December (except around Christmas and New Year’s).
  • Take the stairs to avoid long elevator waits. Even if you’ve bought tickets for the elevator you can often cut down your waiting around time by taking the stairs back down the tower.
  • If budget is not a concern, you can skip the elevator lines almost entirely by booking a meal reservation at the Jules Verne. Those with pre-booked reservations at the restaurant have access to a private elevator (to the 2nd floor) and can usually skip ahead in the perimeter security lines (dependent on security conditions).

Tour Eiffel Guide to Visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris France Eiffel Tower tips

Where to Stay in Paris Near the Eiffel Tower

The area around the Eiffel Tower can be very pricey, as hotels here are popular and in high demand. Hotel room prices can vary dramatically depending on the time of year. Winter months (with the exception of Christmas, New Years, and Valentine’s day) typically mean drastically lower rates than summer months.

We’ve selected a wide range of options, from budget and good value spots to luxury hotels, for people who want to stay within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower.

  • Mercure Paris Centre – The 4-star Mercure is one of the closest hotels to the Eiffel Tower. This contemporary hotel has standard style rooms, flat screen TVs, breakfast buffet, fitness center, and on-site restaurant and bar. Great for couples. A 2 minute walk away.
  • Résidence Charles Floquet – This luxury Aparthotel is practically next door to the Eiffel Tower and offers everything you might need including a fireplace, satellite TVs, well equipped kitchen, as well as a washing machine and dryer in each residence. They offer multi-bedroom apartments which are great for larger groups. Only a 3 minute walk from the Eiffel Tower.
  • Pullman Paris – This 4-star hotel is located right next to the Eiffel Tower and offers great views of the tower. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, flat screen TVs, an on-site bar and restaurant, fitness room, and 24-hour front desk. A 5 minute walk from the Eiffel Tower. We have stayed here before.
  • The Tannery – This apartment offers a spacious lounge, dining table, small kitchen, and great views of the Eiffel Tower. This apartment is located about a 18 minute walk from the Eiffel Tower. We stayed here on our last visit to Paris. You can read our review of this apartment here .
  • Hôtel Eiffel Rive Gauche – This 3-star smaller hotel is located in a historical building that used to be a convent. A quirky little hotel that offers a good buffet breakfast and a convenient 24 hours reception desk. Expect small rooms in an older building, but good option for those on a budget who want to be near the Eiffel Tower. Note that the lower priced rooms have shared bathrooms. A 10 minute walk to the Eiffel Tower.
  • Résidence Champ de Mars  – Studio apartments with kitchenettes just off the Champ de Mars. This place is no frills but it offers well-rated comfortable rooms, an excellent location, and a helpful reception. A 12 minute walk from the Eiffel Tower.
  • Hôtel Juliana Paris  – This 5-star luxury hotel offers large comfortable rooms with flat screen TVs, bathrobes, and luxury toiletries. The hotel offers a fitness center, hammam, sauna, and 24 hour reception desk. There is a gorgeous rooftop bar with a partial view of the Eiffel Tower. A 12 minute walk from the Eiffel Tower.
  • Beatrice et Emmanuel Meublé Eiffel  – This aparthotel is a terrific value for the location, offering studio and apartment style rooms with Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and kitchenettes. They book up fast so make sure to make you reservation here early. It is about a 13 minute walk from the tower.
  • Au Pacific Hotel  – This 2-star hotel in the 15th arrondissement offers good value for the area. The rooms are small but affordable with flat screen TVs and private bathrooms. They also offer larger family size rooms. The hotel is about a 17 minute walk from the Eiffel Tower.
  •   Hôtel Eiffel Turenne – This popular well-rated 3-star hotel offers comfortable rooms, flat-screen TVs, a bar, and a 24 hour front desk. A 18 minute walk from the Eiffel Tower.
  • 3 Ducks Hostel – This well-rated boutique hostel features a shared kitchen, a terrace, a bar, a 24 hour desk, and luggage storage facilities. Most rooms are dormitory style rooms but the hostel also has a few private rooms and family rooms. This is the closest hostel option that we know of and a great place to consider for those on a budget. It is a 22 minute walk to the Eiffel Tower; 2 minute walk to nearest Metro station.

Looking for a room or apartment? Check out these great Paris listings on Plum Guide near the Tower. We stayed in a beautiful Plum Guide apartment on a recent trip to Paris which had stunning views of the Eiffel Tower. You can see our full experience using the Plum Guide in our review here .

Plum Guide review apartment with view of Eiffel Tower in Paris

Another good value option is to stay with a local using a service like Homestay . We used Homestay in Paris and had a terrific and unique local experience.

Other Attractions Near the Eiffel Tower

There are lots of things to see and do within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower.

Take a River Cruise  (1 minute from Eiffel Tower) – The Eiffel Tower is the most popular spot to catch a Seine River cruise ; and we have a ton of tips in our post on how to choose the best Seine cruise for you.

Champ de Mars  (1 minute) – The Eiffel Tower is located on the edge of this large green space, which many people neglect to explore. The 60 acre park is a great place for a picnic, stroll, and photos in the shadow of the mighty tower.

Trocadero  (8 Minute walk) – The Trocadero is a long garden right across from the Eiffel Tower where the Palais de Chaillot is located. There are a number of museums located here and nearby, including the  Musée national de la Marine (maritime museum) , the  Palais de Tokyo (a contemporary art museum), and the Musée d’Art Moderne (modern art museum).

Musee du Quai Branly (8 minute walk) – The Musee Quai Branly is a museum featuring art and cultural objects from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. It is also known for its living garden that covers parts of the museum. Entry is free for those with a Paris Museum Pass or Paris Pass .

Rue Cler  (10 minute walk) – If you’re looking to grab an affordable snack you want to get away from the immediate Eiffel Tower area, Rue Cler is a popular and scenic market street where you can shop for fresh produce, snacks, and souvenirs.

Paris Aquarium  (14 minute walk) – The Paris Aquarium is a nice break from history and museums. with over 500 species and 15,000 fish. A popular family attraction, especially on a rainy day. Entry is free for those with a Paris Pass or Go Paris Explorer Pass .

Rodin Museum  (23 minute walk) – The Rodin Museum is a museum dedicated to the life and works of French sculptor Auguste Rodin. It is housed in a 18th century mansion, once the home and studio of Rodin, and here you can see some of his most famous works, like The Thinker, in addition to some beautiful gardens. Entry is free with a Paris Museum Pass or Paris Pass .

Avenue des Champs-Elysées – (25 minutes walk) – The “world’s most beautiful avenue” is full of high-end shops, restaurants, car show rooms, the flagship store for Ladurée macarons , and hotels as well as notable landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe .

Tour Eiffel Guide to Visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris France Eiffel Tower tips

Our Experience Visiting the Eiffel Tower

Laurence and I have both visited the Eiffel Tower multiple times. My first experience was visiting the Eiffel Tower when I was 16 years old, my first trip to Europe. I was visiting as part of a tour arranged by a community college and it mainly consisted of college professors and students. We visited the tower and had dinner at the 58 Tour Eiffel (now called the Madame Brassiere) on our first night which was an amazing experience.

It is a strange thing to see one of the most famous landmarks in the world in real life. It is something that almost everyone in the world has seen in books, in films, and on posters, so it is both a familiar and an awe-inspiring site.

Each time we come here we seem to notice something new, whether it is an architectural detail, an exhibition, or a new angle. We’ve visited by the stairs (good to do once!) and by elevator. The stairs not only allow you to avoid the elevator lines and buy a less expensive ticket, but they also allow you (and perhaps force you) to get a better sense of the size and pay attention to the architectural details. All those rivets!

The views are the main reason people visit but be sure to walk around and explore what else you can discover on each floor. Make sure to stop at the first floor if you have time as it generally has exhibitions where you can learn more about the tower and you can walk across the transparent floor.

Although the actual structure of the Tour Eiffel has changed relatively little since its creation, security issues have changed the nature of the visit here. During our first visits to the Eiffel Tower, you could simply walk underneath and around the tower without going through any sort of security. On our last visit, we had to wait for over 40 minutes in line just to get through the perimeter security.

If you come here during a particularly busy period without tickets, you could spend 3 hours in various lines before reaching the 2nd floor. So I would definitely book your tickets in advance to be able to join the priority line for the elevators or stairs. Or join a tour. But don’t waste your limited vacation line standing in line here if you can avoid it!

There are lots of dining options here, from casual takeaway food and snacks to a fancy multi-course meal a Jules Verne. We’ve done everything from not eating at all to having dinner at Jules Verne. If you are on a tighter budget, I’d recommend eating before or after your visit to avoid the higher food prices here. But if you have a bigger budget and have some time, you might enjoy booking a sit-down menu here at one of the two restaurants within the tower.

Although we’ve visited a number of times, there are always things we missed and the views of Paris are always a little different. This is why we keep coming back!

Tour Eiffel Guide to Visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris France Eiffel Tower tips

Tips for Photographing the Eiffel Tower

Below we provide tips for photographing the Eiffel Tower from both inside the Eiffel Tower as well as from a distance.

Photography from the Eiffel Tower

Once you get inside the security perimeter you are very close to the tower so probably won’t be able to get the full tower into your shot. So instead focus on the magnificent wrought iron structure, which is a wonderful photography subject. Classic shots are from different angles underneath the structure from the esplanade. You can also get some nice views from the gardens arond the tower.

When you get inside the Eiffel Tower, there are two types of shots to go for: close up shots of the structure and shots of the Paris cityscape from the various levels of the tower.

On the 1st level, you can get shots of the structure from a lower level, cityscape shots, and also see through the transparent floor to the people milling around on the esplanade.

Once you are on the observation decks of the 2nd floor and summit, you can focus more on the cityscape shots. Some popular subjects to look out for include the Champs de Mars, Arc de Triomphe, the curve of the Seine River, and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica perched above Montmartre. On the top floor, details become more fuzzy and you get more of a bird’s eye view of the city.

For a comparison of the views taken from all three levels, check out the three photos below looking at the Champs de Mars. Each were taken looking in the same direction to give you an idea of views from each of the three levels of the Eiffel Tower.

Whilst tripods are (as of last check) allowed through the security at the Eiffel Tower, they are generally not recommended if you are planning to go up the tower as there is often not much space to set them up on the observation decks.

For the best pictures from the tower you should check the weather before visiting. A cloudy, misty day might look dramatic from the ground, but it will likely just look gray from the viewing platforms. Ideally you will want a clear, haze-free day with perhaps a few puffy white clouds for scale and depth.

If you are traveling solo or as a couple, consider this tips for getting photos of yourself or these for getting couple photos together .

Eiffel Tower travel guide structure inside of leg

Eiffel Tower Photography Tips

The Eiffel Tower can be seen from across Paris, and there are many good spots from which to photograph it. We have three favorite locations which are from the top of Montparnasse Tower, the top of the Arc de Triomphe, and the Place du Trocadéro.

For sunset and blue hour photography, we’d definitely recommend Montparnasse Tower. This tower, found near Montparnasse train station, is one of our favorite photography locations in Paris . The rooftop viewing area affords spectacular views across the city, and at sunset it makes for the perfect place to watch the City of Lights start to light up.

Tripods are allowed up here, and there are cutouts in the glass wall so you can get reflection-free photos. There is a fee to visit the Montparnasse Tower although entrance is free with the Paris Pass or Go Paris Explorer Pass .

Another favorite spot is the Place du Trocadéro. Located just across the Seine River from the Eiffel Tower, this location will let you get photos that convey the true sense of the scale of the Eiffel Tower, with the cars and people in the foreground giving your photos a good feeling of perspective.

The Trocadéro is a free spot to access and doesn’t require a ticket.This is a popular location though, so for your best chance at photographing the tower without lots of people outside it, arrive before 9 am.

Finally, we think the view of the Eiffel Tower from the top of the Arc de Triomphe is also excellent. From here, you can see how the Eiffel Tower soars high above the city, and there are some lovely roads leading towards the tower that you can use as leading lines. There is a fee to visit the Arc de Tromphe, although it is included with both the Paris Museum Pass and Paris Pass .

Of course, there are many more great spots and angles for photographing the outside of the Eiffel Tower. Consider staking out shots from the Champ de Mars, along the Seine, or in the surrounding neighborhoods.

In terms of transport, the two best metro stops for photo ops as you are approaching the Eiffel Tower are the very popular Trocadéro stop and across the Seine at the Bir-Hakeim stop.

If you are trying to photograph the tower at night, time it so you can catch the glittering light show at the top of every hour until 1 am. A travel tripod will help you keep your camera steady and avoid blurry shots.

guide tour eiffel paris

Overall Tips for Visiting the Eiffel Tower

We have tried to include lots of advice and tips for visiting the Eiffel Tower throughout this article. But here are some key points to remember when planning your visit to the Eiffel Tower and trip to Paris.

  • Book your tickets ahead of time online to avoid long wait times. We recommend booking your ticket directly via the official website . Or if you want a guided tour, consider tours that include your timed ticket such as this tour or this tour .
  • The easiest way to access the tower is by public transportation or on foot. There are multiple bus and metro line stops nearby. Parking can be expensive in this area and driving in central Paris is not recommended if you can avoid it.
  • Be prepared for the security checks. Leave any forbidden items like non-folding baby strollers, glass bottles, luggage, or pocketknives at your hotel.
  • If you are on a budget, save money by taking the stairs and only buying a ticket to the 2nd floor. Bring a reusable water bottle like these ones to avoid purchasing water or drinks at the tower.
  • Bring your camera to capture the spectacular city views from the Eiffel Tower. You can also get great views of the Eiffel Tower from places around Paris, check out our Paris photography guide for more photography hot spots.
  • It is often windier and cooler than visitors expect, especially at the top, so you may want to bring an extra layer or jacket.
  • Try to avoid visiting during peak visitor times which are between 11am and 5pm and around sunset. Holidays and weekends are busier than other days
  • If you are planning to access the Eiffel Tower via the stairs, note that the stairs close down much earlier than the elevators for most of the year for safety reasons. For most of the year, you need to start your ascent of the stairs by 18:00/6:00pm. After this, your only option will be to access the tower by lift only. But in the busy summer months (roughly June to August), the stairs are normally open as long as the elevators (usually until midnight). So be sure to check the stairs opening hours if you are planning to visit in the evening.
  • If you want to eat a meal at one of the sit-down restaurants (Brassiere Madame or Le Jules Verne) at the Eiffel Tower, we strongly recommend booking your reservation in advance to guarantee a table.
  • Have little time in Paris but still want to see all the highlights in only one or two days? You might want to join a local walking tour that includes either a guided Eiffel Tower tour or Eiffel Tower tickets such as this one or this one .
  • If you have purchased a Paris Museum Pass for your visit, the Eiffel Tower entrance is not included and needs to be booked separately. Try to visit the Eiffel Tower on a non-pass day or visit in the evening to get the most out of your passes. Or consider purchasing the Paris Pass, which includes the Paris Museum Pass and the option to visit the Eiffel Tower. You can read our Paris Pass review and Paris Museum Pass review for more tips.
  • The Eiffel Tower area (including inside the tower) is a popular place for pickpockets and scammers who prey on tourists. Keep track of your valuables and be aware of  common Paris scams .
  • Allow plenty of time for you visit. It is a busy attraction and the lines, even with pre-booked tickets, can take longer than expected. If you leave yourself plenty of time, you won’t feel rushed and can really enjoy your experience.
  • To maximize your time in Paris, consider planning your itinerary to include other nearby attractions before and/or after your visit to the Eiffel Tower. Perhaps a visit to a nearby museum (e.g., Musee du Quai Branly, Rodin Museum) or attraction (e.g., Paris Aquarium, Arc de Triomphe), a Seine river cruise , or some shopping along the famous Champs-Élysées. Or maybe you want to enjoy a Parisian afternoon tea or book a Michelin star lunch .

For most people, visiting the Eiffel Tower is a once in a lifetime experience. By doing just a little bit of planning, you can make your visit far more enjoyable.

If you are planning a trip to the Eiffel Tower, you might want to PIN this article to Pinterest to read later:

A complete and practical guide to visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris France. We've visited the Eiffel Tower several times and provide all the information you need to plan your visit to the Eiffel Tower, including how to get there, how to buy tickets, where to get the best views, how to book a guided tour, where to eat, and how to save time and money. We also share tips on where to get the best photographs of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. #EiffelTower #TourEiffel #Paris #travel #traveltips #France

Have you been to the Eiffel Tower? What was the experience like for you? Any Eiffel Tower tips we missed?

As always, feel free to ask us any questions you may have about the Eiffel Tower or things to do in Paris.

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There are 31 comments on this post.

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TTF Post author

November 1, 2023 at 2:02 am

Hey there! I just read your article about the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and I couldn’t help but drop a comment to express how much I enjoyed it. First of all, kudos to you for the fantastic writing. Your vivid descriptions made me feel like I was right there, standing under the Eiffel Tower, soaking in its grandeur. The historical context you provided about the tower’s construction was fascinating and added so much depth to the story. It’s clear that you’ve done your research, and it truly shows in your writing.

I’ve always dreamt of visiting the Eiffel Tower, and your article has not only fueled that desire but also provided me with valuable insights and tips for when I eventually make that dream a reality. The section about the best time to visit and avoiding the crowds was particularly helpful. I appreciate your personal anecdotes and recommendations; it’s like getting advice from a friend who’s been there. Thanks for sharing your experiences and expertise. I’m looking forward to reading more of your travel adventures!

How many steps are in the Eiffel Tower?

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

November 1, 2023 at 5:36 am

Glad you enjoyed our post about the Eiffel Tower and I hope you get a chance to visit Paris and climb the Eiffel Tower yourself someday soon. We’ve been lucky to have been many times and just brought my parents there earlier in 2023.

There are about 1,665 stairs total from the ground to very top of the Eiffel Tower, but most of these are not open or accessible to the public. For visitors, there are a total of 674 steps to the 2nd floor (327 to first floor and 347 to reach the second floor). On average it takes visitors about 30 minutes to walk up the 674 stairs and a bit less to walk down.

If you have the stamina, ability, and time, it can be fun to use the stairs to access the Eiffel Tower via the stairs. But if you want to just experience a bit of the stairs, you could consider going up in the elevator and then coming down from the 2nd floor to the 1st floor by the stairs (or all the way back down as it is easier to go down than up).

Best, Jessica

MS Post author

May 19, 2023 at 11:41 am

Thanks for these tips. The Eiffel Tower in Paris is such an awe-inspiring masterpiece, I can’t wait to visit. Do I need to book stairs tickets in advance do you think for a summer visit?

May 21, 2023 at 10:06 am

So if you plan to just take the stairs (and not take the lift or visit the Summit), then there is no need to book the tickets in advance. The main advantage is that you don’t have to stand in line to buy your tickets on arrival (they generally go on sale online 2 weeks in advance). Although you will of course have do wait in the security check lines.

But in terms of availability, there is pretty much always available same day stairs tickets and once you have your tickets, the line to access the stairs is generally short or sometimes no line at all. So if you don’t want to be tied to a date, then you can just wait to buy them on site when you visit.

Just note that they close access to the stairs in the evening, generally 1.5 to two hours before closing so you will want to double check the last time for stairs tickets on your date if you plan to visit later in the evening.

Judy Post author

January 28, 2023 at 1:02 pm

Jessica wow 👌🏾🤩🤩,, thank you so much for this compilation , I have picked out so many key points for when I travel to Paris, to the Eiffel tower .

Happy new year..

February 1, 2023 at 5:27 am

Glad you found our article on the Eiffel Tower helpful and just let us know if you have any questions as you plan your trip to Paris!

Happy New Year to you as well!

Sheena Post author

June 21, 2022 at 8:01 pm

Question – are there any information plaques on the observation decks that will point out what the various famous landmarks are around Paris? I’d love to be able to pick out specific places to show my kids, and am wondering if I should just bring a map up with me to try to pick them out ourselves? thanks!

June 22, 2022 at 4:19 am

I thought I would be able to answer just about any question about the Eiffel Tower, but that is one I am not sure about. While I can’t imagine a major landmark such as the Eiffel Tower not having an orientation plaque somewhere I can’t remember specifically seeing one and I couldn’t find any online evidence of one.

The other issue of course is that the Eiffel Tower observation decks, particularly the ones on the second floor and top floor (summit) are often pretty crowded. So this might be why there isn’t a specific sign to keep people from gathering together all at one point and making it hard to move around.

So, whether there is one or not, bringing along some kind of map would probably be a great idea to show your kids where everything is from the observation decks. An illustrated map might be a fun idea.

Wishing you and your family a great trip to Paris!

June 22, 2022 at 8:36 am

Wow, thank you SO MUCH for the quick reply! And – of course – for all of the extremely helpful information I found on your site. Have a wonderful summer!

June 24, 2022 at 6:58 am

You’re very welcome. Also wanted to note that there is often a play area and educational stuff designed for kids normally set up on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower so I’d definitely make a stop there. Not sure what might have changed with COVID-19 cautions though. The first floor often feels less crowded as well than the upper floors.

There is also the Follow Gus experience and a free activity book (in both English and French) that you can download for free before the trip. I link to this in the article. It is designed for kids 6-10 and has a variety of quesitons, facts, and puzzles about the tower.

Jon Bakker Post author

March 27, 2022 at 7:02 am

can’t wait to visit Eiffel Tower for first time, great tips. can you tell me more about how to book with Paris Pass? thanks so much.

March 27, 2022 at 8:34 am

Visiting the Eiffel Tower is definitely a highlight of many people’s trips to Paris! So if you have a Paris Pass, you can join a guided visit to the Eiffel Tower that climbs the stairs. So make sure you (and any travel companions) can handle the over 600 steps. While you have to go up the stairs, you can either walk back down via the stairs or wait to take the elevators down if you want. If you are physically able, the stairs are a great way to visit the tower as you get to see more of the structure and the lines to enter are much shorter.

The guided tour, includes having a guide who will be with you as you go through security and who will give you tickets for the stairs. They will accompany you up to both the first floor and second floor and give you lots of information on the history of the Eiffel Tower and point out lots of places that can be seen from the tower’s observation areas. Tour lasts about 2 hours.

Once you have your Paris Pass purchased, you can book the tour. To reserve your spot, you will need to use a specific link and follow instructions as outlined by Paris Pass on the website here .

Now, this tour does not include going up to the Summit (very top floor). So if you want to visit the Summit, you will have the option to pay extra to visit the summit as long as there is availability. Once you book the free guided tour, you should get a confirmation email from the tour company with your details and then in that email will be details on how you can pay extra (currently 15 euros) to add on lift tickets to the Summit. This part isn’t guided but your guide can show you where you need to go and which line to stand in to reach the summit. So if you want to include the Summit, just be sure to book that before your trip.

Also if you book this, be sure to pay close attention to the meeting place and time as you don’t want to go through the security, but will meet your guide outside the security entrance. The current meeting place is listed as outside the South Security Entrance (Entrance #1) of the Eiffel Tower on Allée des Refuzniks. Guides will wear orange hats and hold an orange sign that says ExperienceFirst. But be sure to check the info before meeting and leave a bit of extra time to find the correct entrance and your guide.

Hope that helps and wishing you a wonderful visit to the Eiffel Tower! Jessica

Srishti Verma Post author

March 27, 2021 at 3:36 am

Paris is such a nice place to explore for everyone. I am from Delhi, Asia and i love to read your blog. I have visited 2 times to Eiffel Tower and every time it is the same and beautiful. Love your blog.

March 27, 2021 at 8:33 am

Hi Srishti,

Thanks for taking the time to comment and glad you are enjoying our travel blog! Yes, Paris is a wonderful place to visit and one of the most visited cities in the world and the Eiffel Tower is a must-see for most visitors. I am glad that you have such wonderful visits to Paris from India and hope you get a chance to return in the future.

Maude Post author

October 16, 2019 at 10:29 am

Simply want to say your article on the Eiffel Tower is astonishing, very clear and I can tell you’re a professional in this subject. I’d like to stay in touch to know about your latest articles, can I join your feed? Thanks one million and please continue the rewarding work.

October 17, 2019 at 11:02 am

Glad you enjoyed our guide to visiting the Eiffel Tower. Just let us know if you have any questions if you are planning a visit to Paris.

Yes, you can find our RSS feed buttons on our blog if you use a feed reader. The best way to keep in touch with us and get our updates is to sign up for our monthly travel newsletter . It is free and easy to join and comes with a number of benefits.

irene Post author

June 11, 2019 at 12:39 am

For someone who is afraid of heights, you make the Eiffel Tower sound so interesting to visit. with such an exciting description, will definitely put my fears aside and take a tour myself. thank you for the article..

June 11, 2019 at 4:09 am

Hi Irene, Hope you enjoy your time in Paris and visit to the Eiffel Tower. Yes, if you are taking an Eiffel Tower tour, it will include your entrance tickets and you might feel more comfortable with a guide. It is very safe, but you might want to avoid going up to the Summit if you have a fear of heights as it is more windy and exposed up there. There are great views from the 1st and 2nd floors. Best, Jessica

Kristen Post author

June 10, 2019 at 2:50 am

Thank you for such an informative post! Can you buy a walk-up /stairs access ticket AND summit elevator ticket in the same line? We’ll be visiting Paris July 1-5 and all tickets online are sold out. We are 2 adults, 2 children (ages 8&11) and would like the experience of walking the stairs and summit (avail by elevator only). Thank you!

June 10, 2019 at 4:07 am

Hi Kristen,

Sorry to hear the summit tickets are sold out already for your visit in July. But yes, you can purchase stairs and/or elevator tickets at the same booths once you get pass the outer security. The ticket you would want for the stairs plus summit elevator would be “2nd floor stairway + lift to summit tickets”.

There should not be any problem getting the stairs tickets to 2nd floor as they rarely stop selling or limiting stairs tickets. But they do sometimes put a cap on summit tickets if the Tower is very busy so just know that in advance. If you come at a less busy time of day, you shouldn’t have an issue.

The other option is to book a guided tour, like this one , that includes your stairs tickets and lift to summit.

Enjoy! Jessica

Theresa R. Post author

May 2, 2019 at 4:59 pm

If I am wanting to get up close to the tower, but not go UP to an observation deck. Is that possible to simply walk around under the tower, touch the base legs, take pictures up close? I understand that I would need to go through the outermost security.

May 3, 2019 at 8:44 am

Hi Theresa, Yes, absolutely, you can access the ground/esplanade level of the Eiffel Tower for free. You do need to go through the perimeter security, which can take anywhere from 10 minutes to 1 hour depending on how busy the attraction is at the time. But after that you are free to wander around, take photos, and can touch some areas of the structure (that are not within the lines/security for those going to the second floor) and there are food stands, gift shops, and toilets in the area as well. Just make sure that you are prepared for the security (have no prohibited items on you). Then you can leave when you wish. Best, Jessica

Kathy Post author

February 26, 2019 at 10:38 pm

Wow! Never knew that Gustave Eiffel also was involved with the design of the Statue of Liberty.

February 27, 2019 at 3:40 am

Hi Kathy, Yes, indeed, Eiffel was involved in the Statue of Liberty as well as lots of other projects, including churches, bridges, theatres, train stations, etc. He worked both in Paris as well as aboard. He is best known of course for the Eiffel Tower so I think most people don’t realize all the other things he designed. One of our favorites is the Pont de Ferro or Pont Eiffel in Girona Spain . Best, Jessica

Mark Post author

February 25, 2019 at 2:11 am

Wow, great guide, very helpful in planning our vacation in May. The Eiffel Tower is a must-see for us and we are planning to have lunch or dinner while there. this really helped us in planning our special trip. Mark

February 25, 2019 at 4:03 am

Hi Mark, Glad to hear that 😉 Just let us know if you have any questions as you plan your trip to Paris. Best, Jessica

Luke Post author

February 22, 2019 at 2:06 am

Interesting post! I was totally unaware there was committee trying to stop its construction. I will make sure I visit the Eiffel Tower on my travels to Paris with the company I work for GSE Solutions, in a couple weeks time. Safe travels! Luke

February 22, 2019 at 2:40 am

Hi Luke, Enjoy your business trip to Paris and your visit to the Eiffel Tower. Best, Jessica

February 22, 2019 at 4:22 am

Thank you, it will be a lot more interesting now I’ve read this post!

Seana Turner Post author

February 18, 2019 at 5:18 am

The Eiffel tower is just one of those sights you want to see when you go to Paris. I’ve been a couple of times and it always is impressive. The year I took my girls to Paris there was a strike going on, and all access to the Eiffel tower was closed. My girls couldn’t believe that a city would do such a thing:) It really does make sense to plan ahead on this one because the crowds can be significant. A tour or online is the best way, but I think even making dining reservations can be a lovely way to experience part of the tower and feel like you have “done” it. I can’t believe they repaint by hand every 7 years… who knew?

February 18, 2019 at 6:45 am

Sorry to hear that the Eiffel Tower was closed during your visit. Normally the tower is open 365 days a year although it does close for some time around Bastille Day for preparations for the fireworks and festivities. But it has been closed for strikes, riots, and terrorist threats, and the recent rioting has caused several closures of the tower and other significant attractions in Paris this year unfortunately. The summit does close more often for bad weather and for maintenance.

I didn’t know the Eiffel Tower was hand painted either before writing this article. But it is and there is a policy that it can’t be done by more remote means, so it takes a lot of of painters a long time to paint. But I guess it is a long and interesting job for the painters 😉

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Bienvenue sur le guide de visite de la tour Eiffel

Bienvenue sur le guide de visite de la tour Eiffel

Tour Eiffel

Le 2ème étage

Le 1er étage.

Parvis

Le jardin Ouest

Jardin Est

Le jardin Est

Guide de visite officiel de la tour eiffel.

Le guide de visite mobile de la tour Eiffel vous présente toutes les informations nécessaires pour profiter au mieux de votre visite de la tour Eiffel. Vous y découvrirez tous les services mis à votre disposition : restauration, rafraîchissements, boutiques, toilettes. Une carte multidimensionnelle vous permettra de vous orienter dans les étages et les jardins, sans manquer aucune des informations culturelles et historiques de la Tour.

Histoire et culture

Combien la tour Eiffel mesure-t-elle ? Quand a-t-elle été construite ? Était-elle vraiment vouée à destruction ? Depuis quand la Tour scintille-t-elle ? Où se trouve le bureau de Gustave Eiffel ? Les points d'intérêts à ne pas manquer à chaque étage : parvis, jardins, 1 er étage, 2ème étage, sommet. Icône mondiale la tour Eiffel est aussi un sujet d’inspiration pour de nombreux artistes. Au cours de votre visite, nous vous ferons découvrir quelques-uns de ces chefs d’œuvre.

Les chiffres clés

Vous croyez connaître la Tour ? mais savez-vous en combien de temps elle a été construite ? Découvrez tous les chiffres clés de la Tour au cours de votre visite.

Un point de vue exceptionnel

Majestueuse, la tour Eiffel domine Paris. Elle offre une vue exceptionnelle sur toute la ville. Révélant, au fil de la montée, une vue totalement différente. Le panorama du 2d étage est exceptionnel, laissant apparaître les détails des monuments les plus proches, l’entrelacs des rues et des avenues dessinées par le Baron Haussmann. Du sommet, la vue est époustouflante : décoiffé par le vent qui y souffle la plupart du temps, vous serez surpris du silence qui y règne, les bruits de la ville n’y parviennent qu’étouffés. Notre guide de visite vous emmène à la découverte d’un des plus fabuleux monuments construit par l’Homme.

For operational reasons, the opening of the Eiffel Tower will be delayed on April 9. Please check this website before coming to the Tower. For visitors with e-tickets, please check your email. We apologize for the inconvenience.

View from the second floor

Guided tour to the Second Floor

Experience the tower from the inside.

12 people max.

Become an expert on the Eiffel Tower

Discover the Tower as you have never seen it before, in the company of a member of the Official Eiffel Tower Guides family, all of whom are passionate about the monument. Savor the moving experience of ascending to the Second Floor with its 360° view of the entire Paris cityscape, accompanied by your guide, who will also help you access the elevator. Your guide will then lead you down the stairs to the First Floor, at the heart of the monument's structure.

Vue depuis le 2ème étage

The tour, lasting around 90 minutes, is available in French or English, and includes no more than 12 people to ensure that everything runs smoothly. And to enhance this experience, the Eiffel Tower can offer you outstanding 10% discounts on a selection of products available in the stores (Exclusive Eiffel Tower Collection) and certain restaurants (bistro on the First Floor and the buffet on the esplanade).

Advantages of the guided tour

Easy access for the ascent

The tour experience

Plan du parvis

01: See you on the Esplanade

Meet your guide 15 minutes before the start of the tour at the Official Guided Tours meeting point (don't forget the security checks at the site entrances, which may take 10 to 20 minutes). Your guide will take care of you, and you will benefit from easier access to the Top.

02: Discover how the historic elevators work

From an exceptional and perfectly preserved vantage point over the hydraulic elevator shaft dating from 1899, you will gain a detailed understanding of the workings of this machinery found nowhere else in the world.

03: The magic of the ascent and the Second Floor

You can then savor the thrills of the ascent to the Second Floor. Throughout the visit, your Official Guide will be happy to share tales of momentous and everyday moments in the Tower's history with you, from the monument to the company, and from the past to the present.

03: Back down to the heart of the structure

After returning to the Second Floor (by elevator), you will take the stairs to the First Floor, at the heart of the structure. Your Guide will tell you more about the structure of the monument and the history of its construction.

04: Don't leave us without obtaining your privileges!

Once you reach the First Floor, it will be time to say goodbye to your Guide, but you can extend your visit and explore this floor a little longer, where you can take advantage of the benefits on offer by presenting your guided tour tickets. For a bite to eat, you will receive a 10% discount on a special menu served at the first-floor bistro (located in the Ferrié Pavilion) depending on the time of your visit (breakfast, lunch/snack or afternoon snack). This offer also applies to the buffet on the Esplanade! You will also benefit from an exceptional 10% discount in our official gift shops on all products in the exclusive Eiffel Tower Collection, which promotes French expertise.

Ticket prices

Guided tour second floor.

Ascenseur

The price of a guided tour is composed of the price of the access ticket + 30 euros (Adult & Youth rate) or 20 euros (Child rate)

  • Adult : 48.80 euros
  • Young from 12 to 24 : 39.40 euros
  • Children from 4 to 11 : 24.70 euros
  • Children under 4 : free

Please conform to the meeting time on the Esplanade near the Information Point, 15 minutes before the time stated on your ticket.

Before reaching the Esplanade, security checks are carried out at the entrance to the site. But you are authorized to use an entrance specially reserved for "Visites guidées officielles". Allow 10 to 20 minutes to complete these checks.

This tour is not accessible for people with reduced mobility and not recommended for people with baby strollers.

Your guided tour ticket entitles you to an exceptional 10% discount on items in the exclusive Eiffel Tower Collection in our gift shops and on special menus at the buffets located on the First Floor and on the Esplanade.

  • Prices & Times
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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!

Visit Sacre-Cœur (from the outside)

  • Visit Sacre-Cœur (from the outside)
  • See Notre Dame Cathedral (from the outside)

Skip-the-line Louvre ticket and guided tour

  • See The Mona Lisa Up Close
  • Don't Miss Liberty Leading the People
  • One-Hour Seine River Cruise Ticket
  • Entry Tickets To The Eiffel Tower
  • See Paris In A Day
  • Guided Walking Tour Of Montmartre

*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="guide tour eiffel paris"> 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)

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.

Eiffel Tower

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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249 total reviews

Dr. Andreou

Excellent! I loved the information, organization and passion for the French culture.

Fantastic day

Julie was a fantastic guide. We covered more ground than we could have on our own. The Eiffel Tower tickets and Seine River Cruise after the full day of walking were a treat.

show more reviews

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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How to Spend 48 Hours & $250: A Weekend in Paris Itinerary

Grace Lower | Apr 8, 2024

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During my semester abroad, I had what you might call ... ambitious ... travel goals. Could I conquer Paris in a weekend? “Absolutely,” I thought. And that’s exactly what I tried to do. 

My roommate and I didn’t have classes on Fridays, so she and I decided to book our flight for an upcoming Thursday night. That would give us all of Friday and Saturday to explore Paris before flying back to Granada, Spain , on Sunday. 

Two days would be plenty of time, we assured ourselves as we scrambled to book hostel accommodations and research our destination to find things to do in Paris that weekend. With a $250 budget and a hilariously poor command of the French language, I was certain I had everything I needed to see the best of Paris in just 48 hours. 

Paris Itinerary: Day 1

After a few flight delays, my roommate and I arrived in Paris late on Thursday night. Although we were excited to be there, our exhaustion got the best of us. Within our first few minutes in The City of Lights, we were already struggling to navigate the Paris Metro.

After a close call with a pickpocket and a few desperate searches for English-speakers , we made it to our hostel just minutes before the 1 a.m. curfew. I’m lucky my roommate set her alarm for 6:30 the next morning, or we would have slept through our entire first day in Paris.

7 a.m. — Café breakfast

Although breakfast was provided at our hostel, my roommate and I wanted to take advantage of our proximity to the historic Montmartre neighborhood. We followed our noses to a nearby café, where we ordered a croissant and a pan au lait each, with a bowl of fresh fruit and two coffees on the side.

8 a.m. — Sacré-Coeur Basilica

Since we were already in Montmartre, we decided to pay a quick visit to the gorgeous Sacré-Coeur Basilica . We took in the views from the top of the stairs and spent a blissful hour enjoying the tranquility of Paris in February.

Fast Fact: The basilica’s dome is open every day. There is no elevator, so you’ll need to climb the 280 steps up a narrow staircase to get to the top.

10 a.m. — Walking tour

Following another confusing mishap in the Paris Metro, we managed to find our way to the fountain at Place Saint-Michel . Here, we caught a free walking tour of the city. I’m a huge fan of SANDEMANs free walking tours. Not only are they informative, but they tend to attract a diverse group of students, families, and other thrifty travelers.

The tour was essentially a two-and-a-half-hour crash course in Parisian history, culture, and architecture, and I came away from it with a newfound appreciation for one of the world’s favorite cities.

Fast Fact: At Place Saint-Michel, you’re close to the world-famous university, la Sorbonne. With all those students nearby, you’ll find ample used bookstores and affordable bistros and cafés.

1 p.m. — The Eiffel Tower

After a quick pit stop for sandwiches, we managed to find our way to Paris’s crown jewel: the Eiffel Tower. Neither my roommate nor I had the budget or the time to go to the top of the tower, but we enjoyed taking touristy pictures in the nearby park.

Fast Fact: The price of Eiffel Tower tickets ranges from about 12€ to 30€ for adults depending on which level you want to go to and whether you choose to take the elevator or stairs. There are discounted rates for children, youth (for ticketing purposes, you’re “young” until age 24), and travelers with disabilities .

2:30 p.m. — The Louvre

Although I love art, the Louvre was, tragically, too pricey and too time-consuming for our weekend in Paris. That said, my roommate and I were able to admire the glass pyramids outside the visitor center while we indulged in some fresh chocolate-banana crepes.

Fast Fact: If you have some extra time and the weather is nice, include the Tuileries Garden and Carrousel Garden in your tour. Both are part of the Louvre Estate. As a bonus, the Tuileries Garden is free to visit.

4 p.m. — Paris Catacombs

The Paris Catacombs weren’t as iconic as other landmarks in the city, but they were one of our more interesting stops. The Catacombs took us beneath the city, where we walked among the bones of nearly six million Parisians.

While it may sound gruesome, the Catacombs were a necessary measure in the 1700s, when city cemeteries were at capacity. Today, the bones are arranged to create a spectacular mausoleum that honors centuries of Parisians who were laid to rest.

Fast Fact: Seven Corners picked the maze-like Paris Catacombs as one of the spookiest destinations in the world . It’s well worth the one-hour tour, even when you’re only in Paris for a short time.

6 p.m. — A fancy French dinner

Whenever I travel, I try to sample as much of the local cuisine as I can, and my trip to Paris was no exception. After an exhausting day, my roommate and I enjoyed a relaxing dinner at La Vache et Le Cuisinier .

Was a fancy French bistro a bit outside of our price range? Perhaps. Was it worth every penny? Absolutely.

8:30 p.m. — Seine River cruise

To end our night in style, we took an hour-long cruise down the Seine River. Unlike our earlier walking tour, we were able to sit back and take in the beauty of the city, all while enjoying a glass of wine.

From the water, the bustling city seemed deceptively calm. And when the Eiffel Tower’s lights began to shimmer to mark the top of the hour, my roommate and I agreed that the tour was the perfect end to a busy day.

Fast Fact: Paris undertook the major project of cleaning up the Seine ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics, preparing for its use in the opening ceremonies and swimming events.

Paris Itinerary: Day 2

The next day began with another early morning. We were on our way to Versailles! After nearly boarding the wrong train and fumbling our way through the directions from a well-meaning security guard, we found an older British couple who was able to point us in the right direction. Just because we were young, independent travelers didn’t mean we were too proud to ask for help.

8:30 a.m. — The Palace of Versailles

Although it involved a 45-minute train ride away from the city, our trip to the Palace of Versailles was time well-spent. My roommate and I spent hours wandering the halls, totally mesmerized by the gorgeous architecture and extravagant art that surrounded us.

What’s more, the chilly February weather meant that the lines were short and crowds were thin.

Fast Fact: Because of the short days and increased chance of rain, February is considered travel’s off season in Paris. That makes visits to iconic sites like Versailles less crowded, perfect for a quick visit if you can tolerate the weather.

12:30 p.m. — Fancy French lunch

Before leaving Versailles, we treated ourselves to a hearty lunch in town. In addition to my soup, I may have ordered an entire baked brie appetizer for myself — because, you know, we were in France. I’m not exaggerating when I say that the cheese may have been the best decision I made during the entire trip.

Fast Fact: When you’re traveling in France on a budget, take advantage of the specials and smaller portions you’ll find during lunchtime at nicer restaurant. It’ll be cheaper than the dinner service.

2:30 p.m. — Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris

Once we made our way back to the city, we stopped by the Notre Dame Cathedral . I was a huge fan of Disney’s Hunchback of Notre Dame as a kid, so visiting the cathedral in person was nothing short of awe-inspiring. I especially appreciated seeing different groups of nuns, priests, and parishioners marveling alongside me.

Fast Fact: The cathedral closed after a devastating fire in 2019. It’s expected to reopen in December 2024, followed by six months of celebrations.

Paris Artwork

3:30 p.m. — Champs-Élysées and Arc De Triomph

Although our energy was flagging, we decided to spend the rest of the afternoon window-shopping along the Champs-Élysées . The famous avenue houses enormous retailers familiar at home, like H&M, Sephora, and Gap, along with luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Lacoste. 

Once we made our way to the end of the street, we took pictures beneath the Arc de Triomphe , an iconic landmark originally commissioned by Emperor Napoleon himself.

Fast Fact: The Champs-Élysées is the site of a countless events throughout the year, from film festivals to the finish line of the Tour de France’s final stage to the Bastille Day parade. This makes the already-crowded avenue even busier, but also certainly an unforgettable experience.

6:30 p.m. — Indian food

Although our decision to get Indian food was mostly a matter of convenience, it was an absolute hit! Having spent all weekend indulging in rich French cuisine, my roommate and I agreed that it was refreshing to have a spice- and vegetable-heavy meal.

Fast Fact: Although India was not a French colony, several other countries were. That’s why you’ll find a strong culinary influence from places like Vietnam, Senegal, and Lebanon in Paris today.

8 p.m. — Macaron tasting

While macaron tasting wasn’t an official item on our itinerary, we did stumble across a gourmet macaron shop later in the evening. It was amazing.

Fast Fact: Macarons and macaroons are different types of cookies. In Paris, you’re mostly likely to find macarons — with a single O — which is a sandwich-style cookie. They come in a variety of flavors and can be filled with jam, buttercream icing, or ganache. Macaroons — with two O’s — are coconut drop cookies commonly served around the world during Passover.

8:30 p.m. — Taking a breather

After a weekend of rushing to complete our checklist, we were grateful for the downtime we built into our itinerary for Saturday night. 

We were too exhausted to fully take advantage of Paris nightlife, but we did enjoy strolling back past the Eiffel Tower and through the sparkling streets. We admired glamorous locals as they walked by, stopped to look at a padlock-covered bridge, and spent nearly an hour enjoying a group of street musicians as they played.

Can You See Paris in a Weekend?

On Sunday morning, my roommate and I boarded our plane back to Spain. The truth was, we had only gotten a small taste of what Paris had to offer. Racing from one destination to the next had left little time for us to appreciate Paris’s beauty and culture.

Despite the exhaustion that came with the trip, however, I’m glad we went on our impulsive weekend adventure. Having experienced Paris as an overly ambitious college student, I can’t wait to return when I have more free time, a larger budget, and a passable knowledge of French.

My only hope is that I won’t have to wait too long before I’m back again.

Protecting Quick Trips and Epic Adventures to Paris

Whether you need travel medical insurance for an epic European adventure or an affordable plan fit for a backpacker’s budget, Seven Corners has you covered. Answer a few simple questions and you’ll get a quick quote for the travel insurance that best meets your needs. Our sales team of licensed agents is also available to answer all your questions and make sure you get the right coverage.

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London & Paris

About this tour.

From cosmopolitan London to romantic Paris, cross the English Channel via train and take in the best of these iconic cities. Take a walking tour to Westminster to see Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, and witness the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. Personalize your stay in Paris by choosing to savor a thrilling dinner and cabaret show at the Paradis Latin theatre or indulge in a traditional brasserie dinner before sliding into the backseat of a retro Citroën classic car for a drive through the city’s chic boulevards. Dine at the Eiffel Tower and cruise the River Seine at night.

Your Tour Includes

  • 2 Handpicked Accommodations
  • 4 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

  • Buckingham Palace
  • Covent Garden
  • Eurostar Train

Your Tour at a Glance

7 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Customize your tour.

$1,199.00 pp

Optional Excursions

Starting at $65.00

Activity Level

  • Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Travel styles, highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Embark on a tour of London with a local expert.

Cross the English Channel aboard the Eurostar Train.

Cultural Experiences:

Take advantage of a full day of leisure in both London and Paris.

  • Cruise along the Seine against a backdrop of Paris' glittering skyline.

Discover London on a walking tour to Westminster and see the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.

Culinary Inclusions:

Enjoy London’s culinary renaissance at a dinner featuring contemporary British cuisine.

Savor an exclusive dinner at the Eiffel Tower, featuring delicious cuisine and breathtaking views.

  • Choices on Tour
  • Arc de Triomphe
  • Eiffel Tower Dinner
  • Seine River Cruise

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

  • *No Hassle Refunds
  • Traveling Well Safety
  • No booking fee, *no change fees
  • Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

Pre and Post Tour Extensions

  • Choice On Tour

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

  • Tour Extensions

In Paris, you have the choice between 2 activities. Your first choice is to gain an overview of the French capital during a panoramic bus tour. With your local guide, take in the most iconic sights of Paris such as the Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysees, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Place de la Concorde. OR, join a local expert on a walking tour. Travel like a Parisian as you hop on Le Métro bound for the hilltop neighborhood of Montmartre and its iconic Sacré-Cœur basilica. Explore the winding streets, home to classical painters and cultural provocateurs and learn the history of this artistic village in the heart of Paris.

In Paris, you have the choice between 2 evening activities. Your first choice is to cross into the Latin Quarter for an eventful dinner at the legendary Paradis Latin,* the city’s oldest cabaret theatre, complete with wine, champagne and a captivating show. Your second choice is to explore Paris’ culinary scene during a traditional brasserie dinner, before sliding into the backseat of a retro Citroën classic car for a drive through the city’s chic boulevards. * The Paradis Latin show features some tasteful nudity and may be considered unsuitable for children - consult your Tour Manager.

Extend your stay in London with a 2-night pre extension. A locally guided walking tour begins by on the London Underground tube before you explore along the River Thames discovering the iconic buildings of St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tate Modern Gallery and Shakespeare’s, ending at the food stalls of Borough Market. An included ticket to the Tower of London lets you peek into the city’s storied past independently uncovering the secrets of this 11th-century fortress. Spend ample free time exploring the best of London.

  • Overnight Flight
  • You’re on your way to London, where you will arrive early and enjoy an additional 2-night stay to explore your way.
  • Arrive in dynamic London, a sophisticated, historic city metropolis with a timeless style of its own. The day is yours to explore independently.
  • Navigate the city with a local expert. Using your included Oyster card, hop on the famous underground Tube. Take a walking tour along the River Thames, where you will see St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tate Modern Art Gallery and Shakespeare’s Globe. End at Borough market, London’s premier Food Market, dating back over 1000 years. You will love independently strolling the small, specialty produce stalls and sumptuous street food traders. Enjoy the afternoon to further explore the city.
  • See London your way today! Be sure to take advantage of your included ticket to the Tower of London to peek into the city’s storied past and uncover the secrets of this 11th-century fortress. Later today meet your fellow travelers to start your tour.

Extend your stay with 3 nights in Amsterdam. Arrive via high-speed train before getting acquainted with the city during a locally guided food walking tour. Enjoy ample time at leisure, giving you the opportunity to peruse the city’s many iconic museums or take a cruise along the canals. This 3-night stay is ideal for taking in the art, architecture, culture, and picturesque canals of Amsterdam.

  • Paris - Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • Board a high-speed train and take off for Amsterdam, the thriving 800-year-old capital of Holland. After some time to settle in, meet up with a local guide to get acquainted with the Jordaan District of Amsterdam. Explore this charming neighborhood and learn of its rich multicultural roots during a walking food tour where you’ll taste traditional Dutch fare as you walk along the canals and historic homes between stops.
  • Stroll through the city with a local expert. Get acquainted with the cozy lanes and quintessential Dutch houses as you wander along the canals that lead to Amsterdam’s museum district. Explore the Rijksmuseum with your local guide and experience works from the great Dutch masters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer and Van Gogh. Enjoy an afternoon on your own to do as you please. Perhaps you’ll choose to explore the Anne Frank House,* a museum dedicated to the memory of the young diarist who documented her time in hiding during WWII.
  • The day is yours. Explore the narrow canals, stone bridges, and bike-brimmed roads at your leisure. Perhaps you’ll choose to see the city from a different perspective and embark on a canal cruise or spend some time relaxing at a café. Maybe take the train to The Hague to see the renowned Girl with a Pearl Earring in the Mauritshuis Museum.
  • Amsterdam - Tour Ends
  • Bid Amsterdam farewell as your tour comes to a close today.

Step into the formal world of the British Monarchy when you visit the stately and expansive Windsor Castle. His Majesty King Charles III uses Windsor as both a private home and as a Royal residence where formal duties of state are performed. Windsor’s 1,000 rooms comprise the largest inhabited castle in the world. It dates back to the 1070s, when William the Conqueror built the original wooden structure, now replaced by the grand stone edifices. Explore one of Britain’s most visited historic buildings, its precincts, and the State Apartments, which house a delightful collection of Royal art treasures. Enjoy time for lunch in the quaint town of Windsor before heading back to London. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit the castle that houses so much British history and lore is not to be missed!

Enjoy an interesting visit to the incomparable Palace of Versailles. The palace and gardens of Versailles reflect the extravagant tastes of King Louis XIV, the "Sun King." On this excursion, travel by coach to Versailles where your local guide will recount the history of the palace and lead you through the various rooms of the State Apartments. Of particular interest are the Queen's bedchamber and the famous Hall of Mirrors. You then have leisure time to explore the incredible gardens, some of the most famous in the world, which took over 40 years to complete.

Step away from the city and take in the countryside on a trip to Claude Monet’s home at Giverny. See the home where the impressionist’s passion for art and gardening blossomed. Tour the house where Monet worked and lived for more than 40 years. Then, take in the colorful garden that inspired his art, including the iconic Waterlilies piece.

Cruise along the Seine against a backdrop of Paris' glittering skyline.

Accommodations

Leonardo royal hotel london city, crowne plaza paris-republique, trip reviews.

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  • Les anneaux olympiques seront installés sur la tour Eiffel pour les JO
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Paris 2024 Les anneaux olympiques seront installés sur la tour Eiffel pour les JO

Les cinq anneaux olympiques trôneront sur la tour Eiffel dès ce printemps en vue des Jeux olympiques (26 juillet - 11 août), ont indiqué lundi à l'AFP la société d'exploitation du monument (Sete) et le comité d'organisation de Paris-2024, confirmant une information du Parisien.

Les anneaux olympiques. Photo Sipa

Les anneaux olympiques. Photo Sipa

Plus d'informations à suivre...

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  1. Eiffel Tower Paris

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  2. Eiffel Tower Tours: Tickets, What to Expect, FAQ and more

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  3. Guide de visite OFFICIEL de la tour Eiffel pour votre mobile

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  4. Eiffel Tower, Paris

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  5. Guided Tour Eiffel Tower

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  6. Visite guidée de la Tour Eiffel, Paris

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COMMENTS

  1. The OFFICIAL Eiffel Tower website: tickets, news, info

    The Eiffel Tower on social media. See more photos. Discover or visit the tower: buy a ticket (10.5 to 26.10 € maximum for adults and 2.6 to 13.10 € for children and young people), news and practical information.

  2. Guided tour to the Top

    An unforgettable tour, available in French or English and lasting around 90 minutes, in groups of no more than 12 people! Your Official Eiffel Tower Guide will ensure that everything goes smoothly on your visit while helping you access the different levels, especially the elevators. And to enhance this experience, the Eiffel Tower can offer you ...

  3. OFFICIAL Eiffel tower tour guide for your mobile

    The Eiffel Tower mobile guide provides you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit to the Eiffel Tower. In it, you will discover all the services available: restaurants, refreshments, shops, restrooms, etc. A multidimensional map will allow you to orient yourselft to the floors and gardens, without missing any of the ...

  4. Guided tour up to the second floor with access to the Top

    The guided tour, available in French or English, is open to groups of up to 12 people. After meeting on the esplanade, your official guide will take you on a seamless one-hour visit. Once the tour is over, your guide will say "au revoir" on the second floor after showing you how to get to the elevator that will take you to the Top.

  5. Paris: Eiffel Tower Guided Tour by Elevator

    Take a tour of the famous Eiffel Tower and admire the city from above. Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour in English of the tower to hear all about the origins and the secrets behind the construction of this architectural masterpiece. Catch the elevator and ascend to the viewing platform on the second floor, and, if you choose the summit ticket, head ...

  6. Visitor's Practical Guide

    Visitor's Practical Guide. Visit. Monday 18 July 2022. Modified the 09/08/22. From luggage to strollers and photos with your smartphone, this guide provides all the tips and instructions you need to stay safe and enjoy your visit. This article is taken from the visit regulations, which can be found here in their entirety and must be read ...

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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. (249) as low as $126.66. Up to 25% off.

  8. Paris: Eiffel Tower Guided Tour with Summit Access

    This special visit to the top of the Eiffel Tower is sure to be one of the highlights of your visit to Paris. Includes. Pre-reserved timed entry tickets to the Eiffel Tower including summit. Expert local guide. Fully guided 1.5 hour tour. Hotel pick up and drop-off. Gratuities (optional)

  9. Paris: Eiffel Tower Guided Tour with Summit Option

    Highlights. Enjoy a guided tour to the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower by elevator. Learn about the history of the monument with your guide. Spot other iconic landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe. Choose to ascend 276 meters up in glass-walled lifts. Soak up views of the French capital from the summit. Full description.

  10. Eiffel Tower Guided Tour by Elevator 2024

    Overview. Make the most of your visit to one of the world's most popular landmarks on a guided Eiffel Tower tour. Hear the history and legends behind the Paris icon as a guide accompanies you up to the second level, where panoramic views of the city await. Get help identifying the monuments below, and upgrade for summit access to go even higher.

  11. Visit the Eiffel Tower in Paris

    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.

  12. Paris: Eiffel Tower Tour with Summit or 2nd Floor Access

    Weapons or sharp objects. Luggage or large bags. Glass objects. Padlocks. Know before you go. You may have to wait in line for security and the elevators. Summit ticket holders will have to wait in line on the second floor to access the summit's elevators. Likely to sell out. From $9.67 per person.

  13. Guided Eiffel Tower Tour with Elevator and Summit Access

    Wear comfortable shoes that'll keep your feet cushioned for this 2-2.5-hour tour. Check the weather and bring rain gear if necessary. Food and beverages aren't included, so bring cash if you want to stop for a drink or snack along the way. show more frequently asked questions. Reserve Now $99.68 / per person.

  14. Complete Guide to Visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris

    Guided Tour at Night - This 1.5 hours guided tour includes a guided tour of the Eiffel Tower at night and elevator access to the second floor. 6 Hour Paris Tour - This highlights walking tour of Paris includes a fully guided tour of the Eiffel Tower (including access to the summit) as well as a Seine river boat cruise, a visit to Notre Dame ...

  15. Eiffel Tower guided tour : how to book one

    If you wish to visit the Tower in a very priviledged and exclusive way, you can contact our teams to organize a personalized visit (in groups of 6 max.) in English or in many other languages. Pricing will be on request. If you book a guided tour of the Eiffel Tower with an external service provider, that provider is responsible for all aspects ...

  16. Eiffel Tower, Paris

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    Get into the second floor of the Eiffel Tower with a reserved entrance and learn all about 'La Dame de Fer' from an expert guide. en / USD Search Help. Sign in. Get your tickets faster. 4.7 rating 4.7. Use app

  18. Guide de visite OFFICIEL de la tour Eiffel pour votre mobile

    Le guide de visite mobile de la tour Eiffel vous présente toutes les informations nécessaires pour profiter au mieux de votre visite de la tour Eiffel. Vous y découvrirez tous les services mis à votre disposition : restauration, rafraîchissements, boutiques, toilettes. ... Majestueuse, la tour Eiffel domine Paris. Elle offre une vue ...

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

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  21. Eiffel Tower guide: What you need to know before you go

    The Eiffel Tower, Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris Café de l'Homme , 17 Place du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre, 75016 Paris; +33 1 44 05 30 15 Les Ombres , 27 Quai Branly ...

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  23. 48 Hours & $250: A Weekend in Paris Itinerary

    And when the Eiffel Tower's lights began to shimmer to mark the top of the hour, my roommate and I agreed that the tour was the perfect end to a busy day. Fast Fact: Paris undertook the major project of cleaning up the Seine ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics, preparing for its use in the opening ceremonies and swimming events. Paris Itinerary ...

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    Les cinq anneaux olympiques trôneront sur la tour Eiffel dès ce printemps en vue des Jeux olympiques (du 26 juillet au 11 août 2024), ont indiqué lundi 8 avril à l' Agence France-Presse ...

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    Les cinq anneaux olympiques trôneront sur la tour Eiffel dès ce printemps en vue des Jeux olympiques (26 juillet - 11 août), ont indiqué lundi à l'AFP la société d'exploitation du monument ...