The Eiffel Tower is iconic! You simply can’t visit Paris without experiencing the Eiffel Tower. When I was in Paris, visiting the Eiffel Tower was a must-do, and it’s probably on everyone else’s must list as well! But besides taking in the views of the Eiffel Tower, there is also a lot to do and see there. From its multiple levels to restaurants and guided tours, the Eiffel Tower is a Paris experience and an activity on its own!
So before you plan your trip, I’ve put together all the tips for visiting the Eiffel Tower so you can make the most of the experience.
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Things to Do at the Eiffel Tower
– Walk on the glass floor on the first level
– Climb the stairs (674 steps!) to the second floor
– Take the lift to the summit for a panoramic view of Paris
– Enjoy the light show every night, sparkling every hour after dark
Book Eiffel Tower Tickets here
👉 Get your climbing tickets here
👉 Book a guided tour here
👉 Reserve a table at Le Jules Verne or Madame Brasserie
When to Visit
– Daytime: Best for clear, sweeping views of Paris from the summit
– Nighttime: See the city lights and the magical Eiffel Tower light show
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Eiffel Tower Levels and What to Expect
The Eiffel Tower has three levels, each offering a different view and experience.
On the first floor, you can walk on the glass floor (if you dare!) and explore the exhibitions that share the history of the Eiffel Tower. There’s also a gift shop and café to enjoy.
The second floor is one of the most popular spots, and you can reach it by either climbing the 674 steps or taking the elevator. The view from here is breathtaking. You can see the Seine River, the Champs-Élysées, and much more. I decided to take the stairs, and while it was a bit of a workout, the views along the way made it all worth it!
The summit is the highest point you can reach, but you’ll need to take a lift to get there. The view from the summit is unreal and is the ultimate Eiffel Tower experience. You can look out over the entire city and even spot landmarks like Notre-Dame and Montmartre in the distance.
What You Can Do at the Eiffel Tower
There’s more to the Eiffel Tower than just the views. Here are a few activities you can enjoy during your visit.
For a truly special experience, dine at Le Jules Verne, a Michelin-starred restaurant located on the second floor. The views from here are fantastic, and the food is even better!
As mentioned earlier, you can choose to climb the stairs up to the second floor. It’s a bit challenging, but the experience of ascending the tower step by step and taking in the views along the way is unforgettable.
For those wanting to learn more about the history of the Eiffel Tower and the city, booking a guided tour is a great option. A tour guide can share fascinating stories about the tower, Gustave Eiffel, and Paris itself.
The Eiffel Tower lights up every night, sparkling for five minutes every hour after dark. This light show is one of the most magical sights in Paris.
Where did I stay in Paris
👉 Watch our hotel review staying at Hotel Le Millie Rose in Paris!
Where to Stay in Paris
Budget: Hôtel des Arts Montmartre ⭐⭐⭐, 8.7 rating
Midrange: Hôtel Monsieur ⭐⭐⭐⭐, 9.1 rating
Luxury: Le Meurice ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐, 9.4 rating
Eiffel Tower Opening Hours and Getting There
The Eiffel Tower is open all year round, typically from 9:30 AM to 11:45 PM. The hours may vary slightly depending on the season, so be sure to check before you go.
The Eiffel Tower is located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris. The closest metro stations are Bir-Hakeim (Line 6) and Trocadéro (Line 9), both of which are within walking distance. If you’re travelling by bus, lines 42, 69, and 82 will also get you close to the tower.
For security reasons, there are restrictions on what you can bring to the Eiffel Tower. Large bags, sharp objects, and glass bottles are not allowed, so pack light!
Yes! There are two main dining options on the Eiffel Tower:
Madame Brasserie (First Floor): A casual restaurant where you can enjoy a meal with great views.
Book a table at Madame Brasserie
Le Jules Verne (Second Floor): For a more luxurious experience, Le Jules Verne offers Michelin-starred dining with a view.
Le Jules Verne (Second Floor): For a more luxurious experience, Le Jules Verne offers Michelin-starred dining with a view.
Absolutely! You can climb 674 steps to reach the second floor, which is not only a great workout but also offers incredible views as you ascend the tower. It’s a more hands-on way to experience the Eiffel Tower, and I highly recommend it if you’re up for the challenge.
Yes, pre-purchasing your Eiffel Tower tickets is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. This will save you time and ensure you can access the second floor or summit, as tickets for the top can sell out quickly. You can easily buy tickets online ahead of time.
For a unique memory, consider booking a professional photo shoot at the Eiffel Tower. This is perfect for couples, families, or anyone wanting to capture that special moment in Paris.
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FAQ About Visiting the Eiffel Tower
Plan for at least 2-3 hours if you want to visit the summit or dine at one of the restaurants.
Both offer unique experiences. During the day, you get clear, sweeping views of Paris, while at night, the city lights and the Eiffel Tower light show create a magical atmosphere.
You can either take the elevator or climb the stairs to the second floor. Both offer different experiences. Climbing gives you a more intimate connection with the tower, while the elevator is faster.
Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to climb the stairs. The weather in Paris can be unpredictable, so a light jacket is a good idea.
Yes, the Eiffel Tower is open year-round with varying hours depending on the season.
You can enjoy the views from different levels, dine at Madame Brasserie or Le Jules Verne, take a guided tour, or climb the stairs for a more active experience.
Yes, and visiting at night is highly recommended to see the light show and experience the tower in a completely different ambience.
Yes, you need to purchase tickets for access to the Eiffel Tower. Pre-booking your tickets online is the best way to ensure availability.
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