The Eiffel Tower, or “La Tour Eiffel,” is the crown jewel of Paris, standing tall as one of the most recognized landmarks in the world. It symbolizes French art, history, and romance. Every year, millions of visitors flock to this iconic structure, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting Paris, France. But to ensure that your visit is seamless and memorable, understanding the variety of tours and ticket options available is crucial.
In this comprehensive blog post, we will dive deep into the best tours and ticket options to experience the Eiffel Tower, providing insights on how to make the most of your visit.
A Brief History of the Eiffel Tower
Before we explore ticket options and tours, let’s appreciate the history behind this marvel.
The Eiffel Tower was constructed between 1887 and 1889 as the centerpiece of the 1889 World’s Fair, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. Designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel, it was initially met with skepticism, but over time it has become a beloved symbol of Paris and a global icon. Standing 330 meters tall (with antennas), it held the record as the tallest man-made structure in the world until 1930.
The tower offers stunning panoramic views of Paris, making it an unforgettable experience for tourists from around the globe. Whether you’re interested in architecture, photography, or simply enjoying a cultural experience, the Eiffel Tower has something for everyone.
Ticket Options to Experience the Eiffel Tower
There are a variety of tickets available depending on your preferences, budget, and the experience you’re seeking. Let’s explore them in detail:
1. Standard Admission Tickets
Standard tickets are perfect for those who want to experience the Eiffel Tower at their own pace, with options to access the second floor or the summit.
- Second-Floor Access: This ticket allows you to take the elevator to the second floor, which stands at 116 meters. From here, you get an exceptional view of some of Paris’ most famous landmarks, including the Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame, and the Seine River.
- Summit Access: For the ultimate experience, the summit ticket takes you to the top of the Eiffel Tower (276 meters). This is the highest viewpoint in Paris and offers breathtaking views, especially on clear days.
Cost: Prices for standard tickets range between €10 to €30, depending on whether you opt for the second-floor or summit access and whether you choose to take the stairs or elevator.
2. Stair Access Tickets
If you’re up for a challenge and prefer a more intimate experience, stair access tickets allow you to climb to the second floor. You’ll ascend 674 steps while getting up close to the tower’s intricate iron latticework. This is a fantastic option for fitness enthusiasts or those looking for a unique, less-crowded experience.
- Benefits: Fewer people choose the stairs, so this option often has shorter lines. You’ll also get to appreciate the tower’s engineering up close.
Cost: Stair tickets are more affordable, usually around €10 to €20.
3. Skip-the-Line Tickets
Waiting in line at the Eiffel Tower, especially during the peak tourist season (June to September), can eat up hours of your day. Skip-the-line tickets are a great option for those wanting to save time and avoid the hassle.
- Benefits: These tickets allow you to bypass the long queues and go straight to the elevators, offering fast-track access to either the second floor or the summit.
Cost: Skip-the-line tickets typically range between €25 to €60.
Best Eiffel Tower Tours
For a more enriching experience, consider opting for a guided tour. Tours offer the added benefit of historical context, insider knowledge, and personal anecdotes that will enhance your visit. Here are some popular options:
1. Guided Group Tours
Group tours are ideal for visitors who want to learn about the Eiffel Tower’s history and significance from a knowledgeable guide while keeping costs relatively low.
- What’s Included: You’ll have a licensed guide providing detailed information about the Eiffel Tower, its construction, and its place in Parisian culture. Some tours include skip-the-line access, ensuring you don’t spend too much time in queues.
Cost: Group tours typically range from €35 to €70 depending on the duration and access level (second floor or summit).
2. Private Tours
For a more personalized experience, private tours offer one-on-one interaction with your guide. You can ask as many questions as you want, set your own pace, and enjoy a tailored experience.
- What’s Included: Private tours often include exclusive skip-the-line access and can be customized to fit your interests. Whether you want more history, engineering facts, or photography tips, the guide adapts to your needs.
Cost: Private tours are more expensive, generally ranging from €100 to €300 depending on the scope of the tour and access level.
3. Eiffel Tower and Seine River Cruise Combo
If you want to experience Paris from multiple perspectives, consider booking a combo tour that includes a Seine River cruise along with access to the Eiffel Tower. You’ll get a relaxing boat ride through the heart of Paris, seeing landmarks like the Louvre, Notre Dame, and Pont Neuf from the river, followed by a visit to the Eiffel Tower.
- What’s Included: This type of tour generally includes skip-the-line access to the Eiffel Tower as well as a 1-hour river cruise, often with commentary.
Cost: Combo tours are great value, ranging from €50 to €100 depending on the type of access and inclusions.
Dinner and Special Experiences at the Eiffel Tower
Looking for something truly unique? The Eiffel Tower offers several dining options and exclusive experiences that will make your visit even more unforgettable.
1. Dining at 58 Tour Eiffel
Located on the first floor, 58 Tour Eiffel is a family-friendly restaurant offering stunning views and delicious French cuisine. Dining here offers a more relaxed experience, as your meal includes priority access to the tower.
- What’s Included: Lunch and dinner options, with set menus featuring classic French dishes. Depending on the time of day, you’ll get different views of Paris—from daytime panoramas to the glittering city at night.
Cost: Meals start at around €100 per person for lunch and €150 to €250 for dinner.
2. Le Jules Verne Restaurant
For a luxurious experience, dining at the Michelin-starred Le Jules Verne on the second floor offers world-class French cuisine paired with one of the best views in the world. Run by acclaimed chef Frédéric Anton, the restaurant offers a multi-course meal with priority elevator access.
Cost: Expect to spend around €200 to €400 per person for this exclusive experience.
How to Buy Eiffel Tower Tickets
Booking tickets for the Eiffel Tower in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. There are several ways to secure your tickets:
1. Official Eiffel Tower Website
The official website offers all ticket types, including access to the second floor and summit. It’s the most reliable place to buy tickets without any hidden fees.
2. Third-Party Platforms
You can also purchase tickets through reputable third-party websites such as Viator, GetYourGuide, and Tiqets. These platforms offer a range of ticket types, including skip-the-line and combo packages with other Paris attractions.
3. At the Eiffel Tower
While it’s possible to purchase tickets on-site, this is not recommended due to long lines and limited availability. It’s best to book online in advance to secure your spot.
Best Times to Visit the Eiffel Tower
Choosing the best time to visit the Eiffel Tower can enhance your experience significantly. Here are some tips:
1. Early Morning
Arriving when the tower opens at 9:30 AM ensures that you beat the crowds, especially during peak tourist season. The earlier you arrive, the shorter the lines.
2. Late Evening
Visiting the Eiffel Tower at night offers a different kind of magic. The tower lights up every hour on the hour after sunset, creating a dazzling display. Plus, the city of Paris is illuminated at night, offering a stunning backdrop.
3. Off-Season
If possible, plan your visit during the off-season (October to April). Not only are there fewer crowds, but the winter months also bring a certain charm to the city, with cozy cafés and twinkling lights decorating the streets.
Conclusion
Visiting the Eiffel Tower is an experience like no other, and with so many ticket and tour options available, it’s easy to tailor your visit to suit your preferences. Whether you want to take your time exploring the tower on your own, learn its history with a guided tour, or indulge in a romantic dinner with breathtaking views, the Eiffel Tower offers something for everyone.
By planning ahead and choosing the right tickets, you’ll ensure that your visit to this Parisian icon is as smooth and memorable as possible. So book your tickets, pack your camera, and get ready to experience one of the world’s most magnificent landmarks!
