A Travel Guide to the Eiffel Tower (2026)
The Eiffel Tower, or La Tour Eiffel, is the iconic symbol of Paris and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. Built in 1889 for the Universal Exhibition celebrating the French Revolution’s centennial, this 330-meter-tall iron lattice structure draws millions of visitors annually. Whether you’re planning to ascend to its summit for breathtaking views, dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant, or simply admire its grandeur from below, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable visit to the Eiffel Tower.
Why Visit the Eiffel Tower?
The Eiffel Tower is more than just a monument; it’s a cultural and historical marvel. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, it offers panoramic views of Paris, from the Champs-Élysées to Notre-Dame and the Seine River. Visiting the tower provides a quintessential Parisian experience, blending architectural beauty, romantic ambiance, and a chance to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. With dining options, nighttime light shows, and nearby attractions, it’s a must-see for first-time and returning visitors alike.
How to Get There
Located in the 7th arrondissement on the Champ de Mars, the Eiffel Tower is easily accessible from anywhere in Paris:
By Metro: Line 6 or Line 9 to Trocadéro Station: A 10-minute walk across the Seine offers stunning views of the tower. Line 6 to Bir-Hakeim Station: A 5-minute walk to the tower’s base. Line 8 to École Militaire Station: A 10-minute walk through Champ de Mars. Metro fares are €2.10 one-way; a 10-ticket carnet costs €16.90.
By RER: RER C to Champ de Mars-Tour Eiffel Station: A 5-minute walk to the tower. RER tickets cost €2.10–€5 depending on your starting point.
By Bus: Routes 42, 69, 82, or 86 stop near the tower (e.g., Tour Eiffel or Champ de Mars stops). Fares are €2.10.
By Taxi or Ride-Hailing (Uber): A taxi from central Paris (e.g., Louvre) takes 10–20 minutes and costs €10–€20, depending on traffic. Uber is widely available and similarly priced.
By Bike or Foot: Paris’ Vélib’ bike-sharing system has stations near the tower (e.g., Quai Branly). Rentals start at €3 for 45 minutes. Walking from nearby attractions like the Louvre (30 minutes) or Arc de Triomphe (25 minutes) is scenic and enjoyable.
Parking: Limited parking is available nearby, but public transport is recommended due to heavy traffic and restricted zones around the tower.
Best Time to Visit
Seasons: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November): Mild weather, fewer crowds than summer, and pleasant conditions for outdoor exploration. Summer (June–August): Peak season with long days and warm weather (20–30°C), but expect large crowds and longer wait times. Winter (December–February): Quieter with festive decorations, but colder temperatures (0–10°C) and shorter days.
Time of Day: Morning: Arrive at opening (9:00 AM) to avoid crowds and enjoy softer light for photos. Evening: Visit after 6:00 PM for sunset views and the tower’s sparkling light show (every hour on the hour after dark, lasting 5 minutes). Night: The tower is illuminated until 1:00 AM, creating a magical ambiance.
Crowd Tip: Weekdays (especially Tuesday–Thursday) are less busy than weekends. Avoid peak holidays like Bastille Day (July 14) or New Year’s Eve for shorter queues.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Opening Hours: Mid-June to early September: 9:00 AM–12:45 AM (last ascent at midnight). Rest of the year: 9:30 AM–11:45 PM (last ascent at 11:00 PM). Elevators and stairs may have slightly different schedules; check the official website for updates.
Ticket Prices: Elevator to 2nd Floor: €14.20 (adults), €7.10 (youth 12–24), €3.60 (children 4–11). Elevator to Summit: €35.30 (adults), €17.70 (youth), €8.90 (children). Stairs to 2nd Floor: €10.50 (adults), €5.20 (youth), €2.60 (children). Stairs to 2nd Floor + Elevator to Summit: €26.10 (adults), €13.10 (youth), €6.50 (children). Children under 4 are free; reduced rates for disabled visitors.
Booking: Online: Purchase tickets on the official Eiffel Tower website (www.toureiffel.paris) up to 60 days in advance. Timed entry tickets reduce wait times. On-Site: Available at ticket booths, but expect 1–2 hour queues during peak seasons.
Guided Tours: Skip-the-line tours with guides (e.g., GetYourGuide, Viator) cost €50–€100 and include insights into the tower’s history.
Tip: Summit tickets sell out quickly; book at least 2–3 weeks in advance for peak seasons.
What to See and Do
Ascend the Tower: By Elevator: Access the 1st floor (57m), 2nd floor (115m), and summit (276m) for panoramic views of Paris landmarks like the Louvre, Sacré-Cœur, and Arc de Triomphe. The summit features a champagne bar. By Stairs: Climb 704 steps to the 2nd floor for a budget-friendly, active experience. The 1st floor has a glass floor for a thrilling view below.
Dining at the Eiffel Tower: Madame Brasserie (1st Floor): A chic restaurant offering French cuisine with views. Lunch starts at €60, dinner at €100. Book in advance. Le Jules Verne (2nd Floor): A Michelin-starred restaurant by chef Frédéric Anton. Expect gourmet meals starting at €190. Reservations are essential. Snack Bars: Available on the 1st and 2nd floors for quick bites like sandwiches (€8–15) or pastries.
Explore the Champ de Mars: The park at the tower’s base is perfect for picnics, photos, or relaxing. Street vendors sell crepes and souvenirs, but beware of unofficial sellers.
Nighttime Light Show: After sunset, the tower sparkles with 20,000 lights every hour on the hour for 5 minutes. Best viewing spots include Trocadéro Square or a Seine River cruise.
Exhibitions and History: The 1st floor hosts seasonal exhibits about the tower’s history and engineering. Interactive displays and a small cinema provide educational fun for all ages.
Where to Eat Nearby
Café Constant (135 Rue Saint-Dominique, 5-minute walk): A cozy bistro serving French classics like duck confit (€20–30).
Le Violon d’Ingres (135 Rue Saint-Dominique): Upscale dining with Michelin-starred dishes, starting at €50.
Street Food: Vendors along the Seine offer affordable snacks like baguettes or ice cream (€5–10).
Picnic: Buy supplies at nearby supermarkets (e.g., Carrefour Express, 10-minute walk) and picnic on the Champ de Mars.
Where to Stay
Luxury: Shangri-La Paris (10 Av. d’Iéna, 10-minute walk): Former palace with Eiffel Tower views, starting at €1,000/night. Hôtel Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel (18 Av. de Suffren, 5-minute walk): Modern comfort with tower proximity, from €250/night.
Mid-Range: Hôtel de la Tour Eiffel (17 Rue de l’Exposition): Cozy and central, from €120–€180/night.
Budget: Hôtel Eber (18 Rue Eber): Simple but clean, from €80–€120/night.
Booking Tip: Use Booking.com or Airbnb for deals, and book early for spring and summer.
Tips for a Great Visit
Book in Advance: Timed tickets reduce wait times. Summit access is limited, so prioritize it if views are your goal.
Dress Smartly: Weather can change quickly; bring layers and comfortable shoes for climbing stairs or walking.
Avoid Scams: Beware of unofficial ticket sellers or “friendship bracelet” vendors around the tower.
Photography: Trocadéro Square offers the best photo angles. Tripods are allowed but may be restricted during peak hours.
Combine Your Trip: Visit nearby attractions like the Musée du Quai Branly (10-minute walk), Arc de Triomphe (20-minute walk), or take a Seine River cruise (starting at €15) from the tower’s base.
Final Thoughts
The Eiffel Tower is the heart of Paris, offering a blend of history, romance, and stunning views. Whether you’re sipping champagne at the summit, marveling at the nighttime sparkle, or strolling along the Seine, a visit here is an essential part of any Parisian adventure. Plan ahead, embrace the city’s charm, and let the Iron Lady leave you enchanted.
Happy travels!