The Eiffel Tower is an iconic symbol of Paris and a must-see
the attraction for any traveler visiting the city of lights. In 1889, Gustave
Eiffel, this 324-meter tall tower was initially constructed as an entrance arch
for the 1889 World’s Fair. Today, it is one of the most visited monuments in
the world and a symbol of France’s engineering and architectural prowess.
Since its construction, the Eiffel Tower has become a symbol
of Paris and a significant landmark for France. It has been the site of
countless celebrations, such as New Year’s Eve and Bastille Day fireworks
displays, and it is often used as a backdrop for movies and television shows
set in the city. In addition, the tower serves as a telecommunications tower
and is used to transmit radio and television signals across Paris.
Gustave Eiffel, the tower’s namesake, was a French civil engineer
specializing in metal structures. In the late 1800s, he was commissioned to
build the tower as the entrance arch for the 1889 World’s Fair, held in Paris
to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. Eiffel’s design
was chosen from over 100 proposals and oversaw the tower’s construction, which
took two years to complete.
Getting to the Eiffel Tower
Getting to the Eiffel Tower is relatively easy. The tower is
located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, on the left bank of the Seine
River. The closest metro station is Bir-Hakeim, which is on line 6. Other
nearby metro stations include Trocadero and Ecole Militaire. Visitors can also
take a bus or a taxi to the tower or walk if they are staying in a nearby
hotel.
Pricing
The Eiffel Tower offers three levels of access for visitors.
The first two levels can be accessed by stairs or elevators, while the third
level can only be accessed by elevator. Ticket prices vary depending on which
level visitors access and how they choose to get there. As of 2023, ticket
prices range from €16.70 for access to the first and second levels by stairs to
€26.10 for all three elevators.
Click here for the official Eiffel Tower tickets
Traveler Warnings
The Eiffel Tower is a popular attraction and can be very
crowded, especially during peak tourist season. We always recommend you
purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines. Additionally, visitors should
be aware of pickpockets and be cautious with their belongings. As in any tourist area, many people sell the same plastic souvenirs around the tower’s base and on the sidewalks. While usually harmless, please be aware of your surroundings.
Hailing a cab at the end of the evening may require negotiating the price. Using Uber or Lyft is always an excellent option to ensure final pricing.
Other FAQs
What are the Eiffel Tower’s hours of operation?
The Eiffel Tower is open every day of the year, from 9:00 am
to midnight during the summer months and from 9:30 am to 11:00 pm during the
winter months.
Can visitors bring food and drinks to the Eiffel Tower?
Visitors are allowed to bring food and beverages to the Eiffel
Tower, but they are not allowed to bring glass containers or alcohol.
Is there a dress code for visitors to the Eiffel Tower?
There is no formal dress code for visitors to the Eiffel
Tower, but visitors should dress appropriately for the weather and wear
comfortable shoes.
