The Eiffel Tower isn't just a symbol of Paris but a symbol for all of France. Erected by Gustave Eiffel to commemorate the centennial of the French Revolution in 1889, the 1,050-foot (320-meter) tower once held the title of the world's tallest structure. Despite having been dwarfed by Dubai's Burj Khalifa and The Shard in London, the Eiffel Tower remains one of the most recognizable landmarks on the planet. View the architectural icon from afar, or stop in at the three observation levels for stellar city views.
The Basics
The Eiffel Tower's first floor features exhibits, kid-friendly experiences, and the 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant; the second deck includes the Jules Verne Restaurant; and the third-floor summit, accessible via a glass lift, features Gustave Eiffel's private apartments and a Champagne bar. Of course, all levels offer striking 360-degree views of the City of Light. Although a testament to the structure's global popularity, the crowds can be quite large, meaning that priority-access tours are highly recommended—in peak season, long lines mean waits can often exceed three hours. Save precious sightseeing time by booking a skip-the-line Eiffel Tower ticket with or without a tour guide; this experience can combined with a Paris city tour that covers the top sights, such as the Arc de Triomphe, the Notre Dame Cathedral, Moulin Rouge, Montparnasse, and the Louvre museum. If you'd rather view the iconic structure in all its glory than head to the top, book a Seine River cruise, or a walking, biking, or Segway tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
Plan your visit in advance and book skip-the-line tickets to avoid long wait times. If you purchase an admission ticket for Eiffel Tower summit access, you'll head straight to the top before stopping at the lower levels on your downward journey. There are ATMs and souvenir shops on the ground floor. The tower's first two levels are wheelchair accessible, but the summit is not. You'll be required to undergo a security screening before entering the tower.
How to Get to the Eiffel Tower
Take metro line 6 to stop Bir Hakeim or RER line C to the Champ de Mars station. For better views, take metro line 6 or 9 to stop Trocadero across from the River Seine.
When to Go
There There's no bad time to visit the Eiffel Tower, but summer and the holiday months are especially atmospheric, and night tours afford luminescent panorama views. For a unique experience, coincide your visit with Bastille Day and see the tower illuminated by fireworks.
Unique Eiffel Tower Experiences
The first-floor 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant is the perfect place to see the Paris skyline and try some French cuisine. Travelers can also opt to go behind the scenes at the tower to see the exclusive engine room and the second level's rooftop terrace.
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