Rising majestically above the Parisian skyline, the Eiffel Tower is not just an icon of France but a symbol of architectural art and engineering marvel. Constructed in 1889 for the Exposition Universelle, a world's fair marking the centennial celebration of the French Revolution, the iron lattice tower was initially criticized by some of France’s leading artists and intellectuals for its design but has since become one of the most recognized structures in the world and a beloved emblem of the city's charm and romance.
Planning Your Visit
- Determine the best time to go: Late spring and early autumn offer pleasant weather, though crowds are smaller in winter, excluding the holiday season.
- Buy tickets in advance: Secure your ticket online for a specified entry time to avoid long lines and potentially sold-out entry times. Visit the official Eiffel Tower website here.
- Choose your access level: Decide whether you wish to ascend to the summit or if visiting the first or second floors suffices. Prices vary accordingly.
- Consider a guided tour: A guided tour can enrich your experience and help you gain a deeper understanding of the tower’s history and architecture.
Must See Stuff
- The Summit: Experience unparalleled views of Paris, seeing famous landmarks like the Louvre, Notre Dame, and the Seine River from 906 feet above ground.
- The Glass Floor: On the first level, dare to walk across the glass floor and view the ground 187 feet below.
- The Champagne Bar: Sip a glass of champagne at the top of the tower amidst the clouds—a perfect toast to a Parisian experience.
- The Illuminations: Every evening, the Eiffel Tower is adorned with its golden lights and sparkles for five minutes on the hour until 1 a.m.
Tips for Your Visit
- Use public transport: The Eiffel Tower is easily accessible via the metro (Bir-Hakeim Station) or RER (Champ de Mars-Tour Eiffel Station).
- Dress appropriately: The top of the tower can be quite windy and cooler than ground level, so it's advisable to bring an extra layer, even in summer.
- Stay for sunset: Time your visit to coincide with the sunset for a truly magical view of the city as it shifts from day to night.
- Eat sustainably: Opt for local eateries around the 7th arrondissement that source ingredients locally and practice sustainable dining.
With its towering presence and cultural significance, the Eiffel Tower remains a beacon of human creativity and a testimony to the enduring allure of Paris. Whether marveling at its structure from a nearby café or taking in the panoramic views from its peaks, a visit to the tour Eiffel promises to be a highlight of any trip to Paris.
