Paris is full of iconic experiences—but none defines the city quite like the Eiffel Tower.
Whether you're seeing it for the first time or returning for a deeper experience, this iron marvel holds more than just tourist snapshots.
From the best ways to get up to the top to peaceful places nearby for coffee with a view, this guide breaks down everything you need to make your Eiffel Tower visit meaningful, efficient, and memorable.
<h3>How to Get to the Eiffel Tower</h3>
Located in the 7th arrondissement on the Champ de Mars, the Eiffel Tower is easily accessible by metro, bus, or on foot if you're already staying nearby.
<b>1. Metro:</b>
The closest stop is Bir-Hakeim (Line 6). From there, it's a 7-minute walk.
Alternatively, Trocadéro (Line 9) offers a picture-perfect reveal of the tower from across the Seine. Single metro ticket: €2.10 (or €16.90 for a 10-ticket "carnet").
<b>2. RER:</b>
Take RER C to Champ de Mars – Tour Eiffel station. It drops you within 5 minutes' walk. Price: €2.10–€4.50 (depending on starting zone).
<b>3. Buses:</b>
Lines 42, 69, 82, and 87 stop nearby. Single ticket: €2.10 (same as metro).
Taxis or rideshare services are also convenient, especially at night, but during peak hours the area can be congested.
<h3>Ticket Options and Climbing Tips</h3>
It's crucial to decide how you want to experience the tower before you arrive. There are several ticket types:
<b>1. Elevator to the top (Summit):</b>
Adult: €29.40, ages 12–24: €14.70, under 12: €7.40
This gives access to all levels, including the summit's lounge and Gustave Eiffel's office replica.
<b>2. Elevator to 2nd floor only:</b>
Adult: €18.80, ages 12–24: €9.40, under 12: €4.70
<b>3. Stairs to 2nd floor (674 steps):</b>
Adult: €11.80, ages 12–24: €5.90, under 12: €3.00
A workout, but the views and quietness make it worthwhile.
<b>Opening hours:</b>
• June to August: 9:00 AM – 12:45 AM (last elevator at 11:45 PM)
• Rest of year: 9:30 AM – 11:45 PM (last elevator at 10:30 PM)
<h3>When to Visit for Fewer Crowds and Better Photos</h3>
<b>1. Early morning (9:00–10:00 AM):</b> Perfect for shorter queues, better light, and a calm climb if you're taking the stairs.
<b>2. Late evening (after 8:30 PM):</b> Great for sunset views and seeing the tower twinkle hourly after dark.
<b>3. Avoid mid-day (12:00–4:00 PM):</b> This is when most tour groups and crowds gather.
<b>Photo tips:</b>
• Trocadéro Square gives you a panoramic view of the full tower.
• Rue de l'Université is popular for street-style shots with the tower in the background.
• Champ de Mars lawns let you sit back and frame upward shots.
<h3>What's on Each Level?</h3>
<b>1. First floor:</b>
Glass floors, an exhibition space, a café, and often temporary exhibits or shows. Many skip this, so it's quiet and worth the time.
<b>2. Second floor:</b>
Best city views and excellent photo angles over the Seine and rooftops. There's also a fine-dining restaurant called Le Jules Verne (reservation needed).
<b>3. Summit:</b>
At 276 meters high, the view stretches across all of Paris and beyond. You'll find Eiffel's recreated office, historical panels, and a small lounge offering drinks.
<h3>Nearby Attractions Worth a Stop</h3>
<b>1. Seine River Cruise:</b>
Hop on a Bateaux Parisiens cruise starting from right beneath the tower. A 1-hour cruise costs about €16, perfect at sunset.
<b>2. Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac:</b>
Just a 5-minute walk away, this museum offers fascinating art from Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Adult: €12, ages 18–25: €9, under 18: free
<b>3. Rue Cler market street:</b>
10 minutes east, this charming pedestrian street is packed with bakeries, cheese shops, and cafés.
<h3>Where to Eat Around the Tower</h3>
<b>1. Le Café Constant:</b> Traditional French fare without tourist pricing. Try their roast chicken (€18) or fish of the day (€22–26).
<b>2. Crêperie Suzette et Compagnie:</b> A local spot for sweet and savory crêpes (€6–8 for sweet, €9–12 for savory ones).
<b>3. Picnic at Champ de Mars:</b> Grab a baguette, cheese, and fruit from a nearby market and sit under the tower for a Parisian-style meal.
<h3>Hotel Recommendations Nearby</h3>
<b>1. Hotel La Comtesse:</b>
Elegant boutique hotel with some rooms offering tower views. Classic Room: €220-€290/night; Eiffel View Room: €350-€450/night.
<b>2. Le Derby Alma:</b>
Stylish and close to the Seine. A 5-minute walk from the base of the tower. Standard: €180-€250/night; Superior (partial tower views): €280-€320.
<b>3. Hôtel Eiffel Turenne:</b>
Budget-friendly and steps from École Militaire and the Champs de Mars. Compact Room: €110-€150/night; Triple Room (great for families): €170-€200.
For those who prefer vacation apartments, areas like Gros-Caillou (€120-€250/night), 7th arrondissement (€100-€200/night), or Rue Cler (€150-€300/night) provide easy access and quiet streets.
<h3>Practical Tips for Visiting</h3>
1. Book online at the official Eiffel Tower site—avoid third-party resellers charging extra.
2. Be aware of scams near the base—ignore street hawkers selling fake tickets.
3. Travel light—bags are inspected and lockers are not available.
4. Stay hydrated but bring a reusable bottle; water fountains are on the 1st and 2nd levels.
5. Be patient—the elevators can have long waits. If you're short on time, opt for the stairs.
<h3>Wrapping It Up</h3>
The Eiffel Tower may be one of the most visited spots in the world, but it still offers new experiences every time. From scaling its heights on foot to watching its lights dance at night, it's more than a monument—it's part of Paris's living rhythm.
What part of the Eiffel Tower are you most looking forward to—standing at the summit or lounging on the grass below? Let me know your favorite tip or if you want help building a full-day Paris itinerary!
