One of the most iconic landmarks in the world is the Eiffel Tower. It is on the list of must see attractions for many tourists.
The moment you are aware of what dates you will be in Paris, you should book your tickets to see the Eiffel Tower.
By Stairs or By Lift
The first question you will want to consider is whether or not you are willing to climb the stairs inside the tower or take the elevator/lift to the 2nd floor or to the top.
From experience, I would personally not recommend the stairs. It is a very long hike to the top. Your legs will be jello by the time it is your turn to ascend. It is also not recommended if you have a fear of heights.
Tickets for the stairs are less expensive, however, 5 Euros in the long run will not make that much of a difference.
Ages on Tickets
Kids under 4 are free. Child tickets are for kids ages 4-11. Youth tickets are for those aged 12-24. Anyone over 25 is considered an adult. There are tickets at a discounted rate for those with disabilities.
Ticket Prices As of September 2021
Information taken from the Official Eiffel Tower Website.
Buying Your Ticket
Once you have your dates and the ticket type you wish to purchase in mind, you can purchase the ticket online, or you can purchase the ticket in person at the Eiffel Tower. Online is definitely the best option as you are guaranteed your ticket and will not have to wait in the long queues to buy one.
The Eiffel Tower ticket office books out 60 days in advance.
When you purchase your tickets, e-Tickets require the name of everyone in your party on them. You will receive an e-confirmation page and the attached tickets. Save them! You don’t need to print them, but if anything happens, the ticketing office will need to see the reservation.
Opening Times
Entrance and Security
When I booked my ticket, I was able to stand in the queue for visitors with tickets. Even in September, the line took about thirty minutes. I would make sure you allow at least an hour just in case. Entrance points are located around the base of the pillars of the tower.
I was asked to photo a photo ID with my ticket when I reached the lift. They matched my name to the ticket. I was allowed to enter 15 minutes before the time on the ticket.
As with all major sites in Paris, they do not allow any luggage. They are also strict about the admittance of glass containers. Don’t bring them.
Eating and Shopping
The Jules Verne Restaurant inside the tower is a one star Michelin restaurant. It is very pricey and requires advance reservations.
There are smaller snack bars on the first and second floors you can stop at along with souvenir shops. I noted that many of the items for sale were over priced. But you can find the same items inside the tower as in the esplanade. If you want to buy them, I would recommend doing so on the way down from the top.
Inside the Tower
Once you are inside the tower, there are quite a few views you will want to experience, walk around and take your time. There is no limit as to how long you can spend atop each floor. The tower is always crowded, so you may have to wait a bit to look out on the beautiful city of Paris below. Be aware that there are plexi-glass barriers located around the viewing areas.
I would recommend taking a small map of Paris with you to the top. You will have a better understanding as to what you are looking at below. Also be aware of your belongings, I noticed a few people getting pick-pocketed. Always keep your items secure and in front of you when carrying them in a crowded location.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENT!
Current as of September 2021.
Masks are required!
