The Eiffel Tower is one of the most enduring symbols of Paris and a key part of any visit to the city. And it’s hard to miss this iconic structure, as it stands 323 metres above the Champ de Mars (field of Mars) on the left bank of the River Seine. Take your time to wander around the beautifully landscaped park at the base of the tower and admire the stunning views.
Designed by Gustave Eiffel in 1889, the tower was originally a temporary exhibit at the World’s Fair held in Paris that year. Fortunately for visitors today, it was not demolished as planned because it could be used as a radio mast. The structure is still well used and has appeared in countless films, as well as being lit up for festive occasions and forming the centrepiece of the Bastille Day fireworks display on France’s national holiday, on 14th July.
More than 7 million people visit the Eiffel Tower each year – head to the ticket booths underneath the tower itself to join their number! The tower has 3 levels to explore and visitors can either take the stairs (approximately 300 steps to the first level and a further 400 to the second) or the lift, which is the only way of accessing the viewing platform at the very top. Entry prices vary depending on how high you want to go and how you want to get there, with the stairs being the cheaper, if more strenuous, option.
However brave you’re feeling, it’s well worth exploring all of the levels, as they include information about the history of the monument, exhibitions of artwork inspired by it and souvenir shops. There are also two restaurants if you get hungry from all that climbing – Le 58 tour Eiffel on the first floor, and Michelin-starred Le Jules Verne on the second.
The 360-degree views across Paris from the top floor make for an unmissable experience. Raise a glass to this beautiful city at the Champagne Bar, which sits 275 metres above ground level.
You can visit the Eiffel Tower every day, unless the weather conditions are extreme (ice, snow, wind), when it is closed for safety reasons. This is a very popular destination and queues can be long – set aside at least three hours for your visit, as there is plenty to see and the climb can be slow.
The best way to get to the Eiffel Tower is by public transport, as parking can be difficult. Bus, Metro and train services all stop nearby.
