Paris, the City of Lights, is a dream destination for travelers around the globe. Its charm lies not only in its rich history, vibrant culture, and world-class cuisine but also in its iconic landmarks. At the heart of Paris stands the most famous symbol of all—the Eiffel Tower. A visit to Paris is incomplete without experiencing this architectural marvel. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, here’s how to make the most of your Eiffel Tower visit as part of your Paris city tour.
1. The History of the Eiffel Tower
Before you embark on your visit, it’s essential to understand the history behind the tower. Constructed for the 1889 Exposition Universelle to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution, Gustave Eiffel’s masterpiece was initially met with skepticism by Parisians. However, over time, it has become one of the most beloved and visited monuments in the world, symbolizing French innovation and cultural pride.
2. Best Time to Visit the Eiffel Tower
To avoid long queues and make the most of your experience, the best time to visit the Eiffel Tower is either early in the morning or late in the evening. Visiting at night offers a magical experience as the tower is illuminated with thousands of sparkling lights, creating a breathtaking view over the city. If you’re visiting during peak seasons (spring and summer), booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended.
3. Eiffel Tower Viewing Levels
The Eiffel Tower consists of three levels, each offering unique experiences:
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First Floor: The first level is home to a museum that delves into the history and construction of the tower. This floor also features a glass floor that allows you to look down and enjoy a thrilling view of the Parisian streets below.
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Second Floor: This is where you’ll get the best views of the city. From this height, you can see landmarks like the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Seine River. The second floor is also home to the Michelin-starred restaurant Le Jules Verne, a perfect spot for fine dining with a view.
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Summit: For the ultimate Parisian experience, take the elevator to the summit. Standing 276 meters above ground, the Eiffel Tower’s summit offers panoramic views that stretch for miles. You’ll also find Gustave Eiffel’s private office preserved here, adding a touch of historical intrigue to the experience.
4. Don’t Miss the Surrounding Area
After your tower visit, take the time to explore the surrounding areas. The Champ de Mars, the lush park below the Eiffel Tower, is a great place to relax, enjoy a picnic, or take stunning photos of the tower. Nearby, you can also visit Trocadéro Gardens, which offers one of the best vantage points to see the Eiffel Tower in its full glory.
5. Combine Your Eiffel Tower Visit with a Paris City Tour
To fully immerse yourself in the Parisian experience, consider combining your Eiffel Tower visit with a Paris city tour. Many guided tours offer packages that include skip-the-line access to the Eiffel Tower, along with visits to other iconic sites such as Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and Montmartre. A Seine River cruise is another fantastic way to see the city from a different perspective, with many tours offering dinner or champagne cruises that include views of the illuminated Eiffel Tower.
6. Insider Tips for Visiting the Eiffel Tower
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Pre-book your tickets: Avoid the hassle of long lines by booking your tickets online. You can choose to visit the second floor or the summit, and tickets often come with priority access options.
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Bring a camera: The views from the Eiffel Tower are spectacular, so don’t forget your camera to capture the beauty of the city from above.
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Dress appropriately: Even in summer, it can get windy at the top of the tower, so bring a light jacket if you’re planning to visit the summit.
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Explore by night: Don’t miss the Eiffel Tower’s sparkling light show, which happens every hour on the hour after sunset. It’s a magical sight to see the tower shimmer against the night sky.
Conclusion
A visit to the Eiffel Tower is more than just seeing a landmark—it’s about experiencing the heart and soul of Paris. Whether you’re admiring the city from its summit or enjoying the tower’s majestic beauty from afar, the Eiffel Tower offers a timeless charm that continues to captivate visitors. By pairing your visit with a Paris city tour, you can discover the many layers of this beautiful city, from its historic monuments to its vibrant streets. So, grab your camera, take in the views, and make unforgettable memories at the Eiffel Tower.