The Ultimate Guide to the Eiffel Tower: History, Tickets & Tips

Bonjour! I’m delighted to be your guide today as we explore one of the most recognized landmarks in the world—the Eiffel Tower.

Whether it’s your first time in Paris or your tenth, the Eiffel Tower (La Tour Eiffel) never loses its charm. This majestic iron giant is more than a photo stop—it’s a symbol of French artistry, resilience, and innovation.
 

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know: from its fascinating history and best times to visit, to where to get the most breathtaking views and the best insider tips.

📍 Where Is the Eiffel Tower?

📌 Location: Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France

🗺️ District: 7th arrondissement

🚇 Nearest metro stations: Bir-Hakeim (Line 6), Trocadéro (Line 9), École Militaire (Line 8)

The tower stands proudly on the Left Bank of the River Seine, surrounded by leafy parks, cafés, and museums.

🏗 A Brief History of the Eiffel Tower

Built for the 1889 World’s Fair

The Eiffel Tower was constructed to mark the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution and to serve as the centerpiece of the 1889 Exposition Universelle (World’s Fair).

👷 Designed by Gustave Eiffel’s engineering firm

🏗 Construction took 2 years, 2 months, and 5 days

🔧 Made from 18,038 iron parts and 2.5 million rivets

Originally criticized as an eyesore, the tower is now a beloved symbol of Paris—and France itself.

📏 Eiffel Tower Facts at a Glance

🧭 Eiffel Tower Levels and What You’ll See

🥂 Level 1 – The Cultural Lounge

Exhibits about the tower’s history and Gustave Eiffel

Glass floor panels for a thrilling look down

Buffets, gift shops, and immersive displays

🍽 Level 2 – The Viewpoint for Paris

Sweeping views of the Seine, Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, and Notre-Dame

Le Jules Verne, a Michelin-starred restaurant

Ideal for photos and cityscape viewing

🌌 Level 3 – The Summit

Paris from 276 meters above ground

Gustave Eiffel’s reconstructed office

Champagne Bar at the top

🎟 Tickets and How to Visit

🚶 Ticket Options

Stairs to Level 2: Cheapest (~€11), good fitness required

Lift to Level 2: Easier and popular (~€18)

Lift to the Summit: Ultimate experience (~€29)

Guided tours: Add history and context (~€35–€50)

🎟 Tip: Book online in advance on the official Eiffel Tower website to avoid long queues.

🕰 Best Time to Visit

Morning (9:30–11 AM): Fewer crowds

Evening (after 8 PM): Romantic views of the city lights

Golden hour: For stunning photos with soft lighting

📅 The Eiffel Tower is open every day, usually from 9:30 AM to 11:45 PM (hours may vary slightly by season).

📸 Best Photo Spots for the Eiffel Tower

Whether you’re snapping Instagram pics or taking professional shots, here are the top spots:

📷 Trocadéro Gardens

Direct line of sight across the Seine

Classic symmetrical view with fountains

📷 Champ de Mars

Perfect for picnic shots or wide-angle views

📷 Rue de l’Université

Hidden gem with charming Parisian buildings framing the tower

📷 Montparnasse Tower

For stunning skyline shots featuring the Eiffel Tower itself

🍽 Where to Eat Near the Eiffel Tower

After your visit, enjoy a meal or coffee nearby:

Le Jules Verne (inside the tower) – Gourmet French dining with views

Café Constant – Cozy French bistro just a few blocks away

58 Tour Eiffel – Dining on Level 1 with skyline views

Les Ombres – Rooftop restaurant with Eiffel views

Or grab a picnic from a nearby boulangerie and dine in Champ de Mars park.

🛍 Souvenirs to Bring Home

Popular Eiffel Tower keepsakes include:

Miniature metal tower replicas

Vintage posters or postcards

Macarons or chocolates in tower-themed boxes

Eiffel-themed fashion accessories

Visit the souvenir shops on Level 1 and 2 or nearby boutiques.

🎉 Special Events and Light Shows

🌟 Eiffel Tower Light Show

Every night, the tower sparkles for 5 minutes at the top of each hour after sunset—using 20,000 flashing bulbs.

Ends at 1 AM

Best viewed from Trocadéro or the Seine riverbanks

🎇 Bastille Day (July 14)

Spectacular fireworks with the Eiffel Tower as the centerpiece

🧡 Valentine’s Day & New Year’s Eve

Often features romantic lighting or countdown projections

🧒 Family Travel Tips

Strollers allowed only up to Level 2

Children under 4: Free entry

Safety glass panels surround the summit

Scavenger hunt booklets available for kids on guided tours

🎈 Nearby attraction: Parc du Champ de Mars – a large green space ideal for families and play.

🛥 Bonus: See the Eiffel Tower by River Cruise

One of the best ways to admire the Eiffel Tower is from the Seine River.

Bateaux Mouches or Vedettes du Pont Neuf offer hourly cruises

Night cruises pass by the illuminated tower—magical!

🏨 Where to Stay Near the Eiffel Tower

Luxury

Shangri-La Paris – Palace hotel with Eiffel views

Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel – Sleek and modern with balconies

Mid-Range

Hotel Relais Bosquet – Cozy charm and walkable to the tower

Hotel La Comtesse – Eiffel-facing rooms in elegant 7th arrondissement

Budget

Hotel Eiffel Rive Gauche – Affordable and central

Hotel de Londres Eiffel – Boutique stay with friendly service

🌐 Eiffel Tower in Popular Culture

Featured in countless films: Midnight in Paris, Inception, The Da Vinci Code

Symbol of love, revolution, and creativity

Frequently ranked as one of the most photographed places on Earth

🤓 Fun Facts You Might Not Know

During WWII, Hitler ordered the tower destroyed—it was never carried out.

It was originally meant to be dismantled after 20 years.

Gustave Eiffel also helped with the Statue of Liberty’s internal structure.

The tower shrinks about 15 cm in winter due to cold metal contraction.

💬 What Visitors Say

"Seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night was the highlight of my Europe trip!"
– Anna, Canada

"It’s way more impressive in person than in pictures. Totally worth going to the top!"
– James, UK

"We had a romantic dinner at Jules Verne and watched the sunset from the summit—unforgettable."
– Léa, Belgium

🧭 Final Travel Tips for the Eiffel Tower

Wear comfortable shoes—there’s a lot of walking and queuing.

Bring water and a hat if visiting in summer.

Don’t forget your camera or phone charger—you’ll want endless pictures!

Book combo tickets with river cruises or Seine walking tours for better value.

🌟 Why Visit the Eiffel Tower?

The Eiffel Tower is more than an attraction—it's an experience of history, elegance, and inspiration. It’s where dreams meet reality, where every angle offers a new perspective of Paris, and where millions each year fall in love with the City of Light all over again.

Whether you’re climbing its steps, sipping champagne at the top, or admiring it from afar, the Eiffel Tower promises memories that last a lifetime.