The Eiffel Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world and a symbol of Parisian elegance and architectural prowess. Offering breathtaking views over the city, the Eiffel Tower Tour with Top Floor Access allows visitors to ascend to the highest point of the tower, standing 276 meters above ground. Whether you’re visiting Paris for the first time or returning for another adventure, reaching the top floor of the Eiffel Tower is a must-do experience.
This tour not only provides spectacular panoramas but also offers an in-depth look at the history and design of this engineering marvel, designed by Gustave Eiffel in 1889. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about the Eiffel Tower Tour with Top Floor Access, including its highlights, how to book your visit, and tips for making the most of your time at this world-famous monument.
What to Expect on the Eiffel Tower Tour with Top Floor Access
When you book a Eiffel Tower Tour with Top Floor Access, you gain entry to all levels of the tower, including the 1st and 2nd floors, before ascending to the summit. The tour typically begins with a short walk to the tower’s base, where you’ll learn about its construction and significance as a symbol of France’s cultural and industrial achievements.
1. The Ground Floor: A Close-Up of Eiffel’s Design
The tour begins at the base of the tower, where you’ll be greeted with a close-up view of the intricate lattice ironwork that makes up the tower’s structure. As you approach, the sheer size and detail of the Eiffel Tower become immediately apparent.
- History and Construction: Guides often provide a brief overview of the tower’s construction, which took just over two years to complete. Designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel, the tower was initially built as the centerpiece of the 1889 Exposition Universelle (World’s Fair) to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. Despite initial criticism from some Parisians, it has since become one of the world’s most beloved monuments.
- What to Expect: Take some time to explore the area around the base of the tower, which offers plenty of opportunities for photographs and a closer look at the engineering that went into its design. From this angle, the sheer scale of the structure becomes even more impressive.
2. First Floor: A Unique Perspective of Paris
The first floor of the Eiffel Tower is often overlooked by visitors eager to reach the summit, but it offers some fascinating features and unique views of the tower itself. This level, located 57 meters above the ground, houses exhibits that provide deeper insights into the tower’s history, as well as a glass floor section that allows you to look straight down at the ground below.
- Exhibits and History: Learn more about the Eiffel Tower’s construction, its role in French history, and its transformation into the global icon it is today. Interactive displays and historical artifacts give you a better understanding of the challenges faced during its construction.
- What to Expect: Don’t miss the chance to step onto the glass floor, which offers a thrilling view of the ground beneath your feet. This section is perfect for those who enjoy a little bit of adventure or want to take a memorable photograph.
3. Second Floor: Panoramic Views and Gourmet Dining
The second floor of the Eiffel Tower, located 115 meters above the ground, is widely regarded as one of the best spots for panoramic views of Paris. From here, you’ll be able to see many of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Louvre Museum. This floor is also home to the renowned Le Jules Verne restaurant, offering a fine dining experience with some of the best views in the city.
- 360-Degree Views: The second floor provides unobstructed, 360-degree views of Paris. Thanks to the relatively low altitude compared to the top floor, this level offers a closer view of the city’s famous architecture and landscape.
- Le Jules Verne Restaurant: For those looking to add a culinary experience to their tour, Le Jules Verne is an excellent option. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a unique blend of contemporary French cuisine and breathtaking views, making it a popular choice for special occasions.
- What to Expect: Whether you’re dining at Le Jules Verne or simply taking in the views, the second floor offers an ideal balance of height and proximity to the city’s landmarks. Take your time to explore all the viewing platforms and snap some incredible photos of Paris from this vantage point.
4. The Summit: Reaching the Top Floor
The pinnacle of the Eiffel Tower Tour is the ascent to the top floor, which is reached via a second elevator from the 2nd floor. Standing at 276 meters, the summit offers some of the most spectacular views in Paris, stretching as far as the eye can see on a clear day. At the top, you’ll find several points of interest, including Gustave Eiffel’s office, a champagne bar, and various viewing platforms.
- Gustave Eiffel’s Office: At the summit, you’ll find a reconstruction of Gustave Eiffel’s office, complete with wax figures depicting Eiffel and his daughter entertaining the famous American inventor Thomas Edison. This small exhibit adds a personal touch to the tour, providing a glimpse into the life of the man behind the tower.
- Champagne Bar: Celebrate your ascent to the top with a glass of champagne at the Champagne Bar, located at the summit. There’s no better way to toast your visit to the Eiffel Tower than with a glass of bubbly while enjoying the incredible views over Paris.
- What to Expect: At the top floor, the air feels thinner, the wind a bit stronger, and the views nothing short of spectacular. From this height, you can see landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral, Sacre Coeur, and even the distant Versailles on a clear day. Be sure to bring your camera to capture these stunning vistas.
Booking Your Eiffel Tower Tour
Booking a Eiffel Tower Tour with Top Floor Access is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons when lines for the elevators can be long. It’s a good idea to purchase tickets in advance to secure your spot and ensure you can access all levels of the tower.
- Tour Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend at each level.
- Price: Prices for the tour vary depending on the package you choose. Expect to pay around €25 to €35 for adults and less for children and students.
- Booking: You can book your Eiffel Tower experience directly through Viator for a convenient and secure booking process.
Best Time to Visit the Eiffel Tower
The best time to visit the Eiffel Tower is during the early morning or late afternoon when the crowds are smaller, and the lighting is ideal for photographs. Visiting at sunset is also a popular choice, as you’ll be able to watch the city transform as the lights of Paris begin to twinkle below. If you’re interested in seeing the Eiffel Tower’s famous light show, which takes place every hour after dark, plan your visit for the evening.
Conclusion
The Eiffel Tower Tour with Top Floor Access is a quintessential Parisian experience that offers breathtaking views, fascinating history, and an unforgettable journey to the top of one of the world’s most famous landmarks. From the ground floor to the summit, each level of the Eiffel Tower has something unique to offer, whether it’s the thrilling glass floor, the fine dining experience at Le Jules Verne, or the panoramic vistas from the summit. A visit to the Eiffel Tower is more than just sightseeing—it’s a deep dive into the cultural heart of Paris, and an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve descended from the heights of this iconic structure.
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Disclaimer
This information is provided to the best of our knowledge, but details such as ticket prices and availability may change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, including booking options and prices, please visit the official page on Viator.
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