Discover Paris
Eiffel Tower

monument

Eiffel Tower

Built in 1889 by Gustave Eiffel for the World's Fair, the Iron Lady rises 330 metres and remains the ultimate symbol of Paris.

Visit duration
2 to 3 hours
Best time
Early morning or sunset
Metro
Bir-Hakeim (6) · Trocadéro (6, 9)
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History & context

Designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World's Fair, the tower marked the centenary of the French Revolution. Its 330-metre wrought-iron silhouette first caused outrage, then became Paris's defining symbol.

It was due to be dismantled after 20 years, but was saved by its role as a radio antenna. Today over 7 million visitors climb it every year.

Repainted every seven years, it weighs 10,100 tonnes and is held together by 2.5 million rivets across 18,038 hand-fitted iron pieces.

Key facts

Built
1887–1889
Architect
Gustave Eiffel & Maurice Koechlin
Style
Iron architecture
District
7th — Champ-de-Mars

Why visit

  • ·360° panorama over Paris
  • ·Sparkling lights every hour at night (5 min)
  • ·Iconic experience at the 276 m summit
  • ·Walks on Champ-de-Mars and Trocadéro
  • ·A timeless symbol and a must-have photo

What to see

  • ·The 2nd floor panorama
  • ·The summit at 276 m
  • ·Champ-de-Mars below
  • ·Trocadéro across the river

Practical tips

  • ·Book online to skip queues
  • ·Sunset from Trocadéro is magical
  • ·Plan at least 2 hours

Best photo spots

  • ·Trocadéro (Palais de Chaillot) at sunrise — the classic shot without crowds.
  • ·Pont de Bir-Hakeim — cinematic perspective between the pillars.
  • ·Champ-de-Mars at sunset for golden light.
  • ·Avenue de Camoëns (16th) — small secret balcony with perfect framing.
  • ·At exactly 10pm, capture the sparkle from Trocadéro.

Good to know

  • ·Tickets sell out fast — book online several days ahead.
  • ·Hours and prices may change: check the official site toureiffel.paris before visiting.
  • ·Security: enclosed perimeter, allow 15–20 min for the check.
  • ·The 2nd floor already offers a stunning view if the summit is full.

Schedules and tickets may change. Check the official website before booking.

Anu's insider tip

Book a sunset slot: you go up in daylight and come down as Paris lights up.

With family

Strollers welcome up to the 2nd floor; toilets and snacks at every level. Kids love the 10 pm sparkle.

What to avoid

Avoid the 'skip-the-line' resellers on Champ-de-Mars — only use the official ticket office.

Frequently asked

＋Do I need to book ahead?
Yes — especially April to October, slots sell out 1–2 weeks ahead on toureiffel.paris.
＋Lift or stairs?
Stairs (up to 2nd floor) are cheaper, faster to enter and give a unique view of the ironwork.
＋When is the best photo moment?
From Trocadéro at sunrise, or 5 min before the evening sparkle.

Itineraries with this place

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