👆 Some of my tips for visiting the Eiffel Tower
Let's be honest for a moment: you can't visit Paris without saying hello to the Iron Lady. Since 1889, it's the undisputed symbol of the City of Lights, and with over 7 million visitors a year, it's also one of the busiest.
After dozens of visits, hikes, elevator rides, rain, and sun, I've compiled everything you really need to know for 2026 in this guide. We'll talk about everything: how to get tickets when the official website crashes (or simply says there's no room), why you're not allowed to bring a large bag this year, which direction is best to arrive from to get the perfect photo, and whether it's worth investing in the restaurants inside.
This guide summarizes the most practical and up-to-date information about the Eiffel Tower for 2026: tickets, directions, opening hours and tips for Israeli tourists.
⏱️ Eiffel Tower – Summary and Quick Answers
in one sentence: The Eiffel Tower is the must-see attraction in Paris. To visit it in 2026 without waiting in long lines, it is recommended to book skip-the-line tickets about 60 days in advance, decide in advance whether to take the stairs (to the 2nd floor) or the elevator (to the top), and arrive at the tower from the Trocadéro metro station for the perfect view and photo opportunity.
- Tickets: It is recommended to book two months in advance. If the official website crashes, last-minute tickets can be found via External suppliers.
- Stairs or elevator: 674 stairs to the 2nd floor (the cheaper and faster option), or taking the elevator which often requires standing in long lines.
- Bag Policy: No storage of belongings! You are not allowed to bring luggage, only small bags (up to 40x20x55 cm).
- Recommended time to visit: About an hour before sunset, this way you will enjoy the view in daylight, at sunset, and the sparkle of the tower at night.
Eiffel Tower Tickets: The Jungle Survival Guide
Here's the inconvenient truth about visiting the Eiffel Tower in 2026: Spontaneity is not an option. If we used to be able to get to the box office and wait half an hour, today that's history. The demand is huge, and the systems are collapsing.
🎁 The sane solution: Last-minute Eiffel Tower tickets
If (like most of us) you weren't able to snag a ticket on the official website, or you only remembered to book a month in advance – don't worry. The most reliable way to secure your entry to the tower is through external suppliers who hold a stock of armor.
Purchasing in advance (from 60 days before your visit) ensures that you won't have to stand in exhausting ticket lines. Most vendors allow you to show your ticket directly from your smartphone, so there's no need to print anything.
I've been working with Tiqets for years (and even on my last visits I used them when there were no tickets left on the official website), and they usually have availability even when all seems lost. True, it costs a little more, but that's the price of peace of mind and knowing you have a ticket in hand.
Blog readers also have a small discount (because why not?):
FRANCOPHILE5Book tickets in advance and save the line »
How to get to the Eiffel Tower? (And a tip for the perfect photo)
The Eiffel Tower is visible from anywhere in Paris, but getting there properly is an art. Many people get off at the closest stop, but it’s the longer route that provides the biggest “wow.”
Metro 9 (Trocadéro station)
The Francophile's choice. When you leave the station and arrive at Trocadero Square, the tower appears before you in all its glory across the river. This is the classic spot for photos. From there, you descend through the gardens to the tower.
Metro 6 (Bir-Hakeim Station)
A 10-minute walk along the platform. The big advantage: the ride on Metro 6 is partly elevated, and the view of the tower from the car as you cross the Seine is a magical moment in itself.
RER C (Champ de Mars station)
The closest station physically to the foot of the tower. Excellent if you are coming from the Notre Dame area or Orsay Museum And you want to save walking, but you lose the impressive reach effect from a distance.
Stairs or elevator at the Eiffel Tower? Price comparison and queues
This is perhaps the most common question I get. To make things clear, let's compare the two options head to head, including the updated prices (after the official price increase).
| Card type (adult) | Estimated official price | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Elevator to the 2nd floor | About 22.60 euros | For those who want a classic view in comfort and at a reasonable price. |
| Elevator to the summit (3rd floor) | About 35.30 euros | For those who want to reach as high as possible. |
| Stairs to the 2nd floor | About 14.20 euros | Sporty and economical (significantly shorter lines). |
| Stairs for 2 + elevator to the top | About 26.90 euros | The perfect combination of experience and view from the summit. |
* Official prices have recently been updated due to conservation work. Children and youth are eligible for significant discounts on the fare.
The sporty option (stairs)
- The effort: 674 steps to the 2nd floor. Not for the faint of heart, great for burning calories.
- The turn: Usually significantly shorter (15-30 minutes).
- The experience: You can see the iron structure from the inside.
The luxurious option (elevator)
- The effort: Zero. Standing and enjoying the view.
- The turn: Very long (can be up to two hours without a ticket in advance).
- The experience: Go up comfortably straight to the 2nd floor or to the top (first come, first served).
Opening hours, weather and inspection policy at Eiffel
Eiffel Tower opening hours 2026
| All year round | 09: 30 to 23: 45 (Last entry 22:45) |
| Summer (June-September) | Extended hours until 00:45 |
Bag and item storage policy
pay attention! There is no storage of belongings at the Eiffel Tower. Large suitcases or bags (maximum 40x20x55 cm) are not allowed. If you arrive with a trolley straight from the train, they will not let you in, and it's a shame about the heartache.
Weather and visiting in the rain
What to do on a rainy day? Levels 1 and 2 are partially covered, but the summit is exposed to winds and may be temporarily closed in stormy weather. It is always recommended to dress warmer than you think you will need downstairs.
Security check at the entrance
There are two entrances to the secure area (free): Entrance 1 (south) and Entrance 2 (east). It is recommended to use the east entrance (Entrance 2), which is usually less crowded. You will have to go through a bag screening like at the airport before you even reach the ticket offices or elevators.
♿ Accessibility at the Eiffel Tower: Important information for the disabled
The Eiffel Tower makes great efforts to be accessible to everyone, but due to the nature of the historic structure, there are restrictions that must be known before arriving (it is also recommended to check theThe official website of the tower):
What is accessible? (Floor 1+2)
The large elevators from the ground floor to the first and second floors are fully accessible to wheelchairs and those with walking difficulties (you must access the west or east entrance). Both of these floors are spacious, flat and include adapted disabled toilets.
What is inaccessible? (The summit)
pay attention: For safety reasons (lack of a quick emergency escape route), the summit (3rd floor) is completely closed to wheelchair users.
Tickets and discounts for the disabled
There are special rates for visitors with disabilities and one companion. These tickets are usually sold at the express ticket offices at the entrance (with presentation of an official disability certificate), but it is always recommended to check the latest policy on the official website.
What can you see in the Eiffel Tower? Division into floors and attractions
The tower is divided into three main levels, each with a completely different character:
| floor | height | major attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Floor 1 | 57 meters | Glass floor, museum, Madame Brasserie restaurant |
| Floor 2 | 115 meters | Perfect panoramic view, Le Jules Verne restaurant |
| The summit | 276 meters | Gustave Eiffel's office, champagne bar, breathtaking view |
1nd floor (57 m)
The main attraction here is The glass floor (Equally scary and cool!) There are also seating areas, a cinema that shows the history of the tower, and a souvenir shop.
2nd floor (115 m)
The best vantage point for photography. The height is perfect for identifying details: The Louvre, Notre Dame, the Sacré-Cœur, and the curves of the Seine are spread out beneath you like a living map.
The summit (276 m)
Access by glass elevator only. Upstairs you'll find Gustave Eiffel's restored office (with wax figures!), a small champagne bar, and a breeze that will blow your mind.
Eat inside an icon: Restaurants at the Eiffel Tower
-
🍽️ Madame Brasserie (1st floor)
Chef Thierry Marx's brasserie. It's not cheap, but you're paying mostly for the view and the experience. It's recommended to book months in advance.
To reserve a table -
🥂 Le Jules Verne (2nd floor)
The jewel in the crown. A Michelin restaurant with a private entrance and separate elevator. A marriage proposal? This is the place (if your budget allows for a particularly luxurious experience). -
🥪 Buffets
Scattered on floors 1, 2 and at the top. Coffee, sandwiches, hot dogs and pizza. Prices are “touristy”, but it’s a no-brainer if you’re hungry and don’t have a restaurant reservation.
History of the Eiffel Tower in a nutshell
It was built in honor of the 1889 World Exhibition in Paris, which marked the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution, and many of the city's residents loathed it and called it "the metal asparagus" or "the iron monster." Gustave Eiffel, the engineer who designed it, fought to keep it standing and succeeded thanks to a brilliant idea: he turned the tower into a giant radio antenna for military and scientific use.
Recommended accommodation and vacation apartments near the Eiffel Tower
The 7th arrondissement (where the tower is located) and the surrounding arrondissements (15th and 16th) are considered the most prestigious, safest areas in Paris. Staying here guarantees you proximity to the Seine River, relatively quiet streets, and of course – the opportunity to see the tower twinkling every evening just a short walk away. Here are some great apartments that Audi (a charming Israeli guy) offers in the area:
The apartment near the Eiffel Tower
- 200 meters from Trocadero Square
- Ground floor apartment (no elevator needed)
- View of the inner courtyard (quiet)
The apartment near Trocadero
- Two bathrooms (rare)
- 2nd floor with elevator
- Upscale neighborhood
The apartment in the Passy district (16)
- Excellent for Sabbath keepers (ground)
- Beautifully equipped and luxurious
- Very quiet neighborhood
Apartment near the Arc de Triomphe
- Luxurious location near the Champs
- Sweet and decorated studio
- High floor (no elevator)
Looking for a hotel? Here are recommendations focused by neighborhood:
⚠️ Travel warning: Scams are common in the Eiffel region
As with any ultra-touristy place, there are people out there who want your money. Here are two common scams that are back in a big way in 2026:
What do we do after visiting the tower?
After you've descended from the tower (and taken the perfect photo), here are some things that are within walking distance and worth checking out:
A trip to Passy
Discover the hidden village in the heart of the prestigious 16th arrondissement, with picturesque alleys and an old-world atmosphere.
Following clarification
A fascinating architectural tour of the 7th arrondissement following the crazy buildings of architect Jules Labirot.
Worthwhile attractions in the Eiffel Tower area
Cruise on the Seine
The most relaxing way to see the city. The boats leave right under the tower (Bateaux Mouches).
Ca Branly Museum
A spectacular museum of art from other continents, located within a magical garden a few minutes' walk away.
The Paris Aquarium
Located in the Trocadero Gardens opposite the tower. A perfect attraction if you are traveling with children.
Questions and Answers about the Eiffel Tower (What you ask me)
When does the Eiffel Tower sparkle?
How long does it take to visit the Eiffel Tower?
Is it worth the money?
Is there storage for belongings in the tower?
Do I need to print the tickets for the Eiffel Tower?
What is the best time to visit?
Are there toilets upstairs?
So what next?
Now that the “Eiffel” corner is closed to you, it’s time to plan the rest of the trip. I’ve prepared for you Updated Paris Guide With itineraries, secret recommendations and more.
And if you are looking for additional viewpoints from which you can see the Eiffel itself (because it is the most beautiful thing in the city):
- The Victory Gate: The most classic observation. For tickets to the Victory Gate »
- Montparnasse Tower: The highest and fastest observation point (no queues). For tickets to the Montparnasse Tower »
A small addition to the interesting explanations: Hitler really wanted to climb the tower, a symbol of the city, but the maintenance staff couldn't swallow such a frog. They simply cut the elevator cables, thus preventing the tyrant from ascending the tower. Therefore, he was forced to take pictures from a distance, with the tower in the background, like any other tourist.
Thank you very much for this important and interesting information that I did not know.
What fun on Saturday with coffee, cake, and your weekly article that creates perfect escapism..
Thank you for all your perseverance.
Thank you very much 🙂
Here is another unforgettable scene from the movie Ninotchka with Greta Garbo in which she climbs the Eiffel Tower steps and catches up with Melvin Douglas who arrives in the elevator. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S__D3Llvr-k.
Thank you very much 🙂
¨
Thanks for a few minutes of nostalgia and longing.
And within the framework of the struggle between physics and mathematics, there was a mathematician who simply proved with mathematical equations that a tower has no chance of standing. You build it on mathematics.
Thank you very much for the amusing anecdote 🙂