Let's be honest for a moment: you can't visit Paris without saying hello to the Iron Lady. Since 1889, it has been the undisputed symbol of the City of Lights, and with over 7 million visitors a year, it is also one of the busiest. After dozens of visits, hikes, elevator rides, rain and sun, I have compiled for you in this guide everything you really need to know for 2026.
We'll talk about everything: how to get tickets when the official website crashes, why you're not allowed to come with 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.
00:00 – Introduction and arrival at the venue | 00:45 – The difference between an elevator and stairs | 02:00 – View from the second floor | 03:30 – My tip for skipping the lines
The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Paris, opened to the public in 1889 and stands 330 meters tall. The tower is open every day from 09:30 to 23:45 (last admission at 22:45) and in summer it is open until 00:45 with the last admission at 23:45. To avoid queues in 2026, Tickets must be booked two months in advance. (Or through external suppliers). The climb is possible by stairs or elevator, with no possibility of storing belongings. The recommended time to visit is an hour before sunset and the recommended way to get there is by metro via the Trocadero station. Of course, I will detail everything immediately below the article.
Full transparency: This guide was written after dozens of visits to Paris and includes my genuine recommendations. Some of the links in the post are affiliate links. If you book through them, the site will receive a small commission. At no additional cost to youThis helps me continue to maintain “Francophiles Anonymous” – thank you!
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Tickets and Skip the Line: The Jungle Survival Guide
in short: Try the official website about two months in advance; if they're sold out, a third-party provider like Tiqets is the surest way to guarantee entry without waiting in line.
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.
Theoretically, The official website of the Eiffel Tower It's the cheapest place to buy tickets. Practically? It's a battlefield. Tickets go on sale 60 days in advance at 08:30 a.m. (UTC) France), and are hijacked within seconds by bots and agents. Most tourists I know enter the site, see a red calendar (Sold Out) and give up.
🎁 The sane solution: booking last-minute 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 ensures that you won't have to wait 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.
Book tickets in advance and save the line »Packages that include the Eiffel Tower
If you have decided to book tickets for several attractions in Paris and one of them is the Eiffel Tower, it is worth checking out a combined package – it is usually more cost-effective than booking each ticket separately:
How to get to the Eiffel Tower? (And a tip for the perfect photo)
in short: Trocadéro station (line 9) provides the most impressive photo opportunity of the tower.
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. It's a classic photo spot.
Metro 6 (Bir-Hakeim Station)
It's about 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 very impressive.
RER C (Champ de Mars station)
The closest station physically. Great if you are coming from the Notre Dame area or Orsay Museum And want to save walking.
Stairs or elevator? Price comparison and queues
in short: Stairs = short and cheap line, elevator = convenience but significantly longer line.
This is perhaps the most common question I get. Here's a head-to-head comparison, including approximate prices:
| Card type (adult) | Estimated price | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Elevator to the 2nd floor | About 22.40 euros | For those who want a classic view in comfort. |
| Elevator to the summit (3rd floor) | About 36.70 euros | For those who want to reach as high as possible. |
| Stairs to the 2nd floor | About 14.80 euros | Sporty and economical (significantly shorter lines). |
| Stairs for 2 + elevator to the top | About 26.10 euros | The perfect combination of experience and view from the summit. |
The prices in the table are Official prices As listed on the official Eiffel Tower website (toureiffel.paris). The problem: Tickets at the official price sell out very quickly, and are often sold out weeks in advance. Third-party providers like Tiqets and GetYourGuide always have stock available, but in return they usually charge a slightly higher price than the official price. It is worth trying the official website first, and if the stock runs out – don’t compromise on the queue, but reserve through an external provider.
The sporty option (stairs)
- The effort: 674 steps.
- The turn: Usually significantly shorter (15-30 minutes).
The luxurious option (elevator)
- The turn: Very long (up to two hours without a ticket in advance).
- The experience: Go up comfortably straight to the 2nd floor or to the top.
Opening hours, weather and inspection policy
Opening hours 2026
- 09:30 to 23:45 (last entry 22:45).
- In summer: extended hours until 00:45.
Portfolio policy
pay attention! There is no storage of belongings. No luggage is allowed, only reasonably sized bags.
♿ Accessibility at the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is largely accessible. Floors 1+2 are fully wheelchair accessible using the large elevators. However, for safety reasons, The summit (3rd floor) is completely closed. For wheelchair users. There are discounts at the special ticket offices for those with an official disability certificate.
What does the Eiffel Tower look like from the inside? Photos and experiences from every floor
1nd floor (57 m)
A transparent glass floor (scary and cool!), and the Madame Brasserie restaurant.
2nd floor (115 m)
The best viewpoint for photography. The height is perfect to spot the The Louvre And Notre Dame.
The summit (276 m)
Gustave Eiffel's restored office, a champagne bar and a breathtaking bird's-eye view.
Migdal Restaurants
???? ️ Madam Brewery
Chef's restaurant on the 1st floor. Spectacular view and culinary experience (pre-booking required).
???? The Jules Verne
Michelin restaurant on the 2nd floor. With private elevator, ideal for marriage proposals.
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 and safest areas in Paris. Here are some great apartments that Audi offers in the area. You can find more great options in the guide Vacation apartments in the 7th arrondissement.
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:
Why was the Eiffel Tower built? (History in a nutshell)
Did you know that the Eiffel Tower was supposed to be demolished 20 years after its construction in 1889? Parisians loathed it and called it “metal asparagus.” Gustave Eiffel saved it by turning it into a radio antenna.
Read the full story »🛠️ Eiffel Tower in 2026: What's happening now at the Iron Lady?
in short: The tower is at the end of its biggest renovation campaign in 40 years, and if you're planning to climb to the top in January 2026 – you've got a problem.
Since 2019, the Eiffel Tower has been undergoing an unprecedented renovation and maintenance operation, and according to announcements from the operating company (SETE), it is expected to complete its most significant project in about four decades by the end of 2026. The overall plan, which is not due to be completed until 2031, includes an investment of approximately €380 million in maintenance and restoration.
The Peak (3rd floor) is completely closed for maintenance work. From January 5 to February 6, 2026If you already bought a ticket for this date – the good news is that the second floor is still open (and the view doesn’t really drop with height). During that time (January 5-30) some of the bathrooms on the 1st and 2nd floors are also undergoing renovations, so plan accordingly.
Another update worth knowing: The full renovation of the North Pillar Elevator was completed in 2024, and a modernization of the Duolift elevators that take you from the second floor to the top is also planned. And if you are a history buff like me – on January 26, 2026, a list of 72 names of female scientists proposed to be engraved on the tower was published, as part of a move to commemorate women in science who have not received sufficient recognition to date.
🔢 Eiffel Tower in numbers: facts you probably didn't know
Some statistics to impress those around you on your next trip (or just because it's fascinating):
⚠️ Travel warning: scams in the Eiffel region
Locals will try to hand you a “gold ring they found” or tie a string bracelet to your hand to aggressively demand money. Keep your hands in your pockets, ignore them, and keep walking.
Worthwhile attractions in the Eiffel Tower area
Cruise on the Seine
The sailing boats (Bateaux Mouches) depart right below the tower. A romantic and relaxing experience.
Ca Branly Museum
Other continental art in a magical garden, a few minutes' walk away.
Passy Cemetery
A small and peaceful cemetery within walking distance, fascinating for lovers of Parisian history and architecture.
Hiking trails in the Eiffel Tower area
Want to delve deeper into the area? Here are two detailed walking trails that will enrich your visit:
Hiking route in the Passi neighborhood
Discover the picturesque streets and historic buildings of the quiet Passy neighborhood, step by step.
A travel itinerary following Jules to Beirut
Follow the masterpieces of architect Jules Labirot, one of the most prominent creators of the Art Nouveau style in the 7th arrondissement.
Eiffel Tower Reviews: Is it really worth the queue?
If you search on social media, you will find Eiffel Tower Reviews Ranging from “a once-in-a-lifetime experience” to “a crowded tourist trap.” So what’s the truth? As someone who has been to Paris dozens of times and climbed the tower (once), here’s my honest review:
Yes, there are always a lot of people there (and you have to watch your wallet), and yes, the lines for the elevators can be frustrating. But when you’re standing on the second floor, or better yet, at the top, and all of Paris is spread out beneath you like a shimmering carpet… it’s a magical moment that’s hard to put into words. Is it worth the hassle? The answer is yes, but Only if you are smart and book in advanceIf you arrive without a ticket and are forced to stand at the counter for two hours, the experience may definitely be spoiled.
Questions and Answers (what you ask me)
How tall is the Eiffel Tower?
How many floors are there in the Eiffel Tower?
How many stairs are there in the Eiffel Tower?
There are 674 steps open to the public up to the second floor (in total the tower contains 1,665 steps to the top, but they are closed to the public for safety reasons).
Don't feel like working out on your romantic getaway? That's totally understandable (I'm not judging). Now is the time Reserve a lift ticket and skip the effort.
In which district is the Eiffel Tower located?
When does the Eiffel Tower sparkle?
Is there storage for belongings in the tower?
How long does it take to visit the Eiffel Tower?
Do I need to print the tickets for the Eiffel Tower?
Is it worth the money?
What is the best time to visit?
Are there toilets upstairs?
So what next?
Now it's time to plan the rest of the trip. Go toThe Complete Paris Guide.
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 🙂