Eiffel Tower Paris — History, Storyline, Tours & Visitor Info

Trace the journey of Paris’s iron icon—from the 1889 World’s Fair to today’s glittering skyline star. Learn the story, compare levels, and pick the right ticket: timed 2nd Floor, full Summit, stairs climbs, or combos with a Seine River cruise.

Timed Entry — From €52

Why Visit the Eiffel Tower?

Designed by Gustave Eiffel’s team for the 1889 Exposition Universelle, the tower rose as a bold experiment in iron engineering. Today it’s a world landmark: glass floors on Level 1, classic panoramas on Level 2, and champagne-toasting views from the Summit.

2nd Floor Views

Balanced height for crisp detail—spot the Seine, Invalides and Montmartre.

Summit Experience

Ride the final elevator to the highest platform and raise a glass at the Champagne Bar.

Quick Timeline

  • 1887 — Construction begins on the Champ de Mars.
  • 1889 — Opens for the World’s Fair; becomes the tallest structure on earth.
  • 1909 — Saved from demolition thanks to scientific and radio uses.
  • 1937 — Major repaint for the Exposition; lighting upgrades follow.
  • 1985 — New golden illumination transforms night views.
  • 2014 — Glass floor unveiled on Level 1.
  • 2025 — Ongoing improvements to crowd flow, security and accessibility.

Top Experiences

Timed Entry (2nd Floor or Summit)

Reserve an exact slot to cut waiting and focus on the views.

Stairs Climb

Scale 674 steps to Level 2 for an active visit and close-up lattice details.

Guided Tour

Hear construction secrets, fairground anecdotes and Paris landmarks explained.

Seine Cruise Combo

Add a 1-hour river cruise for classic bridges, museums and riverside facades.

Insider Tips

Book Sunset Early

Golden hour and the evening sparkle are the most popular—slots sell out first.

Summit Is Weather-Dependent

Summit service uses a separate elevator from Level 2 and can pause in high wind.

Best Photo Spots

Arrive at Trocadéro for full-tower shots, then cross to your timed entry.

Visitor Cheatsheet

Opening Hours

Open daily with extended evenings; last ascent usually ~1 hour before closing.

Ticket Options

Timed 2nd Floor • Summit add-on • Stairs climb • Guided tours • Cruise combos.

What to Wear

It’s breezier up top—bring a light layer and comfortable shoes.

How to Get There

Metro: Bir-Hakeim (L6) or Trocadéro (L9). RER C: Champ de Mars – Tour Eiffel.

Ready to Go Up?

Lock your time, choose your level, and enjoy Paris from the Iron Lady.

Elevator + Seine Cruise — From €57