The Eiffel Tower has three levels open to the public. The stairs and elevators take you to the first level (at 57m / 187 feet) and second level (115m / 377 feet). The summit towers at 276m (906 feet) and is only reachable by elevator, either from the ground floor or the second-floor platform.
Can’t pick which one to visit? To help you decide, here’s my take on the various options.
If you are wondering how hard it is to climb the Eiffel Tower by the stairs, look up this article.
Table of Contents
My Opinion
Going to the top of the Eiffel Tower is an unforgettable experience anyone looking for a 360° view of Paris and willing to pay the extra cost will enjoy.
Visitors can effortlessly enjoy the view with an elevator ride, while the stairs are better suited for the more adventurous.
The view from the second level is spectacular, with less waiting time for the lift and a more affordable cost.
The first level is perfect for those wanting a close look at the tower’s architecture, and its glass floor will delight thrill-seekers.
Every level has pros and cons, and there is no wrong choice. In any case, visiting the Eiffel Tower always leaves an imperishable memory.
Top of the Eiffel Tower: Is It Worth It?
If you have always dreamed about it, of course, it is worth going to the top of the Eiffel Tower.
There is more waiting time, and it costs more, but it’s a one-of-a-kind experience. And the panoramic views are breathtaking.
Pros
- A full-on panoramic view of Paris: By making the ascent to the Eiffel Tower’s summit, you’ll have a 360° view of the whole city. It’s the perfect place to admire emblematic landmarks such as Notre Dame Cathedral Paris, the Arc of Triumph, or the Louvre. Those are but a few of the monuments visible from this height.
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- A lasting memory: Going to the top of the tower is a once-in-a-lifetime experience impossible to forget. You’ll be awed by the superb city under your feet and left breathless by the feeling of standing atop such an iconic monument.
- Fabulous photo keepsakes: From the Summit, you’ll be able to take spectacular pictures of Paris, that will last you a lifetime.
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- You’ll be immersed in the tower’s history. A replica of Gustave Eiffel’s office was even designed and awaits visitors.
Cons
- The line: The Eiffel Tower is a victim of its popularity. You can stay stuck in crowded lines for as long as 1h30, especially during peak periods. The wait can vary depending on the season and the time of day. For example, there is a high influx between 12 p.m. and 7 p.m. and on weekends.
- Accessibility: Taking the stairs, which is only possible up to the 2nd floor (after the lift is unavoidable) is a strenuous physical commitment. There are 674 steps to climb, the equivalent of 30 to 40 minutes of ascent.
- Not much to see: The summit’s deck is small (250 m / 2,690 ft²). You’ll quickly exhaust all the sights.
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- Cost: The summit’s admission fee is costlier than the one of the 2nd level (€10 more). The price depends on the age and condition of the visitor.
Eiffel Tower Rates
Top floor, with access lift:
- Adult rate: € 35.30
- Youth rate (12-24 years old): € 17.70
- Child rate (4-11 years old) and disabled persons: € 8.90
Second floor, with access stairs + Top floor, with access lift:
- Adult rate: € 26.90
- Youth rate (12-24 years old): € 13.50
- Child rate (4-11 years old) and disabled persons: € 6.80
Second floor, with access lift:
- Adult rate: € 22.60
- Youth rate (12-24 years old): € 11.30
- Child rate (4-11 years old) and disabled: € 5.70
Second floor, with access stairs (including the first floor):
- Adult rate: € 14.20
- Youth rate (12-24 years old): € 7.10
- Child rate (4-11 years old) and disabled: €3.60
Whatever you choose, the visit is free for children under four.
Summit or Second Floor: Where to Go?
For a breathtaking view, the best place to go is the summit.
If seeing Paris from on high is your lifelong dream, it’s worth it to climb to the top.
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Yep, there’s a Champagne bar on the top floor!
Fair warning: the ticket is pricier than for the other levels.
The wait times are also longer in the peak season.
I advise visitors with children and more impatient guests to choose the 2nd level.
While it is closer to the ground, the view remains superb, and the admission fee is less expensive.
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The deck is also far larger than at the top.
There is plenty of ground to explore if you take your time.
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In short, if you want a great view without spending too much money or wasting too much time, the 2nd floor is a good compromise.
First and Second Floor Compared
The first thing to know is that going to the second level through the stairs means you will be passing by the first level. Although, this does not involve added costs.
The first level is perfect for architecture or history buffs.
Here, you can closely admire the metallic beauty of the tower.
I found the detailed intricacies of the structure enchanting.
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The first level offers marvelous exhibits sure to please history lovers.
I learned a lot about the design and construction of this iconic landmark.
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And if you’re looking for a thrill, take a few steps on the glass roof.
It is as dizzying as it is incredible.
You’ll feel like you’re hovering in midair above the Champ de Mars.
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The superior height of the second level offers a slightly better view.
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I advise you to visit each level if you’re taking the stairs.
The large deck of the second level will leave you enough space to take a break.
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Heads up: It takes between 10 and 15 minutes to reach the 1st level and another 10 to 15 minutes to go from the 1st to the 2nd level.
With a passion for travel and having visited over 50 countries, Dorian is eager to share his favorite spots and expert tips to help you explore Paris and France like a local.
