Eiffel Tower 2nd Floor: Guided Tour & Optional River Cruise
- Skip-the-line to the 2nd floor of Paris’ most beloved landmark, the Eiffel Tower.
- At 115 meters tall, the 2nd floor boasts Paris’ most famous observatory that offers breathtaking views of Parisian sights nearby.
- From the elevated heights of this tower, gaze out at the Seine, the Louvre, the Grand Palais, Montmartre, Notre-Dame, the Champs-Elysées, and more.
- Enjoy the company of your expert bilingual (English and French-speaking) guide who will share insight and stories about this cherished attraction.
- On your way back down, feel free to stop at the Eiffel Tower’s first floor for a stroll along its exceptional glass floor.
- Spend as much time cruising around the Eiffel Tower post-tour- you're free to stay as long as you'd like (within operating hours).
- Upgrade your ticket to include a Seine River Cruise to your Parisian adventure (valid for 6 months from the date of purchase).
- Infants aged 3 and under can go for free.
- Get a full refund on canceling this ticket up to 24 hours before the schedule.
Eiffel Tower Summit: Guided Tour & Optional River Cruise
- Get whisked away from the entry crowds straight to the Summit elevator queue on Floor 2.
- Gather fun facts about the Eiffel Tower and nearby landmarks from your bilingual (English and French-speaking) tour guide.
- After your 1.5-hr guided tour, explore the iconic Parisian landmark on your own for as long as you'd like (within the operating hours).
- Take the lift to the highest point of the Eiffel tower for a panoramic view of Paris.
- Tip: Our guests love taking a walk across the glass floor on Floor 1.
- Upgrade your experience with a Seine River Cruise and enjoy seeing Paris from the waters (valid within 6 months of purchase).
- Ages 3 and under can visit the Eiffel Tower for free.
- Get a full refund on canceling this ticket up to 24 hours before the schedule.
Eiffel Tower Climbing Experience with Optional Summit Access
- Embark upon this climbing expedition to the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower for an unbeaten experience.
- Conquer the stride with your professional guide and uncover, step by step, the history of the tower and the sights around you.
- On your way down, stop at the first floor of the Eiffel and take a stroll on the famous glass floor, allowing you to truly step out of the ordinary.
- Take advantage of your optional ticket to upgrade your experience with access to the Summit Level (with elevator).
- Please note that depending upon your date and time of visit there may be a waiting time ranging between 20 to 90 minutes in the queues before beginning your climb up the Eiffel Tower.
- Infants below the age of 3 enter for free. Children aged 4-18 years enjoy reduced ticket pricing (carry a valid photo ID).
- These tickets can be canceled up to 72 hours in advance for a full refund.
- A great combo package lets you enjoy a 2-hour city tour with an hour-long city cruise on the Seine!
- Gaze out at the city's most notable sights along the way as you soak in the beauty of Paris at night.
- Iconic city landmarks like the Luxembourg Palace and Gardens, the Champs-Elysées, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Invalides will come into the picture.
- As you sail on the iconic Seine River, you'll be surrounded by unique views of Paris.
- Benefit from skip-the-line entry at the Eiffel Tower and soak in the beauty of the illuminated city from this revered landmark.
- Get a full refund on canceling this ticket up to 72 hours before the schedule.
The Eiffel Tower Reopens Post-COVID-19
After months of closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Eiffel Tower is set to the public on 16 July 2021. A slew of safety measures and guidelines are in place to ensure public safety.
Health Measures at the Eiffel Tower
Here is all the essential safety information to know before visiting the Eiffel Tower:
- While the Eiffel Tower is accepting on-the-spot ticket purchase, they highly recommend that visitors book their tickets online. However, while access to the 1st and 2nd floors by stairs is available for purchase at the physical ticket counters, if you would like to take the lift up to the 2nd floor, you would have to book your ticket online.
- All visitors above the age of 11 must wear a mask that fully covers the nose and mouth throughout their visit. The staff will be wearing masks full-time as well.
- The use of stairs has been altered as well. To prevent face-to-face contact, one staircase will be for climbing up, and another to head back down.
- All visitors must maintain a minimum distance of 5 feet from the other. To enable social distancing, various signs and markers have been placed along the path up the Eiffel Tower.
- Hand sanitizer has been made available for the public at about 30 points, including the entrances and both levels
- The only Eiffel Tower restaurant open to the public is the Jules Verne restaurant on the 2nd floor.
Eiffel Tower Tickets
About 130 years ago, to commemorate 100 years of the French Revolution, a competition was organized by the Universal Exposition with the aim to construct a 300 meter-long tower. Out of a massive 107 proposals, Gustave Eiffel’s was the winning one. And the rest, as they say, is history.
Colloquially known today as the ‘Iron Lady’, the Eiffel Tower is a symbol of Parisian culture, economy and industrial strength. Embedded with about five billion lights, one can see this architectural marvel from every corner of Paris. It’s no surprise that the Eiffel Tower receives a footfall of about 7 million visitors each year, making it the fourth most visited monument in the world.
A visit to the City of Love is incomplete without visiting the Eiffel Tower. With an Eiffel Tower ticket, visitors have access to the first floor, second floor and the summit, entry to some of the finest restaurants in the city and unparalleled views of Paris.
Your Eiffel Tower Ticket Options Explained
Summit Access
The Eiffel Tower summit is the highest floor accessible by visitors. It can be reached only via its own elevator, which is located on the 2nd floor.
Most Eiffel Tower tickets provide access to the 1st and 2nd floors. An upgrade option to the summit is often available, for which you need to pay an additional amount. With an Eiffel Tower summit access ticket, you can take the elevator from the 2nd floor and head straight to the top. From here, you can observe landmarks like the Seine River, Louvre Museum, Champs Elysees and more.
Stairs vs Elevator Access
You can access the 1st and 2nd floors by taking either the Eiffel Tower stairs or the elevator. To reach the 2nd floor, you need to climb about 674 steps. While taking the stairs is the faster, less crowded option to reach the 1st and 2nd floors, the ascent might be tiring and time-consuming. Taking an elevator to the 1st and 2nd floors is the faster option of the two, although you would need to be mindful of the crowds.
Stairs to the summit cannot be accessed by the public. You can reach the summit only via a separate elevator on the 2nd floor.
Guide vs Host
There are several ways to explore the Eiffel Tower.
You can opt for solo travel, where you make your way up via standard entry tickets.
If you select a guided Eiffel Tower tour, a professional multilingual tour guide will take you up-close and personal with all aspects of the landmark and enlighten you with interesting trivia and history.
If you opt for a host, they will accompany you from the entrance, help you get past the lines and take you up to your selected floor. Based on your preference, you can select a tour guide or host to accompany you up the Eiffel Tower.
Summit
1st and 2nd floors
Summit
Yes - Host
Audio Guide
Seine River Cruise (Optional)
Seine River Cruise (Optional)
Seine River Cruise (Optional)
These tickets cannot be canceled
These tickets cannot be canceled
These tickets cannot be canceled
-Travelers looking for a cruise
-Travelers looking to avoid long queues
-Travelers looking for a guided tour
-Travelers looking to avoid long queues
-Travelers looking for a cruise
-Travelers looking to avoid long queues
-Travelers looking for a cruise
Which Eiffel Tower Ticket Should You Choose?
1. If you’re short on time
The best way to make the most of your Eiffel Tower experience is by opting for skip-the-line tickets. With these, you can quickly avoid long queues and take the elevator straight to either the second floor or the summit.
2. If you’re on a budget
If you’re traveling on a budget, you can opt for going up using the Eiffel Tower stairs and not the lift. While the ascent is steep, tickets for stairs access are much cheaper as compared to elevator access.
3. If you’re looking for a guided tour
There are a variety of tickets you can choose from if you would like a guided tour of the Eiffel Tower. Your professional tour guide is usually multi-lingual and will enlighten you with history, facts, construction details and other interesting trivia about the Eiffel Tower. You can alternatively also opt for a portable, multilingual audio-guide that you can simply plug into and carry along on your visit.
4. If you’re looking for the complete Eiffel Tower experience
We recommend opting for tickets that give you access to the Eiffel Tower summit and add-ons like a cruise along the River Seine. This will give you a wholesome Parisian experience, allowing you to catch a glimpse of the city’s vibrant landscape and iconic monuments.
5. If you’re looking for a romantic experience
Eiffel Tower restaurants are known worldwide for their romantic ambiance and delectable French cuisine. If you’re looking to spend a romantic evening with your partner, opt for a ticket that provides a meal at the Eiffel Tower.
Eiffel Tower Levels
The Ground Esplanade at the base of the Tower. The gardens, information center and ticket offices can be found on this Eiffel Tower level. The four pillars of the Tower -- North, South, East and West -- can be found here. East and West towers lead you to the elevator, while the South takes you to the stairs.
You can visit the Esplanade gardens and the statue of Gustave Eiffel’s, or stop by the fast-food restaurants and gift shop.
No. It is the only Eiffel Tower level where entry is free.
You can access the first floor by either the elevator or stairs. If you opt for stairs, head towards the South Pillar and if you opt for the elevator, you can go via the East or West Pillars. If you decide to take the elevator, make sure to book your Eiffel Tower tickets in advance.
The most attractive feature on the first floor is the opaque, glass flooring. Along with this, you can visit popular restaurants, watch a cinema projection, shop at the boutique, and be a part of the seasonal cultural shows.
You can dine at the Eiffel Tower's legendary 58 Tour Restaurant (currently under renovation), La Bulle Parisienne, or at other buffet places.
Yes. You can take an elevator to the first floor. It is located in the East and West pillars of the Eiffel Tower.
You can take the elevator or the stairs to the Eiffel Tower second floor. You can find the elevator in the East and West Pillars, while the staircase is located in the South Pillar. Ensure that you book your tickets in advance in case you decide to take the elevator.
The Eiffel Tower second floor is an excellent spot to observe the city’s landmarks like Louvre Museum, dine and buy souvenirs.
The elevator is the faster option of the two to reach the Eiffel Tower second floor. While taking the stairs might be time-consuming since you’ll have to climb 674 steps, it’s an excellent way to actually take in the inner construction details and design of the tower.
At the Eiffel Tower second floor, you can dine at the Jules Verne, a Michelin-star restaurant or at their in-house buffet. You can also stop for dessert at their Macaroon Bar.
There’s only one way to get to the Eiffel Tower summit: via a separate elevator on the 2nd floor. You will have to take either the stairs or the elevator to the 2nd floor, and then board the elevator to the summit. The stairway to the summit is not accessible by the public.
Yes. Most tickets offer access to the 1st and 2nd floors. Eiffel Tower Summit access is an optional upgrade you would need to purchase to make your way to the top.
The Eiffel Tower summit is one of the highest observation decks in Europe. It offers a splendid view of Paris’ main attractions such as the Louvre Museum, Seine River and Grand Palace.
You can explore Gustave Eiffel’s office, witness a model of the top of the tower, enjoy a drink at the champagne bar, take photos and enjoy an awe-inspiring view of the sprawling city.
Eiffel Tower Entrances
East and West Pillars
If you plan to take the elevator to the Eiffel Tower second floor, you can go to either the East or West Pillar. Keep an eye out for a green and yellow flag. If you have already purchased a ticket, make your way towards the green flag which will lead you directly to the entrance. If you haven’t purchased a ticket, join the queues near the yellow flag, which is placed at the ticket counter. You can find a ticket booth at each pillar.
South Pillar
If you’re planning to take the stairs to the first or second floor of the Eiffel Tower, head to the South Pillar. There are 674 steps to the second floor. If you have already purchased your ticket, you can go directly to the entrance that is marked by a blue flag. If you haven’t booked one yet, you can make your purchase at the ticket counter at the South Pillar.
Plan Your Visit to the Eiffel Tower
Eiffel Tower hours are: From 13 June - 29 August, lift access is available between 09:00 AM to 12:45 AM with last ascent at 11:00 PM; stair access is available between 09:00 AM to 12:30 AM with last ascent before midnight.
The rest of the year, lift access is available between 09:30 AM to 11:45 PM with last ascent before 11:00 PM.; stair access is available between 09:30 AM to 06:30 PM.
The Eiffel Tower is open all year round. On Bastille Day, it will close at 02:00 PM.
October to December and January to March is the best time to visit the Eiffel Tower. You will experience lesser crowds and pleasant weather.
Eiffel Tower location is Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France.
You can get to the Eiffel Tower by car, metro, RER, bus, boat and by bicycle.
By metro, you can take Lines 9, 8 and 6; by RER, you can take Line C to get to the Eiffel Tower.
You can take Line 82 and 42 to get to the Eiffel Tower.
Eiffel Tower entrances are located in the East, West and South Pillars. If you plan on taking the stairs, you can go to the South Pillar; if you’re taking the elevator, you can go to either the East or West Pillars.
Yes. Lifts are available to accommodate those with disabilities, allowing them to enjoy a complete Eiffel Tower experience.
You can enter the Esplanade from the South and East entrances of the Eiffel Tower gardens. These are located at the base of the tower.
Most tickets allow you to visit the Eiffel Tower summit by paying an additional amount for the upgrade. You can go up to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower using either the elevator or the stairs and take the summit-specific elevator from there.
Avoid the long lines by purchasing skip-the-line Eiffel Tower tickets. With these, you get priority access to the second floor and can additionaly opt for an upgrade to the Summit as well.
The Eiffel Tower experiences maximum crowds during summer, between June-September. With skip-the-line Eiffel Tower tickets, you can avoid the long queues and head straight up to the second floor and the summit. Alternatively, you can visit the tower between September to December or March to June for pleasant weather and less crowds.
Depending on your ticket, you can access either the second floor or the summit with your skip-the-line Eiffel Tower tickets.
If you buy skip-the-line Eiffel Tower tickets, not only do you avoid long queues, but you get an informative tour guide along, priority access by elevator to the second floor and more.
They can access the 2nd floor by the elevator; special washrooms are available on the ground floor; audio inductions loops for those with hearing difficulties.
Yes. The first and second floors are equipped with changing stations.
No. As of now, no such facility has been made available. You may keep your baggage at storage facilities available nearby
Eiffel Tower Restaurants
Your Eiffel Tower experience is incomplete without indulging in some delightful French cuisine. The cherry on top? Jaw-dropping views of the City of Love, of course. Another benefit? By booking a meal at an Eiffel Tower restaurant like Le Jules Verne or Le 58 Tour Eiffel, you can skip the long lines and directly head to the second floor!
Apart from this, the Eiffel Tower is also home to restaurants that serve simple buffets. They are located on the Esplanade, first and second floors.
Visiting the Eiffel Tower - Tips
1. If you plan on visiting the Eiffel Tower -- particularly the summit -- we recommend booking your tickets well in advance since tickets to the top get sold out quickly
2. It is also essential that you book your Eiffel Tower tickets online. If not, you would have to wait for hours at the ticket counter, and might not get access to the floors you would like to visit
3. A great way to save time is by taking the steps on your way back down. Lines for the lifts are generally long and crowded.
4. If you would like to know the inner workings of this landmark, including history, construction and other general trivia, we highly recommend opting for a guided Eiffel Tower tour
5. June-September is the busiest time of the year for a visit. If you would like relatively lesser crowds, October-December and January-March would be the best time to visit the Eiffel Tower.
6. If you plan to have a meal at the Eiffel Tower, it is best to make a reservation at one of the restaurants well in advance
7. Download the Eiffel Tower app on your smartphone before your visit. The audio guide covers every subject related to the structure, including history, design and construction, neighboring landmarks and more.
8. Walk a little farther away from the tower to click the perfect photo. If you’re standing too close, you might not be able to get a complete picture of the towering landmark.
9. Keep your belongings close to you; the Eiffel Tower is a favorite spot for thieves due to the large crowds.
10. Pick up a souvenir of Paris and the Eiffel Tower at shops on the first and second floors
Eiffel Tower Tickets - FAQ
Q. Is it safe to visit the Eiffel Tower post-COVID-19?
A. To ensure the safety of its visitors, the Eiffel Tower encourages online reservations. Several safety measures and guidelines have also been enforced to ensure the safety of its visitors.
Q. What are the safety measures and guidelines in place at the Eiffel Tower?
A. In light of COVID-19, multiple health and safety measures have been enforced. The Eiffel Tower now accepts only online reservations for lift access; to access the stairs, while physical tickets are available, visitors are encouraged to use digital payment methods. It is mandatory that visitors wear masks that cover their nose and face throughout their entire visit. Hand sanitizer gels have been placed at about 30 points.
Q. Are Eiffel Tower tickets available online now?
A. Yes. You can book your Eiffel Tower tickets online. Stairs access can be booked online or on the spot, while lift access can be only reserved online.
Q. What is the cancelation policy for Eiffel Tower tickets?
A. It depends on the Eiffel Tower ticket you choose to book. While some tickets offer a full refund on canceling tickets up to 48-72 hours in advance, for others there may be no refund available on cancelation. Please check before you make your reservation.
Q. Is lift access available at the Eiffel Tower post-COVID-19?
A. Yes, lift access is available at the Eiffel Tower. However, lift tickets can only be reserved online and visitors are encouraged to take the stairs over the lift.
Q. Are Eiffel Tower stairs open post-COVID-19?
A. Yes. You can use the Eiffel Tower stairs to go up to the 2nd floor. One staircase has been designated to go up, while the other is for solely coming back down.
Q. What are Eiffel Tower hours post-COVID-19?
A. Eiffel Tower hours post-COVID-19 are: 10:00 AM to 11:45 PM (last ascent at 11:00 PM) all days of the week, for both lift and stairs.
Q. Are skip-the-line tickets available for Eiffel Tower?
A. Yes. Skip-the-line tickets for Eiffel Tower are available. Purchasing these tickets online is highly recommended to avoid waiting for 30 minutes to 1 hour in line.
Q. What are the type of tickets available for visiting the Eiffel Tower?
A. There are four basic tickets available: one grants access to the 2nd floor via lift, the second takes you to the summit via lift, the third takes you to the 2nd floor via the stairs and the fourth takes you to the summit via stairs to the 2nd floor and then a lift to the top.
Q. Can I skip the line with guided tours at Eiffel Tower?
A. Yes, you can get skip-the-line tickets for guided Eiffel Tower tours at the Eiffel Tower. With these tickets, you get hassle-free entry and can go either to the 2nd floor, or right to the summit.
Q. Does a ticket to the top of the Eiffel Tower allow you to visit the 1st and 2nd floors?
A. Yes. By purchasing a ticket to the top of the Eiffel Tower, you can access all other floors as well.
Q. I bought a ticket to the 2nd floor and now want to visit the top of the Eiffel Tower, is that possible?
A. No. Your destination is determined by the ticket you decide to purchase. You will not be able to go to the top of the tower if you have purchased a ticket to the 2nd level.
Q. Should I take the stairs or the elevator to the top of the Eiffel Tower
A. While the stairs are cheaper, climbing 674 steps to the 2nd level is not an easy task. Depending on your ticket, you can take an elevator to the top. You can climb up the stairs to the 1st and 2nd levels of the Eiffel Tower, or take an elevator directly to the 2nd floor, look around, and then head by elevator to the summit.
Q. What are Eiffel Tower timings?
A. Admission to the tower, elevator and stairs generally begins from 09:00 AM all year round. From January to June and September to December, the tower is open till 11:00 PM, while from June to September, it is open till midnight.
Q. Is the Eiffel Tower wheelchair-accessible?
A. Yes. Wheelchair access is available for visitors up to the 1st and 2nd floors. It is not recommended that visitors with disabilities visit the summit.
Q. How long does it take to visit the Eiffel Tower?
A. If you go up to the 2nd level, the visit could take about 1.5 hours, while if you go up to the summit, you could spend about 2.5 hours. Moreover, depending on whether you opt to take the stairs or the elevator, timings may vary.