Paris' Eiffel Tower

• Posted by: Editor
• On: 29/06/2007 16:39:52
• In: Paris Travel Tips

This astonishing attraction was built by an architect called Gustave Eiffel around 1889 to commemorate the centenary of the French Revolution. It is said that Eiffel had originally planned to build this particular monument in Barcelona but they rejected it. It even caused controversy in Paris where it was called an 'eyesore' by many people and was at one stage suppose to be tore down!

Today, standing at 300 metres tall, it’s France’s tallest structure and is a famous Paris icon. It is the world’s most visited monument with over 6 million people flocking to the see the Eiffel Tower each year.

Paris wouldn’t be Paris without the Eiffel Tower! If you go to see the tower at night it looks even more splendid as its internal structure is all lit up and its lights sparkle for about 10 minutes on each hour.

Developments have been made to the tower to help preserve it. It has changed colour six times over the last century and the lighting effects are changed to facilitate certain events that are taking place.  Many alcoves and shelters have also been put in place to shield visitors from harsh weather conditions.

You can climb the tower by stairs, which will bring you to the first and second floors or you can take the elevator, which will bring you to the third and top floor of the tower. On the first floor you can go and see the towers exhibitions and displays. You will also find the ‘Altitude 95’ restaurant here along with some great shops. When you reach the second floor, cease the opportunity and capture some precious moment on film with a stunning vista of the city providing the backdrop. You'll also find ‘Le Jules Verre’ restaurant on this level.

Having reached the second level, it would be unthinkable for you not to reach the third and highest floor. Many people overcome their fear of heights just to witness the breathtaking 360-degree view of Paris!

Being one of the most visited attractions in the world, it goes without saying that you'll have to queue for the Eiffel Tower. It is busy all year round and the queues can be extra long and stuffy during the Summer months, so we advise to get there as early as you can in the morning.

How to get there

The Eiffel Tower is located on the Champs de Mars overlooking the River Seine in the 7th Arrondissement. To get there by bus get numbers ; 42, 69, 72, 82 or 87. The nearest metro stations to the Eiffel Tower are Bir-Hakeim, Trocadéro and Ecole Militaire.

Opening Hours

Open daily, all year round.

Jan 1st – June 14th:  9.30am - 11.45pm
Jun 15th  – Sept 1st: 9.00am - 12.45am
Sept 2nd – Dec 31st: 9.30am - 11.45pm

Admission Prices (2007 rates)

If you choose to take the elevator to the top:
Adult Eur11.50
Child Eur6.50

Stairs to the 1st and 2nd floors:
Adult  Eur 4.00
Child Eur3.10

Children under 3 are free and group rates are also available.
Reduced rates for people with disabilities and their assistants.

Read more about the Eiffel Tower here!

Have you been to the Eiffel Tower? Tell us about your experience! Have you any other tips or advise that you'd like fellow travellers to know about. Feel free to leave comments in the box below.