Summary
The Eiffel Tower stands out as one of Paris’ most recognizable landmarks, requiring no detailed introduction. However, understanding the optimal times to visit and having some practical tips can significantly enhance your experience.
It is essential to avoid unnecessary queuing, missing prime viewing opportunities, or even being unable to secure tickets.
Seeing the Eiffel Tower from the ground is impressive, yet the views from the top are truly extraordinary. As one of the globe’s most iconic structures, it’s a sight that captivates visitors from around the world.
To ensure you maximize your visit, I will share essential recommendations and the best times to visit the tower. This will allow you to concentrate on enjoying your experience without undue stress.
Taking time to experience the breathtaking perspectives of Paris from the Eiffel Tower’s summit is absolutely worthwhile.
1.) Purchase your Eiffel Tower tickets in advance
To begin with, securing your tickets in advance is indispensable! If reaching the summit of the Eiffel Tower is your goal, purchasing tickets in advance is absolutely necessary.
This ticket option allows you access to the 1st and 2nd floors via the lift, and you have the potential to choose an additional Summit View option.
Due to high demand, tickets may sell out quickly, particularly during optimal visiting times, and you certainly do not want to miss the opportunity to visit this iconic structure.
Personally, I recommend opting for the Summit View. After all, you are there to experience the Eiffel Tower!
It’s crucial to ensure that you secure this ticket ahead of time. Arriving without tickets, only to be turned away at the entrance, will certainly result in regret.
2.) Eiffel Tower tickets; Stairs or lifts
There are various ticket options available for the Eiffel Tower, yet a pivotal consideration is how you wish to ascend. Would you prefer to take the stairs or the lift?
If you choose to climb the stairs, it is recommended to acquire the stair tickets. This provides a chance to reach the viewing platforms on foot.
Conversely, if this does not appeal to you, book lift tickets to facilitate your ascent. This option tends to be more convenient.
There are two gondolas for viewing, one at mid-level (at a reduced price) and one at the pinnacle (located beneath the iconic beacon).
Both viewing experience are spectacular, but I find it worthwhile to invest a little extra to experience the summit, especially when planning your ideal visit timing.
I personally have a slight fear of heights, so the elevator’s journey made me a bit anxious; however, as the views started to unfold, I quickly forgot my trepidation and became engrossed in the stunning cityscape.
3.) Arrive just before sunset
One of the most favorable times to experience the Eiffel Tower is just prior to sunset. Before arranging your visit, take note of the sunset schedule and aim to arrive accordingly.
This timing allows you to appreciate the vistas of Paris throughout the day, during the sunset, and into the evening if you linger a little longer. The ambiance is truly magical and merits thoughtful planning.
4.) Champagne and views
The vistas from the Eiffel Tower are spectacular, but they become even more exquisite when paired with champagne!
Upon reaching the summit, there is an option to purchase a glass of champagne, adding a delightful touch to your experience. Although it may not be served in traditional glass flutes, it remains a special indulgence.
5.) Layer up
It may seem self-evident, but remember to dress in layers. The temperature can be noticeably cooler at the top of the Eiffel Tower, particularly when wind conditions are present.
As you ascend, you’ll likely experience a significant temperature drop. Conditions at the summit are typically much colder than at ground level, and it’s easy to underestimate the chilliness.
Many visitors find that around 1 p.m. is when the temperature is most comfortable for the visit, however, Paris weather can be unpredictable, so always be prepared.
You do not want to compromise your experience by feeling too cold to enjoy the view.
6.) Camera Tips
It is anticipated that you will capture several photographs from the top of the Eiffel Tower.
We took numerous pictures and quickly had to adjust our camera settings to accommodate the varying light conditions from day to night.
If utilizing a DSLR, try selecting a slow-exposure setting (e.g., 10-15 seconds) while maintaining a low ISO.
This lower ISO minimizes noise in your images, but for slow exposures, a stable base is crucial to avoid blurriness. A Gorillapod is highly recommended for this purpose, as it can be affixed in various locations. Should you have a remote control, this is an opportune moment to utilize it for capturing images.
This approach proved to be immensely beneficial for our photography.
7.) Watch out for touts and pickpockets
It is advisable to bring layers, as temperatures can become quite chilly at the summit of the Eiffel Tower, especially in windy conditions.
As you ascend, temperatures often drop. Indeed, it tends to be colder at the summit than at ground level, and one can easily be misled into thinking that warmer weather will prevail.
Our experience suggested that around 1 p.m. was the best period to ascend to evade the chill. However, Parisian weather can be quite unpredictable, so it is prudent to be prepared.
Your experience should be enjoyable, without the discomfort of cold affecting your visit.
7.) Watch out for touts and pickpockets
Paris is undeniably a global metropolis. As with many major cities, caution is advisable. The vicinity of the Eiffel Tower is notorious for touts and pickpockets.
To mitigate risks, keep your belongings secured in a bag in front of you, or utilize zipped pockets. Additionally, stay vigilant against scams that involve placing bracelets on your arm; a firm yet polite refusal is advisable.
While there is no specific time that guarantees complete safety from these issues, pickpocketing tends to occur more frequently during busy periods. Always maintain awareness of your surroundings and act with caution.
