The Eiffel Tower is a roughly 330-metre iron lattice tower built by Gustave Eiffel's company for the 1889 Paris World's Fair; conceived as a 20-year temporary structure, it is now the emblem of Paris and the most-visited paid monument in the world. As of 2026 the summit reopened after its usual annual maintenance closure (January 5 to February 6), while the tower's 20th repainting campaign — carried out to protect the ironwork from corrosion — is still partly underway. Because timed slots sell out fast in high season, it is best to reserve a specific entry time in advance on the official site (ticket.toureiffel.paris).
The summit (3rd level, ~276 m) with its viewing gallery, the wax reconstruction of Gustave Eiffel's original office, and a champagne bar
The 2nd floor (~115 m) for the sharpest Paris panorama — the Arc de Triomphe, the Seine and Montmartre all in view
The glass floor on the 1st level and the new summer rooftop terrace opening in 2026
The illumination show that sparkles for about five minutes at the top of every hour after dark
The classic full-tower photo from the Trocadéro esplanade across the river
Good to know
SafetyThe walk from Bir-Hakeim/Champ de Mars to the tower, the entry queues, and the Trocadéro esplanade are among the worst pickpocket zones in Paris. Wear your bag in front with the zip closed and take your phone out only when you truly need it.
SafetyOn the Champ de Mars lawns, thieves sometimes slit the bottom of a bag with a blade to slide out a wallet unnoticed, so keep valuables on your body even while sitting on the grass.
CautionPeople asking you to sign a petition, or the shell/cup-and-ball games staged on the ground, are decoys to distract you while an accomplice reaches into your bag — do not stop, just keep walking.
CautionBeware of street vendors who press mini Eiffel Towers or bracelets into your hand then demand money, and of third-party resale sites selling overpriced or fake tickets. Book only through the official site (toureiffel.paris).
RulesThere is a security bag check at the entrance and items such as large luggage and glass bottles are not allowed. From September 29, 2026, visits by stairs will also require an advance reservation.
SeasonSummer (June–September) and weekends are extremely crowded and summit tickets sell out early, so book at least a few days ahead. The summit can be temporarily closed in high winds or bad weather.
Practical info
The nearest stations are Bir-Hakeim (Metro 6), Trocadéro (Metro 6/9), École Militaire (Metro 8) and Champ de Mars–Tour Eiffel (RER C). It generally opens around 9:30 a.m. (9:00 in peak summer) until late at night, but always confirm the exact opening hours, fares, summit availability and current repainting/maintenance status on the official website before you go.
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