Introduction
The Eiffel Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, synonymous with the city of Paris and a symbol of French culture and architecture. Standing at 330 meters tall, this iron lattice tower offers stunning views of Paris, making it one of the most visited attractions in the world. The Reserved Access Tour with optional Summit by Lift is an excellent way to explore this architectural masterpiece, ensuring that visitors skip the often long lines and maximize their time exploring the Eiffel Tower’s magnificent views and rich history.
This detailed guide provides everything you need to know about booking your Eiffel Tower tour, including what to expect on each level, the benefits of the reserved access, and tips for making the most of your visit.
Why Visit the Eiffel Tower?
1. A Global Icon
The Eiffel Tower was designed by the engineer Gustave Eiffel and completed in 1889 for the World’s Fair, held to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. Initially met with skepticism, the tower quickly became a symbol of modernity and artistic innovation, eventually earning its place as the most recognizable structure in Paris. Its cultural significance, combined with its engineering marvel, continues to draw millions of visitors each year.
2. Spectacular Panoramic Views
Ascending the Eiffel Tower provides an unparalleled view of Paris. From the second level, you can observe famous landmarks such as Notre-Dame, the Louvre Museum, the Seine River, and Montmartre’s Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Opting for the summit access via lift takes you even higher, offering a breathtaking bird’s-eye view that stretches over 40 miles on a clear day.
3. Historical and Architectural Significance
The Eiffel Tower was the tallest man-made structure in the world until 1930, when it was surpassed by the Chrysler Building in New York. Built from over 18,000 pieces of wrought iron, it remains a masterpiece of engineering. Today, it is both a historical monument and a cultural hub, featuring exhibits about its construction and role in French history. A visit allows you to delve deeper into its design and the technology used to bring it to life.
Tour Overview
4. Reserved Access – Skip the Long Lines
The Eiffel Tower Reserved Access Tour is designed to make your experience as seamless as possible. One of the most notable advantages is the ability to bypass the notoriously long lines, which can save you hours of waiting during peak tourist seasons. With your reserved access ticket, you will be escorted by a guide directly to the lifts, allowing you more time to enjoy the tower and its spectacular views.
5. Optional Summit Access by Lift
While many visitors are content exploring the first and second levels, the optional summit access by lift provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those who want to go all the way to the top. The summit offers unparalleled views of the city and is home to a reconstruction of Gustave Eiffel’s office, complete with wax figures of Eiffel and his daughter, as well as a champagne bar where visitors can enjoy a celebratory drink while admiring the panorama.
Exploring the Eiffel Tower
6. First Level: History and Glass Floor
The first level of the Eiffel Tower is situated at 57 meters above the ground. It features a range of fascinating exhibits detailing the history of the tower’s construction and its significance in French history. A highlight of the first level is the transparent glass floor, which offers a thrilling view of the tower’s base below, providing visitors with a unique perspective of the structure. On this level, you can also find a restaurant, café, and gift shops to further enhance your visit.
7. Second Level: Best Views of Paris
The second level, at 115 meters, offers what many consider to be the best panoramic views of Paris. Here, you can observe Paris’s famous monuments with remarkable clarity, including the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs-Élysées, and the Tuileries Garden. The second level also has a gift shop and an information desk, where you can learn more about the city’s landmarks using the interactive displays.
One of the best photo opportunities is found on the second level, where the vistas of Paris are both sweeping and detailed, capturing the city’s architectural splendor.
The Optional Summit Experience
8. The Summit: A Once-in-a-Lifetime View
For those who opt for the summit access by lift, the experience becomes even more awe-inspiring. The summit is located at 276 meters and provides a 360-degree panoramic view of Paris and beyond. It is the highest publicly accessible point in Paris and offers a breathtaking vantage point for those wanting to capture the full grandeur of the city.
“The Eiffel Tower summit offers a perspective of Paris like no other, where the city of light unfurls beneath you in all its grandeur.”
At the summit, you’ll also find Gustave Eiffel’s office, an exhibit showing how the Eiffel Tower was used for scientific experiments, and a fascinating account of its construction and impact. The summit is also home to the Champagne Bar, where you can indulge in a glass of bubbly as you take in the view—a truly luxurious way to conclude your visit.
Making the Most of Your Eiffel Tower Visit
9. Best Time to Visit
The Eiffel Tower is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the largest crowds. Sunset and night visits are particularly magical, as the tower and the city are illuminated, providing a whole new perspective on Paris.
The tower is also beautifully lit in the evening, with an iconic light show that twinkles for five minutes every hour after sunset. Whether you visit during the day or night, each time of day offers a unique way to experience this iconic landmark.
10. What to Bring
- Camera: You’ll want to capture the stunning views of Paris from each level.
- Comfortable Shoes: The Eiffel Tower involves a lot of walking, and even with the lift access, comfortable footwear is essential.
- Layers: The summit can be chilly, especially in the evening or during colder months, so it’s advisable to bring a light jacket.
Booking Your Eiffel Tower Tour
11. How to Book
You can book your Eiffel Tower Reserved Access Tour with optional summit access through reputable platforms such as Viator. This ensures that you secure your spot and skip the long lines during your visit. Early booking is recommended, particularly during peak tourist seasons.
Booking in advance is especially important if you wish to visit the summit, as access is limited and highly sought after. Tickets can sell out quickly, so make sure to reserve yours as early as possible.
Tips for a Perfect Visit
- Arrive Early: Even with reserved access, it’s best to arrive a few minutes early to ensure a smooth experience.
- Check the Weather: A clear day will offer the best views from the summit, but even on a cloudy day, the Eiffel Tower offers a magical experience.
- Explore the Surrounding Area: After your tour, don’t miss out on visiting nearby landmarks such as the Trocadéro Gardens and the Champ de Mars, which provide excellent views of the Eiffel Tower from the ground.
Conclusion
The Eiffel Tower Reserved Access Tour with optional summit by lift offers a convenient and enriching way to experience one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Whether you’re marveling at the panoramic views from the second level or sipping champagne at the summit, this tour guarantees an unforgettable journey through Paris’s architectural masterpiece.
To secure your place and skip the long queues, you can book your tour through Viator, ensuring a seamless and memorable visit to the Eiffel Tower.
Disclaimer: While we strive to provide the most accurate information, please check with Viator for the latest updates on tour availability and any changes to the program.
