Standing at the base of the Eiffel Tower, I felt a mix of excitement and indecision. Should I splurge on a summit ticket for the highest view in Paris, or is the second floor actually the best spot for seeing the city’s landmarks up close?
Honestly, if you want the best mix of amazing views and that classic Paris feeling, the second floor usually feels more enjoyable and less packed than the summit.
When I visited, I realized every level has its own vibe. The second floor lets you spot famous sights like the Seine and the Louvre clearly, while the summit gives you bragging rights for reaching the top—but it’s more crowded and space is tight.
I’ll share what it’s actually like to visit both, how much it costs, and what you can expect, so you can figure out which ticket fits your Paris plans.
Choosing the Right Eiffel Tower Ticket
Everyone has a different idea of what makes the perfect Eiffel Tower experience. The ticket you pick really shapes your visit, from the price to the views and even the crowds.
Summit Ticket Options
Summit tickets get you all the way to the top—around 276 meters up. The view from up there? It’s wide, sweeping, and honestly, pretty unforgettable. I could spot landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe and the Louvre, though I’ll admit, at that height, everything looks kind of tiny.
Here’s a quick look:
| Ticket Type | What’s Included | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Summit Elevator | 2nd floor + Summit by lift | More expensive |
| Stairs + Elevator | Stairs to 2nd, lift to top | Slightly cheaper |
The summit sometimes closes suddenly for weather or repairs. Check ahead if you’re set on going all the way up. Summit tickets sell out quickly, especially in summer.
Second Floor Ticket Options
The second floor sits about 115 meters up and you can reach it by elevator or stairs. I found this level gave me the best views across Paris—famous monuments look big enough to recognize, and you can really appreciate the tower’s ironwork.
Second floor tickets are:
- Cheaper than summit tickets.
- Easier to get, even on busy days.
- Available for both elevator and stairs.
There’s a lot to do here—shops, cafés, and even a glass floor. If you can handle stairs, climbing up gives you changing views and feels less rushed than the elevator. If you just want to see Paris without going all the way up, this level is a solid pick.
How to Book in Advance
I really recommend booking online through the official Eiffel Tower site. Booking ahead saved me from standing in long ticket lines. Tickets can sell out, especially for the summit and at sunset.
To book:
- Go to the official Eiffel Tower website.
- Pick your date and time slot.
- Decide between the lift or stairs, and choose second floor or summit.
Show up at your booked time. Third-party sites also sell tickets, but I found the official ones more reliable and usually the same price. Just a heads-up: there are no free entry days for the Eiffel Tower itself.
Guided Tours vs. Self-Guided Visits
Guided tours are great if you want to learn about the tower’s history, construction, and Paris as a whole. I joined a small group tour and picked up fun facts I’d never have found on my own. Some tours even include skip-the-line access, which saved me a ton of time on a busy morning.
On a self-guided visit, I liked moving at my own pace. Audio guides are sometimes available for a small fee. If you’re just after photos and the view, a regular ticket works fine. Guided tours cost more, but the extra context made my visit feel a lot more special.
Summit vs. Second Floor: What to Expect
Both the summit and the second floor have their own kind of magic and fantastic views. The feeling and details change a lot depending on which level you choose.
Summit Experience Overview
Standing at the summit, 276 meters above Paris, I felt a quiet thrill—knowing I’d made it to the top of this iconic landmark. The view stretches for miles, and the city looks almost like a model below. Major sights like the Arc de Triomphe and the River Seine are visible, but they look small and far away.
There’s a champagne bar up here if you want to toast the moment. Gustave Eiffel’s original office is also at the summit, and peeking inside gave me a real sense of the tower’s history.
The weather changes fast this high up—windy and a lot colder, even in late spring. I needed a jacket. The view is impressive, but you lose some of the detail you get from lower down. Still, the feeling of being at the top of Paris is tough to beat.
Second Floor Highlights
The second floor, at 116 meters, is where the Eiffel Tower felt most magical to me. Paris spreads out in every direction, close enough that you can pick out famous sights, neighborhoods, and even people walking below.
I could see the city’s shape, the boulevards, and the green spaces really clearly. The platforms are wide and open, so I could wander around and take in the views from every angle. There are restaurants, souvenir shops, and some shelter if the weather gets rough.
This level does get busy, especially during peak hours, but it’s still manageable. The details in the cityscape made this floor my favorite for people-watching and photos that really capture Paris.
Stairs or Elevator: Getting Up There
You’ve got two main ways to reach the upper levels: stairs or elevator. The stairs only go as high as the second floor—about 674 steps. I climbed up, and while it was a workout, it gave me cool views of the tower’s ironwork. Each landing offers a new angle, and there are plaques with bits of Eiffel history.
To get to the summit, I had to switch to a glass-walled elevator from the second floor. The elevator ride is quick with great glimpses of Paris. If you want a relaxing trip up or can’t do lots of stairs, the elevator from the ground to the second floor is simple and saves your energy.
Whether you climb or ride, the journey up is part of the adventure. Your choice depends on comfort, curiosity about the structure, and how much time you have.
Paris from Above: Comparing the Views
High above Paris, I watched the city’s landmarks stretch out in every direction. The second floor and the summit both offer stunning sights, but the perspective totally shifts with each level.
Landmarks You Can See
From the second floor, I could spot the Seine River winding through Paris, with boats gliding along. The Arc de Triomphe stood out to the west, and the Champs-Élysées was easy to trace. The Louvre and its glass pyramid looked almost tiny from above.
At the summit, the view gets even broader. The Notre Dame Cathedral sits further in the distance but is still easy to find. The Trocadero Gardens are right across the river, perfect for photos. From up here, you really get a sense of how big Paris is—you can see the suburbs and green spaces way beyond the city center.
Here’s a quick checklist of landmarks you can see from both floors:
| Landmark | Second Floor | Summit |
|---|---|---|
| Louvre | ✓ | ✓ |
| Notre Dame | ✓ | ✓ |
| Arc de Triomphe | ✓ | ✓ |
| Seine River | ✓ | ✓ |
| Trocadero | ✓ | ✓ |
Photo Opportunities
The second floor gave me some of my favorite shots. At this level, the city feels close, and I could capture details of Paris’s rooftops and people walking below. The reflections on the Seine and the patterns of the roads look sharper from here, so wide-angle or panoramic photos really pop. There’s plenty of space to move around, so I never felt rushed.
At the summit, the perspective is truly “top of the world,” but the view becomes more about the city as a whole. The details fade, but the patterns of Paris’s neighborhoods really stand out—the city looks like a map. It’s windier and can get crowded, so it took a little longer to find the right spot for a selfie.
Nighttime vs. Daytime Experiences
During the day, I loved seeing Paris in natural light, with all the landmarks easy to spot. On clear days, the sky feels endless and shadows stretch across the city.
At night, the city glows. The Seine reflects the lights, and monuments like the Louvre and Notre Dame stand out against the dark. The Champ de Mars lights up below, and the city’s sparkle stretches to the horizon. It almost feels like stepping into a movie.
A glass of champagne from the summit bar adds a little extra magic. Both levels have their own nighttime charm. I found late evening visits quieter, with fewer crowds and a calm, glittering view. If you want to see the shift from sunset to full night, go in early evening—it’s a dramatic change for photos and mood.
Food, Drinks, and Shopping at the Eiffel Tower
One thing I love about the Eiffel Tower is how much there is to do between each level. Whether I’m stopping for coffee, grabbing a meal with a view, or hunting for souvenirs, there’s always something interesting to check out.
Restaurants and Cafés on Each Level
The dining options surprised me with their variety. On the first floor, I often grab a snack or pastry at a café while checking out the glass floor. If I’m in the mood for a real meal, I’ll book a table at 58 Tour Eiffel (now Madame Brasserie), which serves classic French dishes with a modern touch.
On the second floor, Le Buffet is my go-to for a light lunch, like a baguette sandwich or coffee and a croissant. It’s casual and perfect for a quick break before heading up. There are also kiosks selling sweet treats and cold drinks, which is handy if you’re in a hurry.
The summit doesn’t have a restaurant, just a tiny bar with limited snacks. I usually stick to the lower levels for food. If you have dietary needs, plan ahead, since options get more limited the higher you go.
Where to Sip Champagne
At the very top, I always treat myself to a glass of sparkling wine at the Champagne Bar. The counter is small—standing room only—but sipping champagne while looking out over Paris is pretty special.
You can choose Brut or Rosé, and glasses are served chilled. If the weather is good, it’s an unforgettable moment—especially at sunset. Prices run higher than in a Paris bar, but honestly, the view makes it worth it. Non-alcoholic options are limited, so I usually bring a bottle of water just in case.
Shopping for Souvenirs
For souvenir shopping, the first and second floors both have several gift shops. I always set aside time to browse, since the selection is much better than at the street vendors below.
I’ve picked up Eiffel Tower keychains, mini models, and even locally made chocolates. Many shops sell Paris- and France-themed items, not just tower stuff. Prices can be a bit high, but I think official boutique finds like books or illustrated postcards make great gifts.
There’s a tiny shop at the summit, but it’s limited in space and choices. If shopping is your thing, stick to the lower levels for more variety and elbow room.
Planning Your Visit: Insider Tips for the Eiffel Tower
Whenever I visit the Eiffel Tower, I notice the whole experience gets way better with some advance planning. Picking the right timing, dodging tourist mistakes, and knowing how to get there really save me stress and make the day feel more special.
Best Times to Go
If you want fewer crowds, go early in the morning or on weekday evenings. I’ve noticed lines move a lot faster before 10:00 AM or after 7:00 PM, especially during summer.
During those times, you’ll wait less for the elevators and spend more time enjoying the views. It’s honestly a relief not to stand around forever.
I always book my tickets online weeks ahead, since summit tickets sell out fast. Time-stamped e-tickets let me skip the long entrance line—there’s something satisfying about walking right past everyone waiting.
Try to avoid weekends and French school holidays if you want things quieter. Sunset is magical from the second floor, and seeing the city lights from the summit at night is something I never get tired of.
Avoiding Tourist Traps
Near the Eiffel Tower, vendors pop up everywhere selling souvenirs and “skip-the-line” tickets. Most of these cost too much or are just scams.
I stick to the official shops on the first and second floors for souvenirs. They feel safer and honestly, the stuff is nicer.
Eating right under the tower usually costs a fortune, and cafés nearby charge more than spots in the less touristy parts of the 15th arrondissement. I like grabbing a baguette or some pastries from a bakery farther away—it’s cheaper and tastes better.
It’s tempting to buy last-minute tours or upgrades, but I make a list of what matters to me before I go. That way, I don’t end up spending more than I planned.
Using the Metro and Getting There
Getting to the Eiffel Tower is easy with the Paris Metro. I usually hop on Line 6 and get off at Bir-Hakeim, since that station is closest and you get a clear path to the tower.
Ecole Militaire on Line 8 is another good option, and you get a nice first view as you approach from the Champ de Mars. Walking from Trocadéro (Line 9) is special too—the tower just appears as you come out of the station.
The walk across Pont d’Iéna is perfect for photos, especially if you want that classic Paris shot. I always keep my ticket and valuables close, though.
The area feels pretty safe, but crowded Metro trains and stations attract pickpockets sometimes. Using the Metro means I skip the headache and cost of parking, which is basically impossible near the tower anyway.
Beyond the Eiffel Tower: Enhancing Your Paris & Europe Trip
Paris is so much more than just the Eiffel Tower. Adding other experiences to my trips always makes the memories stronger.
Whether I’m diving into art, going on day trips, taking trains to new places, or just soaking up the holiday magic, mixing the tower with local highlights and European adventures just feels right.
Linking Your Visit with Other Paris Icons
After I’ve gazed out from the Eiffel Tower, I like to head to the Louvre Museum. Walking from the tower to that famous glass pyramid takes about 30 minutes along the Seine.
I try to see the Mona Lisa early in the morning or late afternoon, when the crowds thin out a bit. If I have half a day, the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Île de la Cité are a great walk.
For art lovers, I never skip the Musée d’Orsay—it’s right across the river and packed with Impressionist masterpieces.
| Attraction | Distance from Eiffel Tower | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Louvre Museum | ~3km (30 min walk) | Mona Lisa, vast art |
| Musée d’Orsay | ~2km (20 min walk) | Impressionists |
| Notre-Dame Cathedral | ~4km (40 min walk) | Gothic architecture |
Day Trips: Versailles, Catacombs, and More
Taking a day trip from Paris always shakes up the city routine for me. The Palace of Versailles—with its mirrored halls and endless gardens—is about a 30–40 minute train ride away.
It gets packed, so I book tickets ahead and aim for a midweek visit. I once swapped a sunny day for the mysterious Catacombs of Paris.
Going down into cool tunnels lined with bones felt surreal. Buying tickets ahead is a must, since the line can wrap around the block.
Other day trips I’ve enjoyed:
- Giverny: Monet’s gardens are stunning in spring.
- Fontainebleau: A royal château with way fewer crowds.
- Disneyland Paris: Perfect if I’ve got younger travelers.
Travel Connections: London, Eurostar, and Beyond
One of my favorite things about Paris is how easy it is to get elsewhere. I once jumped on the Eurostar and zipped under the Channel—London in just over two hours.
If you book early, you usually score better prices and get a seat you like. London’s public transit—the Tube—gets me from St Pancras International to anywhere in the city.
If I want, it’s a breeze to connect from London to other UK cities, or even Brussels or Amsterdam. I always keep my passport handy and check train times on apps like SNCF Connect or Trainline for extra flexibility.
Festive Visits: Christmas Markets and Events
Visiting Paris in December just hits different. Charming Christmas markets spring up along the Champs-Élysées, at Hôtel de Ville, and right near the Eiffel Tower.
I always grab a hot chocolate and wander through the stalls, looking for hand-made ornaments or maybe some local honey. There’s just something about those little holiday touches.
Some years, the Louvre Museum and other big spots host festive tours or stay open late for special events. Streets glow with lights, and the shops in Le Marais and Saint-Germain dress up for the season.
If I’m feeling adventurous and have a bit more time, I’ll hop on the Eurostar to London. That way, I can check out the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland or stroll through festive stalls along the Thames.
