Easily one of Paris’ most memorable landmarks, The Eiffel Tower needs no introduction. what does need a little introduction, though, is the best time to visit the Eiffel Tower and tips to get the most out of your experience.
After all, you don’t want to waste lots of time queuing, missing the best views from the Eiffel Tower or missing entry slots.
Honestly, the Eiffel Tower is amazing to see from the ground but the views from the top are nothing short of breathtaking. Not only that, it’s one of the world’s most iconic structures that’s recognisable the world over.
So, to help you get the most out of your trip, I wanted to share some of essential tips and the best time to visit the Eiffel Tower. This way, you can focus on enjoying the experience with minimal stress.
It’s worth taking the time out to go and take in this magnificent view of Paris from the top of the Eiffel Tower.
1.) Book your Eiffel Tower tickets in advance
Let’s start with the most important! Look, there’s no beating around the bush, if you want to get to the top of the Eiffel Tower, then book these tickets in advance.
What’s special about this Eiffel Tower ticket is that it not only gets you to the 1st and 2nd floors by lift, but it also allows you to add an option for the Summit View.
Tickets can sell out when searching for the best time to visit the Eiffel Tower and you don’t want to travel to Paris and not get inside the Eiffel Tower.
Now, for me, I’d always choose the Summit View. After all, you’re visiting the Eiffel Tower!
Just make sure to book this ticket in advance. It’s the worst experience to just arrive and not be able to get to the top of the Eiffel Tower. Trust me, you’ll shout at yourself if you miss out.
Read more: Best things to see in Paris
2.) Eiffel Tower tickets; Stairs or lifts
There are several different ticket options you can book for the Eiffel Tower but one key thing to think about is access. Do you fancy walking the stairs or taking the lift (or elevator)?
If you fancy the walk, make sure to book these Eiffel Tower stairs tickets. This way, you’ll get to get yourself to the viewing platforms by foot.
If that doesn’t sound fun, book these lift (elevator) tickets to the Eiffel Tower. We always book this one as we find it much easier.
You see, there are two viewing stages, one at the midpoint (which is slightly cheaper) and one at the top (which is just underneath that beacon of light you can see at the top of the tower).
Both views are amazing but I think it’s worth shelling out that little extra to go to the very top, especially when thinking about the best time to visit the Eiffel Tower that fits with your plans.
I’m a little scared of heights so I was kinda antsy on the elevator ride up but once you start to catch sight of the views, you (ironically) forget how high you are.
You get totally sucked into the beautiful city landscape.
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3.) Arrive just before sunset
One of the best time to visit the Eiffel Tower is just before sunset. Before booking your tickets, see what time sunset arrives and head over.
This way, you’ll get to see Paris during the day, at sunset, and at night if you stay a little while. It really is magical and well worth planning.
Read more: Best things to see in Paris
4.) Champagne and views
The views from the Eiffel Tower are stunning, but you know what makes it even more stunning? Champagne!
Once you get to the top, you can actually buy a glass of champagne which is love when at the Eiffel Tower. Yes, it’s not served in glass flutes but it’s nonetheless special.
Read more: Best things to see in Paris
5.) Layer up
This might sound obvious, but make sure to take some layers with you. It can get really chilly at the top of the Eiffel Tower; especially if it’s a little more windy.
You see, as you scale to the top, the temperature tends to dip. It’s always slightly different at the top (i.e. colder) than at the bottom and you can easily be fooled into thinking you’ll be fine.
We found that the best time to visit the Eiffel Tower to avoid the cold was around 1 p.m. That being said, the weather in Paris can be unpredictable, so always be prepared.
After all, the last thing you want is to ruin your experience by being too cold to stand outside.
Read more: Top-rated free things to do in Paris
6.) Camera Tips
Obviously you’re going to take a few snaps from the top of the Eiffel Tower.
We took quite a few at the top and had to quickly find the best settings to take pictures in the changing light from day to night.
So, if you’re using a DSLR, choose a slow-exposure photo (e.g. 10/15 seconds) and keep the ISO fairly low.
The low ISO will reduce the noise in your photos but for the slow exposure, you’ll need a stable base else your photos will end up blurry. I recommend getting a Gorillapod for this as it can be attached anywhere – if you also have a remote control for your camera, now is the time to use it.
We found this really helpful when taking pictures.
Read more: Top-rated free things to do in Paris
7.) Watch out for touts and pickpockets
Look, there’s no denying that Paris is a global city. And with lots of global cities, you have to be a little careful. You do find that scams and pickpockets frequent the area around the Eiffel Tower.
To avoid any hassle, always secure your possessions in your bag in front of you, or in a zipped-up pocket. Also, be aware of scams around placing bracelets on your arm. Firmly but politely decline any and give them back (or place them on the floor).
There’s not really one best time to visit the Eiffel Tower to avoid this, but pickpocketing usually does happen at busier times. As always, be aware of your surroundings and always act sensibly.
Read more: Best things to see in Paris
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