Should You Go Up the Eiffel Tower? Real Advice from Travelers
For many travelers, especially from abroad, the Eiffel Tower is a symbol, a childhood dream, a life moment. But when you’re short on time, waiting in long lines for an underwhelming view can be frustrating.
So is it worth it? Here’s what real travelers had to say.
Going to the top
If you’re planning to go all the way up, book early. Tickets are released every Tuesday, six weeks ahead, and they go fast. Some people have luck finding walk-up tickets, but availability varies.
The full experience takes time – security checks, elevator lines, more lines at the second level, and then the ride to the summit. It’s not a quick visit, allow at least two hours just for the tower itself.
Not everyone feels the top level is necessary. The second floor already offers wide views, and some find it just as satisfying with shorter waits.
Still, those who do reach the summit say the view was unforgettable, especially at night.
Walking up
Some people recommend skipping the elevator altogether and taking the stairs. It’s cheaper, faster, and often more enjoyable. It generally takes 10 to 20 minutes, even if you’re not especially fit. You might even get overtaken by older tourists.
You’ll see more of the tower’s structure along the way, and you can still buy a ticket at the second level to go higher if you want.
Timing matters
The Eiffel Tower is open late, often until midnight, which gives you flexibility. A lot of people suggest visiting just before sunset so you can see the city in daylight and then stay for the nighttime sparkle.
The lights come on every hour after dusk, and many travelers find that moment magical. Evening visits also tend to avoid the crowds from daytime tour groups.
Others find the early morning hours quieter and more pleasant.
Real emotional value
Even among skeptics, several people admitted that going up the tower felt more meaningful than they expected. Some went just for the photo, some for the view, others to check it off a list.
One person said it gave them chills. Another said it made them feel connected to over a century of history.
For first-time visitors, the symbolic value often outweighs the practical drawbacks.
Alternatives to going up
Some people chose not to go up at all, and didn’t regret it. In fact, many said the best view of the Eiffel Tower is from a distance.
Popular spots mentioned include the Trocadéro, which offers a straight-on view that’s stunning at sunrise or after dark.
The Arc de Triomphe is another favorite, especially for those who want city views that include the Eiffel Tower in the frame.
Montparnasse Tower comes up often as well, unloved for its looks but praised for the panorama from the top.
Other suggestions include the rooftop terraces at Galeries Lafayette and Printemps, the quieter Bir Hakeim bridge, and a spot near the Beaugrenelle shopping center where you can catch both the tower and the nearby Statue of Liberty.
Some recommend the east bank walk near Pont Mirabeau, especially at night. A few also mention the balloon ride at Parc André Citroën for panoramic views, though it’s weather dependent.
What to do instead if you’re short on time
If you’re only in Paris for a day or two, some say the Eiffel Tower climb just isn’t worth the time and stress. Some prefer to focus on walking around Paris, visiting a couple of key sites, and soaking in the atmosphere.
The Louvre comes up often, though with a caveat: don’t try to see everything. Choose a few sections and move at your own pace.
For art lovers, the Musée d’Orsay is widely recommended as a more manageable alternative, especially for fans of Impressionism.
The Musée National d’Art Moderne at the Pompidou also gets mentioned, with the added bonus of smaller crowds.
Others prioritize Notre-Dame, Sainte-Chapelle, Montmartre, or just wandering the city.
A few travelers warn against wasting time at the Fragonard perfume museum, calling it a disguised gift shop – Jovoy or Galeries Lafayette offer more serious fragrance collections without the tourist funnel.
A few things to keep in mind
Pickpockets are a real concern around the base of the tower. Petition scams are common too – someone might ask you to sign a form and then demand money. Just walk away.
Inside the tower, lines can be long (especially for the elevator) but there are separate entrances for people with pre-booked tickets and those buying on-site.
If you’re interested in the tower’s backstory, some recommended listening to the free Rick Steves audio guide while you’re up there.
In conclusion
Some travelers leave Paris saying the tower was underwhelming. Others remember it as a trip highlight. There’s no universal answer. It depends on your expectations, your schedule, and what kind of experience you’re after.