Eiffel Tower, France Travel Guide

The Eiffel Tower, an iconic symbol of Paris, wasn't always embraced with open arms. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this iron giant was initially criticized by prominent artists and intellectuals of the time, who deemed it an eyesore. However, it has since become a cherished emblem of architectural innovation and breathtaking beauty.

Constructed for the 1889 Exposition Universelle, commemorating the centennial of the French Revolution, The Eiffel Tower was a marvel of engineering. Standing at an impressive 324 meters, it held the title of the world's tallest structure until the Chrysler Building overtook it in 1930.

As the tower dazzled the world, it also played a secret role during both World Wars. Equipped with a radio antenna, it intercepted enemy communications, securing its place in history beyond mere aesthetics.

Today, millions flock to this monument, captivated by its timeless allure and panoramic views of the "City of Light." As evening descends, the tower transforms into a twinkling beacon, enchanting onlookers and inspiring countless proposals and romantic moments.

When visiting Paris, The Eiffel Tower is an absolute must-see, a testament to human ingenuity and the enduring spirit of innovation. Whether you're an art enthusiast or a history buff, its story is bound to leave you spellbound.

The Eiffel Tower is not just a towering architectural marvel but a masterpiece of engineering that showcases several unique features. One of the most distinctive aspects is its intricate lattice iron design, which provides both strength and beauty. This open framework allows the tower to withstand the strong Parisian winds, making it a symbol of resilience and innovation.

Moreover, The Eiffel Tower is renowned for its dynamic light show that illuminates the Paris skyline every night. Comprising over 20,000 light bulbs, the twinkling lights create a magical experience, transforming the tower into a beacon of romance and wonder. This unique light display is an homage to the city's reputation as "The City of Light."

Another captivating feature is the panoramic views from the tower's multiple observation decks. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking vistas of Paris, from the famous Seine River to the distant Sacré-Cœur Basilica. The experience is further enhanced by glass floors on the first level, offering a thrilling view straight down to the bustling streets below. Each of these features contributes to the Eiffel Tower's iconic status and unforgettable allure.

Standing tall as a symbol of innovation and architectural prowess, The Eiffel Tower is a marvel of engineering. Did you know it can grow and shrink? Due to thermal expansion, it can be up to 6 inches taller during summer as the iron expands in the heat. This expansive structure also boasts an impressive weight of 10,100 tons, but thanks to its open lattice structure, the wind passes through with ease, ensuring stability.

The Eiffel Tower was initially intended to be dismantled after 20 years, but its usefulness as a radio transmission tower secured its place in the Parisian skyline. Today, a staggering 7 million visitors flock to this iconic landmark annually, making it one of the most visited paid monuments in the world. If you ever wondered about its color, it's painted in a special shade called "Eiffel Tower Brown," which is refreshed every seven years to maintain its majestic allure.

Discover Eiffel Tower, a prime feature of Paris, in the vibrant 7th arrondissement of Paris. Eiffel Tower is situated at Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France, just a short distance from Musée du quai Branly - Jacques Chirac and Champ de Mars, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Eiffel Tower, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Paris, a city in France rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Paris to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Eiffel Tower. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Paris travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

The best time to go to Eiffel Tower largely depends on what you're looking for in your visit. Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to early November) offer mild weather and manageable crowd levels, creating a pleasant environment to enjoy the stunning views from above. These seasons also coincide with fewer tourists, allowing for a more leisurely visit with shorter wait times.

For those enchanted by the idea of witnessing the Eiffel Tower amidst festive lights, the winter months, particularly December, can be magical. The city is adorned with holiday decorations, and the tower itself shines brightly under the winter sky, offering a unique visual treat. While temperatures can be brisk, the lower number of visitors makes for a more intimate experience.

Summer (July to August) is lively with longer daylight hours and bustling activities, though it attracts larger crowds. If you're visiting during this time, consider an early morning or late evening trip to enjoy cooler temperatures and avoid peak tourist influx.

Explore our extended guide on the best time to visit Eiffel Tower for more inspiration on things to do in every season.

Eiffel Tower is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Paris, France. If you're flying in, Charles de Gaulle Airport is approximately 15.5 miles (25 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Eiffel Tower by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Paris, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Eiffel Tower, which is located 2.5 miles (4 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Eiffel Tower!

To truly enjoy your visit to Eiffel Tower, joining a guided tour of this renowned monument in Paris is highly recommended. As one of France's most iconic attractions, Eiffel Tower draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Paris, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Eiffel Tower starting at just 24.9 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

If you're looking for an effortless way to explore Eiffel Tower, perfectly planned travel packages to Paris make it easy and enjoyable, all while keeping costs manageable. With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Paris, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Eiffel Tower.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic monument in France.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Paris.

Choosing the right accommodation near Eiffel Tower from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Paris can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Eiffel Tower, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Eiffel Tower, Paris boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From museum to park, the top attractions in Paris offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Paris is Louvre Museum, located at Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France. This well-known museum enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Arc de Triomphe is worth seeing when you're in Paris. It's a popular museum that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Champ de Mars completes any trip to Paris. This park draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at 2 All. Adrienne Lecouvreur, 75007 Paris, France, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Paris below to discover even more incredible places to explore.