Eiffel tower, cr-aparisguide.com
Today, The Eiffel Tower has become the most recognized icon in Paris which was built for the world expo of 1889, located on the Champs de mars beside the Seine river in the 7th district of Paris. It is named after the engineer Gustave Eiffel. It is the tallest structure of France after the Viaduc de Millau.
One can visit the Tower anytime of the day. It’s a must-see if you travel to Paris. There is something magical about the tower if you get a chance to visit at night or at dusk. When you are looking out over the streets of Paris, you will know why we call Paris, “The City of Light”. It’s easy to get to the top during the evening than the day time, especially if you climb it during the winter days. There will be always a line and the Eiffel tower is the most visited monument in the world.
How to get there:
It’s easy ton get there. Paris is equipped with a great public transportation system. The best way to get there is always the “ Metro”. There are several lines deserve the Tower. take the line 9 in direction “Porte de sevres and get off of Trocadero. you can walk up the stairs of palais de Caillot which houses several museums. you will see the stunning view of The Eiffel tower right across the Seine river. while you are walking, you can admire the stunning view of the fountains in the Trocadero gardens.
There are few other ways to get to the Tower. The line 6 in direction Porte Daupine, get off of Bir- Hakeim and walk to The Eiffel tower. This may sound a little far away but you would be able to admire the fantastic view of the area. The RER line C has the same stop if you happen to take it.
Bus: there are several buses reach The Eiffel Tower. take line number 72, 42, 69, 87 or 82 which stops right by. During the summer time buses are crowded but metro are overcrowded.
Cab: You would find taxi cabs anywhere in Paris to take you to The Tower. You can find cabs near Quai Branly, Pilier West
Opening Hours:
Tower: 9.00- 9.30 a.m to 11.00 p.m
Elevator: 9.00- 9.30 a.m to 11.45 p.m- 12.30 a.m
Stairs: 9.30 a.m to 6.30 p.m (until 12.30 a.m. during summer)
Where to get tickets:
If you are staying in a hotel. They usually sell tickets to The Eiffel Tower. They keep a commission by selling the tickets. If you are smart, ask them if you can buy tickets cheaper from them. Otherwise, you need to buy the tickets. if you buy your tickets at the gate. Get there in advance, there will always be a line but if you get there by an agency such as CityRama; they will bypass the lines.
The 1st stage level – 4.50€
The Second stage – 7.80€
The Top level – 11.50€
The second level gives you the best views of Paris. If you decide to go to the top. You can buy tickets on the 2nd level as well. It’s not uncommon to wait a little longer to take the elevator to the top. Sometimes, it might take up to 3h.
The Tower has 2 restaurants. the first called Altitude 95 is on the 1st floor with its large bar area overlooking the seine river and the streets of Paris. Dinner is possible but it’s “first come- first served” basis. The prices are reasonable. The 2nd restaurant is called the Jules Verne which is an expensive gastronomical restaurant with it’s own private elevator. This is a great place to have a romantic dinner.
It is recommended to bring some worm cloths if you are planing on going there during the winter time and spring. You would appreciate the extra clothing, a hat and some gloves while you are waiting to go up or go down the Eiffel Tower.
Walk up the Tower:
if the waiting line is long. The best way to get there is to take the stairs. There are about 700 steps and if you are in good health; you would be able to do it in less than 5mn. It will save you up to 5€. Then you will be able to buy the second level tickets to go to the top. Walking up the stairs would save you 3h of waiting in line and save your precious time to do something else in Paris. While you are on the second floor. go to the La Poste, the post office to send some cards to friends and family and buy some souvenirs from the gift shop.
you would find so many vendors selling souvenirs near The Eiffel Tower and sometimes, they are pushy. If you want to buy something, negotiate hard. They will finally give up. If you desire a cafe after the visit. There are several great cafes around the Eiffel tour area. They are very reasonable and it feels good to have a cafe au lait after a rough couple hours of visiting the tower. Ps: There might be a small admission free if you take the stairs up to the second level ( about 1,652 stairs) and you should abstain climbing if you are suffering from vertigo.
