What makes the Eiffel Tower one of the world’s most iconic landmarks?

Looking for the symbol of Paris? You’ve found it. The Eiffel Tower (or Tour Eiffel in French) is not just a monument — it’s a global icon. Standing 330 metres tall, it has towered over Paris since its completion in 1889 for the Exposition Universelle. Today, it welcomes nearly 7 million visitors every year, making it one of the most visited paid monuments in the world.

Where is the Eiffel Tower located?

The Eiffel Tower stands in the 7th arrondissement, on the Champ de Mars, a large green space perfect for picnics, photos, or simply admiring the tower from below. It’s also located along the Seine River, making it a central and accessible stop whether you’re walking, biking, or taking a river cruise.

What can you do when you visit?

Visiting the Eiffel Tower is more than just looking at it from the outside. You can:

Climb or take the elevator to one of three levels (the top level offers 360° panoramic views).

Enjoy a meal at one of its restaurants, such as Madame Brasserie or Le Jules Verne.

Discover its history through exhibitions and historical facts on the different levels.

Watch it sparkle at night — the tower lights up for 5 minutes every hour after sunset.

When is the best time to visit?

The Eiffel Tower is open year-round, but if you want to avoid crowds, early morning or late evening (especially on weekdays) is ideal. For the best photos, try visiting just before sunset — you’ll get both daylight and evening views. Booking tickets online in advance is strongly recommended to skip long lines.

How much does it cost?

Ticket prices depend on how high you go and whether you take the stairs or elevator. As of 2025, prices range roughly between:

€12 to €30 for adults

Discounts for children, students, and people with reduced mobility

Free access to the esplanade (ground level) is available if you don’t plan to go up.

What else is nearby?

There’s plenty to do around the Eiffel Tower:

Walk along the Seine River or take a boat cruise.

Visit the Trocadéro Gardens for one of the best photo spots in the city.

Explore the nearby Musée du quai Branly – Jacques Chirac or Les Invalides.

Picnic on the Champ de Mars with a view of the tower.

Can you visit at night?

Absolutely — and you should. The Eiffel Tower becomes magical after dark. The golden lights switch on at nightfall, and every hour on the hour, the tower sparkles with 20,000 twinkling bulbs. It’s one of the most romantic sights in Paris and a must-see for every visitor.

Is the Eiffel Tower worth visiting inside?

Yes — the views from each level offer a different perspective of Paris. From the second level, you can clearly see landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame, and the Sacré-Cœur. From the top, you get a full panoramic view that stretches across the entire city. Even if you’ve admired it from the ground, going up the tower is a completely different experience.

Final tips for your visit

Buy tickets online to save time.

Be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Bring a light jacket, as it can be windy at the top.

Visit during the week if you want a quieter experience.

Conclusion

The Eiffel Tower isn’t just something you check off a list — it’s an experience that defines your trip to Paris. Whether you admire it from below, enjoy a meal with a view, or take in the cityscape from the top, it will leave a lasting impression. Elegant, historic, and always awe-inspiring, the Eiffel Tower is the heart of the City of Light — and a must for every visitor.