Choosing an Eiffel Tower ticket and planning your arrival
The floor on your ticket determines what you can reach, so read the access details before booking. There is no public stair route from the second floor to the summit. You also pass through security before reaching the tower's boarding areas. Plan some time at ground level to find the correct queue, especially when arriving from the opposite side of the river.
At a glance
- Book
- 4 to 8 weeks ahead in summer
- Time needed
- Allow 2 to 3 hours including queues
- Which to pick
- Book the summit lift as soon as your dates are fixed. If it is gone, the second floor by stairs has a shorter queue and a very good view.
Eiffel Tower tickets and tours
Stairs to the second floor
This option involves a substantial climb and does not include summit access. Consider your comfort with stairs, heights and the weather before choosing it.
Lift to the second floor
Choose this if you want lift access without going to the summit. Check the floor coverage on the ticket rather than assuming every lift booking reaches the top.
Lift access to the summit
Summit access involves a further lift journey from the second floor. Allow for another queue, and check official notices because weather or operating conditions can affect access.
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The best time to visit
Choose daylight if identifying streets and landmarks is your priority. For a visit around sunset, allow for security and lift queues rather than treating your entry slot as the moment you will reach a viewing platform.
How to get to Eiffel Tower
Bir-Hakeim on line 6 is about a 10-minute walk from the tower. Champ de Mars-Tour Eiffel on RER C is also nearby. From Trocadéro on lines 6 and 9, allow roughly 15 to 20 minutes to cross the river and reach the access area.
Tips for your visit
- Read the prohibited-items list before leaving your hotel, particularly if you are carrying large bags.
- Bring an extra layer for the viewing platforms, where wind can make conditions feel cooler than at street level.
- Check whether your ticket covers the summit before joining a queue for the upper lift.
Choosing an Eiffel Tower ticket and planning your arrival
Can I walk all the way to the summit?
There is no public stair route from the second floor to the summit. Reaching the summit requires the appropriate ticket and the upper lift.
Does my entry time mean I will be upstairs then?
Your booking time is for the entry process described on your ticket. Security, boarding and lift queues mean you should allow additional time before reaching a platform.
Can the summit close even if I have booked?
Access can be affected by weather or operating conditions. Check the official site's notices and follow staff instructions about access and any arrangements for affected tickets.
Where can I check ticket access and restrictions?
Use https://www.toureiffel.paris/en for official ticket descriptions, visitor rules and access notices. Read your confirmation too, as it gives the instructions for your particular booking.