The Eiffel Tower – Paris’ iconic landmark

The Eiffel Tower, Paris’ iconic landmark, was built in 1889 as part of the World Fair marking the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution.

Detail from the vintage carousel by the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France

What you can experience at the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is one of Paris’ most iconic attractions and offers a range of experiences for visitors. On the different levels of the tower, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Paris, where the city’s famous landmarks such as Arc de Triomphe, Sacré-Cœur and Seine stretching out below you.

  • 1st floor: Here you’ll find a glass pavilion with information about the history of the tower, a café and a transparent glass floor section that offers an exciting view straight down to the ground. This level is ideal for families and those looking for a relaxed experience.
  • 2nd floor: This floor offers stunning panoramic views of Paris landmarks such as Sacré-Cœur, the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe. It is also home to Le 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant, serving delicious meals with breathtaking views.
  • The top: At 276 meters high, the top of the Eiffel Tower is a must for those seeking the ultimate view of Paris. Here you can also visit Gustave Eiffel’s historic office and enjoy a glass of champagne at the bar at the top.

For a unique experience, visit the tower at night when it is lit up and sparkling with thousands of bulbs every hour.

The story behind the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower was built for the 1889 Paris World Fair, which marked the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. The tower, designed by engineer Gustave Eiffelwas originally intended as a temporary structure, but quickly became a symbol of progress and innovation.

Initially, the tower was the subject of much criticism from artists and intellectuals who saw it as an unsightly structure in the city’s aesthetic. Over time, however, the tower became a central part of Paris’ identity and stands today as a monument to engineering and visionary thinking.

The engineering of the Eiffel Tower

The tower’s impressive construction is a milestone in engineering. At 330 meters in height, it was the tallest structure in the world for over 40 years. Eiffel’s design is based on a precise calculation of wind impact and weight distribution, making the tower incredibly stable despite its open metal structure.

It consists of over 18,000 metal parts and weighs more than 10,000 tons. The lattice structure of the tower, created from iron and steel, gives it an elegance while minimizing the amount of material needed to achieve the enormous height.

Practical information about the Eiffel Tower

  • Address: Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris
  • Transportation: Nearest metro stations are Bir-Hakeim (line 6) and Trocadéro (line 9). Bus lines 42 and 82 also stop close by.
  • Opening hours: Open daily from 09:00 to 23:45 (extended opening hours during the summer months).
  • Ticket prices: Ticket prices vary depending on whether you choose stairs or elevator and how high you want to go. Tickets can be purchased online to avoid queues.

3 nearby attractions near the Eiffel Tower

  1. Champ de Mars: A beautiful park that stretches in front of the Eiffel Tower, perfect for a picnic or relaxing.
  2. Musée du Quai Branly: A unique museum dedicated to non-European art and culture, just a few minutes walk from the tower.
  3. Trocadéro: This area offers the best views of the Eiffel Tower, especially at sunrise or sunset, and also houses the Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine.

The Eiffel Tower is more than just an attraction – it’s an experience that encapsulates the beauty and charm of Paris. Whether you’re visiting it for the first time or returning to rediscover its magic, the Eiffel Tower will always remain an unforgettable part of your trip.

By Tommy Sverre – 2025

CITYXEE recommends these experiences in Paris