How to reach the second floor of the Eiffel Tower?

You can reach the Eiffel Tower’s second floor by elevator or stairs. Elevators are faster, while the 674-step climb offers a scenic workout. Let’s compare both options—wait times, ticket prices, and which suits your adventure style!

Elevators

🚠 Effortless and accessible for all, including families and those with mobility challenges.

⌛ Wait times can exceed 90 minutes during peak hours.

📍 Quick, smooth ride with minimal effort.

🎫 More expensive but worth it for convenience.

Stairs

👣 674 steps, requiring moderate fitness.

⌛ Typically a 30-minute wait, shorter than elevators.

📍 A rewarding climb with up-close views of the tower’s structure.

🎫 More affordable than elevator tickets.

Learn more about getting to the top >

Get your Eiffel Tower second floor tickets here

Eiffel Tower Guided Tour by Elevator: Summit or Second Floor

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1 hr. - 1 hr. 30 min.

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Eiffel Tower Elevator Tickets with Host to Summit or Second Floor

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1 hr. 30 min.

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Combo: Eiffel Tower Guided Tour by Elevator with Seine River Cruise

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1 hr. 30 min. - 2 hr.

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Eiffel Tower Guided Climb by Stairs

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Combo (Save 6%): Eiffel Tower Escorted Entry + Louvre Museum Skip-the-Line Tickets

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What to do at Eiffel Tower second floor?

Savor fine dining at Le Jules Verne

If you’re a lover of gourmet cuisine, dining at Le Jules Verne is a must. This Michelin-starred restaurant, perched 115 meters above Paris and accessible via a private elevator, combines the finest French culinary traditions with unparalleled views of the city. Be sure to make reservations well in advance, as tables here are highly coveted!

Know all about the Eiffel's restaurants

Snap your best shots

The second floor is a dream for photographers, offering some of the most iconic angles of Paris. By day, you can capture the intricate details of Paris and by night, the city sparkles, with the Eiffel Tower’s own twinkling lights adding to the magic. Pro tip: Arrive during golden hour for photos bathed in a warm, glowing light, or after sunset for dramatic, illuminated cityscapes.

Find the perfect keepsake

The souvenir shops are filled with treasures to commemorate your visit. From miniature Eiffel Tower replicas to postcards and unique Parisian gifts, there’s something for everyone. Don’t rush—take your time browsing through the carefully curated selection to find the perfect piece of Paris to bring home.

Play spot-the-landmark at the observation deck

The observation deck on the second floor is one of the best places to see Paris in all its glory, like seeing a live map. Take your time to spot famous landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe at the end of the Champs-Élysées, the Sacré-Cœur perched on Montmartre Hill, and the sprawling Louvre Museum.

Step into history through VR

On the second floor (lower level, Champ-de-Mars side), experience the Eiffel Tower’s construction through augmented reality. Simply find the two panels, scan the QR code, and stand 1.5 meters from the gates to bring history to life on your smartphone—an engaging way to relive one of the greatest engineering feats of the 20th century.

Pro tips and tricks for your visit

Time your visit for optimal views: Arriving during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late evening, can provide a more serene experience with fewer crowds. This timing also offers the added benefit of witnessing the city under different lighting conditions, enhancing your photographs.
Explore interactive exhibits: The second floor features interactive displays that delve into the tower’s architecture and history. Taking the time to engage with these exhibits can enrich your understanding of this iconic structure.
Be prepared for weather conditions: The second floor is exposed to the elements, so it's wise to dress appropriately. Bringing a light jacket or umbrella can make your visit more comfortable, especially during unpredictable weather.
Plan your souvenir shopping: The second floor houses several souvenir shops offering exclusive Eiffel Tower-themed items. Allocating time to browse these stores can help you find the perfect keepsake or gift for loved ones.

Frequently asked questions about the Eiffel Tower second floor

Can I upgrade my ticket to access the summit from the second floor?

Yes, you can upgrade your ticket at the Eiffel Tower's ticket office, provided summit access tickets are available. Alternatively, you can purchase a combined ticket online in advance that includes access to the summit via an elevator from the second floor.

What are the dining options on the second floor?

The second floor offers Le Jules Verne, a Michelin-starred restaurant with private elevator access, where Chef Frédéric Anton serves refined French cuisine with panoramic views. For casual options, there is a buffet and the Macaron Bar by Pierre Hermé, offering exclusive flavors crafted for the Eiffel Tower.

What facilities are available on the second floor?

Facilities include elevators, wheelchair-accessible restrooms, souvenir shops, the Macaron Bar, and free WiFi. Visitors will also find panoramic viewing platforms and interactive historical exhibits.

Is the Eiffel Tower second floor wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the second floor is wheelchair accessible via elevators. However, the summit is not accessible due to safety limitations. Wheelchair users are advised to use the elevators located in the North Pillar.

What is the best time to visit the Eiffel Tower second floor?

Morning visits offer quieter experiences, while sunset and evening provide magical views of the illuminated Paris skyline. Nighttime visits are less crowded and perfect for capturing the sparkling Eiffel Tower lights.

Can I skip the line to access the second floor?

Yes, skip-the-line tickets are available online, allowing you to bypass long queues for both elevators and stairs. Guided tours often include this option.

What landmarks can I see from the second floor?

From the second floor, visitors can enjoy clear views of major Parisian landmarks, including the Seine River, Arc de Triomphe, Montmartre, the Louvre, and Notre Dame Cathedral.

Can I visit the second floor at night?

Yes, the second floor is open until late in the evening, allowing visitors to enjoy stunning nighttime views of Paris. The Eiffel Tower sparkles for five minutes every hour after sunset, making it a perfect time to visit.

How many steps are there to reach the Eiffel Tower’s second floor?

The climb to the second floor consists of 674 steps, split between 327 to the first floor and 347 to the second floor. It typically takes 15–20 minutes, depending on your pace.

Can I buy hosted entry tickets to get to the second floor?

Yes, hosted entry tickets are available and often include guided tours. These tickets provide priority access and additional perks, such as audio guides and historical insights.