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Up, above & beyond: The Eiffel Tower summit

At 276 meters, the Eiffel Tower summit offers the highest public vantage point in the city. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking 360° views of Paris, stretching far beyond its landmarks.

In this guide, we delve into the highlights, exciting activities, and essential tips that will help you make the most of your visit to this unforgettable destination.

How to reach the top of the Eiffel Tower?

Elevators

🚠 Easy and accessible for all, including families and those with mobility needs.

⌛ Long wait times, often over 90 minutes during peak hours.

📍 Smooth ride with great views along the way.

🎫 More expensive, but includes both the second floor and summit.

Stairs (to the second floor, then elevator)

👣 Climb 674 steps to the second floor, then take the elevator to the top.

⌛ Shorter wait times for stairs, but some wait for the summit elevator.

📍 Up-close views of the tower’s structure before the final ascent.

🎫 More affordable than a full elevator ticket.

​Learn more about getting to the top >

Why choose the Eiffel Tower summit?

As the highest viewpoint in Paris, the summit offers breathtaking 360° views, being the ultimate destination. While the lower floors have their charm, nothing compares to the thrill of standing at the very top, taking in the city from a whole new perspective.

Here’s how the summit compares to the other floors to help you decide why it’s the best choice:

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FeatureFirst floorSecond floorSummit

Height

57 meters (187 feet)

115 meters (377 feet)

276 meters (906 feet) – the highest public viewpoint in Paris

What do I get?

A glass floor for a thrilling view below, plus exhibits and Madame Brasserie.

Expansive city views, boutiques, and the Michelin-starred Jules Verne restaurant.

The highest observation deck, a champagne bar, and Gustave Eiffel’s reconstructed office.

Crowds

Less crowded, ideal for a relaxed visit.

Popular with visitors, offering a lively atmosphere.

Exclusive and in high demand, making it a premium experience.

Views

Unique perspective of the tower’s ironwork and nearby landmarks.

Bird-eye cityscape views, including the Seine, Louvre, and Notre-Dame.

A breathtaking 360° map-like view stretching far beyond Paris.

Cost

Included in all tickets.

More expensive than the first floor but offers fantastic views.

Highest-priced ticket, but the most exclusive and rewarding experience.

Steps or elevator?

327 steps or elevator, a relatively easy climb.

674 steps or elevator, offering a balance of adventure and ease.

Elevator access only from the second floor—your final journey to the top!

What to do at Eiffel Tower summit?

Toast to Paris at the Champagne Bar

There’s no better way to celebrate reaching the pinnacle of the Eiffel Tower than with a glass of bubbly at the Champagne Bar. Imagine sipping champagne while taking in the panoramic views of Paris—the perfect blend of luxury and romance!

Learn all about Eiffel's food options

Soak in the views of a lifetime

The summit offers unparalleled 360-degree views of the city. From this height, you can spot landmarks like the Seine, the Arc de Triomphe, and the distant Sacré-Cœur.
Pro tip: Bring a pair of binoculars to enhance your experience, especially if you want to catch every little detail of the Parisian skyline!

Step into history at Gustave Eiffel’s office

At the summit, you’ll find a recreation of Gustave Eiffel’s original office, complete with wax figures of him and his daughter. This small but fascinating exhibit offers a glimpse into the life of the visionary behind this iconic landmark. It’s a moment to reflect on the genius and ambition that brought the Eiffel Tower to life.

Spot cities around the world

Ever wondered how far you are from New York, Tokyo, or Sydney? The panoramic orientation panels help you spot major cities and their famous landmarks, complete with their distance, height, and country flag. A reference line lets you compare their size to the Eiffel Tower, making for a fun and insightful way to explore the world from above.

See the Eiffel Tower’s original design

Take a glimpse into history with a 1/50 scale model of the Tower’s original 1889 summit. Painted in its historic "red brown" color, it recreates how the structure first appeared. This model offers a rare chance to see the Tower’s early design and appreciate how it has evolved over the decades.

The second floor vs. the summit: Choose your view

Visiting the Eiffel Tower is all about breathtaking views, but deciding between the second floor and the summit can be tricky. Both levels offer unique experiences, but the key is knowing what to expect so you can choose the perfect view for your adventure.

Second floor: A close-up of Parisian magic

  • What's special? Perfect balance of height and detail—Paris’s landmarks like the Louvre, Notre Dame, and the Seine are crystal clear.
  • Best for? Photographers and sightseers who want a detailed view of the city's most iconic spots.
  • Unique perks?
  • Telescopes for a closer look.
  • A staircase option (674 steps) for budget-conscious climbers.
  • Home to Le Jules Verne, a Michelin-starred restaurant.
  • How to get there? By lift (standard access) or by stairs (budget-friendly and rewarding).

Summit: The ultimate Parisian high

  • What's special? The highest accessible point at 276 meters, offering a breathtaking, map-like view of Paris and beyond.
  • Best for? Adventurers and dreamers who want to experience the Eiffel Tower at its highest, with an exclusive feel.
  • Unique perks?
  • Gustave Eiffel’s reconstructed office for history buffs.
  • The Champagne Bar, for an unforgettable toast at the top of Paris.
  • A sense of accomplishment standing at the very top!
  • How to get there? Only accessible by lift from the second floor—summit access must be included in your ticket.

How to choose?

If you’re looking for detail, charm, and proximity to landmarks, the second floor is your spot. It’s ideal for families, casual visitors, or anyone wanting to linger in the heart of the action. On the other hand, if you want a once-in-a-lifetime view, historical displays, and the thrill of reaching the top, the summit is the ultimate choice.

Many visitors choose tickets that cover both levels, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds. Start at the second floor for close-up exploration and photos, then ascend to the summit for a dramatic finale!

Pro tips and tricks for your visit

  • Time your summit visit for clear skies: The views from the summit are most stunning on clear days. Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure visibility of Paris’s landmarks and surrounding areas.
  • Secure tickets in advance: Summit access is limited and in high demand. Booking your tickets online at least 60 days in advance guarantees entry and saves you from potential disappointment. Opt for skip-the-line tickets for an even smoother experience.
  • Dress for the altitude: Temperatures at the summit can be significantly cooler than ground level, and it’s often windier up there. Bring a warm jacket or scarf to stay comfortable, especially during evening or winter visits.
  • Plan for elevator transfers: To reach the summit, you’ll first need to take the elevator to the second floor and then transfer to a separate lift. Factor this into your schedule to avoid rushing if you’re on a tight itinerary, as there can be a wait at the elevator queue.
  • Capture the view strategically: The summit’s platform is smaller and often crowded, so be patient while finding the best spots for photos. Use the available telescopes to enhance your view and capture more detail.
  • Arrive early for sunset views: If you want to catch the sunset from the summit, plan to arrive early. The summit can get crowded as dusk approaches, but the view of Paris bathed in golden and pink hues is absolutely worth it.

Frequently asked questions about the Eiffel Tower summit

The summit ticket offers access to the first and second floors of the Eiffel Tower and includes a special elevator ride from the second floor to the summit. At the summit, you’ll enjoy a range of attractions, including Gustave Eiffel’s restored office, a champagne bar, and panoramic maps that guide you through Paris’s iconic landmarks. Some tickets also come with guided tours to enhance your experience.

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