Guided tours are led by knowledgeable professionals who share stories, little-known facts, and historical insights about the Eiffel Tower.
Top things to do in Paris
An Eiffel Tower guided tour includes...
✔️ Expert commentary
✔️ Time-saving convenience
Many guided tours come with skip-the-line access, allowing you to bypass long queues at the entrance and elevators.
✔️ Enhanced exploration
Guides often point out architectural details, historical artifacts, and viewpoints that might be overlooked on a self-guided visit.
✔️ Effortless navigation
Navigating such a popular landmark can be daunting. A guided tour ensures that you don’t miss any key highlights and streamlines the logistics of your visit.
What to expect on a tour of the Eiffel tower
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🎟️ Meet your guide and get oriented
Meet your expert guide near the Eiffel Tower and get a quick introduction before heading through security. Your guide will explain how the visit works and share context about the monument before you begin exploring.
🗼 Discover the Eiffel Tower’s story
Learn how Gustave Eiffel’s landmark went from a controversial temporary structure for the 1889 World’s Fair to one of the world’s most recognizable monuments. Along the way, hear stories about its construction, design, and changing role in Paris.
🚡 Head up by elevator
Ride the elevator to the included levels of the Eiffel Tower as your guide points out details you might otherwise miss. Depending on your ticket, you’ll typically explore the first and second floors, with summit access available on selected tours.
👀 See Paris from above
Step onto the viewing platforms for sweeping views across Paris. Your guide will help you identify landmarks such as the Seine, Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, Sacré-Cœur, and Notre-Dame from above.
🗣️ Get more from your visit with a guide
Instead of simply heading to the viewpoints, a guided tour adds stories, architectural details, and local context to what you’re seeing, helping you understand both the Eiffel Tower and the Paris skyline around it.
📸 Explore the viewing decks
Take time to walk around the observation levels, stop for photos, and see the city from different angles. On the first floor, you can also experience the glass floor suspended high above the ground.
Types of guided tour options
Stair access
- Take the adventurous route by climbing the 674 steps to the second floor, enjoying up-close views of the tower’s intricate ironwork.
- Ideal for budget travelers who don’t mind a bit of a workout and want to avoid elevator lines.
- However, note that you will have to take the elevator separately if you want to access the summit.
Recommended tours:
Eiffel Tower Guided Climb by Stairs
Elevator access
- Enjoy a smooth and effortless ascent to the second floor via the elevator, with a guide pointing out key architectural features and landmarks of Paris along the way.
- A great option for visitors looking for a relaxed and informative experience without the physical challenge of climbing stairs.
Recommended tours:
Eiffel Tower Guided Tour by Elevator: Summit or Second Floor
Eiffel Tower Guided Tour by Elevator with Seine River Cruise
Hosted entry
- If you opt for hosted entry, you will be able to enjoy a hassle-free entry to the Eiffel Tower with a host guiding you through security, entrances and ticket queues, without having to worry about the logistics.
- Once you've breezed through the lines, you're free to explore the tower at your own pace, as the host facilitates your entry but does not provide a guided tour.
Recommended tours:
Eiffel Tower Elevator Tickets with Host to Summit or Second Floor
How does a guided tour go?
A guided tour of the Eiffel Tower is a seamless blend of education, exploration, and breathtaking sights. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what you can expect:
👉 Meeting point: The start of your Eiffel adventure
Your journey begins at the designated meeting point, often located on the Esplanade beneath the Eiffel Tower or a nearby landmark. Here, you’ll meet your guide and the rest of the group. Your guide will provide a brief overview of the tour, setting the stage for an enriching experience.
👉 Security check: A smooth entry to the tower
Before entering, you’ll pass through standard security screenings, so it’s a good idea to travel light and avoid carrying large bags or prohibited items.
👉 Tour commencement: Stepping into history
Once inside, your guide will begin with a captivating introduction to the Eiffel Tower’s history and significance. You’ll learn about the vision of Gustave Eiffel, the challenges faced during its construction, and the evolution of the tower from a controversial structure to a globally recognized symbol.
👉 Ascent: A journey to the heights
Depending on your chosen tour, the ascent to the first and second floors will either be by elevator or stairs:
Elevator option: A smooth and quick ride to the higher levels, with the guide pointing out key features of the tower and Paris as you ascend.
Stairs option: A more adventurous climb, offering a closer look at the tower’s intricate ironwork. Along the way, the guide shares fascinating details about the architecture and engineering marvels.
As you move upwards, the guide keeps the journey engaging, highlighting unique aspects of the structure and answering any questions.
👉 Exploration: Discovering each level
At each level, your guide will take you through the standout features and viewpoints:
First floor: Walk on the thrilling glass floor, learn about the tower’s history through interactive exhibits, and enjoy a closer look at its construction details on the first floor.
Second floor: Soak in panoramic views of Paris’s iconic landmarks, including the Louvre, Montmartre, and the Seine River. The second floor is also home to gift shops and the Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Jules Verne.
Summit (if included): Reach the highest point of the tower, where the open-air observation deck offers unparalleled vistas of Paris and beyond. You’ll also visit Gustave Eiffel’s restored office and can toast your visit at the Champagne Bar at the summit.
Throughout the exploration, your guide ensures you don’t miss any hidden gems, from architectural details to lesser-known facts about the Eiffel Tower.
👉 A memorable ending to your guided tour
The tour usually concludes at the highest accessible level included in your ticket. At this point, you’re free to continue exploring the tower at your own pace. Whether you choose to revisit your favorite level, snap more photos, or relax in one of the tower’s cafes, the guided portion sets the tone for an enriching, self-paced experience.
Highlights covered on your Eiffel Tower tour
Glass floor (First floor)
Step out onto the thrilling transparent floor on the first level for a dizzying view of the plaza below.
Things to keep in mind when you go on a tour
- Elevators connect the ground to the first and second floors; summit access requires a separate elevator from the second floor.
- Toilets are available on the ground, first, and second floors.
- Shops, cafés, and restaurants are available at different levels of the tower.
- Accessibility varies by level; the summit is not wheelchair accessible.
- Carry a valid photo ID, especially if your ticket is age-based or discounted.
- Wear comfortable shoes since you may spend considerable time standing and walking.
- Bring a light layer, as it can be windy and cooler on the upper levels.
- Keep your ticket or booking confirmation easily accessible for entry.
- All visitors must pass through mandatory security checks before entering.
- Large bags, suitcases, sharp objects, glass bottles, and other restricted items are not permitted.
- Smoking is prohibited throughout the Eiffel Tower.
- Follow your guide's instructions and stay with the group during the guided portion of your visit.
- Arrive 15–30 minutes before your meeting time to allow for check-in and security.
- Expect security and elevator queues even with a guided tour, particularly during peak hours.
- Choose a summit-access tour if you want to reach the highest public viewpoint.
- Evening tours are ideal for seeing Paris illuminated and, depending on timing, the Eiffel Tower's sparkling lights.
Frequently asked questions about Eiffel Tower guided tours
Guided tours are most commonly available in English and French, but many operators offer tours in other languages, such as Spanish, German, Italian, and Mandarin. Always check with the tour provider to ensure your preferred language is available.
Guided tours are priced higher due to expert commentary, skip-the-line access, and a structured itinerary that enhances your experience. The cost also covers small group sizes, convenience, and sometimes additional perks like summit access or combo tours.
Most guided tours last between 1.5 and 2 hours, depending on the itinerary. Tours covering the summit may take slightly longer, while private tours can be tailored to fit your schedule.
The best time for a guided tour is either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. These times help you avoid peak crowds and allow for better lighting, especially if you plan to take photos. Evening tours offer the added charm of seeing Paris lit up, making them a magical option.
Yes, the Eiffel Tower is equipped with elevators and accessible pathways, making it wheelchair-friendly. However, the summit’s open-air platforms might present some challenges due to space and weather conditions. It’s best to confirm accessibility details with your tour provider in advance.
Meeting points vary depending on the tour operator. Typically, guides meet participants at the base of the tower near the esplanade or a nearby landmark. Details about the meeting location and time will be provided when you book your tour.
Absolutely! Photography is encouraged throughout the tour, especially on the second floor and summit, where the panoramic views of Paris are breathtaking. Your guide can also suggest the best spots for capturing memorable shots.
Yes, some guided tours offer the option to climb the stairs. This experience provides a unique perspective of the tower’s structure and is a rewarding challenge. Keep in mind that climbing to the second floor involves 674 steps, so it’s best suited for those in good physical condition.
