Eiffel Tower
Île-de-France
The Eiffel Tower, locally known as "La dame de fer" (Iron Lady), is a wrought-iron lattice tower located on the Champ de Mars in Paris, France. Designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel and constructed between 1887 and 1889, it was built as the centerpiece of the 1889 World's Fair to celebrate the centennial of the French Revolution. Initially criticized by some artists and intellectuals, it has become a symbol of French culture and one of the most recognizable structures worldwide. The tower stands 330 meters tall, making it the tallest structure in Paris and a pioneering feat of engineering, having been the tallest human-made structure globally for 41 years. It has three visitor levels, including restaurants on the first and second floors, and the highest public observation deck in the European Union at 276 meters on the top level. Visitors can ascend by stairs or lifts, with a total climb of 600 steps to the second level and lift access to the summit, which houses a private apartment once used by Gustave Eiffel. The tower is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Paris, Banks of the Seine" and attracts millions of visitors annually, making it the most visited paid monument worldwide. Besides its cultural significance, it serves as a broadcasting antenna and continues to be a major tourist attraction with various amenities and special events throughout the year.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid peak crowds and enjoy stunning city views at sunrise or sunset. Purchase tickets in advance through the official website to secure the best rates and avoid long lines. Consider climbing the stairs to the second floor for a more active visit or take the lift to the summit for panoramic views. Various ticket options include combinations of stairs and lifts, and there are discounts available for youth, seniors, and families. Special events and seasonal activities, such as interactive Easter egg hunts on the first-floor terrace, provide unique experiences. Dining options range from casual to fine dining, including champagne bars with spectacular views. The site is open daily with extended hours, and it is advisable to check the official website for current opening times and event schedules.
Interesting facts
- •The Eiffel Tower was the tallest man-made structure in the world for 41 years, from 1889 until 1930.
- •It was the first structure to surpass both 200 and 300 meters in height.
- •Gustave Eiffel had a private apartment at the top, furnished by Jean Lachaise, where he hosted guests like Thomas Edison.
- •The tower attracts over 6 million visitors annually, making it the most visited paid monument worldwide.
- •Its height has been increased several times by adding antennas, making it taller than the Chrysler Building by 5.2 meters.
- •The top observation deck at 276 meters is the highest publicly accessible platform in the European Union.
History
The Eiffel Tower was designed by engineers Maurice Koechlin and Émile Nouguier and architect Stephen Sauvestre for the 1889 Exposition Universelle, marking 100 years since the French Revolution.
Gustave Eiffel acquired the patent rights and championed the project, which was initially met with skepticism but symbolized industrial progress and modern engineering.
Construction began in 1887 and was completed in just over two years, involving 250 workers.
Upon completion, it surpassed the Washington Monument as the tallest man-made structure in the world, holding this record until 1930.
Over the years, the tower's height was increased by adding antennas, and it has been used for scientific experiments and as a broadcasting tower.
Designated a historic monument in 1964 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991, the Eiffel Tower has evolved from a controversial installation to a beloved emblem of Paris and France.
Place Guide
First Level1889
The first visitor level features exhibitions, a glass pavilion originally designed by Stephen Sauvestre, and dining options including a restaurant and champagne bar. It offers panoramic views of Paris and interactive experiences.
Second Level1889
The second level houses another restaurant and offers some of the best views of Paris landmarks. Visitors can reach this level by stairs (over 300 steps) or lift. It is a popular spot for photography and dining.
Summit (Third Level)1889
The summit is accessible mainly by lift and features the highest public observation deck in the European Union at 276 meters. It includes Gustave Eiffel's private apartment, which is furnished and preserved as a museum space. The summit offers panoramic views over Paris and beyond.
