What's Inside the Iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris? | Levels, Highlights, Dining Options
Undoubtedly one of the most popular monuments in the world, the Eiffel Tower is usually the first landmark that comes to mind when we think of Paris. This iconic steel structure has been a symbol of French architecture for over a century now. Its glittering lights light up the city every night leaving its residents and all those who travel from afar with a sense of hope and amazement. Read on to know more about this architectural wonder and how you can make the most of your visit to this beautiful landmark in Paris.
Eiffel Tower | The Iron Lady of Paris
At a height of 330m, the Eiffel Tower is a 19th-century engineering marvel, the design of which was inspired by the Latting Observatory in New York City. Made of wrought iron, this iconic structure was built to be the centerpiece of the world fair exhibition organized to mark the centenary of the French Revolution in 1889. Gustave bought the rights to the design of the structure and left it to Stephen Sauvestre, Maurice Koechlin, and Emile Nouguier to figure out its look and feel.
The Eiffel Tower consists of the Esplanade, three levels including the summit that offers breathtaking views of the City of Lights and its several landmarks including the Seine River, the Grand Palace, the Louvre, Champs Elysees, Montmartre, and Notre-Dame de Paris, to name a few. It looks even more beautiful at night with all the dazzling lights that light up the tower once the sun goes down. Dine at the tower’s Michelin star restaurant, enjoy the Cineiffel, and shop for souvenirs while you’re here.
What's Inside Eiffel Tower?
Top Things To See Inside Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is one of the most famous landmarks and architectural wonders in the world. There is so much to see once you’re inside. Here’s what to expect on your visit.
The Esplanade
Dominated by four pillars that support the weight of the Eiffel Tower, the Esplanade offers stunning views of the 330m-tall tower. It’s the ground around the tower and is free for visitors. You’ll have to go through a security check, though.
Enjoy the splendid view of the Eiffel Tower from below, admire its architecture up close, check out the bust of Gustave Eiffel created by sculptor Bourdelle at the corner of the tower’s north pillar, marvel at the 19th-century hydraulic lift machinery, pick up souvenirs from the various gift shops, and munch on some fast food to satiate those hunger pangs. There’s also an information desk to help you get around the attraction.
Explore the Eiffel Tower Esplanade
First Floor
The first floor of the Eiffel Tower has a transparent floor offering striking views of the Esplanade. It features one of the two popular restaurants (Madame Brasserie) inside the tower, souvenir shops, snack shops, educational and cultural exhibitions, a play area for children, and the Ferrie pavilion where you can get bilingual activity books for kids as well as enjoy the Cineiffel – an immersive cinema projection.
Also, find a spiral staircase, passageways, digital albums, and showcases that provide you with all the information you need to know more about the Eiffel Tower.
What's Inside the Eiffel Tower First Floor?
Second Floor
The second floor of the tower has a huge observation deck that offers spectacular and unobstructed views of the city of Paris and its attractions including the Seine River, Champs Elysees, Notre Dame de Paris, the Louvre, the Grand Palace, Place du Trocadero, Champ de Mars, and more.
The floor also features the tower’s Michelin star restaurant, Le Jules Verne, which offers traditional French food with a twist. Enjoy an elaborate five or six-course meal for lunch or dinner. Pay a visit to the snack bar if you want to eat something light or indulge in some delicious treats from the macaroon bar – the choice is yours. You can also shop for souvenirs and gifts here.
Getting to the Eiffel Tower Second Floor
Summit
With a glass-walled elevator, the summit or the top floor of the Eiffel Tower stands at a whopping 276m above the ground offering stunning views of Paris and telescopes for a more enriching experience. It’s divided into two sections – indoor and open-air. Visit the former office of Gustave Eiffel, which has been restored to its original condition. The office features life-like wax models depicting Gustave and his daughter welcoming American inventor Thomas Edison. Check out the panoramic maps as well as a model of the summit from 1889.
Enjoy thrilling panoramic views of Paris from the viewing platform in the open-air section. Head over to the champagne bar to grab a drink after you’re done with your tour.
Climb to The Eiffel Tower TopCan I Go Inside Eiffel Tower?
At a height of 330m, the Eiffel Tower is considered an architectural feat of its time. It’s the first place that comes to mind when we think of Paris. The steel structure offers breathtaking views of the City of Lights and is a symbol of French history and architecture. You can go inside the Eiffel Tower once you’ve purchased tickets for the same. We recommend booking the tickets online and in advance since they sell out quickly.
Book Tickets Eiffel Tower
Visitor Tips
- There’s usually a waiting time of 90 minutes to 2 hours at the tower. It’s best to book your tickets online and well in advance.
- Wear comfortable shoes because you’ll have to do a lot of walking and climbing on your tour.
- Carry ID cards, even for your children, as security is quite strict at the tower.
- People with reduced or limited mobility will not be allowed to climb stairs.
- You will not be allowed to carry suitcases, prams, or any large luggage inside the Eiffel Tower.
- We recommend taking the stairs to access the floors as the elevators usually have a long waiting line and huge crowds.
- Don’t miss the light show that happens every hour after sundown.
- The best time to visit the tower is during the early hours just when the attraction opens to the public or after 5 PM or in the evening. Visit during the weekdays as weekends are always crowded.
- If you wish to dine at either of the restaurants, make a reservation in advance. It’ll allow you to skip the line as each restaurant has a separate entrance reserved only for guests.
- The beauty of the Eiffel Tower at night can be best enjoyed on either a dinner date or a Seine River cruise.
- Don’t miss taking a stroll along with the gardens before or after your tour. It’s the best place to unwind.
- Watch out for Cineiffel – a cinema show projected on three walls using seven projectors.
- The first floor hosts museum exhibits and rotating exhibitions throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions About What’s Inside Eiffel Tower
A. The Eiffel Tower includes the Esplanade and three levels – the first floor, second floor, and the summit. There are a couple of restaurants, a few eateries, a champagne bar, museum exhibits, a children’s play area, souvenir shops, Gustave Eiffel’s office, and an observation deck offering panoramic views of Paris.
A. The tower is 330m tall.
A. You must visit Gustave Eiffel’s restored office on the summit, enjoy breathtaking views of Paris from the observation deck on the second floor, dine at the two popular restaurants, watch out for the museum exhibits and rotating exhibitions, and enjoy the Cineiffel and the light show after sundown.
A. Yes. You can go inside the Eiffel Tower. You can purchase your tickets here.
A. Yes. You will need to purchase tickets to enter the Eiffel Tower. You can purchase them here.
A. Yes. Photography is allowed inside the tower.
A. No. You will have to purchase a ticket to enter the tower. You can buy your tickets here.
A. Yes. A visit to the Eiffel Tower is definitely worth it. The monument offers spectacular views of the City of Lights, a world-class fine dining experience, and a chance to marvel at this architectural wonder.
A. The Eiffel Tower is open from 9:30 AM to 11:45 PM. The last elevator ride leaves at 10:30 PM.
