Eiffel Tower Levels - From The Floor To The Summit

Ground Esplanade

The esplanade is the ground area around the Eiffel Tower and is the only section of the tower which can be visited free of cost. Although, you need to pass through security to access this area, this is a great way to explore the Eiffel Tower without spending too much time and money on the experience.

The esplanade is also home to the bronze bust of Gustave Eiffel which was sculpted by Bourdelle. You can get a close peek at the immense architectural prowess on display from underneath the Eiffel Tower. Here, you will find the century-old hydraulic machines that operate the tower’s lift mechanism even to this day.

The esplanade also has gift shops and fast food options available here as well, along with an information center and ticket offices.

First Level

The first level of the Eiffel Tower is accessible by stairs or elevators. If you choose to travel via an elevator, you'll first be taken to the summit of the Eiffel Tower and will stop at the first level on your way down.

The first level is one of the most happening sections of the tower and features a collection of attractions including a cinema projection, rotating cultural exhibitions, part of the old spiral staircase, and the iconic 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant. The first floor also features a fabulous transparent floor which offers you a crystal clear view of what's happening below at the esplanade.

Second Level

Featuring a breathtaking observation deck which offers mind-blowing views of Paris, the second level of the tower is the most popular spot on the Eiffel Tower and for good reasons.

From the observation deck, you'll get clear views of iconic Paris landmarks including Grand Palais, the Louvre, Montmartre, Invalides, the bends in the Seine, and more! The many fantastic views on offer at the second level are worth the price of admission alone but there are other attractions you should make your way towards.

These include the Chaillot Gift Shop, the Seine Gift Shop, and the excellent Jules Verne Restaurant. This level of the tower is also accessible via both stairs and the elevators, although considering the height of the level, we would recommend taking the elevators.

Summit

Glass-walled elevators will take you from the second level of the Eiffel to the summit. The summit observation deck at a height of 276 metres has both an indoor and an open-air section, making it the highest observation deck in Paris.

The top of the tower is relatively quiet, away from the crowd and the bustling streets of Paris below you. The only sound you’ll hear is that of the wind gushing past. At the summit, you’ll find Gustave Eiffel’s office restored to its original condition), a 1:50 scale model of the tower from 1889 painted in the Tower’s original “red-brown” colour and even a champagne bar.