The Eiffel Tower (La Tour Eiffel) is one of the most iconic structures in the world, and it represents Paris. Tourists often come here with a vibrant image of this monument from a postcard, movie, or keychain. In all of this, the Eiffel Tower still tends to amaze.

This architectural magnificence reaches a height of 324 metres. The construction of 18,000 iron parts is kept together by 2.5 million rivets, a feat of ingenuity. Despite its enormous weight, the Eiffel Tower has an airy lattice design that gives it the appearance of being light as a dancer on point. The tower is often referred to as the "Iron Lady".

More About Eiffel Tower

 Eiffel Tower is the most well-known tourist destination in Paris, having the largest footfall. Thousands of visitors flock to the tower every day to take in the breathtaking views from the top and the spectacular evening light shows of the Eiffel Tower.

The Eiffel Tower in Paris comprises three levels: the first floor, the second floor, and the top level. There are museum exhibits, a glass floor, regular exhibitions, souvenir stores, and restaurants on the first floor. The second floor has the Jules Verne restaurant, as well as several cafés, stores, and an observation tower.

The top is mostly an observation spot located 905 feet (276 metres) above ground. It is Europe's highest viewing tower. The top floor is split into two sections. A champagne bar and a replica of Gustav Eiffel's office. Before it became a tourist attraction, the Eiffel Tower served as a communications tower. It is still used to carry radio and digital television signals today.

History of Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower in Paris is titled after French engineer Gustav Eiffel, whose company constructed the monument. The tower, however, was not designed by Gustav Eiffel. This 324-metre-tall tower was designed by Maurice Koechlin and Emile Nouguier. This was created as the entry to the 1889 World Fair to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution.

The Eiffel Tower is constructed of wrought iron. This tower's design was chosen from among more than 100 submissions. It is the most well-known example of a free-standing lattice tower. During the time of its construction, it was regarded as a bold design due to its elegant form and the economy of its design.

The construction work of the tower began on July 1, 1887, and it took only 22 months to finish. This was an incredible feat to complete at that time. The Paris Eiffel Tower was originally intended to stand for only 20 years, with one of the selection criteria being that it be easily dismantled. However, it became essential for communication and popular enough; two big factors why the government chose to keep it in use in 1909.

Eiffel Tower Floors

Many believe that the Paris Eiffel Tower is a world-famous landmark only because of the breathtaking views from the top. However, there is a lot more to it than meets the eye; enough to see and do while you're there.

The Ground Floor

The ground area around the Paris Eiffel Tower is also known as the Esplanade. It does not require a ticket and is available to the public. Before entering this section, you must go through security. There are numerous gift shops and fast-food restaurants here. This is also where the information center and ticket offices are located. You can take a close look at the architecture of the Eiffel Tower. This is where Gustav Eiffel's statue, sculpted by Bourdelle, is located.

The First Floor

The revolving cultural exhibitions, a cinematic projection screen, a section of the ancient spiral staircase, a children's play area, and a unique glass floor can all be found on the first floor. There are numerous gift shops and dining facilities. It is reachable through both the stairs and the elevator. Many visitors avoid this floor, however, it is worth going to obtain a new perspective and to see the interesting exhibits.

The Second Floor

The huge observation deck with spectacular views of Paris is the highlight of the Eiffel Tower's second floor. There are also a few gift shops and food choices here. This floor is reachable through both the stairs and the elevators. Because of the observation deck, it is the busiest of the three levels. You can purchase tickets in advance to avoid having to stand in line to see the breathtaking views of the city from the deck.

The Summit (Top Floor)

The summit, or the top floor, provides a bird's eye perspective over Paris which is quite lovely. On this floor, there is also a champagne bar and Gustav Eiffel's former office. This floor is only accessible by elevator, and there are no steps leading up to it. Gustav Eiffel's office features wax figures of Gustav Eiffel, his daughter, and Thomas Edison.

Please keep in mind that the top of the Eiffel Tower is currently inaccessible to wheelchair users.

Eiffel Tower at Night

The Eiffel Tower is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Paris at night. The landmark looks stunning at night when it is illuminated with Golden Lighting which shines from lamps positioned within the tower's framework. In 1985, electrician and engineer Pierre Bideau developed the Golden Lighting.

The tower has presented a magnificent light show that is displayed on the Golden Lighting since the year 2000. Every night, from sundown to 1 a.m., a Beacon light rotates in a 360-degree circle, and Sparkling Lights glitter for five minutes.

The Sparkling Lights system consists of 20,000 light bulbs and was installed over a five-month period by 25 mountain climbers. Efficient six-watt light bulbs cut energy use, making the show environmentally friendly.

Interesting Facts about Eiffel Tower

Following are some of the interesting facts about the Eiffel Tower: -

• Several famous artists and philosophers opposed the Eiffel Tower's design at first. They created The Committee of Three Hundred, a collection of French artists, writers, and scholars who labelled the tower “vulgar,” “useless,” “monstrous,” and other offensive words. They even attempted to prevent its construction.
• Gustav Eiffel even constructed a personal office at the top of the Eiffel Tower. It has been repaired and is one of the top things to see.
• More than 300 million people have visited this place since it first opened in 1889.
• Many buildings throughout the world have been inspired by the Eiffel Tower. More than a dozen reproductions of the Paris Eiffel Tower may be seen all over the world. Reproductions can be found in countries such as China, Mexico, Russia, and various locations in the United States. This tower is supposed to have inspired the Tokyo Tower.
• Until 1958, the tower was illuminated by gas lamps. Electric lights were installed in 1958. The Paris Eiffel Tower now requires 20000 light bulbs to be illuminated.
• Gustav Eiffel is also recognized for constructing the famous Statue of Liberty in New York City.
• The tower has been called "La Dame de Fer" or "The Iron Lady" by natives.
• The names of 72 French scientists, architects, and mathematicians have been carved on the tower to honour their contributions to the tower's construction. Because of his concern about the protest, Gustav Eiffel initiated this.

Eiffel Tower Tickets

Tickets for the Eiffel Tower can be bought online or in person at the ticket counters located at the tower's base. Only the "stairs summit elevator access" can be purchased online. These can only be purchased at the tower and are only valid for that day. The only tour with pre-purchased tickets is the guided tour.

The prices of the tickets are the same whether purchased online or in-person at the Eiffel Tower, and purchasing a ticket ahead of time is the easiest way to avoid long waits.

Opening Hours

The Eiffel Tower in Paris is open all year round. For most of the year, the hours are 9:30 AM to 11:45 PM. During the summer, the hours are prolonged from 9:00 AM until 1:45 AM.

Utilize this information to make the most of your visit to the Eiffel Tower. Book your Paris tour package now while you are at it J Have a wonderful time in Paris!