Eiffel Tower in Paris: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Paris and romance go together like croissants and coffee, and nothing says “City of Light” quite like the Eiffel Tower. If you are seeing it for the first time or the fifteenth, the sight of this towering beauty never gets old.

By day, it’s elegant against a bright blue sky; by night, it twinkles in the dark with the famous Eiffel Tower sparkle every hour on the hour.

Standing under the Iron Lady feels like stepping into a postcard—only better, because you can hear the hum of the city, smell the crepes cooking nearby, and feel the excitement from hundreds of people all trying to capture that perfect spot for their photo.

Let’s take a stroll through a little history before I share some real-life tips from my own visit.

A Bit of Eiffel Tower History

The Eiffel Tower was built for the 1889 Exposition Universelle, a world’s fair celebrating the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution (also called the centenary of the French Revolution).

The French government wanted something extraordinary to showcase modern engineering.

It was designed by Gustave Eiffel, along with engineers Maurice Koechlin and Émile Nouguier, and architect Stephen Sauvestre. At the time, many Parisians thought it was hideous—a “temporary installation” made of “tons of iron.” But once it opened, it became a sensation.

At 300 meters, it was the tallest structure in the world until New York’s Chrysler Building came along in 1930.

The tower has seen it all—World War I, the early 20th century boom, and visits from big names like Thomas Edison (who even met with Eiffel in his small apartment at the top).

Over the years, it’s had more than 20 paint jobs, sprouted wind turbines for renewable energy, and become the most visited monument in the world.

Crowds, Cameras, and Courtesy

It’s no secret—the Eiffel Tower draws massive crowds no matter the time of year.

Visitors from the United States, Europe, and every corner of the globe flock here daily, all hoping to stand beneath the symbol of Paris and snap that dream photo. On our visit, we joined the sea of people scattered across the Champ de Mars and along the Seine River, each angling for that perfect spot.

Yes, it was busy—long lines, chatter in dozens of languages, and cameras clicking nonstop—but there was something wonderful about it.

Everyone seemed to understand we were all here for the same reason. There was an unspoken courtesy in the air; people patiently waited their turn, smiled at strangers, and even offered to take each other’s pictures.

It didn’t feel like chaos—it felt like being part of a global moment, all of us appreciating the same view, the same sparkle, the same piece of history.

Tip: If you want fewer people in your frame, try heading to Avenue de Camoens for a postcard-worthy shot with the tower perfectly framed in the background.

Another great option is across the Pont de Bir-Hakeim, where you’ll find wide-open space, a unique angle over the Seine, and a more relaxed vibe.

Early mornings and later in the evening (just before the Eiffel Tower sparkle) are your best bets for smaller clusters and more breathing room.

3 Underrated Spots for Amazing Eiffel Tower Photos

1. Rue de l’Université
   A quiet street that ends with the Eiffel Tower towering in the distance. Early mornings here give you that romantic, almost private shot without the rush of people.
2. Trocadéro Gardens (Side Paths)
   While the main terrace at Trocadéro is always busy, the side paths and lower garden areas offer beautiful angles of the tower framed by fountains and greenery, with far fewer people in the background.
3. Passerelle Debilly
   This pedestrian bridge offers a unique riverfront view of the Eiffel Tower without the traffic of bigger bridges. It’s especially pretty during the golden hour when the light softens over the water.

Restaurants in the Tower

Madame Brasserie – First Floor

• Found on the first floor of the tower.
• Big windows with views of the Seine River, Trocadéro, and inside the tower’s iron frame.
• Menu changes with the seasons, using fresh local food.
• Created by famous chef Thierry Marx.
• Prices start around €130 for a set menu; window tables cost more.
• Bright and airy during the day, cozy at night—especially when you see the Eiffel Tower sparkle through the windows.

Le Jules Verne – Second Floor

• Located on the second floor with stunning views of Champ de Mars, Notre-Dame, and more.
• Run by top chef Frédéric Anton, who has won two Michelin stars.
• Fancy design with wood, pearl details, and soft lighting to focus on the views.
• Private elevator entrance so you skip the public lines.
• Very formal, very pricey, and best for a special occasion.

Quick Take:

• Madame Brasserie – More casual, nice views, still expensive but easier to get into.
• Le Jules Verne – Very fancy, top food, amazing views, big splurge.

Getting There – And Why Uber Took Forever

If you plan on using Uber, here’s a heads-up: when we tried to leave, we had to wait about 30 minutes for a ride, even after walking a few blocks away from the tower to make pickup easier.

Twice, our “ride” accepted, then canceled. I’m not sure if they got a better fare, didn’t want to fight the traffic, or simply decided it wasn’t worth the hassle.

Traffic around the Eiffel Tower can be slow at the best of times, but when you add in crowds, security checks, and delivery vans navigating the narrow streets, it becomes a bit of a mess.

Plus, with so many people requesting rides at the same time, prices can go up and cars can be scarce.

If you want to avoid the stress, consider walking to the nearest metro station—there are several nearby, like Bir-Hakeim or Trocadéro—and catching the train.

Another option is booking your Uber or taxi pickup for a spot further away, where traffic moves more easily.

A little extra walking can save you a lot of waiting (and frustration).

Tips for Visiting the Eiffel Tower

Here’s what I wish I had known before going:

1. Book Early, Book Smart
   Use the official website to get your time slots. Avoid unofficial sellers—there are plenty of fraudulent Eiffel Tower ticket sales websites out there.
2. Security Checks Are No Joke
   Be ready for airport-style security checks before entering. Travel light—small bags make the process quicker.
3. Decide How High You Want to Go
   The first floor (also called the 1st floor) has exhibitions and even wax figures of Eiffel. The second floor of the Eiffel Tower offers panoramic views of the Paris skyline, the Seine River, and landmarks like Champ de Mars and Place de la Concorde. The top floor (or top of the Eiffel Tower) is thrilling, but if you’re afraid of heights, the second level is already breathtaking.

1. Plan for the Crowds
   Even with long lines, there’s plenty of room on the observation deck once you’re up there.
2. Don’t Miss the Sparkle
   The Eiffel Tower sparkle happens every hour after dark. If you can, view it from Avenue de Camoens—one of the best spots without the heavy crowd.
3. Consider a Boat Cruise
   A Seine River cruise at sunset gives you a unique view of the tower, especially when it lights up. My husband and I didn’t do this but my daughter did and had some very beautiful pictures.

A Few Fun Facts

• The tower was almost moved to New York at one point.
• During the early 20th century, Mata Hari was said to have met contacts near the tower.
• The tower was supposed to be dismantled after 20 years but stayed because it became valuable for communication.
• It uses about 60 tons of paint for each repainting.

Final Thoughts

Visiting the Eiffel Tower is one of those Eiffel Tower experiences that stays with you forever.

If you climb to the top floor or simply enjoy it from the ground with a crepe in hand, it’s worth every moment.

Yes, there are long lines, yes, it’s crowded, and yes, you might have to wait for that Uber—but standing in front of this 300-meter iron tower, the symbol of Paris, is something you’ll never forget.

The truth is, no matter the time of year you visit, it’s beautiful. On a clear day, you can see for miles; at night, you’ll watch it sparkle. The Eiffel Tower isn’t just a building—it’s Paris saying, Bienvenue.