Eiffel Tower Climbing Tour with Summit Access

The Eiffel Tower Climbing Tour with Summit Access offers an engaging way to see Paris from an exceptional vantage point. Priced at $74.52 per person, this 2-hour 30-minute group experience takes visitors beyond the usual elevator ride, allowing you to walk up the stairs to the first and second levels before riding the elevator to the summit at 906 feet (276 meters). The tour, operated by The Tour Guy, is booked on average 54 days in advance, highlighting its popularity among travelers who want a more active and immersive Eiffel Tower experience.

This tour is best suited for those who have moderate physical fitness and enjoy history storytelling. It emphasizes the climb as part of the fun, with guides sharing insights about the tower’s history and construction. A key highlight is the extensive stair climb—you’ll walk through the first and second floors, enjoying smaller crowds and unique perspectives, then ascend to the summit by elevator to take in the sweeping views of Paris. Keep in mind, waiting in lines for tickets can sometimes be long, and the top may not always be open due to weather or maintenance.

Key Points

• Price of $74.52 includes guided climbs and summit elevator access.
• The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours and has a maximum group size of 19.
• Climb the stairs to the first and second levels, with smaller crowds and more personal attention.
• Guides provide entertaining stories about the Eiffel Tower and Paris history.
• Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the many stairs and physical effort involved.
• Waiting in lines for security and tickets can be part of the experience; top access depends on weather and maintenance.

Starting Point and Tour Logistics

The tour begins at 5 Av. de Suffren, 75007 Paris, conveniently located near public transportation. The meeting point is easy to find, which simplifies the logistics for travelers arriving in central Paris. The tour ends at the Eiffel Tower itself, with no hotel pickup or drop-off included.

Participants should be prepared for physical activity, as climbing the stairs to the first and second floors involves at least 300 steps each. The tour is suitable for those with moderate fitness levels, and it’s advisable to wear comfortable, supportive shoes. Since weather conditions can affect the experience, especially at higher altitudes, checking the forecast before the tour is recommended.

Climbing the Eiffel Tower: From the First Floor to the Summit

The initial part of the tour involves ascending the stairs from ground level to the first floor, where visitors often find a quieter, less crowded environment. Here, you’ll experience a unique view of the Paris skyline and walk on the glass floor at 188 feet high. The guide shares stories about the tower’s construction and its role in Paris history, making the climb both informative and enjoyable.

Continuing to the second floor, the group walks through more stairs, enjoying panoramic views and lesser crowds compared to elevator lines. The guide’s entertaining commentary enhances this part of the climb, making it a memorable activity. The second floor at 906 feet offers some of the best photo opportunities and city vistas.

The final highlight is the elevator trip to the summit, where visitors can take in spectacular panoramic views of Paris and beyond. The summit access is included in the tour ticket, offering a different perspective from the usual elevator ride, with the added bonus of avoiding long queues if booked in advance.

The Guide: Knowledgeable and Engaging Storytellers

Guides like Ellen and Div are praised for their enthusiasm, storytelling skills, and patience. They explain the tower’s history, share fun facts, and manage the group’s pace effectively. Several reviews highlight how guides kept the group engaged during wait times and made the climb more enjoyable with interesting anecdotes.

Some guides bring photos and visual aids to enhance storytelling, especially when explaining architectural details. Their knowledgeable approach ensures that both history buffs and first-time visitors gain a richer understanding of the Eiffel Tower.

The Climb: Physical Effort and Practical Tips

Climbing the stairs to the first and second floors involves around 300 steps each level, making it a moderate workout. Reviewers note that wearing comfortable shoes and being prepared for the exertion is essential. Some guests, including those around 70 years old, find the climb challenging but rewarding.

The wait time for security and tickets can sometimes extend over an hour, especially during peak season. Line management and early arrival can help reduce wait times. The top of the tower may not always be accessible due to weather or maintenance, so flexibility is important.

Views and Photo Opportunities at the Top

The summit of the Eiffel Tower provides breathtaking views of Paris at 906 feet (276 meters) high. Many reviews emphasize how spectacular the scenery is and how worth the effort to reach the top. Visitors have plenty of time to snap photos and take in the cityscape.

The view from the second floor is also highly praised for its panoramic angles and less crowded environment. Some reviewers mention that the climb to the second level is exhausting, but the view is well worth it.

Booking, Cancellation, and Practical Considerations

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if plans change. Since weather can affect the experience, a full refund is available if the tour is canceled due to poor conditions. Booking at least 54 days in advance is advisable due to the tour’s popularity.

Participants should arrive prepared for long lines, weather variations, and physical exertion. The maximum group size of 19 ensures a more personal experience, with guides able to attend to individual needs.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This Eiffel Tower Climbing Tour is perfect for active visitors seeking a closer connection with the tower through stairs rather than elevator-only access. It appeals to history enthusiasts and those who want a more engaging experience beyond the typical elevator ride.

If physical fitness and weather flexibility are manageable, this tour offers a unique perspective on Paris’s most iconic landmark. People who enjoy storytelling and interactive experiences will find the guides particularly engaging.

In-Depth Review: Balancing Pros and Cons of the Eiffel Tower Climbing Tour

The main strength of this tour lies in the interactive climb and knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with stories and facts. The small group size allows for personal attention and easier navigation through the crowds, especially on the first and second floors.

However, the physical effort required can be a limitation for some, as climbing around 600 steps is no small feat. The waiting times for security and tickets are sometimes longer than expected, and the top access is not guaranteed due to weather or maintenance.

This tour offers a more active, intimate way to explore the Eiffel Tower, with excellent value for those willing to climb stairs and manage potential delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the climb?
The climb involves at least 300 steps to the first and second floors. It requires moderate physical fitness and comfortable shoes. Some guests around 70 years old have found it challenging but manageable.

Is summit access included in the ticket?
Yes, the elevator ride to the summit at 906 feet is part of this tour, offering spectacular views of Paris.

Can I skip the lines?
This tour does not include skip-the-line tickets. You may experience waiting in queues for security and tickets, especially during peak times.

What if the top is closed?
The top of the Eiffel Tower may be closed due to weather or maintenance. If that happens, the tour refund policy allows for full refunds or rescheduling.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 5 Av. de Suffren and ends at the Eiffel Tower itself. No hotel pickups or drop-offs are included.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for climbing and walking. Bringing water and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended.

How early should I book?
Booking around 54 days in advance helps secure a spot, given the high demand and limited group size.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Children should be comfortable with stairs and physical activity. Parental discretion is advised for younger kids.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 19 people, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations made within this window are fully refundable.

Is this tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transportation, making it convenient to access from various parts of Paris.

This Eiffel Tower Climbing Tour with Summit Access offers a rich, active experience for visitors eager to explore Paris’s most famous monument beyond the usual elevator ride. With friendly guides, breathtaking views, and the physical challenge of stairs, it creates a memorable adventure suited for those ready for a bit of a workout and a lot of stunning scenery.