Paris: Eiffel Tower 2nd Floor or Summit Access

Discover the Eiffel Tower’s Best Views with Guided Access and Optional Seine Cruise

The Paris: Eiffel Tower 2nd Floor or Summit Access tour offers an efficient way to experience one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. For $61 per person, visitors enjoy pre-reserved, time-stamped elevator tickets that skip long security lines, saving precious time. The tour lasts 1 to 2 hours and includes an English-speaking guide who shares insights into the construction and secrets of the Eiffel Tower.

This experience is perfect for those wanting flexibility, as it allows unlimited time on the tower to explore at a comfortable pace. For an extra touch, an optional 1-hour Seine river cruise can be added, providing scenic views of Paris’s UNESCO-listed riverbanks and famous landmarks like Notre-Dame and Les Invalides. While not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or large luggage, this tour balances convenience, expert guidance, and stunning vistas for an engaging Paris visit.

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Key Points

• Fast-track elevator access to the Eiffel Tower’s 2nd floor or summit
• English-speaking host provides insightful commentary on the tower’s history and secrets
• Flexible visit duration with unlimited time to explore the tower
• Optional Seine river cruise with discounted tickets for scenic city views
• Meet at a central shop rather than the tower itself, simplifying check-in
• Tour duration ranges from 1 to 2 hours, depending on security queues and chosen options

Convenient Pre-Reserved Tickets with Fast Access to the Eiffel Tower

The main advantage of this tour is the priority access by elevator to the 2nd floor and, if selected, the summit of the Eiffel Tower. The time-stamped tickets mean no need to wait in long lines, especially on busy days, making the experience smoother and more enjoyable. Meet at the GetYourGuide shop on 62 Avenue Suffren, not at the tower, where you will receive your tickets and meet your English-speaking guide.

The tour emphasizes flexible timing, as the visit to the Eiffel Tower can last from 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on queues. The guide provides a detailed overview of the tower’s origins, construction, and hidden facts. This small-group style, with unlimited time on the tower, allows visitors to take photos, soak in the views, and explore at their own pace without feeling rushed.

What to Expect During Your Eiffel Tower Visit

Your guide leads you from the meeting point to the tower, sharing engaging stories about its history and architecture. Upon arrival, you’ll take the elevator to the second floor, with summit access available if you choose the summit ticket. Expect security checks, which can involve wait times during busy periods.

Once at the viewing platforms, you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas of Paris, including famous sights like Sacré Coeur, the Louvre, and the Arc de Triomphe. You are free to stay as long as you like, explore the different levels, and take photos. The guide’s commentary enhances the experience with inside knowledge, making every glance at the city more meaningful.

If you opt for the Seine river cruise, you’ll collect your ticket during check-in. The cruise departs near the Eiffel Tower and provides scenic views of floating houseboats, restaurants, and the UNESCO-listed buildings lining the riverbanks, including Notre-Dame and Les Invalides.

The Guides: Knowledgeable, Friendly, and Well-Informed

Reviews highlight the guides’ enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendly manner. Many mention guides like Rémi, Salomé, Amira, and Veronica as giving informative, engaging, and fun explanations of the tower’s history and Paris landmarks. The guides often go above and beyond, helping with security clearance, waiting for late arrivals, and offering personalized tips.

Several reviews emphasize how guides’ personalities and storytelling skills make the experience stand out. Hosts are praised for their clarity, warmth, and ability to make complex history accessible, enriching the visit beyond just the sightseeing.

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Practical Details: Meeting Point, Accessibility, and Timing

The tour starts at the GetYourGuide shop on 62 Avenue Suffren, a short 8-10 minute walk from the Eiffel Tower. Guests must arrive on time; late arrivals cannot be accommodated, and no rescheduling or refunds are offered for missed bookings.

While the elevator ride up the tower is efficient, expect security and elevator queues on busy days. Summit ticket holders will also wait in line on the 2nd floor for their ascent to the top, which can involve additional wait times.

The tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility restrictions or large luggage, and no bags, drones, or glass objects are allowed on the premises. The check-in process is straightforward, with the tickets handed out during check-in for the cruise if included.

Adding the Seine River Cruise for Extra Scenic Views

The optional 1-hour Seine cruise offers an excellent way to see Paris from the water, including views of Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and other landmarks along the riverbanks. The discounted tickets are provided during check-in, and the cruise can be taken any day after the Eiffel Tower visit, with departures until around 22:00 depending on the season.

This cruise complements the tour perfectly, especially on clear days, allowing visitors to relax and see Paris from a different perspective. The cruise route passes floating houseboats, restaurants, and famous buildings, providing a scenic and tranquil contrast to the bustling landmark visits.

The Experience’s Strengths and Limitations

The tour is highly valued for its speed, convenience, and expert guidance. The skip-the-line tickets cut down on wait times, and the knowledgeable hosts make the history and architecture of the Eiffel Tower come alive. The unlimited time on the tower allows visitors to explore leisurely and capture memorable photos.

However, potential drawbacks include waiting in security lines during busy periods and longer waits for summit access if selecting that option. The tour’s focus on elevator access means stairs are not used, which could be a concern for those with mobility issues—not suitable for wheelchair users or travelers with large bags.

The price includes the ticket and guide, with the optional Seine cruise available at an extra cost. The meeting point is slightly away from the tower, but the process is straightforward. The value for money is well-regarded, especially considering the priority access and expert commentary.

Final Thoughts on the Eiffel Tower Guided Tour with Optional Cruise

This tour offers a practical and enriching way to see the Eiffel Tower while avoiding long lines and security delays. The guided experience enhances the visit with informative stories and tips, making it more engaging than exploring alone. The flexibility to stay as long as desired on the tower and the opportunity to add a scenic Seine cruise make it a comprehensive option for visitors.

It suits travelers seeking convenience, expert insights, and scenic views. While not ideal for those with mobility issues or carrying large luggage, it provides a smooth, enjoyable visit to one of Paris’s most celebrated landmarks. This experience balances efficiency, education, and breathtaking scenery for a memorable Paris adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the tour include?
Entry tickets by elevator to the second floor, with summit access if selected, and an English-speaking guide. The optional Seine river cruise can also be included.

Where do I meet for the tour?
At the GetYourGuide shop located at 62 Avenue Suffren, not at the Eiffel Tower. The tickets are handed out during check-in.

How long does the visit last?
The total duration is 1 to 2 hours, depending on queues and whether the cruise is added. The actual time on the tower is flexible, with unlimited access.

Can I visit the Eiffel Tower if I have mobility issues?
No, this tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or those using wheelchairs.

Is summit access guaranteed?
The summit ticket allows access to the top of the Eiffel Tower. However, waiting in line on the 2nd floor may be necessary to use the elevator to the summit.

Can I take the Seine cruise on a different day?
Yes, the cruise tickets are provided during check-in and can be used any day and any time after your Eiffel Tower visit, with departures until around 22:00.

How crowded is the Eiffel Tower?
Waiting times for security and elevators can vary; busy days may involve longer waits, especially for summit access.

What should I bring?
The tour recommends arriving on time, and leaving large bags, drones, and glass objects behind due to security restrictions. Comfortable shoes are advisable for exploring.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price.

Can I book tickets for children?
The data suggests a need for child-specific tickets, as the current booking process involves paying for adults. It is advised to check if child rates are available during booking.

What languages is the guide available in?
The guide provides commentary in English only.

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