If you’re planning a trip to Paris, you’ll want to make sure you take in everything this glorious city has to offer. One of the most famous monuments in the world, the Eiffel Tower is steeped in history and culture and is undoubtedly a must-see attraction. To experience this iconic landmark at its best, find out when and how to visit the Eiffel Tower:
1. Visit in Spring or Autumn
If you have the freedom to travel at any time of year, choose spring or autumn for your Parisian adventure. Generally, popular tourist attractions like the Eiffel Tower are at their busiest during the summer months and over the holidays. Furthermore, the hot temperatures of summer and the snow or rain in winter can disrupt your trip. However, the warm breeze of spring or the blustery winds of autumn, combined with the reduction in foot traffic, create the perfect environment for a visit to the Eiffel Tower.
2. Visit the Eiffel Tower Midweek
If you want to avoid the crowds, steer clear of major tourist attractions over the weekends. On Saturdays and Sundays, the Eiffel Tower, like other Parisian hotspots, receives the most visitors. Similarly, Mondays and Fridays tend to have higher attendance rates as many tourists book a long weekend in the city. For a quieter (and quicker) experience, plan your trip on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday.
3. Plan Your Visit in Advance
The best time to visit the Eiffel Tower will largely depend on what you want to do when you arrive. If you want to wander around the Esplanade and marvel at this spectacular monument, for example, you’ll have all day and evening to do so. However, if you want to visit the first floor, second floor, or the top of the tower, you’ll need to stay up to date with the opening times. These vary throughout the year, so be sure to check them in advance.
Home to restaurants, shops, educational and interactive displays, a champagne bar, and, of course, mesmerising views over Paris, a trip up the Eiffel Tower is an unforgettable experience.
4. Witness the Light Show at Night
When night falls, the Eiffel Tower is illuminated by thousands of lights and casts a glow over the entire city. It truly is a sight to behold and well worth making a special trip for. Do bear in mind that the lights don’t remain illuminated for the entire evening. Instead, they’re switched on for five minutes at a time every hour, on the hour, until 1 AM.
5. Arrive in the Early Morning or Evening
Statistically, it’s less crowded if you visit the Eiffel Tower between 9 AM and 11 AM or 8 PM and 10 PM. For early risers, a morning visit can be a great opportunity to watch the cityscape as Paris comes to life, while an evening excursion will give you the chance to see the Tower illuminated.
Make the Most of Your Time in Paris
There’s no bad time to visit the Eiffel Tower but by planning your trip in advance, you can ensure that you get to experience this special location in a way that’s best for you. Whether you’re eager to see the cityscape from the top of the Tower or you want to bask in the lights from the ground, a trip to the Eiffel Tower is sure to be the highlight of your Parisian adventure.
