Eiffel Tower Summit Tickets | View from the Top

Updated: März 28, 2023
 By Christina

This post will cover how to purchase summit tickets for the Eiffel Tower.

We include skip-the-line-tickets, and whether it's worth it or not to reach the very top of this world-famous structure.


WHAT EXACTLY IS THE SUMMIT?

There are 3 levels of the Eiffel Tower: The first floor, second floor, and the summit. 

Despite the lack of space, there is a viewing deck and a champagne bar at the summit, as well as a fully restored representation of Gustave Eiffel’s office.

Eiffel Tower Levels

Although there are some things to see and do up here, the main reason people visit the summit is to see the unparalleled view of Paris.

Tickets to this level are sold with access to both the first and second floors because the elevator to the summit is located on the second level, so you’ll need access to all levels in order to reach the top.

It is recommended to set aside at least 2 ½ hours to reach the summit of the Eiffel Tower. 

During peak seasons, this could take even longer, so it’s important to consider how much time you plan to spend at this attraction.


SUMMIT TICKETS

The only way to get tickets for the Eiffel Tower summit is by purchasing tickets which include access to the second-floor elevator. 

There are currently two ticket options which include admission to the summit:

  • Stairs Entrance | €21.50/Adults | €10.70/Children | €5.40/Reduced
  • Elevator Entrance | €28.30/Adults | €14.10/Children | €7.10/Reduced

Purchase Eiffel Tower tickets or learn more.

Can you get tickets on the day of your visit?

The Stairs entrance option can be purchased from the ticket offices on the site of the Eiffel Tower on the day of your trip.

Although the stairs entrance tickets are cheaper, that also means you’ll have to climb to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower on foot.

You will be climbing 341 steps which is a 115 meter (377 ft.) climb. 

Eiffel Tour Stairs -Paris

The elevator tickets from the ground floor ensure you can take the elevator to both the first and second floors, where you’ll be able to take another elevator up to the summit.

No matter which ticket option you choose, the only way to reach the top is via the elevator from the second floor.

Some tour companies offer these ticket types with their services, so even if you can’t get them online or from the source, there are still other options for summit tickets.

Check our post on purchasing tickets to the Eiffel Tower for more details.


SKIP THE LINE TICKETS

There is no option available to skip the line to the elevator to the top

However, there are priority tickets, or what is called “e-tickets” that you can purchase in advance.

This will allow you to have expedited security screening, skip the ticket lines, and head directly for the ground floor elevators that will take you to the second floor.

E-Ticket Eiffel Tower - Paris

If you’re trying to save some time, this will probably be the best type of ticket to purchase. 

Priority tickets are timed, so you’ll have to arrive at the time stated on the ticket in order to use them. 

The upside to this is that lines for the elevator are pretty short since so many people are using timed tickets.

These tickets are in limited supply and they can sell out months in advance, so we recommend purchasing skip-the-line tickets well ahead of time if you can.

If not, there are some combo tickets you can purchase which include skip-the-line entrance to the Eiffel Tower.


IS THE SUMMIT WORTH THE PRICE AND TIME?

Ultimately, this question will depend on what type of experience you’re interested in having. 

While the summit offers excellent views of Paris, the views from the 2nd floor are also terrific. Also, the view from the summit could be hazier than the 2nd-floor view.

If you choose to go to the summit, you will have to wait in another line for the elevator on the 2nd floor.

This line can take up to an hour during popular times but significantly less at off-peak times.

Although it’s probably not the consensus opinion, a significant number of people who have experienced both don’t think the summit’s view is worth the extra €10 and time.

With the champagne bar and exhibits as well, there are some interesting things to see at the summit aside from the incredible views.

How long is the wait for the Eiffel Tower summit?

Depending on when you visit, it could take anywhere from 1-2 hours to get on the lift to the summit.

There is very limited space at the top, and it's a very popular destination, so you might have to wait a while for this attraction.

Can you climb to the summit of the Eiffel Tower?

Although you can reach the summit by purchasing tickets to climb the stairs of the Eiffel Tower, the stairs do not go to the summit.

The stairs only go to the 2nd floor, and you'll need to get on the lift on this floor to reach the top.

Can you get to the summit of Eiffel Tower for free?

No. While the area underneath the Eiffel Tower is free to access, you will need tickets for access to the summit of the structure.


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About The Author

Christina

Christina studied art history and French literature at the Sorbonne for a year in Paris as an undergrad. Now based in Washington, DC, she visits Paris as often as possible and loves introducing family and friends to her favorite places there. She has worked as a travel writer, museum professional, English tutor, and editor, and her favorite French cheese is Pont l'Eveque.
Updated: März 28th, 2023
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