Eiffel Tower Ticket Prices: A Detailed Breakdown for Your Paris Trip
Planning a trip to Paris and dreaming of that iconic view from the top of the Eiffel Tower? A crucial part of that planning is understanding the cost involved. This article will provide a detailed look at how much it costs to ascend the Eiffel Tower, breaking down ticket prices by access level, age, and whether you choose to climb or take the elevator.
The Eiffel Tower offers visitors several options for experiencing its grandeur, and the price reflects these choices. The most significant factors influencing the cost are:
- The level of access you desire (second floor or summit).
- Your age (adult, youth, or child).
- The method of ascent (stairs or elevator).
Eiffel Tower Ticket Prices: Standard Access Options
For most visitors, the primary decision revolves around reaching the second floor versus going all the way to the summit (top). Here's a breakdown of typical pricing. Please note that these prices are for pre-booked tickets purchased online, which is highly recommended to avoid long queues.
Elevator Access to the Second Floor
This is a popular choice, offering fantastic views without the full commitment of reaching the very top. It's also generally more affordable.
- Adults: Around €18.10
- Youth (12-24 years): Around €9.00
- Children (4-11 years): Around €4.50
- Infants (under 4 years): Free
Elevator Access to the Summit (Top)
This is the ultimate Eiffel Tower experience, granting you access to the highest point of the monument. This option comes with a higher price tag.
- Adults: Around €28.30
- Youth (12-24 years): Around €14.10
- Children (4-11 years): Around €7.10
- Infants (under 4 years): Free
Stairs Access to the Second Floor
For the more adventurous and budget-conscious traveler, climbing the stairs is an option. It's a great way to experience the tower's structure up close, but be prepared for a workout!
- Adults: Around €11.30
- Youth (12-24 years): Around €5.60
- Children (4-11 years): Around €2.80
- Infants (under 4 years): Free
Important Note: Stairs access only goes to the second floor. From the second floor, you *must* purchase an additional ticket to take the elevator to the summit. This summit elevator ticket from the second floor costs an additional approximately €10.00 for adults.
Eiffel Tower Ticket Prices: Combined Options
To simplify, you can often purchase combined tickets that grant access to both the stairs and the elevator, or direct elevator access to the summit.
Stairs to the Second Floor + Elevator to the Summit
This option allows you to climb the stairs for a portion of the journey and then take the elevator to the top.
- Adults: Around €21.50
- Youth (12-24 years): Around €10.70
- Children (4-11 years): Around €5.40
- Infants (under 4 years): Free
Factors Affecting Ticket Prices
While the prices listed above are current estimates, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Official Website: The most accurate and up-to-date pricing will always be found on the official Eiffel Tower website (toureiffel.paris). Prices can fluctuate slightly.
- Booking in Advance: Purchasing your tickets online and in advance is crucial. This not only secures your spot but also helps you avoid the notoriously long ticket lines, saving you valuable vacation time.
- Special Events/Exhibitions: Occasionally, there might be special exhibitions or events at the Eiffel Tower that could affect ticket prices or availability.
- Tours: If you opt for a guided tour, the cost will be significantly higher as it includes the entrance ticket plus the services of a guide.
How to Purchase Eiffel Tower Tickets
The best and most recommended way to buy Eiffel Tower tickets is through the official Eiffel Tower website. This ensures you are getting legitimate tickets at the correct price and avoids any potential scams.
Steps for purchasing tickets online:
- Navigate to the official Eiffel Tower website.
- Select "Book your ticket."
- Choose your desired access level (summit or second floor) and ascent method (elevator or stairs).
- Select your preferred date and time slot. Be flexible, as popular times sell out quickly.
- Enter the number of tickets needed for each age category.
- Proceed to payment.
- You will receive your e-tickets via email. Be sure to print them or have them accessible on your mobile device.
Maximizing Your Eiffel Tower Experience
Beyond the ticket price, consider these tips:
- Book Early: As mentioned, tickets, especially for the summit, can sell out weeks or even months in advance, particularly during peak tourist seasons (spring and summer).
- Consider the Time of Day: Going early in the morning or late in the evening can offer fewer crowds and a different, often more magical, perspective of Paris. Sunset and nighttime views are particularly stunning.
- Factor in Additional Costs: Remember that your ticket price is just for entry. You'll likely want to factor in costs for transportation to the Eiffel Tower, souvenirs, and any food or drinks you might purchase on-site.
By understanding these pricing structures and booking strategies, you can effectively budget for your visit to one of the world's most famous landmarks and enjoy an unforgettable experience from the top of the Eiffel Tower.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eiffel Tower Ticket Costs
How much does it cost to go to the very top of the Eiffel Tower?
To go to the very top (summit) of the Eiffel Tower via the elevator, an adult ticket typically costs around €28.30. Youth tickets (12-24) are about €14.10, and child tickets (4-11) are around €7.10. Infants under 4 are free. If you choose to climb the stairs to the second floor first, it's cheaper, but you'll need to purchase an additional elevator ticket from the second floor to the summit.
Why is it more expensive to go to the summit than the second floor?
The summit is the highest accessible point of the Eiffel Tower and offers the most expansive panoramic views. The journey to the summit involves an additional elevator ride from the second floor, which is a more complex engineering feat and therefore commands a higher price compared to just visiting the second floor.
Can I buy tickets for the Eiffel Tower on the day of my visit?
While it's sometimes possible to purchase tickets on the day of your visit, it is strongly discouraged. Tickets, especially for the summit, sell out very quickly online, often weeks or months in advance. If you do manage to buy tickets on the day, expect extremely long queues at the ticket counters, potentially leading to disappointment if your preferred time slot is unavailable.
Are there any discounts available for Eiffel Tower tickets?
Yes, there are discounts available for youth (ages 12-24) and children (ages 4-11). Visitors under 4 years old are admitted for free. The Eiffel Tower also sometimes offers reduced rates for visitors with disabilities and their accompanying person, but these often need to be booked in advance through specific channels.
