Best of the Eiffel Tower by Stairs with Summit Elevator Access

Imagine walking up 704 steps inside the world’s most famous iron structure, guided by an enthusiastic expert who’s eager to share secrets and stories about this Parisian icon. At just over 2 hours and costing around $86, this tour offers a chance to see the Eiffel Tower from a totally different perspective—climbing its internal stairs rather than just riding the elevator. After reaching the second viewing platform, you’ll hop into a lift to the summit, where Gustave Eiffel’s private apartment awaits.

What makes this experience stand out? First, we love that it’s a small-group tour, which means more personalized attention and fewer crowds—ideal for those who want a more intimate encounter with Paris’s landmark. Second, the guided storytelling about the tower’s construction, controversies, and design offers a richer understanding that you simply won’t get from a solo visit.

One thing to keep in mind: the wait times for tickets can be up to 45 minutes during peak times, since this isn’t a skip-the-line tour. That’s a minor inconvenience, but it’s worth it for the behind-the-scenes access and the chance to learn from a friendly guide. This tour is perfect for travelers who are curious about architecture, history, and want a memorable, authentic way to experience the Eiffel Tower—especially if they’re up for a bit of exercise!

Key Points

• Unique climbing experience inside the Eiffel Tower, with stairs to the second level
• Small group enhances intimacy and personalized storytelling
• Panoramic views of Paris from the second level and summit make for great photo opportunities
• Expert guides share fascinating stories about the tower’s history and design
• Elevator access to the summit offers a complete, insider experience
• Peak-time waits for tickets can be up to 45 minutes, so patience is key

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

We love how the tour kicks off near the 5 Av. de Suffren with a friendly guide waiting to greet you. This location is just steps from the Eiffel Tower, making it easy to find and perfect for a morning adventure. After passing through security, you’re immediately immersed in the experience of climbing this metallic marvel.

The atmosphere is lively but relaxed, with your guide setting the tone for an engaging tour. Because the tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll find the group size perfect for questions and interaction.

Climbing to the First Level

The climb begins with a walk up the interior stairs, offering a tactile, almost personal sense of the tower’s scale. While some might find this a workout, most agree it’s worth the effort. The first stop is the first floor, where you get a different perspective of the Paris skyline. Here, you’ll find the glass floor, a daring feature that allows you to look directly down onto the people below—an experience that’s both thrilling and a little unnerving.

The fewer crowds at this level provide a rare chance to truly soak in the views and appreciate Gustave Eiffel’s intricate lattice work from a close angle. It’s also a great place to take photos and enjoy the exhibits that sometimes pop up, adding a bit more interest to your visit.

Ascending to the Second Floor

Beyond the first level, your guide will keep you captivated with stories about the construction process, the controversies surrounding the tower’s initial reception, and the design details that make it so iconic. The second level offers spectacular panoramic views of landmarks like the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame, and the Seine River.

This second platform is the highlight for many, offering a broad, nearly 360-degree vista of Paris. Your guide’s insights help you see the city with fresh eyes, pointing out landmarks and sharing little-known facts.

Heading to the Summit

From the second level, you’ll hop into the elevator to reach the top floor or summit, where Gustave Eiffel’s private apartment still exists behind a locked door. Though the summit access may sometimes be closed due to safety measures or capacity restrictions, the tour includes a refund if this occurs.

Once at the top, the views are even more breathtaking. Standing above Paris, you’ll see the city laid out like a model at your feet. It’s the perfect spot for postcard-worthy photos and a moment of reflection on what it took to create this marvel.

Behind the Scenes and Hidden Corners

What truly makes this tour special is the behind-the-scenes access—walking beneath the beams, peering into secret compartments, and seeing the tower’s intricate engineering up close. The guide’s storytelling adds depth, revealing the controversies and challenges faced during construction, as well as Eiffel’s own secret apartment, which adds an intriguing historic touch.

Considerations and Tips

While this experience offers exceptional value for history buffs and those seeking a more authentic, less commercialized visit, it’s worth noting that waiting times for tickets can be lengthy—up to 45 minutes at peak times. The guide will acquire your tickets after you arrive, so patience is necessary.

Also, this tour involves moderate physical activity—climbing stairs—and isn’t suitable for those with restricted mobility. Large luggage isn’t permitted, and there are no storage lockers at the tower, so travel light.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Perspectives

People who’ve taken this tour often highlight the knowledgeable guide as one of its biggest strengths. Martha_B describes her guide Henry as “amazing,” noting how he was “knowledgeable, friendly, and patient” during the climb. This kind of personalized attention makes the experience not just educational but fun.

Many appreciate the stunning views from the second level and summit, calling the scenery “breathtaking” and “postcard-perfect.” The small group size means you can ask questions comfortably, and the guide can tailor the experience to your interests.

Some might find the wait for tickets a bit of a hassle, but most agree that the insider stories and unique vantage points more than compensate for this minor inconvenience. The tour’s value is evident in the combination of wellness, learning, and exclusive access, making it a worthwhile splurge for those wanting a deeper connection to this Parisian icon.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This best of the Eiffel Tower by stairs experience is ideal for travelers who love history, architecture, and authentic experiences. If you’re physically active or interested in learning the stories behind one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks, this tour offers a memorable way to explore. It’s especially suited for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more personal, storytelling-focused visit.

Couples, families, or solo travelers who enjoy a bit of exercise and adventure will find this climb rewarding. The small group setting ensures that you won’t feel overwhelmed and that your guide’s attention is focused on your questions and curiosity.

In short, if you’re after an informative, scenic, and authentic experience that moves beyond the usual elevator ride, this tour strikes a great balance between value and discovery. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to truly connect with the Eiffel Tower on a deeper level.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it isn’t explicitly stated, the moderate physical activity and climbing stairs suggest it’s better suited for older children or those comfortable with stairs. Always check with the provider if traveling with young kids.

How long does the waiting for tickets usually take?
The wait can be up to 45 minutes during peak times. The guide will acquire tickets after you arrive, so patience is key.

Can I access the summit during this tour?
Yes, the tour includes elevator access to the summit, but it may sometimes be closed due to safety or capacity restrictions, in which case a partial refund is offered.

What is included in the price?
You get a guided climb by stairs to the second level, entry to the tower, elevator access to the summit, and a small group experience.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not recommended for individuals with restricted mobility or large luggage, as there are no lockers and stairs are involved.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and a sense of adventure. Remember that the climb involves stairs—so be prepared for some physical effort.

Is there a dress code?
No specific dress code, but sensible walking shoes are recommended for the climb.

How do I meet the tour?
Meet near 5 Av. de Suffren at 9:30 am. The guide will be waiting to start the ascent.

What if I arrive late?
Late arrivals are not accommodated and missed tours are non-refundable, so plan to arrive promptly.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is weather-dependent but offers rescheduling or refunds if canceled due to poor weather.

This tour offers an engaging, authentic way to experience the Eiffel Tower—combining physical activity, storytelling, and spectacular views. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to understand Paris’s symbol from the inside out, creating memories that go well beyond the typical surface visit.