Eiffel Tower Pre Booked Ticket by Lift with Summit Options: A Practical Guide
When you’re planning a trip to Paris, the Eiffel Tower is an absolute must-see. The tour we’re reviewing offers priority elevator access to the first and second floors, along with a knowledgeable guide to help you appreciate this iconic monument without the stress of long lines. With prices around $59.17 per person and a duration of about 1 hour 30 minutes, this experience is designed to give you a taste of Paris from a prime vantage point, with options to upgrade for the summit.
What we genuinely like about this tour is how it combines convenience and insight. First, the pre-booked tickets mean you skip the often frustrating queues—something that’s well appreciated in busy seasons. Second, the guided commentary enriches what might otherwise be just a photo op, revealing lesser-known stories about the tower’s history and architecture.
One thing to keep in mind is that the summit access is an optional upgrade and not included in the base tour; if reaching the top is a priority for you, make sure to add that during booking. And finally, the tour is best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of guided learning and free time to explore on their own, especially if you prefer avoiding the chaos of on-the-spot ticket lines.
Key Points
- Fast-track elevator access to the second floor saves time and hassle.
- Guided commentary adds context and stories for a richer experience.
- Optional summit upgrade available if you want to go higher.
- Flexible tour times to fit your schedule.
- Approximate duration is 1 hour 30 minutes, including free time.
- Meet at the office 15 minutes early, not directly at the Eiffel Tower.
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A Closer Look: What to Expect on the Tour
Starting Point and Meeting Details
Unlike many Eiffel Tower tours that meet directly at the monument, this experience begins at 41 avenue de la Bourdonnais. This is an office, not the tower itself, so arriving 15 minutes early is crucial. From there, a short walk takes you to the Eiffel Tower with your guide, who will help you bypass the long lines by taking the priority elevator.
The Journey Up: First and Second Floors
Your elevator ride will lift you quickly to the second floor, which sits at about 375 feet (114 meters). Here, the views of Paris unfold like an open book — from the expansive Champ de Mars to the distant Sacré Coeur and the Notre Dame Cathedral. Good visibility means you’ll be able to take in stunning panoramic photos, and many reviews mention how the spectacular views from this height make the whole trip worthwhile.
Guided Tour and Free Time
The guide offers a brief orientation at the second floor, sharing fascinating facts about the tower’s construction, its original purpose, and some lesser-known tidbits. As one reviewer put it, “Marcella was able to bring the history of the tower to life,” making the experience both educational and engaging. After the guided portion, you’re free to wander, take photos, or just soak in the scenery.
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The Summit Option
The upgrade to access the summit can be added ahead of time, though it’s important to note that the standard tour does not include summit access. Given the high demand and frequent sell-outs, verifying availability beforehand is wise. For those who do upgrade, the panoramic city views from the top are often described as “breathtaking” — perfect for those wanting a full experience.
Duration and Flexibility
The tour lasts roughly 1 hour 15 minutes, but many travelers find they enjoy the free time at the top or on the different floors, sometimes spending up to 2.5 hours inside the tower. Our reviews show that staying longer allows for better photos, a leisurely lunch, or simply taking in the views without pressure.
Authentic Experiences: What Travelers Say
Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and how they enhance the visit. One reviewer shared, “Petra was very knowledgeable about the Eiffel Tower. It was a great view of the city from the 2nd floor.” Another mentioned how the skip-the-line benefit saved hours of waiting, allowing more time to enjoy the scenery or take photos.
The view during sunset is a particular highlight for some travelers, with one comment noting, “They planned it so we would be there for sunset (9:50 pm). The view from both levels was amazing.” This flexibility makes the tour especially attractive to those wanting to capture Paris in different lights.
Highlights of the Experience
- Skip the long lines and go straight to the elevator — a real time-saver.
- Learn about the tower’s history from a friendly, well-informed guide.
- The panoramic views are undeniably stunning, especially from the second floor.
- Optional summit access adds the thrill of reaching the very top.
Considerations and Drawbacks
While the tour offers excellent value, keep in mind that summit tickets are not included unless upgraded. Plus, security restrictions prevent visitors with certain disabilities from accessing the summit, which was a point of disappointment for some reviews. Also, arriving at the meeting point early is essential; latecomers are not eligible for refunds or entry.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for travelers who want a guided, efficient, and informative visit to the Eiffel Tower without wasting hours in lines. It’s especially suited for those interested in learning about Paris’ most famous landmark in a relaxed setting. Families, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate a small group atmosphere and flexible scheduling will find this tour a good fit.
If you’re someone who values authentic insight over just taking selfies, this guided tour provides a meaningful way to connect with the monument’s story while enjoying breathtaking views.
Deep Dive: The Itinerary in Detail
Meeting and Walk to the Tower
The tour begins at 41 avenue de la Bourdonnais, a dedicated office space — not the Eiffel Tower itself. This may seem slightly inconvenient, but it’s designed to streamline entry. Your guide meets you 15 minutes early, which is key because timed tickets mean punctuality is a must. Several reviews mention how easy the meeting process was, with clear instructions and friendly guides.
The Priority Elevator Ride
Once assembled, your guide will escort your group onto the priority access elevator. This is a major perk, especially during busy times when queues for ticket purchase or entry can stretch for hours. The elevator swiftly takes you to the second floor, cutting down wait times significantly.
The Second Floor Perspective
The second-floor experience offers unbeatable views of Paris. From here, you can see famous landmarks spread out in all directions — a photographer’s dream. Many travelers comment on how “the view from the 2nd floor is spectacular,” and that it’s the perfect place for photos or just soaking in the scenery.
Guided Commentary
The tour includes a brief orientation on the second floor, where your guide shares interesting facts and stories about the tower’s history, architecture, and its role in Paris today. This commentary is appreciated by those who want more than just a view — they want context.
Free Exploration and Summit Option
After the guided part, you’re free to explore further or ascend to the summit if you’ve upgraded. Some reviews mention “planning a sunset visit” to catch the city as it lights up in the evening, which is truly magical.
Returning and Wrap-up
The tour concludes at the Eiffel Tower, but many travelers stay longer to enjoy the view, grab a bite, or explore nearby neighborhoods. The meeting point is at the office, so plan your transport accordingly.
Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?
This tour offers great value for those who want to skip the line and learn about Paris’ most iconic structure from a personable guide. It’s especially suitable if you’re short on time or prefer a guided experience that combines education with stunning visuals. The option to upgrade to the summit makes it appealing for those craving a full-height adventure, though the base tour already provides magnificent views from the second floor.
People who appreciate small group tours and want a well-organized, reliable experience will find this setup ideal. That said, if your goal is to reach the very top and see Paris from the highest point possible, consider upgrading or looking for a tour that includes summit access.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers, including families, find this tour accessible, but keep in mind that security restrictions and the physical effort involved may not suit very young children or those with mobility issues.
Do I need to arrive early?
Absolutely. The meeting point is 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time. Late arrivals won’t be able to join or get a refund.
Can I buy summit tickets on the day?
No, summit tickets are not sold on the day of the tour and must be booked in advance if available. They tend to sell out quickly.
What if I have a disability?
Some reviews note that access to the summit is restricted for visitors with certain disabilities, due to safety policies. It’s best to verify this before booking.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You’re encouraged to bring water, but large bags or oversized luggage are not allowed, and security checks are thorough.
How long is the tour?
The guided portion lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes, but travelers often spend more time enjoying the views or taking photos afterward.
Is this a small-group tour?
Yes, the maximum group size is 20 travelers, which allows for a more personal experience.
Can I customize the tour time?
Different start times are available to fit your schedule, but the meeting time remains fixed.
Will I get a ticket to the Eiffel Tower in advance?
Yes, tickets are pre-booked, so there’s no need to wait in line at the ticket office.
Is there a dress code or specific security measures?
Standard security checks apply; avoid oversized bags and items not permitted in the tower.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a hassle-free, informative, and breathtaking experience of the Eiffel Tower, this tour hits many high points. It’s an excellent choice for visitors who want to maximize their time, skip the queues, and learn a little about this world-famous landmark from friendly guides.
While it doesn’t include summit access by default, the option to upgrade makes it flexible for those craving the full Paris skyline experience. It’s particularly well-suited for first-time visitors or travelers short on time who want a reliable, organized way to enjoy the Eiffel Tower without the stress.
For those who love authentic stories, stunning views, and a personalized touch, this tour offers a good balance of convenience and insight, making your Eiffel Tower visit one to remember.
Note: Always double-check your booking and the availability of summit tickets ahead of time, especially during peak seasons, to ensure you get the experience you want.
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