Paris: Access to the Eiffel Tower’s 2nd Floor

Experience the Eiffel Tower’s 2nd Floor with Guided Access and Free Time to Explore

If you’re visiting Paris and want to skip the long lines at the Eiffel Tower, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to experience this iconic monument. For around $85 per person, you’ll get priority elevator access to the second floor and the chance to learn about the tower’s fascinating background from a knowledgeable guide. The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing schedule.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the combination of guided commentary and free time on the observation deck. The guide’s insights make the views more meaningful, revealing sights like Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Arc de Triomphe, while the free time allows you to soak in the city’s scenery at your own pace. The second highlight is the convenience of skip-the-line access, saving you hours standing in queues—something every traveler values, especially during peak seasons.

A potential drawback is that this ticket only grants access to the second floor—if you’re eager to go all the way to the summit, you’ll need to arrange for a separate ticket. Also, note that security checks can still cause delays, so arriving early is wise. This tour is especially ideal for those who prefer a guided introduction combined with some independent exploration, making it great for first-timers or travelers short on time.

This tour suits visitors who want a balanced mix of expert guidance and personal freedom to enjoy the Eiffel Tower, all while avoiding the hassle of long lines. It’s perfect for those who value insight and efficient access over a more leisurely, unorganized climb on their own.

Key Points

• Skip the Lines: Priority elevator access saves hours waiting in queues.
• Insightful Guides: Learn about the tower’s history and Paris from local hosts.
• Stunning Views: Enjoy panoramic sights including Notre Dame, the Louvre, and beyond.
• Flexible Time: Free time on the second floor lets you explore at your own pace.
• Comfort & Accessibility: Elevators and wheelchair access make it suitable for most travelers.
• Price vs. Value: At $85, you get quick access, guided insights, and memorable views, making it a worthwhile splurge for many.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at What to Expect

When you book this tour, you’ll meet your guide at a designated spot just outside the Eiffel Tower—19 Avenue de la Bourdonnais—about 15 minutes before your scheduled start. This is a helpful detail because the guide will give you a quick overview and instructions, avoiding confusion at the busy site. Unlike other options, you won’t need to collect your tickets in advance—everything is arranged ahead of time, but you’ll need to show your voucher at the meeting point.

Once assembled, your guide will give a brief introduction to the history and significance of the Eiffel Tower. Expect friendly, knowledgeable commentary that covers fun facts, the tower’s design, and its role in Paris’s skyline. Several reviewers emphasize the expertise and friendliness of guides like Ines, Zoe, Caroline, and Antonio, who make the experience more engaging. One review notes, “Our guide was very friendly and gave an interesting tour,” which highlights how much the personal touch counts.

After the introduction, you’ll use elevator access to reach the second floor. This is a major convenience, especially during busy times, since the line for elevators can be long and slow. Once at the second level, your guide will leave you to enjoy the magnificent views at your own pace. You can stroll around the observation deck, take photos, or simply marvel at the vistas over Paris. The second floor offers a good vantage point—just above the rooftops, yet high enough to give a sense of the vast city sprawled below.

From reviews, it’s clear that the views are a highlight—with sights like Notre Dame, the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, and Les Invalides all visible. One traveler mentions, “The view was amazing,” emphasizing how memorable the scenery can be. Some guides even share historical insights about the sights visible from the tower, adding context that enriches your visit.

The free time on the second floor is valuable—many visitors appreciate the opportunity to explore independently after the guided portion. It’s the perfect moment for photos, savoring the view, or just soaking in the Parisian skyline before descending.

Inclusions and Practicalities

Your ticket includes access to the Eiffel Tower via elevator, a local guide, and the advantage of skipping the official queues. It does not include access to the summit—if that’s your goal, you’ll need to purchase a separate ticket. Also, food and drinks aren’t included, but there are plenty of options nearby.

Meeting instructions are clear—arrive early, as late arrivals are considered a no-show. The tour runs rain or shine, and the elevators are wheelchair accessible, a thoughtful detail for travelers with mobility needs. Keep in mind that security checks can still cause delays, so patience is advised.

The Experience From a Traveller’s Perspective

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who make the tour both educational and fun. One recent comment states, “Zoe was awesome. She was on time and full of info,” highlighting the importance of punctuality and expertise. Others mention the efficient process of skipping long lines, which can be a game-changer during peak season.

Some travelers found the experience to be short but sweet—a great way to see the Eiffel Tower without spending hours in queues. For example, “The short and sweet tour then free time” was a common praise, especially for those with limited time in Paris.

A few reviews note minor hiccups, mainly with finding the guide or security delays. One traveler remarked, “It was a bit difficult to locate the guide on the street corner,” suggesting that travelers should look for a clearly marked guide with a sign. Another pointed out that security checks can still cause delays, so arriving early remains a good idea.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is an excellent choice for first-time visitors wanting an overview of the Eiffel Tower with expert commentary. It’s also ideal for travelers who value convenience and time-saving—especially during busy periods when lines can be daunting. If you prefer to blend guided learning with some personal exploration, this experience strikes a good balance.

It’s particularly well-suited for those with mobility concerns, thanks to elevator access and wheelchair friendliness. If you’re eager to go to the top of the tower, you’ll need to look for a different ticket or tour that includes summit access.

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Final Thoughts

In the end, this experience offers a practical, enjoyable way to see one of the world’s most famous landmarks without the stress of long lines. The guided insights make the visit more enriching, and the free time on the second floor guarantees you can soak in the views at your own pace. For around $85, it’s a good investment—particularly if you value efficient access and a knowledgeable guide.

If you’re traveling in peak season or simply want to make the most of your limited time in Paris, this tour provides a smooth, memorable experience. It’s perfect for those who want to combine an educational component with the freedom to explore, all while avoiding the chaos of waiting in queues.

FAQ

Does this tour include access to the Eiffel Tower’s summit?
No, this specific ticket only grants access to the second floor. To reach the summit, you would need to purchase a separate ticket.

How early should I arrive for the tour?
It’s best to arrive about 15 minutes before the scheduled start time at the meeting point. This allows for a smooth check-in and ensures you don’t miss any part of the guided introduction.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour and the Eiffel Tower are wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for travelers with mobility needs.

Will I need to wait in line for security checks?
Yes, security is mandatory and can cause delays. Arriving early helps minimize waiting time, but be prepared for some security processing regardless.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket provides priority elevator access to the second floor and a local guide. Food, drinks, and summit access are not included.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 5 days in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

In summary, if you’re after efficient access, expert insights, and the chance to enjoy Paris’s skyline without the hassle, this tour hits the spot. It’s perfect for first-timers, those short on time, or travelers who want a guided overview with some personal freedom. Just remember to arrive early, wear comfortable shoes, and keep an eye out for your guide’s sign. The view from the second floor of the Eiffel Tower remains one of the most memorable sights in Paris—this tour makes sure you get there efficiently and enjoyably.

You can check availability for your dates here: