The Eiffel Tower: More Than Just a Pretty Face

Ah, the Eiffel Tower—the iconic symbol of Paris, if not all of France. Whether you’ve seen it in movies, on postcards, or splashed across Instagram feeds, there’s no denying its magnetic charm. But let me tell you, the Eiffel Tower is so much more than just a photogenic structure. It’s an experience—a must-do for anyone visiting Paris. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, there’s always something magical about standing at the base of this iron masterpiece, looking up in awe.

FRANCE

8/31/20245 min read

A Quick History Lesson (Don’t Worry, It's Short!)

Constructed in 1889 for the World’s Fair, the Eiffel Tower was originally met with skepticism. Some Parisians found it to be, well, a bit of an eyesore. Imagine that! But today, it stands tall (literally) as one of the most beloved landmarks in the world. Fun fact: it was almost torn down after the World’s Fair, but thanks to its usefulness as a radio tower, it survived and thrived!

My Personal Eiffel Tower Moment

I’ll never forget my first visit to the Eiffel Tower. Picture this: it’s late afternoon, and the sky is a soft pastel pink. I had just grabbed a baguette from a nearby boulangerie (as one does in Paris), and as I walked toward the tower, I couldn’t help but feel this giddy excitement bubbling up inside. It’s that kind of sight that hits you all at once—something you’ve seen a million times in pictures, but there’s nothing like seeing it in person.

If I could give you one piece of advice, take your time with the tower. Don’t rush it. Walk around the Champ de Mars, take it in from different angles, and enjoy the atmosphere. It’s Paris, after all—life moves a little slower here, in the best way possible.

When to Visit for Maximum Magic

Timing your visit is key. Personally, I think there are two golden windows:

Early morning: If you’re not a morning person, hear me out! The Eiffel Tower at dawn is practically deserted. You’ll have the place mostly to yourself (perfect for photos) and there’s something about watching the city wake up that feels incredibly special.
Evening: After dark, the tower sparkles—literally! Every hour on the hour, the Eiffel Tower bursts into glittering lights for five minutes. It’s hands-down one of the most magical sights you’ll ever see. Pack a picnic and a bottle of wine, find a cozy spot on the grass, and just enjoy the show. Trust me, it’s worth it.

Should You Climb or Take the Elevator?

Here’s the million-dollar question: do you brave the stairs or take the elevator to the top? If you’re feeling adventurous (and your legs are up for it), I highly recommend climbing the stairs. Not only do you get to say you climbed the Eiffel Tower (bragging rights!), but you’ll also get unique views on your way up that you won’t get from the elevator. Plus, it feels like a mini-accomplishment when you reach the top.

However, if climbing isn’t your thing, no judgment here! The elevator ride is smooth and offers stunning views as you ascend. Either way, the top is where you’ll get those panoramic views of Paris that make it all worth it. On a clear day, you can see landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe, Sacré-Cœur, and the Louvre.

The Best View of the Eiffel Tower (Spoiler: It’s Not from the Tower Itself!)

Want the best view of the Eiffel Tower, not from it? Head over to the Trocadéro Gardens. This spot offers an unbeatable, unobstructed view of the tower, especially at sunrise or during the evening light show. Bonus: it’s also a prime location for a picture-perfect Eiffel Tower selfie!

Another favorite spot of mine is Pont de Bir-Hakeim, a bridge that’s about a 10-minute walk from the tower. Not only do you get a fantastic view of the Eiffel Tower along the river, but the bridge itself is a little cinematic gem—many movies have been filmed there, including Inception!

Eiffel Tower Hacks for Savvy Travelers

Here’s where we get to the useful tips. First things first: book your tickets in advance. The Eiffel Tower is one of the most visited monuments in the world, and trust me, you don’t want to spend hours in line. You can buy tickets online for the elevator, the stairs, or even a combination if you want the full experience.

Another pro tip: If you’re planning to have dinner nearby, skip the restaurants that are right next to the tower—they tend to be overpriced and a bit touristy. Instead, wander into the side streets and you’ll find some charming bistros where the food is just as spectacular, and the prices are more reasonable.

Lastly, consider a Seine River cruise either before or after your visit. These cruises offer an amazing perspective of the Eiffel Tower from the water, and if you take one in the evening, you’ll get to see the tower light up in all its sparkling glory.

Don’t Forget to Look Down!

As much as you’ll be captivated by the views from the top of the Eiffel Tower, don’t forget to look down at your feet! The first-floor platform has a glass floor—perfect for those with a bit of an adventurous spirit. It’s a thrill to walk on it and look straight down (if you’re not afraid of heights, of course).

Wrapping Up: Why the Eiffel Tower is Worth It

I get it—some might say the Eiffel Tower is a bit of a cliché. But here’s the thing: clichés are clichés for a reason. There’s something timelessly enchanting about the Eiffel Tower. It’s not just a monument; it’s a memory waiting to be made. Whether it’s your first trip to Paris or your fifth, I promise the tower will leave an impression.

So, if you’re heading to Paris soon, make the Eiffel Tower a priority. And remember—don’t rush it. The magic of Paris is best enjoyed at your own pace, and the Eiffel Tower is the perfect place to start.

Planning to visit the Eiffel Tower? Share your thoughts or any questions you have in the comments below! And don’t forget to check out our tips on where to stay and the best local eats around the tower—because every trip deserves an unforgettable experience. Bon voyage!