Book Eiffel Tower tickets smart: compare prices, skip-the-line options & insider tips. Avoid queues & scams for your perfect Paris experience!
Tips and tricks to visit Eiffel Tower
No symbol represents Paris more universally than the Iron Lady herself. Securing the right Eiffel Tower tickets can make the difference between a magical experience and hours wasted in notorious queues.
Visitors have several options when purchasing Eiffel Tower tickets. Standard tickets provide access to the 2nd floor via elevator or stairs, while premium tickets continue to the summit (3rd floor). Each option offers progressively more breathtaking views across Paris. Stair access (to the 2nd floor only) provides both a budget-friendly alternative and a unique perspective of the tower’s intricate ironwork.
When purchasing Eiffel Tower tickets, you’ll need to select a specific date and time slot. These timed entries help manage crowds, but you should still arrive 15-30 minutes before your scheduled time. During peak season (May-September), desirable time slots sell out weeks in advance, particularly sunset visits which offer magnificent golden hour views followed by the tower’s sparkling light show.
The official Eiffel Tower website offers the most reliable booking platform and often the best prices for Eiffel Tower tickets. Third-party vendors typically charge premium rates but may offer valuable add-ons like guided tours or combination tickets with other attractions.
For those seeking to avoid lines entirely, “skip-the-line” Eiffel Tower tickets available through authorized tour operators provide priority access. While more expensive, these options save valuable vacation time, especially during high season when standard entry queues can exceed two hours.
Visitors should be aware of common ticket scams around the tower. Always purchase Eiffel Tower tickets from official sources or recognized travel partners, and be wary of unauthorized street vendors offering “discount” or “immediate entry” tickets.