Eiffel Tower Access to 2nd Floor and Summit by Lift

Taking in the Eiffel Tower from above is undeniably a highlight of any trip to Paris. This specific experience promises pre-booked, skip-the-line access to the second floor and the elevator ride to the summit, saving you from long waits and letting you enjoy more time soaking up the views. We’ve looked at the reviews, itinerary details, and practical considerations to give you a balanced picture of what to expect.

What we like most about this tour is the convenience it offers—fast-track entry, a knowledgeable host, and the chance to stand at the top of one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. However, some travelers have noted issues with organization, the variability of guide involvement, and questions around value for money. This experience is might best suited for visitors who want to skip the long lines and are comfortable exploring somewhat independently once at the top.

If you’re after a straightforward, no-fuss visit with guaranteed summit access, this tour could fit your needs. But if you prefer guided commentary or a more immersive, guided experience, you might find it lacking. Let’s dig deeper into what’s on offer and what you might want to watch out for.

Key Points

Skip-the-line access saves significant waiting time during busy periods.
Summit access by elevator provides panoramic views that are hard to beat.
Guides provide assistance up to the second floor but do not accompany you to the top.
Organizational hiccups have been reported, including late guides and unclear meeting points.
Pricing is somewhat higher than buying tickets directly, which raises questions about value.
Limited guide involvement means you’ll explore independently at the top.
Most travelers appreciate the views and the convenience of pre-booked tickets.
People with reduced mobility are not allowed to access the summit.
Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.

The Experience Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Meeting and Escort to the Tower

The tour begins at 45 Av. de la Bourdonnais, right near public transportation options, making it easy to reach. Your host will meet you there, and from the reviews, it appears that most travelers appreciated how they helped navigate security and made sure you entered quickly. One reviewer mentioned that their guide, Ana, “herded us safely through lines and crowds,” which is a good indication that at least some guides are attentive and helpful.

However, a few travelers found the meeting process somewhat disorganized. For instance, some waited outside in front of an apartment door, with no official office or clear signage. This underscores the importance of double-checking meeting instructions and arriving early.

Up to the Second Floor

Once you’re inside, you’ll ascend by elevator—a swift process that most travelers found to be a huge time-saver. The guide will escort you up to the second floor, providing some general info about the tower’s history and construction, but it’s important to note that this isn’t a guided tour in the traditional sense. One review commented, “Our guide was knowledgeable and fun,” but then she left the group after the second floor, leaving you to explore on your own.

Facing the Security and Lines

A recurring theme among reviews is the potential delays at security checkpoints and elevators. You might find yourself waiting longer than anticipated due to high visitor volumes, a common issue during peak seasons. Some reviews mentioned that even with pre-booked tickets, the queues can still be long, and the tour’s promise of skipping the line might not fully materialize during busy days.

Reaching the Summit

The highlight of this experience is the elevator ride to the top of the Eiffel Tower. From the reviews, it’s clear that the views from the summit are spectacular—“What a view,” said one traveler, describing the panoramic vista of Paris with lights twinkling at night. But be aware that access to the summit is limited to those with this specific ticket, which many reviewers found to be a major advantage over purchasing on the spot, where summit tickets often sell out.

Exploring Independently at the Top

Once at the top, you’re free to wander at your own pace. The tour doesn’t include guided commentary here, so if you’re craving insights about landmarks or the tower’s engineering, you’ll need to read up beforehand or ask your guide before leaving the second floor. Several reviews appreciated guides’ “great facts about the Eiffel Tower,” while others expressed disappointment that no guide accompanied them to point out sights from the summit.

Duration and Group Size

The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, with most of that time spent waiting, ascending, and enjoying the views. The tour is limited to 15 travelers, which helps keep the group manageable but also means booking early is essential during busy periods. Travelers noted that the tour involves no additional transportation, so you’ll need to plan your logistics separately.

The Realities Behind the Price

At around $102 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option, especially considering that some reviews suggest tickets purchased directly at the tower could cost around $35. The premium mainly covers pre-booked, skip-the-line entry, a host’s assistance, and the convenience factor.

Many travelers felt that they paid a lot for just a ticket delivery service, especially if their guide’s involvement was minimal or if they experienced delays. One reviewer said, “Very disappointed, information is misleading,” and pointed out that despite promises of skip-the-line access, they still waited in long queues and missed sunset because of timing.

However, others found value in avoiding the long wait and appreciated the knowledge the guide provided up to the second floor. The flexibility to choose from “dozens of ticket times” is also a plus, helping travelers fit the experience into their schedule.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Looking at the candid feedback, some guides really made the difference. “Ashan was so gentle and helpful,” one traveler wrote, highlighting the importance of a friendly, knowledgeable guide. Conversely, several reviews noted guides leaving early or not being as involved as expected, which can be frustrating if you’re counting on their assistance.

The views from the summit are universally praised. One traveler called it “absolutely worth the cost,” especially at night when the Eiffel Tower lights twinkle. But beware of the organizational hiccups—late guides, unclear meeting points, and waiting in queues remain consistent issues during peak times.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want fast, guaranteed access to the Eiffel Tower’s top without the hassle of waiting in line. It’s ideal if you’re okay with exploring independently once you reach the summit, since guided commentary isn’t included at the top. It’s also a good fit if you prefer pre-arranged timing and want to avoid the risk of tickets selling out or long queues.

However, it might not be the best choice for those looking for an in-depth guided tour, especially if you value continuous commentary and interaction. People with reduced mobility should also note that access to the summit is not permitted for them.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a convenient way to skip potentially hours of waiting, with the added bonus of stunning views from the summit. The ability to select from multiple time slots and the promise of elevator access make it appealing for busy travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing time.

But it’s worth considering the value for money. If your main goal is just to see the Eiffel Tower from the top, you might find cheaper options by purchasing tickets directly. However, if the hassle of queues and organizing your own tickets sounds daunting, this tour could save you time and stress—though be prepared for some organizational quirks.

In essence, it’s best for travelers who prioritize ease and convenience over guided commentary and are comfortable exploring the top independently. For those wanting a guided experience with continuous insights, it may fall short.

FAQs

What does the tour include?
It provides pre-booked entrance to the second floor and elevator access to the summit of the Eiffel Tower, along with host assistance up to the second floor.

Does the guide stay with us at the top?
No, the guide escorts you to the second floor but then leaves you to explore the summit on your own.

Are there any accessibility restrictions?
Yes, this tour does not permit people with reduced mobility to access the summit.

How long does the entire experience last?
Approximately 3 hours, including waiting, ascending, and viewing time.

Is it worth paying extra for this tour?
That depends on your priorities. You’ll pay over the standard ticket price for guaranteed summit access and skip-the-line entry but should weigh whether the guide’s limited involvement justifies the cost.

Can I choose my preferred time slot?
Yes, this tour offers dozens of ticket times, allowing you to pick a slot that fits your schedule.

What if the summit is closed?
You might be refunded the difference between the cost of a ticket for the summit and the second floor if access is restricted due to closures by public authorities or force majeure.

Do I need to print my tickets?
Usually, tickets are electronic, but it’s best to check your confirmation for specific instructions.

What should I do if my guide is late or I get lost?
The meeting point is at 45 Av. de la Bourdonnais, but reviews suggest arriving early and checking your instructions carefully is best. If guides are late, patience or contacting support may be necessary.

Final Words

If you’re looking for a fast, hassle-free way to experience the Eiffel Tower’s summit, this tour can be a solid choice. You’ll love the stunning panoramic views and the convenience of pre-arranged access, especially during busy seasons. Just be aware that organizational hiccups can happen, and the guide’s involvement is limited once you reach the second floor.

For travelers who enjoy independent exploration or are on a tight budget, purchasing tickets directly from the Eiffel Tower might be more economical. But if avoiding long queues is your priority, this tour offers a practical route to the top—just be prepared for some possible bumps along the way.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Paris explorer, knowing what to expect helps you decide if this experience matches your style of sightseeing. Remember, a little planning goes a long way in making your Eiffel Tower visit truly memorable.