Paris: Eiffel Tower 2nd Floor Access or Summit Access

Visiting the Eiffel Tower is a must-do activity when in Paris, but navigating the crowds and waiting in line can quickly turn a dream visit into a frustrating ordeal. This guided tour offers a streamlined experience, allowing you to skip the queues and enjoy a smooth ascent to some of the most iconic views in the city. Whether you opt for the second-floor access or upgrade to reach the summit, this experience promises a blend of convenience, expert commentary, and breathtaking scenery.

One thing we appreciate about this tour is the pre-booked timed tickets—no standing in long lines, which can be a real time-saver amid busy seasons. Plus, the inclusion of a knowledgeable guide means you’ll get interesting tidbits about the Eiffel Tower’s history and architecture, enriching your visit beyond just snapping photos. However, if you’re sensitive to crowds or have mobility limitations, you should note that this tour might not suit you, especially since it involves elevator access and some waiting for security and elevators.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to maximize their time in Paris, enjoy detailed commentary, and avoid the hassle of ticket queues. Families, solo explorers, or couples seeking a hassle-free way to experience the Eiffel Tower will find this tour particularly valuable. For those looking to capture stunning photos or learn more about why this monument is so beloved, it’s a solid choice.

Key Points

• Skip the Lines: Pre-booked tickets mean no waiting in long queues.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides provide engaging commentary about the tower and Paris landmarks.
• Flexible Exploration: Unlimited time inside the tower allows for personal pacing and photo opportunities.
• Beautiful Views: Enjoy panoramic sights of Paris from the second floor and optionally from the summit.
• Convenient Location: Meeting point at the Paris’ TRIP office is just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower.
• Value for Money: At $46 per person, it offers a good balance between convenience and cost, especially compared to the hassle of on-the-spot tickets.

The Experience: What to Expect

Booking this tour means you’ll bypass the often lengthy queues and head straight to the fun part—the views. The process is straightforward: meet your guide at the designated Paris’ TRIP office, located just five minutes on foot from the Eiffel Tower. From there, the guide will lead you to the tower for your elevator ride to the second floor, or, if you’ve chosen the upgrade, to the summit.

Once inside, the tour includes access to the 1st and 2nd floors, where you’ll have plenty of time to wander, soak in the scenery, and snap photos. Expect to see Paris’ most recognizable sights, like the Seine River, the Arc de Triomphe, and the distinctive rooftops of the city. Reviewers mention that the views from the 2nd floor are “amazing,” with one even describing the night-time perspective as “worth it” despite the cold and windy weather.

If you selected the summit upgrade, you’ll join a separate queue on the 2nd floor to access the elevators leading up to the top. While this does require waiting in line again, many reviews note that the guides expedite the process and help you access the summit efficiently—something that can otherwise be a tedious part of visiting the tower independently.

The sightseeing isn’t just about the views. Guides share interesting facts about the Eiffel Tower’s history and architecture, making the experience educational as well as visually stunning. For example, some reviewers mention their guide, Chloe, who was “super friendly” and **”very knowledgeable”, making the cold day more bearable with engaging commentary.

The tour offers unlimited time inside the tower, which means you can take your time exploring the different levels. Some travelers, like one who went at night, appreciated the opportunity to see the city lit up, making for fantastic photo opportunities.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The initial meeting point at Paris’ TRIP office ensures a smooth start. From there, your guide will walk with you to the Eiffel Tower, which saves you from trying to find tickets or entrance points solo. This is particularly helpful for travelers unfamiliar with navigating Paris or those who prefer a guided experience.

Once at the tower, you’ll take the elevator to the second floor. You’ll be free to explore the platform at your own pace, with ample time to enjoy the views, take photos, and learn about Paris from your guide. The second floor is where most visitors marvel at the panoramic views and enjoy the famous Parisian rooftops.

For those who upgrade to summit access, your guide facilitates the process of catching the elevator to the top. Many reviews praise guides like Emmanuel and Vildan for their “knowledgeable” and “friendly” manner, which makes the wait for the elevators more bearable. One reviewer notes that their guide “got us right up to the 2nd floor and then instructed us to go up to the summit right away,” which saved a lot of time.

At the summit, you’ll experience a different perspective—more elevated, with views of the entire city. While waiting lines are part of the process, the expedited access and the guide’s assistance significantly reduce the hassle. Some guests mention spending extra time on the first floor, which has a glass floor and offers a different kind of thrill.

The return to the first floor is a highlight for many; the glass floor provides an exciting, if slightly nerve-wracking, experience. Plus, seeing the tower lit up at night is described as a memorable finale by several reviewers.

Practical Details and Tips

The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, but with unlimited time inside, you can linger longer if desired. The tour isn’t just about the ascent; it’s about making the most of your visit in a relaxed, guided setting. The meeting point at 41 Avenue de la Bourdonnais is easy to find, but punctuality is key—miss the guide, and you risk losing your tickets with no chance for rescheduling.

While the tour covers elevator access to the second floor (and summit if upgraded), it’s important to note that security checks and elevator waits could mean up to 25-minute delays during high season. The guides do their best to expedite, but patience is recommended.

The tickets include access to the Eiffel Tower’s first floor by elevator, allowing you to explore further down the line, marveling at the glass floors and interactive displays. This area is great for a short break from the crowds and offers another perspective on the tower’s impressive structure.

Important considerations: The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as elevator access and stairs might be limited. Also, no luggage, pets, or large bags are permitted, and there is no left luggage facility at the tower—so pack light.

The price of $46 per person strikes us as reasonable, especially considering the saved time and expert guidance. For comparison, buying tickets independently often involves longer waits, and the added value of a guide makes this a good deal for first-time visitors or those short on time.

Authentic Tips from Reviewers

Many reviewers highlight their guides’ friendly and knowledgeable nature. One describes their guide as “very friendly, knowledgeable,” and another mentions their guide “explained all the history in a fun and detailed way,” making the tour both educational and entertaining. Several note how guides expedited their entry, especially when the weather was cold or rainy, helping to make a potentially uncomfortable experience more enjoyable.

Long lines and crowds are a common theme, but the skip-the-line access is consistently praised for saving a significant amount of time. A reviewer from Australia said, “We could go straight into the Eiffel Tower without any queuing, which saved a lot of time.” Others appreciated the flexibility to explore at your own pace once inside, describing it as “very good value” for the money.

The views at night, especially, are a highlight. Many mention how the illuminated cityscape makes the experience unforgettable, with one reviewer stating, “Watching the tower get lit up was a highlight.”

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a practical, well-organized way to see the Eiffel Tower without the hassle of waiting in lines. The combination of priority access, expert guides, and flexible exploration makes it a smart choice for visitors with limited time or those who want to maximize their sightseeing experience.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who value informative commentary that adds context to the stunning visuals. Families, couples, or solo adventurers who enjoy a paced, guided experience will all find this option appealing. Keep in mind the cost, which is quite reasonable considering the convenience, and the non-refundable policy—so plan your schedule carefully.

If you’re after an efficient, insightful, and enjoyable way to conquer the Eiffel Tower, this tour hits the mark. The views, the stories, and the ease of access make it a worthwhile addition to your Paris itinerary.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for small children or mobility-impaired travelers?
No, the tour is not recommended for people with mobility impairments or those using wheelchairs, as elevator access and stairs may be limited.

Do I need to print my voucher?
The tour requires you to meet at the Paris’ TRIP office to exchange your voucher; having a printed or digital copy ready makes the process smoother.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts about 1.5 hours, but with unlimited time inside the tower, you can stay longer if you wish.

Can I upgrade to access the summit?
Yes, if you select the summit upgrade, you will join a line on the second floor to board the elevator that takes you to the top.

What’s included in the ticket?
Your ticket includes prebooked elevator access to the second level or summit (depending on choice), access to the 1st floor, a guide, and no waiting time to purchase tickets.

Are there any restrictions on what I can bring?
Yes, pets, weapons or sharp objects, large bags, non-folding strollers, and glass objects are not allowed. There is no left luggage facility, so pack light.

What should I wear?
Bring layers, especially in colder months, as it can be windy and chilly at the top. Comfortable shoes are also recommended for walking.

Is there an option to explore on my own after the guided part?
Absolutely. Once inside, you’ll have unlimited time to explore at your leisure, take photos, or relax while soaking in the views.

In all, this guided Eiffel Tower experience combines convenience, educational value, and spectacular scenery. It’s ideal for travelers looking to avoid the lines, learn some fun facts, and get the best views without the stress. Just remember to arrive on time and be ready for some security checks—and your trip to the top of Paris awaits.