Eiffel Tower Second or Summit Floor Ticket by Elevator with Views

Visiting the Eiffel Tower is often a highlight of any trip to Paris, but navigating its lines and crowds can be a challenge. This tour offers a reasonably priced way to get closer to the iconic structure, with tickets that grant you access to either the second floor or the summit by elevator. What makes this experience appealing is the combination of skip-the-line convenience, guided assistance up to the second floor, and self-guided exploration beyond that point.

One aspect we particularly like is how this tour manages to balance affordability with comfort. You’re not just left to fend for yourself in long queues; instead, you get a host who helps you get to the tower, ensuring a smooth entry. Plus, the views from the second or top floors are truly breathtaking—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in Paris from above.

However, a caveat to consider is that the tour is non-guided beyond the second floor, meaning you’ll need to explore the summit independently once you reach it. Also, it’s important to know that people with reduced mobility are not permitted to access the summit, which might influence your plans if you’re traveling with mobility concerns. This experience works best for those who want a hassle-free entry and stunning vistas with minimal fuss.

This tour suits travelers who value convenience and time-saving advantages, especially during peak seasons when lines can be long. It’s ideal for visitors who prefer a self-paced visit after a guided start or those on a budget but still eager to see the views from Paris’s most famous landmark.

Key Points

• Skip the Lines: Priority access means you bypass long queues, saving you valuable sightseeing time.
• Flexible Options: Choose between the second floor or summit, depending on your stamina and interest.
• Guided Assistance Up to Second Floor: A friendly host helps you get to the tower and provides a brief introduction in English.
• Independent Exploration: Once at the summit, you’re free to wander and enjoy the views at your own pace.
• Price Point: At around $58.47, it offers a good balance of convenience and affordability, especially compared to buying tickets on-site.
• Limited Accessibility for Some: Those with mobility issues should note that access to the summit is restricted for people with reduced mobility.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Starting Point and Meeting: The tour begins at 45 Avenue de la Bourdonnais, directly in front of the Le Champ de Mars Café. This is a straightforward meeting point, especially since it’s near public transportation—making it easy for travelers to find without extra hassle. The host greets you, exchanges your voucher for tickets, and then accompanies you to the tickets’ point of entry.

The Ticketing and Entry Process: Unlike some tours where tickets are sent in advance, these must be collected at the meeting point, which helps avoid issues with online delivery or last-minute technical glitches. Once you’ve received your tickets, the host helps you navigate security and the queue, which can sometimes be lengthy or delayed, especially during busy periods. Many reviewer comments highlight how this assistance makes the process much smoother—“they helped us get through the queues,” as one said, making the experience much less stressful.

Going Up to the Second Floor: The elevator ride itself is short but exhilarating, offering quick access to one of the most recognizable vantage points in the world. The views from here are impressive, with many reviewers noting how “spectacular” Paris looks from above. For instance, some mention that they arrived before sunset to enjoy the daylight and the city lights in one go—a strategy that enhances the experience.

Views and Amenities: The second floor has shops and restaurants, providing an opportunity to enjoy a quick snack or buy souvenirs. The panoramic views include the Seine River, the Arc de Triomphe, and other Parisian landmarks. As one reviewer put it, “the views were insane,” especially during the golden hour.

Climbing to the Summit: If you’ve purchased the summit option, after exploring the second floor, you’ll take an elevator to the top. The tour itself doesn’t include a guide here, so you’re on your own. Many reviews note that the self-guided summit experience allows flexibility—some spend only a few minutes, while others linger longer to take photos or just admire the cityscape.

Guidance and Information: The host provides general information about the tower and some fun facts before guiding you to the elevators. Many reviews highlight how helpful guides like Aida, Diana, or Samy are, bringing enthusiasm and local knowledge that enhances the initial part of the visit. “Our guide was very knowledgeable and kind,” said one reviewer, emphasizing that the personal touch is often what makes this experience stand out.

Duration and Group Size: The entire process usually takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, including waiting, elevator rides, and initial guidance. The maximum group size is 30 travelers, which helps keep things manageable and personal.

What Reviewers Love and What They Don’t

Positives:
– Several reviewers appreciated how smooth the process was thanks to helpful guides like Laura and Diana. They raved about the knowledgeable assistance and how much easier it made their visit.
– The views from the tower consistently receive praise, with many saying they were “absolutely magnificent” or “insane.” The timing—arriving before sunset—is often recommended to catch the daylight and nighttime views.
– The skip-the-line feature is particularly popular among those who dislike waiting in crowds—”worth skipping the lines,” as one review states.
– Many find the price reasonable for the convenience and experience, especially compared to buying tickets on-site, which can be more expensive and time-consuming.

Negatives:
– Some reviews warn about the lack of a guided tour beyond the second floor, as you’re left to explore the summit on your own.
– A few travelers expressed frustration with delays at security checks and the process of collecting tickets, which can be unpredictable during busy times.
– There are complaints about inaccessibility to the summit for people with reduced mobility, which is important to consider if traveling with mobility challenges.
– One review even described the process as a “scam” because of the perceived high markup compared to buying tickets directly through the Eiffel Tower website.

Practical Aspects and Tips for Your Visit

Tickets and Price: At around $58.47, this tour offers an excellent balance of convenience and affordability—especially since it includes assistance, skip-the-line privileges, and a guided start. If you’re looking to avoid the long queues and get up close with Paris’s most famous landmark, it’s a good investment.

Timing: Multiple daily visit times give flexibility, but aim to arrive early or before sunset if possible. The views are spectacular in daylight, but the Eiffel Tower illuminated at night is equally mesmerizing—a perfect photo opportunity.

Meeting Point: The designated meeting spot is easy to find, situated right in front of a popular café, and close to public transportation. This reduces the stress of navigating Paris on your own.

Physical Fitness: The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and standing are involved, especially at security and while exploring the tower.

Accessibility: Keep in mind that the summit is not accessible to people with reduced mobility, so plan accordingly if this is a concern.

Weather Considerations: Since this is an outdoor experience, the tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re after a no-fuss way to see the Eiffel Tower’s breathtaking views without the hassle of long lines, this tour is a solid choice. The priority access, helpful guides, and flexible timing make it ideal for travelers who want a quick and comfortable visit, especially during busy seasons. The viewpoints from the second floor and summit are truly stunning, making your effort worthwhile—even if you’re just visiting for a short time.

However, if you’re looking for a detailed, guided experience with in-depth commentary, this option might feel limited since it doesn’t include a guide beyond the initial assistance. Also, those with mobility issues should consider alternative options, as summit access is restricted.

Overall, for less than the price of a standard ticket, you gain convenience, a better chance to avoid the crowds, and memorable panoramic vistas. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want an efficient, enjoyable way to tick the Eiffel Tower off their list and capture some unforgettable photos.

FAQ

Can I buy tickets in advance for this tour?
Yes, you need to book and receive your tickets beforehand, but they are collected at the meeting point rather than sent in advance.

What’s included in the tour?
You get an entry ticket to the chosen floor (second or summit) by elevator, host assistance up to the second floor, and general information in English.

Is there a guided tour at the top?
No, the tour is not guided beyond the second floor. Once you reach the summit, you explore independently.

Are there options for different times during the day?
Yes, you can select from multiple daily admission times to suit your schedule.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Unfortunately, summit access is not available for people with reduced mobility.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, including waiting, elevator rides, and initial guidance.

What if the weather is poor on the day of my visit?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to weather, you’ll be given a different date or a full refund.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Paris, this Eiffel Tower experience offers a practical way to enjoy spectacular views with minimal fuss. It’s a smart choice for those who want to skip long lines and make the most of their time in the City of Light.