Eiffel Tower with 2nd Floor Access & Trocadero Gardens Tour

Exploring Paris’s most iconic landmark with a guided tour can make all the difference. This particular experience offers a mix of cultural storytelling, breathtaking views, and an opportunity to skip long lines—though it’s not without its quirks. At around $77 per person, the tour packs a lot into a two-hour window, making it a popular choice for travelers eager to tick this major sight off their list without the hassle of booking tickets alone.

What we really love about this tour is the insider knowledge your guide shares—adding context to the photos and views you’ll cherish. The inclusion of the Trocadéro Gardens as a starting point provides a perfect backdrop for photos and sets the scene for your Eiffel adventure. The downside? Since the tour caps at 15 guests, it’s a cozy experience, but on busy days, you might face short waits at the Eiffel Tower due to capacity restrictions. Still, for those wanting a guided, efficient, and engaging visit, this tour offers excellent value.

This experience suits travelers who want a well-rounded, small-group tour with expert guidance, especially if you’re keen to learn about the history and significance of Paris’s most famous monument. If you’re a first-time visitor or simply want to make the most of your limited time, it’s a solid pick. However, if you’re eager to reach the summit or prefer a self-guided adventure, you might want to look elsewhere.

Key Points

• Skip the lines: Your tickets to the second-floor observation deck are included, saving you waiting time.
• Small group experience: Tours are limited to 15 guests, making the experience more personal and interactive.
• Expert guide: A local guide provides historical facts and stories, enriching your understanding of the Eiffel Tower.
• Start at Trocadéro: The tour begins with a walk through the scenic gardens, offering fantastic views and photo opportunities.
• Limited access: The tour does not include the summit, but you can opt to purchase that separately.
• Duration and pace: Two hours of walking and sightseeing, with moderate pace suitable for most travelers.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting at Trocadéro Gardens

The tour kicks off at the Square de Yorktown, a prime location with expansive views of the Eiffel Tower. This is where you’ll meet your guide—likely a local with a passion for Paris—and start with a leisurely stroll through the gardens. Here, you’ll find famous sculptures like L’Homme and La Femme, plus the Warsaw Fountains, all set against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower’s impressive silhouette.

This spot is ideal for snapping some memorable photos, and your guide will share tidbits about the gardens’ history from the 1930s. As one reviewer noted, “the views of the Eiffel Tower from here are jaw-dropping,” making it a perfect introduction to your visit.

Ascent to the Second Floor of Eiffel Tower

Following the gardens, your guide leads you to the iconic monument. The ascent to the second floor involves a brief walk and possibly some waiting, depending on crowds, but your pre-booked tickets mean you won’t be stuck in long lines. Once at the second level, the panoramic views of Paris are simply spectacular.

Your guide will point out landmarks like Notre-Dame, the Pantheon, and the Arc de Triomphe, helping you put the sprawling city into perspective. We loved the way your guide contextualizes the tower’s role in history—from its roots in the French Revolution to its status as a symbol of France today.

Exploring the Observation Decks

Standing on the second floor, you’ll get a chance to take in the scenery and even step onto the glass floor above the streets—a thrill for those with a slight fear of heights or just a flair for drama. The deck is a great spot for photos, but since this tour doesn’t go to the summit, your views are limited to the second floor’s vantage point.

The guide might also share stories about how the Eiffel Tower was initially met with skepticism, and what it took to keep it standing after the 1889 World’s Fair. For many, the highlights are not just the views but the stories and context shared along the way, which elevate the experience beyond just a sightseeing stop.

Additional Insights From Reviewers

One traveler commented, “the guide was very knowledgeable about the tower’s history and showed us parts of the tower I wouldn’t have discovered on my own,” highlighting the value of guided tours. Others appreciated the small group size, which made questions and interactions easy.

A minor drawback noted was that sometimes the wait at the tower could be short due to crowd capacity, especially during peak times. However, the pre-booked tickets usually mitigate this issue, ensuring a smoother experience.

Practical Details

The tour lasts approximately two hours, making it a manageable segment of your day—ideal if you’re trying to maximize your sightseeing without exhaustion. The meeting point at Square de Yorktown is centrally located and accessible via public transport, which helps in planning your day.

While the tour includes tickets to the second-floor observation deck, it does not include access to the summit, which can be purchased separately if you’re eager to go higher. The tour is conducted in English, and participants should be comfortable walking at a moderate pace.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At around $77, this tour provides a comprehensive, guided experience that saves you the trouble of booking tickets on your own and navigating crowds. The inclusion of a knowledgeable local guide transforms a simple sightseeing visit into a story-rich experience. The small group size ensures plenty of interaction, which many travelers appreciate.

The focus on the Trocadéro Gardens as a scenic starting point** adds a special touch, allowing for beautiful photos and a relaxed, scenic beginning to your Eiffel exploration. The opportunity to stand on the glass floor on the first level is a fun bonus, offering a different perspective of the city below.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a structured, informative visit with an expert guide, especially first-timers or those pressed for time. It’s perfect if you’re keen on learning more about the Eiffel Tower’s history while enjoying stunning views from the second floor. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a small-group outing will likely find this a satisfying way to see the monument without feeling rushed.

If you’re aiming for the summit experience, or prefer a completely free and independent visit, this tour might not be the best fit. Also, those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved, but generally, the pace is moderate.

FAQs

Does this tour include access to the Eiffel Tower summit?
No, the tickets included are for the second-floor observation deck only. You can purchase summit access separately on the day of your visit.

How long is the tour?
Approximately two hours, which balances sightseeing with some quick learning and photo opportunities.

Where does the tour start?
At Square de Yorktown, 38 Rue Benjamin Franklin, centrally located and accessible via public transit.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility challenges should consider the walking involved.

Are the tickets pre-booked?
Yes, the tickets for the second floor are included, helping you avoid long lines, although some waiting may occur during busy periods.

What is the group size?
Limited to a maximum of 15 guests for a more personal experience.

Can I add summit access on my own?
Yes, you can purchase summit tickets separately at the main ticket desk on the day of visit.

What language is the tour conducted in?
English.

Is the tour affected by strikes or closures?
The tour provider makes every effort to inform travelers of strikes or disruptions, but last-minute changes can occur.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and a camera for those scenic photos. No food or drinks are included or provided.

Final Thoughts

This Eiffel Tower with 2nd Floor Access & Trocadéro Gardens Tour offers an engaging way to experience one of Paris’s most beloved landmarks. The guided element adds depth and context to the visit, transforming a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable story. The inclusion of skip-the-line tickets and small group size make it a practical choice for travelers who want efficiency and personalized attention.

While it doesn’t include the summit, the panoramic views and historical insights more than compensate. It’s ideal for those who value expert guidance and authentic experiences over just ticking off sights. If you’re visiting Paris for the first time or want a well-organized, enriching visit to the Eiffel Tower, this tour is worth considering.

For travelers seeking a balanced mix of sightseeing, learning, and photo opportunities with good value, this experience hits the mark. Just remember to book early, especially during peak seasons, and be aware of potential waiting times during busy days.

Ready to explore Paris’s most famous monument with a knowledgeable guide? This tour offers a scenic, informative, and hassle-free way to enjoy the Eiffel Tower’s second floor and the Trocadéro Gardens.