Eiffel Tower Climbing Tour to the Second Floor
Ascend the iconic iron steps and discover Paris from a perspective most visitors never reach.
The Eiffel Tower Climbing Tour offers a guided, on-foot ascent of one of the world's most recognized structures, taking participants all the way to the second floor via the monument's original staircases. This is not a passive sightseeing ride but an active, engaging experience that rewards every step with a broader view of the French capital.
A knowledgeable guide accompanies the group from the base of the tower through each ascending level, sharing the engineering history and architectural context that shaped Gustave Eiffel's vision for the 1889 World's Fair. The staircase route provides a close encounter with the tower's iron lattice framework that an elevator ride simply cannot replicate.
The tour is conducted in English and runs for approximately two hours. Visitors should be aware that this is not a skip-the-line experience, and a waiting period of between 30 minutes and one hour at the entrance should be factored into planning the day.
The second floor sits at 116 meters above the Champ de Mars and offers unobstructed panoramic views across Paris, including clear sightlines toward the Seine, Montmartre, and the Arc de Triomphe. The physical effort of the climb adds a genuine sense of accomplishment to the visit.
Tour Highlights
Climb the original staircases of the Eiffel Tower on foot, tracing the same steps taken by visitors since 1889.
Reach the second floor at 116 meters for sweeping panoramic views across central Paris and beyond.
Learn about the tower's construction history and architectural design from an expert guide throughout the ascent.
Experience the tour in a small group format that allows for a more personal and interactive atmosphere.
Get an up-close look at the tower's intricate iron lattice structure from the inside as you ascend each level.
Orient yourself to Paris from multiple elevations, identifying the city's most famous districts and monuments along the way.
Tour Itinerary
The group assembles at the designated meeting point at the foot of the Eiffel Tower. Your guide will introduce the tour, provide a brief orientation, and prepare everyone for the ascent ahead.
After passing through the entrance (standard queue applies), the group begins the staircase climb toward the first floor. The guide shares context about the tower's original construction and its reception at the 1889 Universal Exhibition.
At the first floor, located 57 meters above ground, the group pauses to take in views of the Champ de Mars and surrounding neighborhoods. The guide points out key Parisian landmarks visible from this level.
The ascent continues up the next set of stairs to the second floor. This segment of the climb passes through the tower's central iron framework, offering the most dramatic close-up views of the structure's engineering.
At 116 meters, the group arrives at the second floor for the highlight of the tour. The guide identifies major Parisian landmarks while visitors take time to absorb the panoramic views of the city below.
The group descends the stairs back to ground level, concluding the guided portion of the experience. The tour ends at the base of the tower, leaving visitors free to continue exploring the area independently.
What Is Included
Included
- Professional English-speaking guide for the full duration
- Guided ascent of the Eiffel Tower staircases to the second floor
- Historical and architectural commentary throughout the tour
- Small group experience
Not Included
- Eiffel Tower entrance ticket (to be purchased separately on site)
- Skip-the-line access (standard queue applies)
- Elevator access to the summit (third floor)
- Food, drinks, or personal expenses
- Hotel pickup or drop-off
Important Information
This tour involves a moderate physical effort. Participants will climb stairs to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower. Comfortable, sturdy footwear is strongly recommended. The tour does not include skip-the-line access, and a queue of 30 minutes to one hour should be expected at the entrance.
Ready to Climb the Eiffel Tower?
Secure your place on this guided staircase ascent and experience the Eiffel Tower from an entirely different angle. Spaces in each group are limited, so booking in advance is recommended.
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