The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Paris, France, is one of the most visited landmarks in the world, attracting millions of tourists every year. It was built for the 1889 World’s Fair, and it was originally intended to be a temporary structure that would be dismantled after the event. However, the tower’s popularity quickly grew, and it has since become a permanent fixture in the Paris skyline.
Construction
Construction of the Eiffel Tower began in 1887 and took just over two years to complete. It was designed by Gustave Eiffel, a French engineer and entrepreneur who had previously designed bridges and viaducts. Eiffel was inspired to build the tower after seeing the success of the 1884 World’s Fair in London, which featured the world’s first Ferris wheel.
Design
The tower stands 324 meters tall, which was a record-breaking height at the time of its construction. It consists of four levels, including a platform at the top that offers stunning views of Paris. The tower is made of iron, and it weighs approximately 10,000 tons.
One of the most impressive features of the Eiffel Tower is its intricate lattice design. The lattice work not only gives the tower its iconic look but also serves a practical purpose. It allows the tower to withstand strong winds while minimizing the amount of metal used in its construction.
The tower’s first and second levels are accessible by stairs or elevators, and visitors can climb to the top level using an elevator. The tower’s elevators are an engineering marvel in themselves, as they use a hydraulic system that was state-of-the-art for its time.
History
The Eiffel Tower has had a long and fascinating history since its construction. During World War I, the tower played a crucial role in the war effort by serving as a radio transmitter. It was also used as a military observation post during both world wars.
Throughout the years, the tower has been the site of many memorable events. In 1912, a man named Franz Reichelt attempted to jump from the tower using a parachute of his own design. Sadly, he did not survive the jump. In 1923, a French pilot named Leon Collet flew his biplane through the tower’s arches.
Activities
Today, the Eiffel Tower is a beloved Parisian landmark that attracts visitors from all over the world. It is open to the public every day of the year, and visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at the tower, including dining, shopping, and sightseeing.
One of the most popular activities at the tower is visiting the top level, which offers breathtaking views of Paris. From the top of the tower, visitors can see famous landmarks such as the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre Museum, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral.
Another popular activity is dining at one of the tower’s two restaurants, which offer stunning views of the city. The Jules Verne restaurant is located on the second level of the tower and is known for its gourmet French cuisine. The 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant is located on the first level and offers a more casual dining experience.
Visitors can also shop at the Eiffel Tower’s gift shops, which offer a variety of souvenirs and mementos. The gift shops sell everything from miniature replicas of the tower to t-shirts, keychains, and postcards.
The Eiffel Tower is and will remain a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Paris. Its iconic design, fascinating history, and stunning views make it a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re climbing to the top or enjoying a meal with a view, the Eiffel Tower is a true gem of Parisian culture.
Tickets
We provide a detailed coverage of the booking process in the following blog post:
Eiffel Tower
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Architecture and Design10/10 The bestThere is no doubt that the Eiffel Tower is a masterpiece of architectural and design engineering. Its intricate lattice design was a ground breaking innovation and the tower's unique style has inspired countless other structures around the world. Its construction using wrought iron is also a testament to the technological advancements of the time
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Historical Significance8/10 Very goodWe find the history of the Eiffel tower very impressive. Despite being over a century old, the tower still stands tall and attracts millions of visitors every year, a true testament to its enduring legacy and importance in history. It is one of the best known symbol of Paris
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Accessibility9/10 AmazingWhile accessibility can be an issue at times, a lot of progress has been made. There are elevators available to take visitors to the tower's first and second levels and accessible restrooms. The staff members are also available to assist visitors with disabilities
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Views and Scenery10/10 The bestOne of the best view in Paris ! On a clear day, you can see the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre Museum, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral in the distance. The panoramic view is especially stunning at sunrise and sunset, when the city is bathed in golden light. We recommend that you visit the tower during off-peak hours to avoid the crowds and enjoy the scenery in peace.
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Entertainment and Dining8/10 Very goodThe Eiffel tower offers best-in-class dining experiences. The tower has multiple dining options available, including the Michelin-starred Jules Verne restaurant located on the second floor. The restaurant boasts panoramic views of the city while serving world-class French cuisine. However, you need to reserve well in advance and pay around 200€ / person for the reservation at le Jules Verne.
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Overall Experience8/10 Very goodThe overall experience at the Eiffel Tower is simply unforgettable. From the moment you first catch a glimpse of its towering structure, to the stunning views from the top, every aspect of the visit is impressive. The journey to the top of the tower is an adventure in itself, with the option to take the stairs or the elevator. However, going to the Eiffel Tower could include long queues and wait times, especially during peak season. The crowds can also make it difficult to get a good view or take photos. Make sure to book your tickets well in advance if you want to visit during peak season and avoid to long waiting lines.
