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Your guide to the Eiffel Tower’s second floor: what not to miss

Why book Eiffel tower second floor tickets?

👀 See Paris from the perfect height

The second floor sits 115m above Paris, giving you high, wide-reaching views while keeping landmarks like the Seine, Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, and Sacré-Cœur easy to spot.

🗼 Get the classic Eiffel Tower experience

For many visitors, the second floor is the sweet spot: you get the Tower’s famous panoramic views without needing to travel all the way to the summit.

📸 Capture clearer city views

Unlike the much higher summit, the second floor keeps Paris close enough to make out streets, rooftops, monuments, and the Seine—making it one of the best levels for photos.

✨ Enjoy more than just the view

Walk around the observation deck for different perspectives of Paris, use the viewing scopes to pick out landmarks, and stop by the shops or refreshments before heading back down.

🗼 Eiffel Tower 2nd floor tickets with an expert guide

Ride the elevator to the second floor or summit with reserved entry, then explore the tower with a guide in a small group of up to 20 guests. Hear the stories behind Paris’ most famous landmark, stop at the first-floor platforms, and enjoy plenty of time for panoramic views and photos.

​Book your guided Eiffel Tower tour →

Eiffel Tower viewed from below with clear blue sky in Paris.

How to reach the second floor of the Eiffel Tower?

You can reach the Eiffel Tower’s second floor by elevator or stairs. Elevators are faster, while the 674-step climb offers a scenic workout. Let’s compare both options—wait times, ticket prices, and which suits your adventure style!

Elevators

🚠 Effortless and accessible for all, including families and those with mobility challenges.

⌛ Wait times can exceed 90 minutes during peak hours.

📍 Quick, smooth ride with minimal effort.

🎫 More expensive but worth it for convenience.

Stairs

👣 674 steps, requiring moderate fitness.

⌛ Typically a 30-minute wait, shorter than elevators.

📍 A rewarding climb with up-close views of the tower’s structure.

🎫 More affordable than elevator tickets.

Why choose the Eiffel Tower second floor?

The Eiffel's second floor is the perfect sweet spot—high enough for breathtaking views but without the summit’s hefty ticket price and crowds. Whether you’re here for the iconic Jules Verne restaurant, stunning cityscape, or unique Eiffel Tower experience, this is the floor that delivers it all!

Compare your floor options

FeatureFirst floorSecond floorSummit

Height

57 meters (187 feet)

115 meters (377 feet)

276 meters (906 feet)

What do I get?

The only floor with a glass floor, spacious walkways, exhibits, and dining at Madame Brasserie.

The best panoramic observation deck, shops, and the Michelin-starred Jules Verne restaurant.

The highest observation deck in Paris with a champagne bar for a celebratory toast.

Crowds

Less crowded, ideal for a relaxed visit.

Popular but worth it—stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere.

High demand with limited space, often congested.

Views

Unique angles of the tower’s architecture and nearby landmarks.

Unmatched cityscape views of the Seine, Louvre, and Notre-Dame.

A distant, map-like view extending beyond Paris.

Cost

Included in all tickets.

Priced lower than the summit but offers the best views.

Requires the most expensive ticket.

Steps or elevator?

327 steps or elevator, a relatively easy climb.

674 steps or elevator—great for adventurers or those seeking a challenge.

Elevator access only from the second floor.

What to do at Eiffel Tower second floor?

Savor fine dining at Le Jules Verne

If you’re a lover of gourmet cuisine, dining at Le Jules Verne is a must. This Michelin-starred restaurant, perched 115 meters above Paris and accessible via a private elevator, combines the finest French culinary traditions with unparalleled views of the city. Be sure to make reservations well in advance, as tables here are highly coveted!

Know all about the Eiffel's restaurants

Snap your best shots

The second floor is a dream for photographers, offering some of the most iconic angles of Paris. By day, you can capture the intricate details of Paris and by night, the city sparkles, with the Eiffel Tower’s own twinkling lights adding to the magic. Pro tip: Arrive during golden hour for photos bathed in a warm, glowing light, or after sunset for dramatic, illuminated cityscapes.

Find the perfect keepsake

The souvenir shops are filled with treasures to commemorate your visit. From miniature Eiffel Tower replicas to postcards and unique Parisian gifts, there’s something for everyone. Don’t rush—take your time browsing through the carefully curated selection to find the perfect piece of Paris to bring home.

Play spot-the-landmark at the observation deck

The observation deck on the second floor is one of the best places to see Paris in all its glory, like seeing a live map. Take your time to spot famous landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe at the end of the Champs-Élysées, the Sacré-Cœur perched on Montmartre Hill, and the sprawling Louvre Museum.

Step into history through VR

On the second floor (lower level, Champ-de-Mars side), experience the Eiffel Tower’s construction through augmented reality. Simply find the two panels, scan the QR code, and stand 1.5 meters from the gates to bring history to life on your smartphone—an engaging way to relive one of the greatest engineering feats of the 20th century.

Pro tips and tricks for your visit

  • Time your visit for optimal views: Arriving during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late evening, can provide a more serene experience with fewer crowds. This timing also offers the added benefit of witnessing the city under different lighting conditions, enhancing your photographs.
  • Explore interactive exhibits: The second floor features interactive displays that delve into the tower’s architecture and history. Taking the time to engage with these exhibits can enrich your understanding of this iconic structure.
  • Be prepared for weather conditions: The second floor is exposed to the elements, so it's wise to dress appropriately. Bringing a light jacket or umbrella can make your visit more comfortable, especially during unpredictable weather.
  • Plan your souvenir shopping: The second floor houses several souvenir shops offering exclusive Eiffel Tower-themed items. Allocating time to browse these stores can help you find the perfect keepsake or gift for loved ones.

Frequently asked questions about the Eiffel Tower second floor

Yes, you can upgrade your ticket at the Eiffel Tower's ticket office, provided summit access tickets are available. Alternatively, you can purchase a combined ticket online in advance that includes access to the summit via an elevator from the second floor.

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