The Eiffel Tower is one of the most visited monuments in the world, welcoming millions of travelers each year to admire its breathtaking architecture, panoramic views, and cultural significance. If you’re planning a trip to this Parisian icon, knowing the Eiffel Tower opening hours is essential for making the most of your experience.
Regular Opening Hours
The Eiffel Tower is open 365 days a year, making it a year-round attraction for tourists from all over the globe. Standard opening times are:
Mid-June to Early September: 9:00 AM to 12:45 AM (last elevator ascent at 11:45 PM, last stairs ascent at 6:00 PM for the 2nd floor).
Rest of the Year: 9:30 AM to 11:45 PM (last elevator ascent at 10:45 PM, last stairs ascent at 6:00 PM for the 2nd floor).
These extended summer hours give visitors more time to enjoy the tower, especially at night when the landmark sparkles with thousands of lights.
Seasonal Variations and Special Days
While the Eiffel Tower is generally open daily, opening hours can vary during certain events, maintenance periods, or extreme weather conditions. For example:
During Bastille Day (14 July), parts of the tower may close earlier to prepare for the evening fireworks.
In winter months, opening times may be slightly adjusted due to weather and shorter daylight hours.
Periodic maintenance, such as repainting or elevator servicing, can also cause temporary closures of specific levels.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is always recommended to check the official Eiffel Tower website before your visit.
Best Times to Visit
Understanding the opening hours can help you choose the perfect time to visit and avoid the largest crowds:
Morning (right after opening): Best for shorter queues and calmer experiences. You’ll have more space to take photos and enjoy the views without too much hustle.
Late Evening: Especially during summer, the Eiffel Tower is open past midnight, allowing you to witness the magical sparkle lights every hour after dark.
Off-Peak Season (October to March): Fewer tourists mean shorter lines and more peaceful visits, though you may need to dress warmly.
Elevator vs. Stairs Access
The Eiffel Tower has two main access options, each with slightly different operating schedules:
Elevators: Operate from the tower’s opening until closing time, with last ascent times as mentioned above.
Stairs: Usually open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, giving access to the 1st and 2nd floors. The stairs remain closed in extreme weather for safety reasons.
Night Visits and Lighting Schedule
One of the most magical ways to experience the Eiffel Tower is to visit in the evening. The tower is beautifully lit from sunset until closing time, with 20,000 sparkling lights illuminating the structure for five minutes every hour on the hour after dark. This light show is a highlight of any Paris trip and is best enjoyed from the Champ de Mars or the Trocadéro.
Tips for Visiting Within Opening Hours
Book in Advance: Tickets for the Eiffel Tower can sell out quickly, especially for summit access during peak times.
Arrive Early: Even with a ticket, you may have to pass through security checks. Arriving 30–45 minutes before your booked time is recommended.
Plan Around Weather: Clear days offer the best views from the summit, so check the forecast before selecting your time slot.
Consider Sunset Visits: Enter late enough to see the daylight view and stay until after dark to enjoy the sparkling lights.
Conclusion
The Eiffel Tower opening hours offer flexibility for every type of visitor, whether you want to start your day with a morning view over Paris or enjoy the romance of the tower glowing at midnight. Open daily and accessible in all seasons, the Eiffel Tower is a monument that never sleeps — always ready to welcome visitors to experience the magic of Paris from its iconic heights.