Eiffel Tower Tickets: Costs, Exceptions, and Planning Essentials

Visiting the Eiffel Tower costs money—with specific exceptions. Understanding the pricing structure saves time, money, and frustration at Paris's most iconic monument.

Standard Ticket Prices (2024)

By stairs to 2nd floor: €11.30 (adult), €5.60 (youth 12-24), €2.80 (child 4-11), free (under 4)
By elevator to 2nd floor: €18.10 (adult), €9.00 (youth), €4.50 (child), free (under 4)
By elevator to summit: €28.30 (adult), €14.10 (youth), €7.10 (child), free (under 4)

Free Admission Categories

• Children under 4: Always free (all levels)
• Visitors with disabilities + 1 companion: Free with documentation (Mobilité Inclusion card, EU disability card, or medical certificate)
• Job seekers (French): Free with Pôle Emploi attestation <6 months
• Paris Museum Pass holders: Includes Eiffel Tower (summit by elevator requires supplement)

Critical Planning Factors

Reservation System

• Online booking essential: Official site (toureiffel.paris) — slots sell out days/weeks ahead
• Time slots: 30-minute entry windows; arrive within window
• Summit access: Separate ticket; limited capacity; book earliest possible

Ticket Types

• Stairs only: Cheaper, fitness required (674 steps to 2nd floor), no summit access
• Elevator to 2nd floor: Most popular; stairs from 2nd to summit available
• Elevator to summit: Full experience; highest cost; longest queues

Cost-Saving Strategies

• Book stairs ticket + walk up (health + savings)
• Visit late afternoon (shorter queues, sunset views)
• Picnic on Champ de Mars instead of tower restaurants
• Combine with Paris Museum Pass if visiting multiple sites

Accessibility

• Elevators to 1st and 2nd floors accessible
• Summit NOT wheelchair accessible (stairs only from 2nd floor)
• Priority access for disabled visitors and companions

Pro Tips

• Book 2-4 weeks ahead for summer; 1-2 weeks for shoulder season
• Bring ID for age/youth verification
• Security screening: no sharp objects, large bags, glass
• Allow 2-3 hours for full visit
• Night visits (until 11 PM summer): magical lighting, fewer crowds

The Eiffel Tower isn't free (except for specific groups), but with planning, it's accessible at every budget level. The view of Paris from 906 feet remains worth every euro.