Eiffel Tower - Best time to see?
 

Hello,
I have heard from others about the long wait times to go up the Eiffel Tower. I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions on what time of the day or day of the week would be best? We will be in Paris Friday July 11 - July 14th. (during Bastille Day)
Thanks Vicky

Hi Vicky -- I hate it when people answer a question about how to do an activity by telling them not to do it in the first place but . . . my least favorite view of Paris is from the Eiffel Tower because you can't see the Eiffel Tower! The last couple times I've been to Paris I have hiked up to the top of the Arc De Triomphe instead. I think the views of the rest of Paris are comparable but I love being able to see the Eiffel Tower from up there! It's also cheaper and great exercise. I'm sure you'll get specific answers but those are just my two cents. Enjoy Paris!

We have waited as long as 2 1/2 hours during the daytime. But, it you go at night (still a long wait) make sure you leave enought time that you are not in line for an hour and then told it is closing in 45 min. This happened to my sister and her friend last Aug. I agree that the view form the Arc De Triomphe is beautiful also.

Hi W,

>Eiffel Tower - Best time to see?

You can see the ET from almost anywhere in Paris any time of day or night.

Is there a reason why you want to go to the top of the ET?

You can get a great view of Paris for free from Sacre Coeur.

((I))

The view from the Eiffel Tower is breathtaking and everybody should see it at least once in their life. This said, I don't think I have been to the top in at least 15 years.

To wait the least amount of time, you should either arrive at least one hour before opening time in the morning and get in line, or come after dark (which is quite late in July).

On the evening of the 14th, you will not be able to go up in any case due to the fireworks later, unless you are spending a fortune at the restaurant.

I actually agree with BKP; went to Paris w/ my wife last summer. View from Arc De Triomphe is much better (would rather see the ET). I would compare it to Chicago - go up in the Hancock bldg to see the Sears Tower, not vice versa. Also, there is a fabulous restaurant (high end) that overlooks the tower (La Umbria?) - it is in/above a museum near the tower. I recommend going to the tower before the sun sets to see it both day and night over a fab dinner.

I would also suggest going to the Trocadero in the evening. You get a great view of the Eiffel Tower lit up. On the hour, it also twinkles for 5-10 minutes. It is very magical. I got some great photos!

And if you missed your chance to buy some "bling, bling" while at the Eiffel Tower, don't worry there are plenty of opportunities to pick it up at the Trocadero at night! :)

Restaurant is Les Ombres. Search it on Fodor's and you will definitely get reviews.