Eiffel Tower with Summit and 2nd Floor Access Guided Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Paris, seeing the Eiffel Tower is pretty much non-negotiable. There are a ton of options for visiting, but this guided tour offering access to both the 2nd floor and the summit really caught our eye. It promises a blend of convenience, expert insights, and stunning sights—all in about two hours.

What we love about this experience is its skip-the-line tickets, which save you from long queues—often a huge plus at such a popular landmark. Plus, the knowledgeable guides really help bring the history of the tower to life with stories that make the visit more engaging. On the flip side, it’s worth considering that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users and that bad weather or maintenance might limit access to the very top.

All in all, if you’re after a well-organized, informative, and visually rewarding Eiffel Tower visit, especially if you want to go beyond just taking photos from the ground, this tour can be a great fit. It’s especially good for those who appreciate a guided experience and want to make the most of their limited time in Paris.

Key Points

• Skip-the-line tickets help you avoid long waits at one of the world’s most visited monuments.
• Expert guides share stories and details that make the experience more meaningful.
• Panoramic views from the second floor and top provide memorable photo opportunities.
• The glass floor on the second level adds an element of thrill.
• The option to access the summit is perfect for travelers wanting that extra ‘wow’ view.
• Duration is comfortably set at 1.5 to 2 hours, making it suitable for most schedules.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Breakdown of the Tour Experience

We’re going to walk you through exactly what you can expect from this guided tour, so you can decide if it’s the right way to experience the Eiffel Tower.

Starting Point and Meeting Details

The tour begins at 1 Av. Elisée Reclus, where your guide will be waiting with a white branded flag. Meeting on time is key since latecomers won’t be reimbursed, and the tour runs rain or shine. We like the simplicity of the meeting spot—it’s straightforward and easy to find, especially if you’re familiar with the area.

The Guided Tour (30 minutes)

Once you meet your guide, you’ll dive into a quick but engaging introduction about the history and secrets of the Eiffel Tower. Expect stories that go beyond the typical facts—your guide will likely share anecdotes and lesser-known details that make the experience stand out.

Accessing the Second Floor by Elevator (30 minutes)

The core of the tour is the ascent to the second level via reserved elevator access. This part is a real highlight—and worth it for the breathtaking views of Paris you’ll enjoy. From here, you can gaze out over landmarks like Notre Dame and Les Invalides, with plenty of time to take photos or just soak it all in.

The glass floor on this level adds a fun, slightly adrenaline-pumping element, giving you a chance to look straight down from high above. It’s a cool experience, especially if you’re comfortable with heights, and it’s been noted as a fun feature by several travelers.

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Access to the Summit (if option selected) (30 minutes)

For those who opt for the Summit Access, you’ll ascend further to the very top. This is where you’ll get unparalleled panoramic views of Paris—seeing the city from nearly 1,000 feet up is genuinely awe-inspiring. However, keep in mind that weather or maintenance can sometimes restrict access to this highest point, and you might only get photos at the observation level instead.

A few reviews mention that, in poor weather or during maintenance, the top level may be closed. So, if reaching the summit is your main priority, it’s worth confirming the current status closer to your visit.

Photo Stops and Free Time (30 minutes)

After descending, you’ll have some free time on the first floor, where you can take photos or explore independently. This part also allows for a relaxed moment to reflect on your experience and snap some final pictures of the tower’s intricate latticework.

Overall Duration

The entire experience is designed to last around 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a manageable chunk of your day. It’s a good balance—enough time to enjoy the views and learn some history without feeling rushed.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For €88 per person, this tour offers reserved access to the second floor and the summit (if you choose the option), along with a guided commentary. The skip-the-line nature is a big advantage, especially during busy seasons.

What’s included:

• Reserved elevator access to the second floor
• Optional reserved access to the summit
• Guided tour with an English-speaking guide

What’s not included:

• Transportation to and from the meeting point
• Food and drinks
• Large bags or luggage (these aren’t allowed for safety reasons)

A couple of reviews highlighted how the guides manage the group well and keep the atmosphere friendly and informative. One reviewer mentioned how the guide was very kind and answered all questions, even speaking in Spanish for another family, which shows flexibility and genuine effort.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates guided experiences and loves to learn stories and facts about places you visit, this tour hits the mark. The skip-the-line tickets are perfect if you’re visiting during peak times or want to avoid long queues.

It’s especially suited for travelers with limited time in Paris who want to see as much as possible with a knowledgeable guide. The stunning views from both levels and the thrill of walking on a glass floor make it a memorable outing.

Note that it might not be ideal if you’re in a wheelchair or have mobility issues, given the current restriction. Also, since the tour is mostly on the tower’s platforms, it’s not specifically tailored for children, but families with older kids who enjoy heights and stories should find it worthwhile.

The Sum Up

This guided Eiffel Tower tour is a solid choice for travelers who want to combine convenience with a deeper understanding of this iconic monument. The skip-the-line tickets save time, while the guide’s stories deepen the experience beyond just taking photos. You’ll get the thrill of walking on a glass floor and the chance to see Paris from the very top—if the weather permits.

On the practical side, the tour’s duration and structure make it suitable for most schedules, and the overall cost offers good value considering the fast-track access and expert guidance. It’s especially appealing for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive yet manageable experience.

That said, if your main goal is to reach the very top or you’re traveling with someone with mobility restrictions, you may want to confirm current accessibility and weather conditions ahead of time. And if you’re after an ultra-private experience, this group tour might feel a little rushed or impersonal.

Ultimately, this tour strikes a nice balance: informative, scenic, and well-organized, helping you make the most of your visit to one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically designed as a family tour, older children who enjoy heights and stories about Paris should find it engaging. Keep in mind, the tour involves walking on glass floors and potential height restrictions.

Can I access the top level of the Eiffel Tower?
Yes, the option includes reserved access to the summit, but access depends on weather and maintenance. During bad weather or construction, the top may be closed.

How long does the tour last?
The overall experience is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a convenient way to see the Eiffel Tower without taking up your entire day.

Do I need to pay extra for the summit?
Yes, accessing the summit is an optional upgrade included in the tour price. Check if you selected this option when booking.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes skip-the-line elevator access to the second floor, optional summit access, and a guided commentary in English.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so consider your mobility needs before booking.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, and wear comfortable shoes. Large bags and luggage aren’t allowed for safety reasons.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour proceeds rain or shine, but access to the top may be limited due to weather or maintenance. Always check current conditions before your visit.

If you’re after a well-organized, engaging, and scenic way to experience the Eiffel Tower, this guided tour offers a lot for the price. It’s especially good if you love stories, panoramic views, and skipping queues—making it a top contender for your Paris itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: