A Close-Up Look at the Eiffel Tower Second or Summit Floor Ticket by Elevator with Views

Visiting the Eiffel Tower is often a highlight of any trip to Paris, and this specific experience offers a way to get up close without breaking the bank. You’ll buy your tickets in advance and meet a host at a central location, who will help you access either the second floor or the top of the tower by elevator. It’s a practical option for those who want a quick, yet memorable visit to one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks.
What we appreciate about this tour is how it simplifies the process—no need to wait in long lines, and it gives you the chance to enjoy some of the best views Paris has to offer. Plus, the option to choose between the second floor or summit means you can tailor your experience a bit depending on your preferences or physical comfort level. However, keep in mind that this isn’t a guided tour in the traditional sense; once you’re inside, you’re on your own to explore the top floors.
This experience is perfect for travelers who want efficient access and panoramic photos without fuss. It’s also a good fit if you’re on a tighter schedule, or if you’re traveling with others who prefer a straightforward, no-hassle visit to the Eiffel Tower. Just be aware of certain limitations, like the non-refundable nature and restrictions for those with mobility issues.
For those who enjoy a combination of guided assistance and independent exploration, this could be a solid choice. It’s especially suited for visitors who value convenience and want to make the most of their time in Paris.
Key Points
- Pre-booked Tickets: Saves you from long lines and the hassle of buying tickets on-site.
- Flexible Timing: Multiple daily options to fit your schedule.
- Elevator Access: Skip the stairs and go straight to the second or top floor.
- Guided Assistance: An English-speaking host helps with entry and provides general info.
- Unescorted Exploration: After the host leaves, you explore independently.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Offers good value compared to buying tickets directly on-site, especially during busy times.
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What to Expect from the Experience
This tour begins with a straightforward meeting at a central, easily accessible location in front of the Le Champ de Mars Café at 45 Avenue de la Bourdonnais. Once you meet your host, who provides your tickets and a brief introduction, you’ll be escorted to the Eiffel Tower. From there, you’ll hop into the elevator to reach either the second floor or the summit, depending on your selection.
The entire process typically takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, allowing enough time to enjoy the views, snap photos, and soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. Once you arrive at your chosen level, you’re free to explore on your own. The view from the second floor is impressive, offering a sweeping panorama of Paris, while the summit provides an even more breathtaking, bird’s-eye perspective.
The elevator ride itself is comfortable and efficient, but be prepared for possible delays at security checkpoints or elevator access points—this is typical of popular landmarks during busy times. The tour includes the entry tickets, as well as host assistance up to the second floor, but no guided narration beyond general information in English.
The Itinerary in Detail

Meeting Point: The tour begins at 45 Avenue de la Bourdonnais, a spot that’s near public transportation and easy to find. Your guide will be waiting here to exchange your voucher for your tickets, making your entry smoother than trying to navigate the ticket booths yourself.
Ticket Collection: You’ll receive your tickets on-site. Since tickets can’t be purchased in advance for the tower itself, this method ensures you avoid long queues—especially helpful during peak tourist season.
Ascend to the Tower: Your host will accompany you until you reach the second floor, helping you bypass the often-lengthy queues at the ticket booths. From here, you’ll head to the elevator that takes you to your chosen level—either the second floor or the summit.
Enjoy the Views: Once on your own, the real fun begins. The second floor provides expansive views of Paris’s rooftops and landmarks, perfect for photos. The summit offers a more elevated vantage point—if you’ve opted for this upgrade, be prepared for a small additional cost (though the exact price difference isn’t specified here).
Return and End: The tour concludes at the Eiffel Tower itself, leaving you free to continue exploring or head back to your accommodations.
The Upsides: Why This Tour Works

Skip the Lines: The biggest perk is definitely avoiding the long wait times that often accompany free or standard tickets. Many reviews mention how helpful this was—“Loved skipping the line!!” one traveler gushes, highlighting how valuable quick entry can be, especially during peak hours or busy seasons.
Guided Assistance: The host’s help in exchanging vouchers and guiding you to the elevator adds a layer of convenience many travelers appreciate. Several reviews mention how friendly and knowledgeable guides like Aida or Diana help make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Stunning Views: Speaking from what travelers have shared, the views from the Eiffel Tower are truly spectacular. Whether you’re there for the daylight panorama or the sparkling lights at night, these vantage points are unforgettable.
Good Value: Considering the cost—around $58 per person—the experience offers a reasonable way to access the tower’s most iconic levels without the extra expense or hassle of organizing your own tickets.
The Downsides: What to Keep in Mind

Limited to the Second or Summit Floor: This isn’t a full guided tour of the Eiffel Tower—once you’re on your own, there’s no narration or guided commentary. If you’re hoping for a deep dive into its history, you might find this a bit lacking.
No Refunds or Changes: This experience is non-refundable and cannot be rebooked, which could be frustrating if your plans change unexpectedly. A few reviews also mention inflexibility, especially in cases of injury or emergencies.
Not Suitable for Mobility-Impaired Visitors: The tour explicitly states that people with reduced mobility are not allowed on the summit floor, so keep that in mind if you or someone in your group has mobility concerns.
Potential Delays: Expect some wait times at security and elevator access points, particularly during busy periods.
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Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re after quick, hassle-free access to the Eiffel Tower’s second or top level, this tour is a solid choice. It’s perfect for travelers who prioritize convenience and efficient sightseeing, especially during peak tourist season when lines can be long. Those who want to maximize their time in Paris and avoid spending hours in queues will benefit from this setup.
It also suits visitors who value the assistance of English-speaking hosts and are okay exploring independently once inside. If your main goal is to take in the breathtaking views and snap some photos without a guided narration, this gives you that flexibility.
However, if you’re looking for a more in-depth, guided experience with detailed storytelling, you might find this a bit basic. And, if mobility is a concern, be sure to consider alternative options, since access to the summit is limited.
Final Thoughts

This Eiffel Tower experience strikes a good balance between cost, convenience, and quality. It’s clearly designed for travelers who want to skip the lines and get up close to one of the world’s most iconic landmarks with minimal fuss. The inclusion of a helpful host and multiple daily timeslots makes it adaptable to different schedules.
The views from the tower are undeniably spectacular, making it worth the price for many. The main caveat is that it’s not a guided tour in the traditional sense—the experience is more about efficient access and independent exploration afterward.
Overall, if you’re in Paris during busy times and want to avoid the crowds without sacrificing a top-tier view, this tour offers genuine value. Just be prepared for the non-refundable policy, and consider your mobility needs before booking the summit option.
Eiffel Tower Second or Summit Floor Ticket by Elevator with Views
“It was fun and informative. Received lots of little known facts. Thank you to our guide Aida, she was lots of fun.”
FAQ

Can I buy tickets for the Eiffel Tower in advance?
No, tickets cannot be received in advance. You need to meet your host at the designated location for ticket exchange.
What is included in this tour?
You get an Eiffel Tower entry ticket to either the second floor or the summit by elevator (depending on your choice), host assistance in English until the second floor, and general information about the tower.
Are there guided commentary during the tour?
No, once you’re inside the tower, you explore independently. The host provides a brief introduction and helps you access the floors.
Is this tour suitable for children?
The data doesn’t specify, but since people with reduced mobility are not allowed to the summit, consider your children’s mobility and comfort levels.
What should I expect at the meeting point?
Your guide waits at 45 Avenue de la Bourdonnais, near public transportation, to exchange vouchers for tickets and escort you to the tower.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, including the time to meet, exchange tickets, and ascend.
Can I choose the time of day for my visit?
Yes, there are multiple daily options, so you can pick a time that best fits your schedule.
Is there a refund if the tour is canceled due to weather?
Yes, if canceled because of poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
What if I injure myself or can’t walk?
The tour is not flexible for injuries or mobility issues. No refunds are provided in such cases.
Is this experience crowded?
Yes, the Eiffel Tower is very popular, but this ticket helps you skip the lines, making the experience less stressful.
If you’re after a straightforward, no-fuss way to enjoy the Eiffel Tower’s incredible views, this experience offers a practical and generally well-reviewed option. Just weigh your needs for guided storytelling versus independent exploration, and you’ll find it’s a dependable way to tick this Parisian icon off your list.
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