Paris: Eiffel Tower Summit or Second Floor Access

If you’re planning a trip to Paris, chances are the Eiffel Tower is on your must-see list. There are plenty of ways to experience this iconic landmark, but one popular option is booking a guided tour that takes you to the 2nd floor or even the summit. We’ve looked into a tour offered by Mon Petit Paris that provides access to the Eiffel Tower with expert guides, and we think it’s worth sharing what you can expect.

What really stands out about this experience are the knowledgeable guides who make the visit informative and fun, and the breathtaking views of Paris from the observation decks. Plus, the option to add a Seine river cruise makes it a nice way to combine sightseeing in one go. On the flip side, it’s worth mentioning that lines for security and elevator access can be long, especially in high season, which might eat into your time and patience.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a guided experience with skip-the-line access and value being able to explore at their own pace. If you’re okay with a bit of waiting and want to maximize your time with expert commentary, this is a solid choice. Families and first-time visitors will likely find it particularly helpful, but even seasoned travelers appreciate the convenience and insights.

Key Points

• Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line: You skip the long queues, which can be a real time-saver in peak season.
• Flexible Access: Choose to visit the 2nd floor or upgrade to the summit for even more spectacular views.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and fluent in multiple languages.
• Panoramic Views: You’ll see Paris landmarks like Notre-Dame, Louvre, and Arc de Triomphe from above.
• Additional Options: Optional Seine river cruise and bubbly at the Champagne Bar enhance the experience.
• Long Waits Possible: Be prepared for security and elevator lines; waiting times can reach 25-45 minutes in busy periods.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour begins with meeting your guide at a designated spot near the Eiffel Tower, not at the tower itself—so plan to arrive about 15 minutes early. The meeting point is at a souvenir shop on 19 Avenue de la Bourdonnais, which is a bit more relaxed than waiting in lines at the tower. From there, your guide will give a quick history overview, setting the scene for your visit.

Once the group is ready, you’ll head up to the second floor via elevator. This is a comfortable ride, and once there, you’ll get your first panoramic looks at Paris. It is, as many reviews point out, an excellent way to get a sense of the city’s layout and landmarks. Your guide will share stories about the Eiffel Tower’s history and point out sights like Notre-Dame, the Louvre, Les Invalides, and the Arc de Triomphe, making the views more meaningful.

If you’ve booked the optional summit ticket, you’ll ascend higher at your leisure. Many reviewers find the top offers incredible 360-degree vistas that are worth the extra effort. Some mention enjoying a glass of bubbly at the Champagne Bar if that option is included, which makes for a memorable celebration of the moment.

On the way down, you’ll have a chance to stop on the first floor and walk on the glass floor, 200 feet above the ground—an experience that adds a bit of adrenaline. The entire tour lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours, but keep in mind that actual time can vary depending on wait times and how long you linger at each level.

Guides and Commentary: Why They Matter

A recurring theme in reviews is the value of the guides. We loved the way many describe their guides as friendly, engaging, and very well-informed. One reviewer called Luna “wonderful, super friendly and knowledgeable,” while another praised Leo as “an excellent, personable guide who answered all questions.” These insights significantly elevate the experience because they turn a sightseeing visit into a story-telling session.

Guides also help you navigate the logistics, especially with the queues and elevator lines. Many reviews highlight how guides manage to get everyone through security quickly and avoid the worst of the crowds. For instance, some mention how their guide helped them skip straight into the elevators, preventing extensive waiting, which can be frustrating but is managed smoothly here.

The Views and Photo Opportunities

Once atop the Eiffel Tower, you’ll immediately understand why this is such a coveted vantage point. Reviewers rave about the views, describing them as “fantastic” and “incredible,” offering sweeping perspectives of Paris’s key landmarks. Many also appreciate that they could explore at their own pace after the guided portion, giving ample opportunity for photos and soaking in the scenery.

One insightful review noted, “The views from the top were incredible, and the guides’ explanations about the landmarks made it even better.” If you’re into photography or simply love seeing a city from above, this experience’s panoramic vistas won’t disappoint.

The Optional Summit and Additional Perks

Some travelers opt to upgrade to the summit tickets, and the reviews suggest it’s quite worthwhile if you’re after the ultimate Paris photo shoot. You’ll get higher, more unobstructed views, and in some cases, enjoy a glass of bubbly in the Champagne Bar—adding a touch of luxury to your visit.

However, it is worth noting that summit access can involve longer waits. Reviewers mention lines on the 2nd floor for the summit elevators, which could add up to 20 minutes or more to your experience during busy times. If you’re tight on time, consider whether the extra cost and wait are worth it for you.

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The Experience of Walking on the Glass Floor

A unique aspect of the tour is the visit to the first floor, where you can walk on a glass floor 200 feet above the ground. Multiple reviewers highlight this as a fun, if slightly nerve-wracking, feature. It provides a different perspective and a bit of thrill—especially if you’re not afraid of heights.

Price and Value

At $49 per person, this tour offers a reasonable way to see the Eiffel Tower with the benefit of skip-the-line access and a knowledgeable guide. Many reviews point out that it’s excellent value for the convenience and insights you gain, especially since you’ll avoid the typical long lines and confusion when trying to explore independently.

Some mention that the tour lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, which is a good span for a sightseeing activity. If you choose to add the summit or Seine cruise, the value increases, but be aware that these are optional upgrades and will come at an additional cost.

Practical Tips

• Arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes early to avoid rushing and to meet your guide smoothly.
• Remember, your voucher is not your ticket; you’ll need to exchange it at the meeting point.
• Expect some wait times, especially during peak season or bad weather, and plan accordingly.
• Large bags, baby strollers, and glass objects aren’t allowed, so pack light.
• Tours operate rain or shine, so dress appropriately for the weather.
• If you’re traveling with small children, note that large or non-folding strollers aren’t permitted, and the tour might not be ideal for very young kids.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This guided experience is particularly good for first-time visitors who value expert commentary and a seamless entry process. It’s also suitable for travelers who want to skip the long queues and enjoy the views without the hassle of navigating the logistics alone.

If you’re a photo enthusiast or someone who appreciates a bit of luxury—like champagne at the top—the optional summit upgrade will suit you. It’s a smart choice for those looking to make their Eiffel Tower visit both memorable and comfortable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While the tour itself doesn’t specifically target families, young children who enjoy heights might find the glass floor walk fun. However, large or non-folding strollers aren’t permitted, so plan accordingly.

How long does the tour last?
The experience typically runs between 1.5 and 2 hours, depending on wait times and how long you spend at each level.

Do I need to buy my tickets in advance?
Yes, your voucher needs to be exchanged at the meeting point for your tickets. The tour includes skip-the-line access, but you can’t collect tickets beforehand.

What happens if the summit is closed?
If the summit is closed for maintenance or safety reasons, your tour will still operate, but you won’t be able to go up to the top. No refunds are given in such cases.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour and must be purchased separately if you wish.

Can I bring large bags or luggage?
Large bags, luggage, and non-folding strollers are not allowed, and there’s no left-luggage facility on-site.

Final Thoughts

This guided Eiffel Tower tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience one of the world’s most famous landmarks. The combination of skip-the-line access, expert guides, and stunning views makes it a solid choice for visitors wanting an effortless yet insightful visit. Although wait times can be a bit unpredictable during peak seasons, the overall value and quality of the experience are hard to beat.

If you’re after a hassle-free way to explore the Eiffel Tower with knowledgeable insights, this tour suits travelers who appreciate convenience and storytelling. It’s perfect for first-timers, photo lovers, or anyone eager to make the most of their time in Paris’s magical skyline. Just remember to prepare for possible lines and arrive early—then sit back and enjoy the spectacle of Paris from above.

You can check availability for your dates here: