One of the most famous landmarks in France, the Eiffel Tower is recognisable around the world. Standing tall in the centre of Paris, the iconic tower boasts a fascinating history and offers visitors plenty to do, which is why it welcomes around 7 million guests each year.
Here, we share our guide to the Eiffel Tower so that you know what to expect when you visit this simply amazing structure for yourself.
History of the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower was built following a competition held by the organisers of Exposition Universelle 1889. People were asked to submit their designs for a tower that would be built on the Champ de Mars and act as the entrance to the world fair. This even was to be particularly prominent as it marked 100 years since the storming of the Bastille – which started the French Revolution. The tower needed to be 300m high and 125m wide with a square base. 107 designs were entered into the competition, with the winning design coming from Gustave Eiffel.
Along with 2 engineers and architect Stephen Sauvestre, Eiffel created his design which was very different to any other structures that had been built at the time. Originally the tower was going to be quite plain, but Sauvestre added decorative arcs and other features that made it really stand out. After 2 years, 2 months, and 5 days of construction, the Eiffel Tower was inaugurated on March 31st 1889. To mark the occasion, Gustave Eiffel climbed its 1710 steps and placed the French flag at the top. During the Exposition Universelle 1889, around 2 million people walked through the Eiffel Tower and into the event.
Knowing how much the Eiffel Tower is appreciated today, you might be surprised that it was actually disliked by many Parisians to begin with. It was thought that the stark, metal design did not fit in with the city’s elegant style. These concerns were voiced even though, at the time, the Eiffel Tower was to be demolished after 20 years. However, Gustave Eiffel fought to prove the tower’s scientific utility, focusing on astrology and physiology. In the end, it was radio that save the Eiffel Tower from destruction. This meant that the structure played an important part in World War One when it came to receiving communications, and became crucial in France’s strategic and military efforts. Now, the Eiffel Tower is home to 120 antennas which broadcast to 32 radio stations and 40 TV channels.
These days, the Eiffel Tower is loved by both Parisians and holidaymakers alike. Around 7 million people climb the tower each year, and it is now seen as being a symbol of romance, and a popular wedding proposal spot too! The history of the Eiffel Tower is certainly a fascinating one, and it’s unlikely that anyone could imagine Paris without this dominating structure at its centre.
Things to do at the Eiffel Tower
Although simply seeing the Eiffel Tower is something to tick off of your bucket list, there’s plenty to do at the tower if you’d like to explore it further. Start at the Eiffel Tower’s base, known as the Esplanade, where you can admire its impressive details close up. From here, you’ll also have great views of the Trocadéro and down to the Ecole Militaire building. The four pillars that hold the Eiffel Tower are named North, South, East and West. At the North Pillar you’ll find a bust of Gustave Eiffel dedicated to his postal and telecommunication services, which is definitely worth finding. Head around to the West Pillar if you have any questions or need further details, as this is where the tower’s information centre is.
Next up is the first floor of the Eiffel Tower. Here, you can learn about the tower’s history using a number of interactive displays which span the floor’s outer passageway. There are also a number of areas where you can relax with a drink and take in the view, plus a glass floor which is not for the faint-hearted! Another highlight of the first floor is the remaining part of a spiral staircase that used to lead from the second floor to Gustave Eiffel’s office at the top of the tower. This was removed in 1983 when it what no longer required.
If you decide to visit the Eiffel Tower’s second floor you’ll be rewarded with views across the whole of Paris. Spot famous landmarks including the Louvre, the Grand Palais, and Notre Dame as you work your way around the floor. Feeling fancy? Enjoy a meal at the wonderful Jules Verne Michelin-star restaurant and take in the stunning views while you eat delicious food. From here, the only way is up to the summit, and you’ll be taken there by glass elevator. When you reach the top you’ll be 276m in the air with only an antenna above you. With one open floor and one closed floor to experience the views from, you can enjoy a drink from the Champagne Bar to complete the experience.
Things to do around the Eiffel Tower
Once you’ve experienced the Eiffel Tower for yourself, you might want to take in some of the attractions that can be found nearby. For a bit of rest and relaxation, head to the foot of the tower and wander through the Parc du Champ de Mars. One of the largest green spaces in Paris, this park boasts lush lawns, ponds, playgrounds, and a number of bronze statues. The park is home to plenty of hidden corners and nooks to discover, and is the perfect place for a picnic on sunny days. During the spring and summer in Paris, you’ll be delighted to find flowerbeds full of beautiful blooms and, throughout the year, you should keep an eye out for great spotted woodpeckers and tawny owls.
Another garden close to the Eiffel Tower is the Trocadéro. Divided by the Fountain of Warsaw, an impressive water mirror boasting both fountains and water arches, this is another great place for relaxing and taking in views of the tower. In the Trocadéro, you’ll also find the Palais de Chaillot. The impressive building is made up of two wings which sit either side of a terrace that leads into the garden. From here, you can enjoy one of the most spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower on offer. Within the Palais de Chaillot, you’ll find three fascinating museums: the Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine (architecture and sculptures), the French Maritime Museum (closed for renovations until 2022), and the Musée de l’Homme – which celebrates anthropology.
If you’d like to see some modern art during your time in Paris, you’ll be pleased to find two relevant museums just a few minutes from the Eiffel Tower. Sharing a terrace which offers amazing views of the Eiffel Tower and the Trocadéro, the Modern Art Museum and the Palais de Tokyo both offer plenty to see. From cutting-edge installations to attention-grabbing paintings, be prepared to be amazed by the permanent and temporary exhibitions held at this pair of museums.
Should you be feeling a bit peckish after exploring the Eiffel Tower and the area around it, head to Rue Cler. Here, you’ll find plenty of places to buy all of your favourite French treats, including pastries, cheese, chocolate, and lots of other delicious takeaway options. Alternatively, pop into one of the restaurants or cafes for a laid back meal, light bite, or a refreshing drink. We would suggest this over eating at one of the places surround the Eiffel Tower, as the food there is often not as authentic and can be quite overpriced.
Now that you know all about the Eiffel Tower, book your Dover to Calais ferry crossing and start planning your trip to see this wonderful structure today.
