Is the Eiffel Tower Worth Visiting? Our Honest Review
It's the most famous landmark on Earth — but is going up worth the queues and cost? Our honest take.
What it is
The Eiffel Tower is the 330-metre iron landmark that defines the Paris skyline. You can admire it from below for free, ride to two viewing levels, or go all the way to the summit for the city's most iconic view.
The experience
Up close the tower is genuinely impressive — far bigger and more intricate than photos suggest. The view from the top stretches across the whole city, and at night the hourly sparkle show is magical. The downside is crowds: queues for tickets, lifts and security can eat an hour or more if you don't plan.
What we loved
- An unbeatable, instantly recognisable view over Paris.
- The night-time sparkle (every hour after dark) is worth timing your visit for.
- The surrounding gardens and river make a great free vantage point even if you don't go up.
What to watch out for
- Long queues without a pre-booked timed ticket.
- Pickpockets and persistent sellers around the base.
- It can feel touristy and expensive at peak times.
Is it worth it? Our verdict
Yes — with planning. Book a timed ticket in advance, go early or for sunset, and the Eiffel Tower lives up to the hype. If queues aren't your thing, admiring it from the Champ de Mars or Trocadéro is a lovely free alternative. We give it 4.5 out of 5: an essential Paris experience, marked down only for the crowds.
Practical tips
- Book the official timed ticket online well ahead.
- Sunset gives you both daytime and lit-up views.
- Take the stairs to the second level to skip part of the lift queue.
✈️ Before you go to Paris
Sort the practical stuff that saves money and stress:
Frequently asked questions
Is the Eiffel Tower worth going up?
Yes, especially with a pre-booked ticket and good timing — the view over Paris is unmatched. If you'd rather avoid queues, admiring it from the gardens below is a great free alternative.
When is the best time to visit the Eiffel Tower?
Early morning or around sunset for the best light and shorter queues. After dark, time your visit for the hourly sparkle show.
Do I need to book Eiffel Tower tickets in advance?
Strongly recommended. Timed tickets sell out and on-the-day queues can be very long.