When visiting the Eiffel Tower, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is whether to take the elevators or climb the stairs. Both options lead to spectacular views of Paris, but they offer very different experiences in terms of effort, price, waiting time, and perspective.
If you’re planning your visit, understanding the Eiffel Tower elevators vs stairs debate can help you choose the best way to experience one of the world’s most famous landmarks.
Overview: Elevators vs Stairs at the Eiffel Tower
Visitors can reach the upper levels of the Eiffel Tower in two ways:
- Elevators – the easiest and most popular option
- Stairs – a more active and immersive experience
However, there is an important difference:
- Stairs go only to the Second Floor
- Elevators are required to reach the Summit
This means your choice will depend partly on how high you want to go.
Taking the Eiffel Tower Elevators
The elevators are the most common way visitors reach the top levels of the Eiffel Tower. They travel along the tower’s angled legs and provide a unique perspective of the iron structure during the ride.
Advantages of Taking the Elevators
1. Easier and more comfortable
The elevator ride requires no physical effort, making it ideal for:
- families with children
- older visitors
- travelers with limited mobility
2. Access to the Summit
Only elevators can take visitors from the Second Floor to the Summit, which sits about 276 meters (906 ft) above Paris.
3. Unique ride experience
The angled elevator ride offers a fascinating view of the tower’s engineering and lattice design, something you don’t fully appreciate from the ground.
Drawbacks of the Elevators
- Longer queues, especially during peak tourist seasons
- Higher ticket prices compared with stair tickets
- More crowded observation decks
During summer or holidays, waiting for elevators can take 30 minutes to over an hour.
Climbing the Eiffel Tower Stairs
Climbing the Eiffel Tower stairs is a completely different experience. Visitors walk up 674 steps to the Second Floor, passing through the tower’s intricate iron framework.
Advantages of Taking the Stairs
1. Shorter waiting times
Stair tickets usually have much shorter lines than elevator tickets, which can save significant time during busy periods.
2. Lower ticket price
Stairs tickets are cheaper, making them a great option for budget travelers.
3. A more immersive experience
Climbing the tower lets you:
- see the structure up close
- appreciate the engineering design
- enjoy changing views of Paris as you ascend
4. A fun challenge
Many visitors enjoy the sense of accomplishment after climbing hundreds of steps to reach the observation level.
Drawbacks of the Stairs
- Requires physical effort
- Not suitable for everyone
- Does not reach the Summit
Visitors who climb the stairs can still take an elevator from the Second Floor to the Summit if their ticket allows.
Key Differences: Elevators vs Stairs
| Feature | Elevators | Stairs |
|---|---|---|
| Physical effort | None | Moderate climb |
| Access to Summit | Yes | No |
| Waiting time | Often longer | Usually shorter |
| Ticket price | Higher | Cheaper |
| Experience | Comfortable ride | More immersive |
Which Option Should You Choose?
Choose the Elevators if:
- You want to reach the Summit
- You prefer comfort over physical activity
- You’re visiting with kids or older travelers
- You want the classic Eiffel Tower experience
Choose the Stairs if:
- You want a unique and active experience
- You prefer shorter lines
- You enjoy walking and sightseeing
- You want a budget-friendly option
Best Strategy: Stairs Up, Elevator Down
Many experienced travelers recommend the stairs up and elevator down strategy.
This approach lets you:
- enjoy the climb and structure views
- avoid long elevator lines going up
- relax on the way down
It’s often considered the best balance between experience and convenience.
Final Verdict
There’s no single winner in the Eiffel Tower elevators vs stairs debate — it depends on your travel style.
- Elevators provide the easiest way to reach the top of the tower.
- Stairs offer a more adventurous and intimate experience inside the structure.
For many visitors, the best choice is combining both: climb the stairs to the Second Floor, then take the elevator to the Summit.
Either way, reaching the upper levels of the Eiffel Tower rewards you with one of the most spectacular views in Paris.