The Eiffel Tower in Paris

Probably the first place you see when arriving in Paris is the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower has become the symbol of Paris since its completion in 1889. It has 6 million visitors a year and is the most photographed place in France.

It took 300 workers 2 years to assemble the 18,000 pieces of iron to form the tower's three levels. The tower was the world's highest structure until the Chrysler Building in 1930. It is repainted every 7 years to prevent it rusting it takes about 50 tons of paint.

The Eiffel Tower

The tower has two restaurants one on the first level and the other on the second.

The view from the observation platform is worth the wait to enter the tower.You can see for miles you get a 360 view of the city below.

The view is especially good at dusk when the city lights start to come on

The tower is illuminated by both the lights and the fading sun.

To visit the tower, take the Metro to the Trocadero station.

Even in March, which is not the main tourist season, it will be busy Keep in mind you need to buy tickets on a ticket line first and then wait on the line for the elevator or stairs.

Find out when the elevators open and arrive early. Depending on the time you have, you will find the line for elevators still quite long even if you arrive before they open.

If you are in good shape and have time to spare, you can take stairs. That line is always much shorter since obviously there are quite a number of people who either do not want to use the stairs or cannot make the climb.

Many people go up to the second deck. That deck provides a great view of Paris. Others go to the third deck, however, that wait can be excessive.

At the base near the Eiffel Tower are a group of artists for whom you can pose. They quickly can produce a characterature of you. Prices are often not posted. Make sure to ask first. The picture takes approximately 3-5 minutes to draw. Many artists charge $40.00-70.00 for the drawings so be sure you do not sit without knowing the actual prices.

The Tower at night

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See our new page on Camping in Normandy

Places to visit in Paris

• The Louvre Paris
• Antique Markets in Paris
• Hotels in Paris
• A day trip to Paris
• Les Champs Elysees Paris

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