Want to visit the Eiffel Tower? Read this first!

Photo by Heather Stimmler-HallFor the second day in a row the Eiffel Tower closed after only a few hours due to workers' strikes for better pay and working conditions (the private company managing the Eiffel Tower made a considerable profit last year, FYI). People waited in line for over three hours only to be told, "Désolé, we're closed." No word on whether the strike will end over the Easter holiday or not.

Even of the workers get what they demand and return to work, only one of the two elevators that take visitors to the top is working due to construction. So even on a good day the lines are insane. Of course, even when both elevators are working the lines are long. Why bother? Take a photo from Trocadéro and go sprend your time doing something more interesting. I won't tell. Your life won't be lacking for it.

If I still haven't convinced you, maybe this will: since last week the Eiffel Tower rates have gone up. The cheapeast ticket is €4.50 to go to the 1st or 2nd level by the staircase, or €8 if you take the elevator. If you want to go to the top (3rd level), you have to shell out €13 (no staircase to the 3rd). Students under 24 and kids under 12 years old get a small discount.

Oh, and the Eiffel Tower is 120 years old this year. That makes the "raise" worth it, right? And the new coat of paint; that really adds to the experience, doesn't it? ;)

Update on Tuesday, May 5, 2009 by Heather

Amazingly, the people managing the Eiffel Tower have finally decided it would be a good idea to allow groups to buy tickets in advance, online, as well as making a scheduled appointment so that you're guaranteed to get in within a half hour window.

To get the discounted group entrance rate (for at least 20 adults or 10 students) you MUST buy the tickets and schedule appointment online, in advance.

Comments

[Chaz]

*gasp*

I cannot imagine a visit to Paris without going to the top at sunset.

[Paula Maack]

Great reporting, Heather! Sounds like a nightmare.

For those looking for a great sunset view of Paris, why not visit the Tour Montparnasse instead? There are no lines, it's comfy, and the view is significantly better with picturesque sights of the Eiffel Tower - from above.

Cheers,

~ Paula

[Heather]

Lol! And the best part is that if you're IN the Tour Montparnasse you won't have to look at it! ;)