Which Eiffel Tower ticket should I buy?

For first-time visitors on a clear day, the Summit by Elevator ticket (€26.80) gives the ultimate panorama from 276m. For budget-conscious travelers, Stairs to 2nd Floor (€10.70) has shorter queues and unique perspectives. The best-of-both-worlds option is Stairs + Summit Elevator (€20.40): walk up for the experience, ride up for the view.

How do I skip the queue at the Eiffel Tower?

Book online 60 days in advance when tickets are released. Choose morning slots (9:00-10:30) for the shortest waits. Arrive 15 minutes before your time slot for security. If summit tickets are sold out, buy stairs tickets which have much shorter queues (10-30 minutes vs 30-90 minutes for summit elevator).

Are Eiffel Tower tickets refundable?

Eiffel Tower tickets are non-refundable but can typically be rescheduled once if done 72 or more hours before the visit date. Always check the official terms at the time of purchase for the most current policy.

Eiffel Tower Tickets 2026: Prices, Types & How to Skip the Queue

Quick Decision

Which Ticket
Is Right for You?

Summit by Elevator

The full experience. Ride the elevator to the very top at 276m for the ultimate panorama of Paris.

Price (Adult) €26.80

Wait Time 30–90 min

Best For First-timers, clear days

Pro tip: Book online 60 days in advance. Morning slots (9:30–10:30) have the shortest waits.

2nd Floor by Elevator

Excellent views from 116m without the summit premium. Glass floor and restaurants at this level.

Price (Adult) €17.10

Wait Time 20–60 min

Best For Budget-conscious, crowds

Best Value

Stairs to 2nd Floor

674 steps with unique perspectives at every turn. The immersive, intimate way to experience the tower.

Price (Adult) €10.70

Wait Time 10–30 min

Best For Active travelers, photography

Stairs + Summit Elevator

Walk up to the 2nd floor for the experience, then ride the elevator to the summit for the panorama.

Price (Adult) €20.40

Wait Time 15–45 min

Best For Best of both worlds

Timing Strategy

When to Book.
When to Show Up.

Your ticket strategy matters more than which ticket you buy.

Book 60 Days Ahead

Tickets release roughly 60 days before the visit date. Set a reminder. Summit slots sell out within days for peak season.

Choose Morning Slots

9:00–10:30 slots have the lowest wait times. By noon, you're looking at 60+ minute queues. Evening slots are popular but manageable.

Arrive 15 Min Early

Security screening takes time. Arrive 15 minutes before your slot to clear security without rushing or missing your window.

Have a Backup Plan

If summit tickets are sold out, buy 2nd floor + stairs. You'll still get incredible views, and the experience is arguably more intimate.

Essential Info

What You Need
to Know.

Opening Hours

Mid-June to early September: 9:00 – 00:45 (stairs close at midnight)

Rest of the year: 9:30 – 23:45 (stairs close at 18:00)

Children & Youth

Children under 4: Free. Ages 4–11: reduced rates. Ages 12–24: youth pricing available on some tickets.

Accessibility

Wheelchair access is available to the 1st and 2nd floors by elevator. The summit has limited accessibility. Staff assistance is available.

Refund Policy

Tickets are non-refundable but can typically be rescheduled once if done 72+ hours before the visit. Check official terms at time of purchase.

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Which TicketIs Right for You?