Originally constructed for the 1889 World’s Fair, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France is undoubtedly one of the most famous tourist attractions on earth. This 1,083-foot tower of iron latticework has been the backdrop to countless historical scenes and romantic moments for over 130 years. And to many, no other symbol says “Europe” quite like it.
If you’re planning to visit the Eiffel Tower, Paris, or France in general, this guide can equip you with some helpful knowledge about the sights to see, and the travel medical insurance you should get before you go.
Travel Medical Insurance for Travelers visiting the Eiffel Tower – FAQs
Travel medical insurance is short-term international health insurance that can protect you from bearing the brunt of unexpected medical costs abroad. When you’re traveling outside your home country, it’s essential that you have insurance coverage, as the health insurance from your home country is unlikely to be accepted. Travel medical insurance is a smart solution to get the coverage you need.
Do I need travel medical insurance for the Eiffel Tower?
If you’re traveling to France, whether or not insurance is mandatory depends on the entry requirements. If you need a Schengen visa to enter France or any other Schengen nation, then compliant Schengen visa insurance is a requirement for you.
If your trip to visit France and the Eiffel Tower doesn’t require a visa, travel medical insurance is not compulsory, but it is highly recommended. Remember, if you choose to go without insurance, you may be solely responsible for paying any medical treatment costs you incur during your trip out of your own pocket.
Why buy travel medical insurance before visiting the Eiffel Tower?
When some of the most famous views in the world are right in front of you, it’s easy to lose your sense of spatial awareness. The next thing you know, you’ve got a twisted ankle or broken leg from stepping wrong. Just the same, you could suddenly become sick from germs you picked up on the plane ride over.
Whatever the reason, the result is often an expensive hospital or doctor visit. And while France does have excellent healthcare, it won’t be cheap. In order to get the care you need without breaking the bank, be sure to have travel medical insurance.
The Eiffel Tower’s Most Popular Attractions
As one of the world’s most renowned attractions, there are plenty of things to do for tourists visiting the Eiffel Tower, or the area directly around it.
Eiffel Tower Gardens
If you’re on a budget and just want to experience the Eiffel Tower’s ambiance, you can spend some time in the Eiffel Tower Gardens. Located within the perimeter around the tower, the gardens are free to enter, but do require you to pass through a security checkpoint. Once inside, you can experience serene trees, fish-filled ponds, paths, and a cave. And if you want to take some photos or a selfie, there’s perhaps no better backdrop on earth.
The Eiffel Tower Esplanade
If you want to view the “Iron Lady” from up close, but don’t want to spend any money (or are afraid of heights), just visit the Esplanade. Located directly around and under the tower, the Esplanade will give you a chance to study its architecture up close. Like the gardens, the Esplanade is free to visit. There are also several gift shop and food options available.
First Floor
If you pay for a ticket to the upper floors of the Eiffel Tower, the elevator will take you to them first, meaning you’ll miss out on the first floor unless you visit on your way down. Make sure that you do. While the first floor may not have the same views of Paris, it does have numerous exhibitions, a children’s play area, gift shops and food options, and even a transparent floor that allows you to look directly down to the Esplanade.
Second Floor
If you’ve been dreaming of that perfect selfie with Paris as a backdrop, the second floor of the Eiffel Tower is where you’ll find it. There’s a reason this large observation deck is the most popular area of the tower: the views. There are more gift shops, dining options, and even a bar on the second floor. Elevator access to the second floor costs around €16.70 for adults as of this writing, but prices may change.
The Eiffel Tower Summit
If you aren’t bothered by heights, the summit of the Eiffel Tower is as high as you can go. Unlike other floors, only elevator access is available to the summit. Once you arrive, you can enjoy long-range views of the surrounding city, see the former office of Gustave Eiffel, and even enjoy a drink at the champagne bar.
Key Guidelines for Travelers visiting the Eiffel Tower
Cost
How much you have to spend to visit the Eiffel Tower depends upon where you want to visit, and how you want to get there. For instance, a ticket to the summit with elevator access to the second floor will cost more than a ticket to the summit with stair access to the second floor. Similarly, a ticket to the more famous second floor only will be cheaper than one that also allows summit access. Check the Eiffel Tower’s official website for updated prices.
Buying Tickets
You can purchase most Eiffel Tower tickets either in person or at the tower’s official website for the same price. However, keep in mind that tickets that allow you elevator access to the summit and stair access to lower floors can only be purchased in person, and must be used on the same day. The only exception to this is if you’re taking a guided tour. For any other ticket, you’re encouraged to pre-purchase and avoid the long lines.
Visiting for Free
If you’re satisfied simply visiting the tower without going up in it, you’re welcome to do so for free. The Champs de Mars area surrounding the tower, the Eiffel Tower Gardens and the Esplanade are all free to visit. However, you must pass through a security checkpoint in order to do so.
Watch for Pickpockets
Even though it is a secure area, one of world’s most popular tourist attractions is a natural hotspot for pickpockets. It would be a smart idea to keep your cash in a money belt instead of a wallet or purse. Also, don’t carry more cash than you need for the day. Leave extra currency securely locked up in your hotel room.
Take Public Transport
While you can certainly visit the Eiffel Tower by car, parking can be a hassle. It’s far easier to take the metro, RER commuter rail, or public bus. There are currently five public transport stops that are less than 10 minutes’ walk from the Eiffel Tower.
Before You Visit the Eiffel Tower – Do This
- Unless you only want a ticket you can buy onsite, purchasing online ahead of time is strongly recommended. You’ll spend a lot less time queuing and more time sightseeing if you do.
- Consider booking a day tour. If you’re not staying in central Paris, it may be easier to visit the Eiffel Tower as part of a guided tour than to take a special trip. Numerous choices are available from different operators to suit a variety of budgets.
- Don’t leave your finances to chance. In case your trip hits a speedbump, protect them with travel medical insurance.