The jewel in the crown of Paris (Eiffel Tower)

Member Name: luke1081

Product:	Eiffel Tower
Date:	07/01/09 (37 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Commanding views

Disadvantages: A long trek to the top

Despite being one of the most recognised landmarks in the world, one can never truly understand the sheer size of the Eiffel Tower until you are standing beneath it. It is massive an little wonder, it used to be the tallest structure in the world.

My first tip is to avoid visiting the Eiffel Tower at peak periods. So, if possible, avoid lunchtimes, afternoons, weekends and public holidays. Doesn't leave much time to play with but, this way, you can avoid waiting for anything up to two hours, twiddling your thumbs in a queue. By the time I eventually made it up the Tower, I was so knackered from standing in a queue, I didnt really enjoy the visit as much as I could have. Bare this in mind, if you have elderly people with you.

The other tip is to make sure you choose the correct entrance to ascend the Tower. There are four, not-so-clearly marked entrances. Don't be confused though; two entrances only allow you to ascend via a long and winding staircase (near on 1700 steps), which takes a long time and only serves to add injury to already-tired legs. That was another mistake I made.

Once I had ascended the Tower, I was sore and aching. Luckily, there was a delightful cafe (expect premium prices here) and a free cinema (no Die Hard movies; just a pleasant documentary about the building of the Tower). The views were spectacular and commanding. To be honest, the view from the first "plinth" (there are 3 stages), was better than the top. I prefered being able to see people and cars moving around, rather than straning to see anything happening below from the very top of the Eiffel Tower.

Prices are astonishgly cheap; especially if you opt to walk up the Tower, I found out to my cost. You are looking at about £4 for the trip. Be aware though, it is time-consuming, it is cold at the top and the trek can really take it out of you.

Try and visit during daylight hours; but also come back at night, when the lights are switched onm creating a spectacular sight all around Paris.

Summary: If you visit Paris, you simply must go