Optimal Time to Witness Stunning Panoramas from the Eiffel Tower, as Perceived by Rick Steves
Visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris is a must for any traveller, and top European travel expert Rick Steves has some tips to help you make the most of your visit.
Rick Steves recommends planning your Eiffel Tower visit in the late afternoon to catch the sunset, then staying for the night-time light show. This is the ideal way to experience the tower at its most magical.
During the shoulder seasons like April and October, temperatures are mild and tourist crowds are smaller, making for a more pleasant experience. If you can, book your tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
For the best views of the Eiffel Tower's sunset and light show, Rick Steves suggests heading to vantage points such as the Seine River cruise or Plaza Trocadero. These spots offer breathtaking views of the tower sparkling at night, a moment not to be missed.
The Eiffel Tower's light show occurs at night with sparkling lights for about five minutes every hour after dark. From the Seine River cruise, you can witness this magical display as the boat ends its journey near 10 PM, creating unforgettable photo opportunities.
If you're looking for a spot to enjoy the light show from below, the grassy lawn beneath the Eiffel Tower is a great option.
When visiting the tower itself, expect long lines and plan for about 2 hours for elevator access and taking in the views. Climbing stairs back down is an option to save time or for exercise.
Rick Steves argues that while other spots in Paris may offer arguably better views, the Eiffel Tower provides an exclusive experience that is worth the visit, despite its crowds and expense. He describes the ascent to the top of the Eiffel Tower as one of Europe's best thrills.
It's important to budget at least three to four hours for the entire Eiffel Tower experience, including waiting in line, getting to the top, and enjoying the views and exhibits on the way back down.
Visiting Paris and the Eiffel Tower is a popular destination for travellers from around the world. In fact, the Eiffel Tower is one of the most visited monuments in the world, with over 250 million people having visited it.
Rick Steves writes on his website that visiting the Eiffel Tower is a once-in-a-lifetime, I've-been-there experience. So, if you're planning a trip to Paris, be sure to add the Eiffel Tower to your must-see list and follow Rick Steves' tips for the best experience possible.
Experiencing the Eiffel Tower's enchanting sunset and night-time light show requires a well-planned visit, perhaps aiming for vantage points such as the Seine River cruise or Plaza Trocadero. In addition, incorporating the Eiffel Tower's lifestyle into your travel itinerary presents an exclusive European experience that many travellers aspire to embrace.
