Eiffel Tower Timings and Best Time to Visit
The right timing turns your Eiffel Tower visit from a crowded scramble into something calm and memorable. Knowing when the gates open, when lines thin out, and when the city lights up below makes all the difference. This page gives you the exact hours, level-by-level details, and crowd patterns so you can plan a smooth trip without guessing.
Opening Hours
The Eiffel Tower opens every single day of the year, including holidays. Standard hours run from 9:30 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. or midnight, depending on the season. The last ascent to any level happens 45 minutes before closing, so you still have time to enjoy the views.
Hours can shift slightly for weather or maintenance. The official calendar on the tower’s site shows exact times for your visit date.
*Note: During peak summer (late June to early September), hours are extended to midnight or 12:45 a.m. The summit closes for a few weeks every winter (usually early January to early February) for maintenance.
Timings for Specific Locations
Different parts of the tower follow their own schedules to keep things safe and efficient.
Stairs & Elevators
Stairs open from 9:30 a.m. and usually close around 6:30 p.m. in quieter months, but stay open until midnight in peak summer. Elevators run the full opening hours, from 9:30 a.m. until closing.
Summit & Restaurants
The Summit is accessible during regular hours most of the year, but closes for annual maintenance each winter. Restaurants like Madame Brasserie open within tower hours.
Best Time to Visit
Best Time of Day
The sweet spot depends on light, crowds, and your pace. Early morning (right at 9:30 a.m.) or late evening after 8 p.m. usually means shorter waits and more space on the platforms. Midday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. sees the longest lines, especially in summer.
Best Months
By month, the quietest periods fall between October and March. January and February have the fewest visitors, with comfortable lines even on weekends. April, May, September, and October strike a nice balance—mild weather and moderate crowds.
Peak Season and Crowded Days of the Week
Peak season runs from the end of June through early September, with July and August at maximum capacity. School holidays in Europe push numbers even higher. During these months expect longer waits and fuller platforms no matter what time you choose.
Outside peak season, attendance drops noticeably. Weekends are always busier. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays usually have the shortest lines when school breaks and holidays are not in play.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Eiffel Tower open every day of the year?
Yes. It never closes for holidays or regular maintenance. Only the summit has occasional winter shutdowns for upkeep.
What is the last entry time?
Last ascent is always 45 minutes before the tower closes. If closing is at midnight, you can enter until 10:45 p.m.
When is the summit closed?
It closes for a few weeks every winter, usually from early January to early February, for annual painting and safety work. The first and second floors stay open.
Which days of the week are least crowded?
Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays outside of peak season and school holidays. Weekends see noticeably higher attendance year-round.
Are opening hours different in summer?
Yes. In peak summer the tower often stays open later—sometimes until 12:45 a.m.—and stairs may run longer hours. Early mornings can also start at 9:00 a.m. on certain dates. Always check the calendar.