Eiffel Tower: The Icon of Paris—More Than Just a View

Once the tallest building ever erected, the Eiffel Tower is now one of the most visited attractions worldwide. When it was completed in 1889, it was 984 feet (or 300 meters) greatly exceeding the height of the Washington Monument, which at the time stood at 554.5 feet (or 169 meters) as the highest building in the world.

Additionally, the Eiffel Tower's cultural importance has only increased with time, even though it was only the tallest for 41 years before the Chrysler Building in New York overtook it in 1929.

Where is the Eiffel Tower located?

In the 7th arrondissement of Paris, the Champ de Mars is a sizable public park situated on the banks of the Seine River. This is where you can find the Eiffel Tower, also known as the Tour Eiffel in French. The Musée d'Orsay, the Musée Rodin, and the Musée du Quai Branly are nearby. Another sizable park, Jardins du Trocadéro, is located directly over the river and provides more green space in addition to a stunning perspective of the building.

Fascinating information about the Eiffel Tower

It was intended to serve as the centerpiece of a global exposition commemorating the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution in Paris.

• Railroad engineer Gustave Eiffel is the architect responsible for the tower's design. The base of the tower is shaped like a railroad bridge.

• Comparable to a multi-piece 3D puzzle, the tower was "assembled" at its current location. Made in Eiffel's factory, the components were transported by the Seine.

• It was first painted ochre and brown, then back to red!

• To prevent it from being destroyed, Eiffel fitted antennae and transformed it into a wireless transmission and radio tower. Originally, it was intended to be dismantled after 20 years for scrap metal. It has almost 100 antennae on top of it now.

• Every hour on the hour, the tower has a stunning five-minute light and sparkle show. For the purpose of twinkles, 20,000 lights were placed on top of the golden lights.

What is the Eiffel Tower made of?

Iron Lady is the nickname given to the Eiffel Tower because it is constructed of wrought iron. To build the tower, 18,038 pieces of metal were fastened together using 2.5 million rivets. The tower's elevators, stores, and antennae add up to a total weight of 10,100 tons, which includes the 7,300 tons of the metal frame. Yeatman-Eiffel compares it to "iron lace." "It's a pretty light tower."

What's within the Tower of Eiffel?

There are gift stores, a casual buffet-style restaurant, and an information desk on the ground floor, also referred to as the Esplanade. Stairs and elevators that connect to the tourist attractions on all three levels are located inside the four legs of the Eiffel Tower. Only 674 of the tower's 1,665 stairs are accessible to the public, allowing them to walk up to the second floor. The only way to get to the third story is by an elevator.

THE BEST VIEW OF THE EIFFEL TOWER

1. THE GROUND-LEVEL CHARM

Let's begin our Eiffel experience at the base before we take it to even greater heights. Many contend that being immediately underneath the Eiffel Tower offers the best perspective of the structure. They're not wholly incorrect, either. The impression of being so small in comparison to its vastness when gazing up is almost strange. Even if it may not be the expansive vista you were hoping for, this one is undoubtedly unforgettable.

2. THE PICTURESQUE SEINE RIVER

Another popular approach to appreciate the tower's beauty is to go on a boat tour along the Seine. The picturesque Eiffel Tower and the city backdrop create a picture-perfect scene as the boat glides over the water in peace. The dazzling tower and the gentle glow of a Parisian sunset can be utterly captivating if you're lucky.

3. SACRÉ-CŒUR AND THE HILLTOP VIEW

The Sacré-Coeur Basilica in Montmartre provides an almost surreal vista if you're up for a little hike—we promise it's worth it. From a hilltop location, you can take in a broad panorama of Paris, featuring the iconic Eiffel Tower rising majestically over the city. Though it's no secret if you want to avoid the crowds, try going in the early morning or late afternoon.

4. THE MONTPARNASSE MAGIC

Let's now discuss the best viewpoint of the Eiffel Tower, the Tour Montparnasse. For those who don't know, the Montparnasse district is home to the skyscraper Tour Montparnasse. Its vista more than makes up for any historical attraction that it may lack in comparison to other Parisian sites.

From this vantage point, the Eiffel Tower is transformed from a building into a work of art against the expansive backdrop of Paris. There's enchantment in its unbroken sightlines. There's no pushing through crowds or clambering over obstacles. The tower is quite stunning as it stands tall and proud.

Its observation deck and top offer unmatched views. Looking around the city, you'll see why so many residents and visitors support Tour Montparnasse as the location for the fantastic view. 

Conclusion

Essentially, your entire Parisian experience might be influenced by the location from which you select to see the Eiffel Tower. Every perspective conveys a distinct narrative. Every viewpoint is different, whether it's the intimate view from its base, the gorgeous views from a Seine boat, or the panoramic view of the cityscape from Tour Montparnasse. Emotions and recollections are more important than visibility when it comes to the ideal view of the Eiffel Tower.

Thus, keep in mind the treasures we've provided the next time you're in the City of Lights searching for the best view of the Eiffel Tower. Take out your camera, grab a croissant, and watch the tower transform. After all, Paris is always a wonderful idea, as Audrey Hepburn once remarked. And who could argue with opinions like these?