Why the Eiffel Tower Still Reigns Supreme in the City of Light (And Why You Should Absolutely Care)

Ah, Paris—the city of boulevards, butter, and bemusement. But long before your first café crème or moules-frites, something else grabs your gaze: an iron lacework that reaches toward the clouds. Yes, we're talking about the Eiffel Tower—La Dame de Fer, the Iron Lady, the monument that’s been photobombing marriage proposals and backpackers’ selfies since 1889.

Sure, it’s iconic. But the Eiffel Tower is more than postcard fodder. It’s an enduring symbol of Parisian brilliance, engineering audacity, and, dare I say, surprisingly excellent stairwell cardio. Consider this your insider’s blog guide to all things Tower-centric: where to go, what to eat nearby, how to avoid the queues that crush dreams, and where to find that one viewpoint even Parisians won’t tell you about.

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A Brief Affair with History (Don’t Worry, It’s Juicy)

Built for the 1889 Exposition Universelle to celebrate the French Revolution’s centennial (because what better way to commemorate a bloody uprising than 18,000 iron parts bolted together?), the Eiffel Tower was meant to be temporary. Yes, temporary. Parisian elites hated it, calling it “a monstrous iron asparagus.” Gustave Eiffel lovingly ignored them.

Fast forward 135 years, and not only is the Eiffel Tower still standing—it’s the most visited paid monument on earth. With nearly 7 million visitors per year, the dame aged remarkably well.

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The Three Levels of Iron-Clad Bliss

Level One: This is your warm-up. Exhibitions, a glass floor (not for the faint of vertigo), and a fascinating look at the tower’s past through digital displays await you here. Pro tip: snag a coffee at the 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant while gloating over NOT taking the elevator.

Level Two: Picturesque doesn’t begin to cover it. This is the sweet spot where every influencer, travel blogger, and birthday girl in a tulle skirt poses. The views of the Seine, Sacré-Cœur, and Arc de Triomphe are spectacular—but there’s also a gift shop with tastefully overpriced Eiffel Tower keychains.

Level Three: Come for the romance, stay for the altitude. At 276 meters high, the summit offers panoramic eye candy. Sip on Champagne from the bar while contemplating life’s big questions: “Did I leave my phone in the Uber?” or “Will my Tinder date make it past appetizers?”

Pro Tip: Book your tickets online to avoid queues longer than the Louvre’s conspiracy theories.

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Evening Shows Worth the Hype

Every hour after sunset, the Eiffel Tower transforms. For five minutes, 20,000 twinkling lights sparkle like it’s been dipped in stardust. By law, it’s illegal to share night photos of the Eiffel Tower for commercial purposes. In reality, everyone does it. You should too (just don’t tell Gustave Eiffel’s lawyer).

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Best Viewing Spots Beyond the Obvious

- Trocadéro Gardens: Instagram gold. Best at sunrise for ethereal lighting and fewer humans.

- Rue de l’Université: A quiet residential street with the kind of commanding view that screams “engagement photo.”

- Montparnasse Tower: Yes, it’s ugly. But the top floor offers a view that includes the Eiffel Tower. Genius hack.

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What to Eat Nearby (Because You Deserve It)

This isn’t some sad-tuna-sandwich situation.

- Le Jules Verne: A Michelin-starred love letter to French gastronomy, located right inside the Tower. Dress up. Order the wine pairing. Don’t look at your credit card the next morning.

- Café Constant: Classic, charming, and just a short walk from the tower. Think home-style duck confit and desserts that require restraint (which you won’t have).

- Crêpe Carts by the Seine: Affordable bliss. Nutella, banana, Grand Marnier—your carb goals are right here.

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Nearby Cultural Sips

- Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac: An under-the-radar museum with indigenous art from Africa, Oceania, Asia, and the Americas. Vibrant and deeply moving.

- Champ de Mars: Not just for tourists. It’s where locals picnic, musicians serenade, and toddlers wage war with pigeons.

Your Next Step? Paris Awaits.

The Eiffel Tower is more than just a landmark; it’s the shimmering soul of Paris. Whether you're into architecture, history, or just really into well-framed travel selfies, it's a must-do. It’s not cliché—it’s classic. Ignore the cynics. Let your heart race just a little as you ascend this iron marvel.

Now, go forth, mes amis. And when in doubt, look up.

For more information, ticket booking, and current events at the tower, visit the official Paris Convention and Visitors Bureau: https://en.parisinfo.com

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FAQs About the Eiffel Tower Experience

How long does it take to tour the tower?

Budget at least 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on how long you linger and how many selfies your friends ask you to take. More if you're dining or visiting all three levels.

Is there an elevator to the top?

Yes—two, in fact. But the athletic (and mildly delusional) can climb the 674 steps to Level 2. Elevators take you the rest of the way to the summit.

How do I get to the Eiffel Tower?

Take Metro Line 6 to Bir-Hakeim or Line 9 to Trocadéro for that iconic first glimpse. RER C works too (Champ de Mars-Tour Eiffel stop). Or walk guilt-free after that extra buttery croissant.

When is the best time to visit the Eiffel Tower?

Early morning (first entrance) or just before sunset offers the best light—and fewer crowds. Avoid peak afternoons unless human traffic jams are your thing.

Can I dine at the Eiffel Tower?

Absolutely. Le Jules Verne is a culinary gem with a side of skyline. For more casual options, there's also a Champagne bar at the top and snack kiosks on lower levels.

9 Hidden Gems in Paris You’ll Wish You Knew About Sooner

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If you think you’ve “done” Paris because you’ve seen the Eiffel Tower, strolled the Champs-Élysées, and elbowed your way through the crowds at the Louvre, I hate to break it to you: you’ve merely flirted with the city. Paris’ true charm lives not in its landmarks, but in its layers — those tucked-away courtyards, under-the-radar museums, and whisper-soft bars that make you swear you’ve stumbled into a movie scene.

If your idea of a good time includes less selfie-stick jousting and more discovering Paris like a knowing local, buckle up. I’m peeling back the curtain on nine outrageously good (and gloriously overlooked) secret spots that redefine the City of Light.

1. Rue Crémieux — Paris’ Prettiest Street You’ve Never Heard Of

It’s like Notting Hill and a Wes Anderson set had a particularly photogenic baby. Slip off the beaten path in the 12th arrondissement to find Rue Crémieux: one technicolor block of pastel-painted townhouses, hanging plants, and cats that look like they have career agents. Locals have grown weary of influencers, so be respectful, quiet, and resist the urge to swing a wide-angle lens with abandon.

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2. Musée de la Vie Romantique — The Museum of Moody Parisian Vibes

Tucked away at the foot of Montmartre, this intimate museum feels less like an institution and more like you’ve just stepped into the salon of a bohemian great-aunt with exquisite taste. Once home to Romantic painter Ary Scheffer, it’s now a shrine to the 19th-century art and literary elite — think George Sand and her string of artist lovers. Bonus: the garden café is one of the city’s most peaceful brunch spots.

3. The Aligre Market — Where Parisians Actually Shop

Want to eat like you live here? Marché d’Aligre is where chefs and savvy locals trade euros for pungent cheese wheels and heirloom tomatoes. Part open-air produce market, part covered bazaar, it’s less polished than the posh Marché Bastille—and all the better for it. The adjacent wine stall will happily pour you a tasting while you decide on your charcuterie roster.

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4. La REcyclerie — Zero-Waste Chic at a Former Train Station

Perched inconspicuously on the edge of the 18th arrondissement near Porte de Clignancourt, La REcyclerie is one part urban farm, one part eco-café, one part retro hangout where you’ll wish you brought your laptop. Housed in a defunct train station, they host upcycling workshops, local markets, and café bites with garden-to-plate aspirations. It’s crunchy in the best possible way.

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5. Paris’ “Other” Catacombs — Les Égouts de Paris (The Paris Sewers Museum)

Look, navigating a city from underneath isn’t everyone’s cup of café crème, but hear me out. Skip the overhyped Catacombs and instead opt for the Paris Sewer Museum, recently renovated and fully reopened. It's the subterranean heartbeat of the city — eerily fascinating, surprisingly educational, and, yes, it smells better than you’d think.

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6. Square des Peupliers — The Secret Village Inside Paris

Imagine if rural Provence quietly embedded itself into Paris without so much as a press release. Welcome to Square des Peupliers in the 13th arrondissement. This private road (but public path) is lined with ivy-coated homes and cobblestone curves that make you forget you’re within walking distance of a metro. There’s no commercial buzz—just the quiet chirp of leaves and domestic bliss.

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7. The Hidden Vineyard of Montmartre — Clos Montmartre

Most tourists who trudge up to Sacré-Cœur never realize they were a bottle’s throw away from a vineyard. Clos Montmartre is a legitimate working vineyard right in the Paris city limits. The wine itself? Let’s say it’s more charming than delicious. But the setting, with its seasonal fêtes and views of sloping roofs in autumn, would make Toulouse-Lautrec raise a glass.

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8. Lavomatic — A Cocktail Bar Behind a Laundromat

This wouldn’t be a proper “Paris hidden gems” list without a bar concealed behind something mundane. Behind a legitimate-looking laundromat in the 10th arrondissement, push open the right washer and you’ll find Lavomatic — a craft cocktail bar dripping with millennial chic. Think swing seats, fabric walls, and drinks that taste like someone actually cared.

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9. The Secret Rooftop at Printemps Haussmann

Everyone runs to Galeries Lafayette’s rooftop for the view, but if you want fewer elbows and equally gasp-worthy Eiffel glimpses, go across the street. Printemps’ beauty store rooftop terrace has become a hush-hush favorite for quiet coffee breaks accompanied by Paris' skyline. Even better: it's completely free.

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Final Word: Embrace Paris Beyond the Obvious

Paris isn’t a checklist — it’s a choose-your-own-adventure novel with pages hidden between arrondissements. From secret vineyards to vintage cocktail caves, this city adores those who dig a little deeper. So unchain yourself from the tourist traps, throw away your rigid itinerary, and have the kind of day in Paris that can’t be bought in a guidebook.

Want more tips and local secrets? Visit the official Paris tourism website at https://en.parisinfo.com/

FAQ Section (Hidden Gems in Paris Edition)

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Q: What are some non-touristy things to do in Paris?

A: Skip the Eiffel Tower lines and visit Rue Crémieux for colorful charm, sip wine in Montmartre’s hidden vineyard Clos Montmartre, or explore vintage finds at Marché d’Aligre.

Q: Are there any secret museums in Paris worth visiting?

A: Yes! Musée de la Vie Romantique offers an intimate, romantic-era experience far from the crowds—plus one of Paris' best garden cafés.

Q: Where can I find hidden bars in Paris?

A: Head to Lavomatic, a quirky cocktail bar hidden behind a laundromat in the 10th arrondissement. Paris loves a good speakeasy.

Q: Are there any hidden gardens or green spaces in Paris?

A: Absolutely. Square des Peupliers is a leafy residential haven, and the rooftop garden at Printemps offers some of the best skyline views in the city.

Q: What's a unique Paris itinerary for repeat visitors?

A: Hop between Marché d’Aligre, the Paris Sewer Museum, La REcyclerie, and round off your day with sunset drinks at Printemps’ rooftop.

Ready to explore hidden Paris? Bookmark this blog, pack your curiosity, and start exploring the City of Light through the side door.

À bientôt.

Paris: A Journey of Surprises and Delights Along the Seine

Paris, the City of Lights, is undoubtedly one of the most visited and beloved cities in the world. And why not? It has everything a traveler could wish for: iconic landmarks, world-class museums, delicious food, and a romantic atmosphere that is impossible to resist.

One of the best ways to explore Paris is to take a stroll along the Seine River. The river runs through the heart of the city, and walking along its banks provides a unique perspective on the city. You can admire the grand architecture of Notre-Dame Cathedral, the colorful houseboats, and the charming bridges that span the river.

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But the real showstopper of the Seine is the Eiffel Tower. Seeing it in person for the first time is truly awe-inspiring. The tower stands tall and proud, its iron lattice glowing in the sun or sparkling at night, depending on the time of day. And when it lights up, it's a breathtaking sight that you won't soon forget.

Another must-see in Paris is the Louvre Museum. With over 35,000 works of art, the Louvre is one of the world's largest and most impressive museums. From the Mona Lisa to the Winged Victory of Samothrace, the Louvre houses some of the most famous and valuable artworks in history. But even if you're not an art lover, the sheer size and grandeur of the museum are enough to make your jaw drop.

The best part about visiting Paris is that there's always something new to discover. Even if you've seen the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre before, every visit brings a fresh perspective and a new sense of wonder. Maybe you'll stumble upon a hidden street filled with charming cafes, or discover a beautiful park that you never knew existed. That's the magic of Paris – it never gets old.

So if you're planning a trip to Paris, be sure to take your time and savor every moment. The city has so much to offer, from its famous landmarks to its hidden gems. And don't forget to take a stroll along the Seine River – it's a journey of surprises and delights that you won't want to miss.

What to See in France's Very Own Orsay Museum

The glorious Gare d’Orsay railway station now stands proud as the country's home for its national collection of the impressionist, postimpressionist and art-nouveau movements spanning from 1848 to 1914. The museum itself is an art-nouveau showpiece. The must-see on every visitor's list is Orsay Museum's painting collections, centered on the world's largest collection of impressionist and post-impressionist art. Download the Orsay Museum Travel Guide and Offline Map and take a trip to France now.

1. Polar Bear

Considered as the museum's most iconic work, Polar Bear is one of the standouts by Francois Pompon. The master himself was once an assistant to Camille Claudel and Auguste Rodin who later on struck out on his own and create his animal-inspired works. Eschewing realism, he sought to communicate the barest minimum of the animal and upon closer inspection, the animal begins to fade away – leaving only marble.

2. Olympia

Edouard Manet was fondly known as the bad boy of the art world in his days. His most controversial work, Olympia, depicts a nude prostitute who looks calmly at the viewer and in complete indifference of her nakedness. This was a huge clash against the classical tropes of blushing virgins and highborn women in art, which ignited a huge conversation about the representation of women in art.

3. Poppy Field

This dreamy, peaceful landscape painted by Claude Monet is one of the artist’s most famous works. Painted after he had moved from England to laidback Argenteuil, the impressionist artist produced vibrant colors to channel the spirit of a beautiful sunny day in nature. The striking reds of wild poppies against a muted green background serve to make the piece all the more vivid, heightened only by the black and white figures slipping through the field.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

Top 3 Reasons to Visit Versailles Palace, the Home of French Royalty

If you think France can't get any more romantic and scenic then you have got to visit Versailles Palace. Not only is the palace located in Versailles a picturesque site filled with outstanding artworks and architecture, but it also holds five centuries of history. What used to be home to the French royals until the French Revolution dates back to the 11th century. Today, It is now open as a museum and is a very popular tourist attraction. Set forth to the beautiful château with the Versailles Palace Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.     The Grand Palace

The Palace has been listed for 30 years as a World Heritage and is considered one of the greatest achievements in French 17th century art. What used to be Louis XIII's old hunting pavilion was transformed and continued to be embellished by France's succeeding kings. Starting from his son, Louis XIV, who installed the Court and government within the pavilion in 1682. At present, the palace contains 2,300 rooms and its area expands to up to 63,154 square meters.

2.      The Estate of Trianon

When the Royals needed a break from the prying eyes and ears of the public they sought refuge in the Estate Trianon. Although its construction began under Louis XIV, it's more famously for Queen Marie-Antoinette. She was known to regularly visit the Petit Trianon, where she had beautifully landscaped gardens commissioned creating a rustic atmosphere for intimate moments. Here you'll be able to see many of the estate's architectural gems.

3.     The Royal Stables

Construction of the Great and Small stables was built under Louis XIV rule and is considered the greatest royal construction project for housing horses ever. Situated across the Palace, both stable stand at the edge of Place d’Armes. The placement and size of the Royal Stables is a testament to the importance of horses in the Ancien Régime.

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Museum Hopping in Paris, the Art Capital of France

Paris, the city of love, but did you also know it's hailed as the capital city of art in France? This city alone is home to about 200 or so museums. With that being said any art lover would never be able to resist Paris' charm. But with that many museums and not enough time to spend in this lovely city, we give you three absolutely unmissable museums. So what are you waiting for? Get that itinerary ready and don't forget to download the Paris Museums Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.     The Louvre

Probably the most iconic museum in Paris and for good reason. It's the world's largest museum and considered a city within the city. Not only is it filled to the brim with artistic glories the museum itself is a masterpiece in its own right. It houses over 35,000 works of art and artifacts from the Egyptians, Etruscans, Greeks, and Romans. The main draw of the museum is its painting and sculpture collection. It is in fact, home to the famous Mona Lisa.

2.      Musée d’Orsay

Imagine a museum set in an old train station dating back the 1900's. Well, imagine no more because Musée d’Orsay’s is exactly just that. This quaint museum houses an enormous collection of works by Delacroix, Monet, Courbet, Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec and many others. In 2011, the museum reopened its most important rooms that are dedicated to the artworks of Courbet and Van Gogh. If you ever need a break from walking around stop by its submarine themed cafe tucked behind a clock designed by the Campana brothers.

3.     Musée du Quai Branly

If you've already gotten your fill of European art then head over to the Musée du Quai Branly. This museum is uniquely surrounded by lush greenery and nestled on the banks of the Seine. It's dedicated to the ethnic art of Africa, Oceania, Asia, and the Americas. Artifacts on display include a tenth-century anthropomorphic Dogon statue from Mali, Vietnamese costumes, Gabonese masks, Aztec statues, Peruvian feather tunics, and rare frescoes from Ethiopia.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

What to See at the Palace of Versailles, Home of French Royalty

The royal palace of Versailles with its expansive gardens and massively intricate architecture is considered one of, if not the most, famous attractions in the Île-de-France region of France. Built by King Louis XIV, it has been home to three generations of French kings and queens from 1682 until the beginning of the French Revolution in 1798. As a result, each monarch was able to add new additions to the palace estate making even grander and majestic than it originally was. There is a lot see at here as the entire estate is 2,014 acres and so it's best to plan ahead. Be sure to download the Palace of Versailles Travel Guide and Offline Map to help you to maximize your trip.

1.      Estate of Trianon

Thies intimate estate is famously associated with Queen Marie-Antoinette and thus fondly called the Marie-Antoinette estate. Construction of the estate started under King Louis XIV. It was once called the "Marble Trianon" for the unique pink marbles panels that adorned the palace's facades. Marie-Antoinette is known to seek refuge and spent most of her time away from the prying eyes of the royal court in the marvelous rustic-style cottages of the Trianon. The cottages are surrounded by marvelous gardens with ornate geometric flowerbeds and tens of thousands of flowers.

2.      Hall of Mirrors

The Hall of Mirrors is the most prominent feature at the Palace of Versailles. It was originally built as a terrace that stood between the King and Queen's bedchambers. The open-air terrace overlooking the gardens was soon remodeled due to being exposed to bad weather. When the hall was finished it served as a passageway and waiting area to impress his guests. The Treaty of Versailles, which officially brought the First World War to an end, was signed here in the Hall of Mirrors on June 28, 1919.

3.      Leto’s Fountain

The palace estate has eight majestic fountains that you can visit, but one of the notable ones is the Leto's Fountain. It was inspired by The Metamorphoses by Ovide. It illustrates the story of Leto, the mother of Apollo and Diana, protecting her children from the insults of the peasants of Lycia and pleading with Jupiter to avenge her. Jupiter agrees and turns the inhabitants of Lycia into frogs and lizards. The central marble pyramid depicts Leto and her children.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

Travel Paris Through Famous Movie Locations

Film-induced tourism is a rapidly growing segment of cultural tourism, where locations that appeared on film or television become tourist attractions.

This niche is relatively new, but, it’s already considered as an emerging driver for tourism development in many countries. Experts say it will only grow stronger as the entertainment industry becomes more global and the price of air travel more affordable.

And, as a popular location for many Hollywood films, Paris is one of the cities that’s hoping to boost their tourist numbers from the magic of the movies.

So, if you want to recreate your favorite movie and TV moment check out this list of must-see movie scene locations in Paris.

Café des Deux Moulins (Amélie)

Located at 15 rue Lepic in the Montmartre area, this cozy café shot to fame after it was featured in the global blockbuster hit Amélie. There’s no shortage of Amélie memorabilia in the café, from the gnome to a selection of dishes from Les Plat du Jour d’Amélie.

Shakespeare and Company (Before Sunset)

This independent bookstore located at the La Rive Gauche, was the location of Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy’s characters’ reunion scene in Richard Linklater’s Before Sunset. And, with an immaculate view of the Seine, how can anyone not fall in love?

Hôtel Raphael  (Hotel Chevalier)

This 5-star hotel in Avenue Kléber is the site of Wes Anderson’s 13-minute short film featuring Natalie Portman and Jason Schwartzman. The quirky love story served as a prequel to his adventure comedy feature The Darjeeling Limited.

Père-Lachaise Cemetery (Paris, je t’aime)

Père-Lachaise located in Paris’ 20th district is the location of Wes Craven’s short in the anthology film Paris, je t’aime. It’s about a couple whose failing relationship is saved by the ghost of Oscar Wilde. Aside from Wilde’s, you can also find the graves of Balzac, Chopin, Edith Piaf, and Jim Morrison in this cemetery.

Paris Best Places to Travel. Peré Lachaise Cementery

Musée des Arts Forains (Midnight in Paris)

Although this Woody Allen movie is teeming with well-known Parisian destinations – Église Saint-Étienne du Mont, Pont Alexandre III, Musée Rodin - Musée des Arts Forains captures the movie’s love for the Belle Epoque era the most. Book a tour if you can want to take a try out antique carnival rides.

Pont de Bir-Hakeim (Inception)

This bridge connecting Paris’ 15th and 16th districts is where Leonardo DiCaprio taught Ellen Page how to build dreams in Christopher Nolan’s 2010 sci-film. It was also featured on the small screen, as the highlight of Ben (Adam Scott) and Leslie’s (Amy Poehler) Paris trip in Parks and Recreation.

Paris Travel Guide for iPhone and iPad

If you want a vacation that’s just like in the movies, make sure to download the Paris Travel Guide and Offline City Maps app. For more information check out eTips for more suggestions on famous movie locations around Paris.