This 1,063-ft/324-m, 10,100-ton marvel of metal latticework was completed in 1889. Derided as a "hideous lamppost," it offended many prominent Parisians who wanted to preserve the city's aesthetics and was almost disassembled in 1909. But after its radio-tower capabilities were discovered, it became a symbol of Paris. Until 1930, when the Chrysler Building was built, the Tower (then measuring 1,023 ft/312 m) was the tallest building in the world.
The views from its several levels are extraordinary—well worth the wait in line. The interior lighting system makes the tower look like a big golden candle at night. Every hour on the hour, the tower shimmers and sparkles for 10 minutes (from nightfall to 1 am in winter and till 2 am in summer). September to mid-June daily 9:30 am-11:45 pm; mid-June to 31 August daily 9 am-12:45 am. The last entrance is 45 minutes before closing time. 12 euros, 7.80 euros and 4.80 euros for adults to take the elevator to the third, second and first levels, respectively. 4 euros to climb the stairs to the first or second level. Expect to wait at least an hour when taking elevators, as almost seven million people visit the tower each year. If you have a reservation for the restaurant on the second floor, you can take a different elevator without the long wait. Champs de Mars (7th; Metro Bir-Hakeim), Paris. Phone 01-4411-2323. http://www.tour-eiffel.fr.
