Eiffel Tower for Kids: Family-Friendly Tips

The Eiffel Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, and it’s also one of the most family-friendly attractions in Paris. With its breathtaking views, fascinating history, and fun experiences for all ages, it’s no wonder that families from around the world visit the tower. If you’re planning a trip to Paris with your little ones, this article will provide you with essential tips to make your visit to the Eiffel Tower a memorable and enjoyable experience for the whole family.

1. Buy Tickets in Advance

One of the first things to consider when visiting the Eiffel Tower with kids is making sure you skip the long lines. The Eiffel Tower is one of the most visited monuments in the world, and waiting in line can be a real challenge with children. To save time and avoid frustration, it’s highly recommended to buy tickets online in advance. You can choose between tickets to the second floor or the summit, with the option of using the elevator or taking the stairs. For families with young kids, the elevator is the most convenient choice.

2. Visit the Eiffel Tower During Off-Peak Hours

The Eiffel Tower can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. To ensure a more relaxed experience, try to visit the tower during off-peak hours. Early mornings or later in the evening tend to have fewer tourists, and the atmosphere will be less hectic, which is great when you’re managing kids. Plus, visiting early allows you to enjoy the stunning Paris skyline before it gets too busy.

3. Family-Friendly Activities at the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower offers a variety of activities for kids that make it more than just a sightseeing experience. Here are some family-friendly things to do while visiting:

The Glass Floor: The Eiffel Tower’s second floor features a thrilling glass floor section where kids can look down and see Paris from a whole new perspective. It’s both a fun and educational way to experience the tower’s height and learn about its engineering.
Interactive Exhibits: On the second floor, there are interactive exhibits that explain the history of the Eiffel Tower. These exhibits are designed to engage children with fun facts and visuals, making it both entertaining and educational.
Eiffel Tower Souvenir Shops: Kids will love browsing the souvenir shops located on the tower’s lower levels. There are plenty of Eiffel Tower-themed toys, keychains, and other mementos that your kids can take home as a reminder of their adventure.

4. Enjoy a Picnic at Champ de Mars

After exploring the Eiffel Tower, head to the nearby Champ de Mars park, which stretches out beneath the tower. This spacious green park is perfect for a picnic, and it offers plenty of space for kids to run around and play. With the Eiffel Tower towering in the background, it’s an ideal place to relax and enjoy the views of one of the world’s most famous landmarks. Pack a picnic with snacks or grab some food from a local café nearby. The open space and beautiful surroundings make it an excellent spot for families to unwind after the tower visit.

5. Make Use of the Eiffel Tower’s Elevators

While climbing the stairs to the top of the Eiffel Tower can be an adventurous challenge for some families, it’s important to remember that the elevators are the easiest and quickest way to reach the summit, especially for families with young children or strollers. The elevator ride provides a smooth and comfortable experience, and it allows everyone to enjoy the magnificent views from the top without the physical exertion of climbing the stairs.

6. Take Photos at the Perfect Family Spots

The Eiffel Tower offers many beautiful backdrops for family photos, and some spots are especially perfect for kids. Here are some locations for the best family photos:

Trocadéro Gardens: Just across the Seine River, the Trocadéro Gardens provide one of the most spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower. The open space in front of the tower makes it easy to capture great family photos with the tower in the background.
Champ de Mars: This park directly beneath the Eiffel Tower offers a great spot to take a photo with the tower as your backdrop while your kids enjoy the green space.
From the Tower Itself: Don’t forget to take photos from the tower itself, where you can snap pictures of your family with the panoramic Paris skyline in the background. The views from the top are perfect for unforgettable family moments.

7. Keep Kids Entertained with Fun Facts About the Eiffel Tower

To make the visit more engaging for kids, share some fun and interesting facts about the Eiffel Tower to pique their curiosity. Here are some fun facts that will keep your little ones entertained:

Did you know? The Eiffel Tower was once meant to be a temporary structure for the 1889 World’s Fair, but it became so popular that it stayed!
How tall is it? The Eiffel Tower stands at 324 meters (1,063 feet) tall, making it the tallest structure in Paris.
What’s it made of? The tower is made of more than 18,000 pieces of iron, and it weighs about 10,100 tons.

By incorporating these fun facts into your visit, you’ll not only keep kids interested but also help them learn about one of the world’s greatest engineering feats.

8. Choose the Best Time of Year for Your Visit

While the Eiffel Tower is a year-round attraction, the time of year you visit can affect the overall experience. If you’re traveling with kids, it’s best to consider the weather and crowds.

Spring and Fall: These seasons offer mild weather and fewer tourists, making it an ideal time to visit with kids. The views are beautiful, and the lines for tickets tend to be shorter.
Summer: Summer can be hot and crowded, so it’s best to visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the heat and crowds. However, the Eiffel Tower is beautifully lit up in the summer months, which can make for a magical experience at night.
Winter: Visiting the Eiffel Tower in winter can be a quiet and peaceful experience, with fewer tourists and a more relaxed atmosphere. However, be prepared for colder weather.

9. Accessibility for Strollers and Wheelchairs

The Eiffel Tower is fully accessible to families with strollers or those who need wheelchair access. Elevators are available, and ramps are provided for easy access to the tower’s various levels. There are also accessible toilets and services designed to accommodate the needs of families and visitors with disabilities.

10. Stay Close to the Eiffel Tower for Convenience

When visiting the Eiffel Tower with kids, convenience is key. If you’re staying nearby, you’ll have quick and easy access to the tower, allowing for more flexibility in your schedule. Consider staying in family-friendly hotels or Airbnb properties within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower, such as the 7th arrondissement. This way, you can easily return to your accommodation for breaks if needed.

Conclusion: A Family-Friendly Adventure at the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is a must-see attraction in Paris, and it’s an experience that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, including kids. By following these family-friendly tips—such as purchasing tickets in advance, visiting during off-peak hours, and engaging with fun activities like the glass floor or interactive exhibits—you’ll be able to make the most of your visit to this iconic landmark.

Whether you’re snapping photos, enjoying a picnic in the park, or taking in the stunning views from the top, a visit to the Eiffel Tower is sure to create lasting memories for your entire family. So, pack your bags, grab the kids, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure at one of the most famous monuments in the world!

Frequently asked questions on Eiffel tower for kids

Is the Eiffel Tower suitable for kids? Yes, the Eiffel Tower is a great family-friendly attraction. With engaging activities, interactive exhibits, and stunning views, it’s a fun and educational experience for kids of all ages.
What is the best time to visit the Eiffel Tower with kids? The best time to visit is early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds. Visiting during spring or fall also offers mild weather and fewer tourists, making it more enjoyable for families.
Do you need tickets to go up the Eiffel Tower with kids? Yes, you need tickets to access the Eiffel Tower. Tickets can be purchased in advance online, saving time and avoiding long lines, especially when visiting with children.
Is there an elevator to the top of the Eiffel Tower? Yes, the Eiffel Tower has elevators that take you to the second floor and the summit. The elevator is the best option for families with young kids or strollers.
Can kids climb the Eiffel Tower? Yes, kids can climb the Eiffel Tower’s stairs up to the second floor. However, it’s quite a climb, so the elevator is recommended for families with young children or those who prefer not to walk up.
Is the Eiffel Tower accessible for strollers? Yes, the Eiffel Tower is fully accessible for strollers. Elevators are available to help families with young children navigate the tower and access different levels.
How long does it take to visit the Eiffel Tower with kids? A typical visit to the Eiffel Tower with kids can take around 1.5 to 2 hours. This includes time for taking in the views, exploring the exhibits, and enjoying the fun family activities.
What activities are there for kids at the Eiffel Tower? Kids can enjoy the glass floor on the second level, interactive exhibits that explain the tower’s history, and plenty of souvenir shops offering Eiffel Tower-themed toys and trinkets.
Can kids go to the top of the Eiffel Tower? Yes, kids can go to the top of the Eiffel Tower. The summit provides amazing panoramic views of Paris and is accessible via the elevator.
Is the Eiffel Tower safe for kids? Yes, the Eiffel Tower is a safe attraction for kids. The tower is well-maintained, and there are security checks in place. The glass floor on the second floor is secure, and children are closely monitored in all areas.
Can I bring a stroller to the Eiffel Tower? Yes, strollers are allowed at the Eiffel Tower. However, strollers are not allowed on the stairs, so families with strollers must use the elevator to reach the various levels.
Are there any family discounts for tickets to the Eiffel Tower? Yes, the Eiffel Tower offers discounted tickets for children aged 4-11. Kids under 4 can enter for free. Prices for children are generally lower than adult tickets.
Is there a place for kids to play near the Eiffel Tower? Yes, the Champ de Mars park, located beneath the Eiffel Tower, is a great place for kids to run and play. The park has ample space for picnics and outdoor activities.
Can kids take photos at the Eiffel Tower? Yes, kids can take photos at the Eiffel Tower! There are plenty of photo opportunities, whether it’s from the observation decks, the Trocadéro Gardens, or Champ de Mars park.
What should I bring when visiting the Eiffel Tower with kids? Be sure to bring essentials like snacks, water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. If you’re visiting during the warmer months, a hat and sunglasses will also be helpful to keep the kids comfortable.