Planning Your Visit: When to Go

Seasonal Considerations

Spring (March-May): Often ideal, with mild weather and blooming Champ de Mars gardens. Easter holidays bring crowds, but early May offers perfect conditions. Sunrise comes early enough for morning visits, sunset late enough for evening magic.

Summer (June-August): Peak season means longest queues but also extended hours—the tower stays open until midnight. July 14 (Bastille Day) offers spectacular fireworks but extreme crowds. August can be surprisingly pleasant as Parisians leave for vacation.

Autumn (September-November): Many consider this the best season. Crowds diminish after school holidays, weather remains mild, and autumn light creates stunning photographic conditions. November can be rainy but offers intimate, misty atmosphere.

Winter (December-February): Shortest queues, potential for magical snow-dusted views. Christmas season brings special illuminations but also holiday crowds. January-February offers the year's quietest visits. Dress warmly—wind at height is brutal.

Time of Day Strategy

Early Morning (9:00-10:30 AM): Best for beating crowds and capturing morning light. The tower opens at 9:30 AM (9:00 AM in summer), but queues form earlier. First elevator up offers pristine photo opportunities.

Midday (11:00 AM-2:00 PM): Peak crowds as tour groups arrive. Longest waits, harshest light for photos. If visiting now, book skip-the-line tickets essential.

Late Afternoon (3:00-6:00 PM): Crowds ease slightly, golden hour approaching. Perfect for leisurely visit followed by sunset viewing.

Evening (7:00 PM-close): Magical atmosphere as city lights emerge. Restaurant bookings help skip queues. Hourly sparkle display (first 5 minutes of each hour after dark) best viewed from Trocadéro.

Special Tip from Marie Lefevre, 20-year tower employee: "Tuesday and Wednesday mornings in shoulder season are golden. Avoid Monday when weekend tourists extend stays, Thursday when long weekenders arrive."