The Eiffel Tower is the chief symbol of Paris, located in the city’s 7th Arrondissement just west of Paris’ geographic center. The tower was designed by the French engineer Alexandre Gustave Eiffel for the Paris Universal Exhibition of 1889, which was a World’s Fair held by the city to commemorate the centennial of the French Revolution. The Eiffel Tower remained the tallest structure in the world before that title was taken away in 1930 by New York’s Chrysler Building.

While the Eiffel Tower was originally considered an ugly eyesore on the city’s landscape and nicknamed the “Giant Asparagus”, it has gradually become a beloved landmark adored by locals and tourists alike. Today, it is easily the world’s most recognized structure and icon. On clear days, the view from the top of this 10,100 ton tower extends more than 60 miles over the many quarters, restaurants, shops, residences, and museums that make up Paris.

Traditionally, the best time to visit the tower is just as the sun sets – the picture is priceless. Watch the tower and its 6,000 watts of light illuminate in the glow of the night, below majestic fountains at the Place du Trocadéro and amid the shimmering waters of the Seine River. There is a restaurant at the second level of the Eiffel Tower called the Jules Verne Restaurant – one of the best in Paris.

Arrondissements
7th Arrondissement