Visiting with
Kids & Families

Age-by-age advice, stroller logistics, family pricing, and everything parents actually need to know before bringing children to the Eiffel Tower.

The Family Experience

Why Kids Love
the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognizable structures on Earth, and children are captivated by it. Whether your child is two or twelve, the sheer scale of this iron giant sparks genuine wonder. Here is what to expect at every age.

The "Wow" Factor Is Real

Children who have seen the Eiffel Tower in books, movies, and cartoons experience a powerful moment of recognition when they see it in person for the first time. The tower is so much bigger than they imagine. Even jaded teenagers tend to pause and look up. That first glimpse from the Trocadéro esplanade across the river is unforgettable for kids of all ages.

It Is Interactive, Not Just a View

Unlike many tourist attractions, the Eiffel Tower offers hands-on engagement for children. The glass floor on the 1st level lets kids look straight down 57 meters. Telescopes on the 2nd floor let them spot landmarks. The staircase itself is an adventure, with each step bringing new angles and perspectives. Kids who climb the stairs feel a real sense of accomplishment.

Short Attention Spans Are Fine

You do not need to spend four hours here. A well-planned family visit can be deeply satisfying in 90 minutes to two hours. The key is matching your visit to your children's energy levels and interests rather than trying to see everything. One focused, happy hour beats three exhausted, cranky ones.

It Pairs with Parks and Play

The Champ de Mars park sits directly beneath the tower, with playgrounds, open grass for running, and space for a picnic. Children can burn energy before or after the visit. This combination of monumental sightseeing and outdoor play makes the Eiffel Tower one of the most family-friendly major attractions in Europe.

Age-by-Age Guide

Every Age.
Different Experience.

What works for a toddler is completely different from what thrills a teenager. Here is an honest breakdown of what to expect and how to plan for each age group.

0–3

Toddlers & Babies

Children under 4 enter free. Use a stroller in the elevator or a baby carrier for stairs. Toddlers will enjoy the glass floor on the 1st level and the open views, but plan a shorter visit of 60–90 minutes. Bring snacks, a pacifier, and a favorite toy. Baby-changing facilities are available on the 1st and 2nd floors. Avoid the summit with very young children on windy days.

4–7

Young Children

This is a magical age for the Eiffel Tower. Children 4–7 are old enough to understand the scale and young enough to find it thrilling. They get reduced ticket pricing. Many children this age can manage the stairs to the 1st floor (328 steps) with encouragement and breaks. Let them count steps, spot landmarks, and use the telescopes. Budget 2 hours for the visit.

8–12

Older Kids

Children 8–12 can handle the full stair climb to the 2nd floor (674 steps) and will feel genuinely proud of the accomplishment. They are old enough to appreciate the engineering, the history, and the geography of Paris from above. Challenge them to find Notre-Dame, the Arc de Triomphe, or Sacré-Coeur from the viewing platform. This age group loves the summit.

13+

Teenagers

Teenagers may act unimpressed, but the Eiffel Tower consistently wins them over. Give them the camera and let them document the visit on their own terms. The summit at sunset is particularly effective with teens. Youth pricing (ages 12–24) applies, making this more affordable. Consider letting older teens explore a floor independently while you wait at an agreed meeting point.

Family Pricing

Ticket Costs
for Families

There is no single "family ticket" for the Eiffel Tower, but children receive significant discounts. Here is what a family visit actually costs.

Family visiting the Eiffel Tower summit
Best Family Value

Summit by Elevator

The complete experience for families who want to reach the very top. Children under 4 ride free.

Adult (25+) €26.80
Youth (12–24) €13.40
Child (4–11) €6.70
Under 4 Free
Family of 4 example: Two adults + two children (ages 6 and 9) = €67.00 total for the summit experience.
Eiffel Tower 2nd floor view with family

2nd Floor by Elevator

Great views without the summit premium. Perfect for families with younger children who may not enjoy the summit winds.

Adult (25+) €17.10
Youth (12–24) €8.60
Child (4–11) €4.30
Under 4 Free
Eiffel Tower stairs adventure with kids
Adventure Pick

Stairs to 2nd Floor

The most affordable option and a genuine adventure for kids ages 6 and up. No strollers allowed on stairs.

Adult (25+) €10.70
Youth (12–24) €5.40
Child (4–11) €2.70
Under 4 Free
Budget family of 4: Two adults + two children (4–11) = €26.80 total. Same price as one adult summit ticket.

Stairs vs. Elevator

Which Way Up
with Kids?

This is one of the biggest decisions for families. The answer depends entirely on your children's ages and your stroller situation.

01

Elevator: Best for Ages 0–5

If you have a baby, toddler, or stroller, the elevator is your only practical option. Strollers are not permitted on the stairs. The elevator ride itself is exciting for young children, and you avoid the physical demands of 674 steps. Book elevator tickets in advance as they sell out faster than stairs.

02

Stairs: Adventure for Ages 6+

Children aged 6 and up who enjoy physical activity will love the stairs. The climb to the 1st floor is 328 steps and takes about 15 minutes with children. To the 2nd floor is 674 steps and takes 30–45 minutes with rest stops. Kids treat it as a challenge and feel proud when they reach the top. Build in breaks to look at the views along the way.

03

Stroller Strategy

If you need a stroller, take the elevator up and down. The observation platforms on floors 1 and 2 are stroller-accessible, though space gets tight during peak hours. A compact, umbrella-style stroller is easier to navigate than a full-size pram. Alternatively, leave the stroller at your hotel and use a baby carrier for the visit.

04

The Combo Option

For families with mixed ages, consider stairs up to the 2nd floor and elevator from the 2nd floor to the summit. This gives older kids the stair-climbing adventure while still reaching the top. Note that you will need a "Stairs + Summit Elevator" ticket type and cannot bring a stroller on the stairs portion.

Floor by Floor

What Kids Love
on Each Level

1st Floor: The Glass Floor

The 1st floor is often the favorite for children. The transparent glass floor lets kids look 57 meters straight down to the ground below. Watch their faces as they step onto it for the first time. There is also a short film about the tower's history, an exhibition space, and the 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant. The outdoor terrace has wide, safe viewing areas perfect for families.

2nd Floor: Telescopes & Landmarks

The 2nd floor at 116 meters offers the best combination of height and detail. Children love using the telescopes to spot famous Parisian landmarks: the Seine, Notre-Dame, Sacré-Coeur, the Arc de Triomphe. Make a game of it by giving them a list of landmarks to find. The Jules Verne restaurant is on this level, along with a gift shop where kids can choose a souvenir.

Summit: The Top of Paris

At 276 meters, the summit is thrilling for children old enough to appreciate the height. On a clear day, you can see 80 kilometers in every direction. Kids love Gustave Eiffel's reconstructed office and spotting tiny cars and people below. Be prepared for wind and cooler temperatures at the top. The summit is smaller and more enclosed than the lower floors, which some young children find reassuring and others find overwhelming.

The Staircase Itself

For families taking the stairs, the climb itself is part of the experience. Children enjoy counting the steps, peering through the iron lattice work at changing angles of Paris, and feeling the tower's structure around them. Many parents report that the staircase is their children's favorite part. Set small goals: "Let us get to the next landing and look at the view." The sense of accomplishment when they reach the top is powerful.

Safety & Comfort

Keeping Kids Safe
& Happy

The Eiffel Tower is a safe attraction, but a few practical precautions make the experience better for everyone.

01

Hold Hands at Heights

All viewing platforms have secure railings and barriers, but hold young children's hands on outdoor observation decks. The mesh barriers have gaps that little fingers can poke through, and the height can be disorienting for small children. Stay close and let them set the pace for approaching the edges.

02

Wind & Weather at the Top

The summit is significantly windier and cooler than ground level, even in summer. Bring a light jacket or windbreaker for each child. On very windy days, the summit may close temporarily for safety. If your child is sensitive to wind or cold, the 2nd floor offers excellent views in more sheltered conditions.

03

Crowd Management

The elevators get crowded during peak hours. Establish a clear meeting point on each floor before separating. For older children, agree on a "what if we get separated" plan. Keep younger children in a carrier, by the hand, or in a stroller in crowded areas. Consider writing your phone number on a wristband for young children who cannot yet recite it.

04

Stair Safety with Kids

The iron stairs are sturdy but can be slippery when wet. Children should wear closed-toe shoes with good grip, not sandals or flip-flops. Hold the railing. Walk on the right side. Take breaks when children seem tired rather than pushing them to continue. Remember that you also need to walk back down, which uses different muscles.

Baby & Toddler Logistics

Strollers, Diapers
& Facilities

Stroller Policy

Strollers are permitted in the elevators and on the observation floors but are not allowed on the stairs. Compact, foldable strollers are strongly recommended as the elevators can be cramped during busy periods. There is no stroller storage at ground level, so if you plan to take the stairs, leave the stroller at your hotel and use a baby carrier or sling instead.

Baby-Changing Facilities

Changing tables are available in the restrooms on both the 1st and 2nd floors. Ground-level restrooms near the ticket offices also have changing facilities. The 1st floor restrooms are the most spacious and recently renovated. Bring your own diapers, wipes, and supplies as there are no shops selling baby products on the tower.

Feeding & Nursing

There is no dedicated nursing room on the Eiffel Tower, but breastfeeding is welcome throughout France and you can nurse anywhere on the tower. The 1st floor has quieter seating areas that offer some privacy. If you are bottle-feeding, bring prepared bottles as there is no facility to warm them on the tower. The restaurants on site can provide warm water if you ask.

Bathroom Locations

Restrooms are available at ground level (near the east and west pillars), on the 1st floor, and on the 2nd floor. The summit has very small restroom facilities that often have a queue. Always have your child use the bathroom before going up to the summit. Bring a small pack of tissues as some restrooms occasionally run low on supplies.

Family Timing Strategy

When to Visit
with Children

Timing is everything with kids. The difference between a magical visit and a miserable one often comes down to when you arrive.

01

Morning Is Best

Book the earliest available time slot, ideally 9:00 or 9:30. Children are well-rested and most cooperative in the morning. Crowds are significantly smaller before 11:00. You will spend less time queuing and more time enjoying. By noon, you can be done and headed to lunch with happy, accomplished kids.

02

Avoid Peak Windows

The busiest period is 11:00–15:00, which is also when children tend to get hungry, tired, and cranky. Weekends are busier than weekdays. French school holidays (July–August, mid-February, and late October) bring the heaviest family crowds. If possible, visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday morning outside of school holidays.

03

Season Matters

Spring (April–May) and early fall (September–October) are the best seasons for families. Weather is mild, crowds are moderate, and daylight hours are reasonable. Summer brings the longest hours but also the longest queues. Winter visits can be magical but cold, so bundle children up warmly and consider the 2nd floor instead of the windswept summit.

04

Plan for Short Attention Spans

Most families do not need more than 90 minutes to 2 hours at the Eiffel Tower. Trying to stretch the visit leads to bored, tired children. Have a plan for after: the Champ de Mars playground, a crêpe from a nearby stand, or a walk along the Seine. Let the Eiffel Tower be a highlight, not an endurance test.

Nearby Fun

Kid-Friendly Activities
Near the Tower

The area around the Eiffel Tower is packed with things children love. Build these into your day for a well-rounded family experience.

Champ de Mars park near the Eiffel Tower
Right There

Champ de Mars Playground

A large, well-equipped playground sits in the Champ de Mars park directly beneath the tower. Swings, slides, climbing structures, and sandpits. Free, open daily, and the perfect way for children to burn energy before or after the tower visit. Benches for parents, shade trees, and stunning tower views.

Carousel near the Eiffel Tower

Carousel & Merry-Go-Round

A classic Parisian carousel operates at the foot of the Eiffel Tower on the Champ de Mars side. A few euros per ride. Children under 10 are enchanted by it, and the photos with the tower in the background are wonderful. There is often a second carousel near the Trocadéro as well.

Trocadero fountains with the Eiffel Tower

Trocadéro Fountains

The Jardins du Trocadéro across the Seine feature spectacular fountains that children love watching and, in summer, splashing in. The broad esplanade offers the most iconic view of the Eiffel Tower and is a favorite family photo spot. Free access, and street performers often provide entertainment.

Aquarium de Paris near Trocadero

Aquarium de Paris

Located directly beneath the Trocadéro gardens, just a 10-minute walk from the tower. Over 10,000 fish, sharks, and sea creatures. Excellent for rainy days or when children need a break from outdoor sightseeing. A feeding demonstration happens daily and captivates kids of all ages. Discounted family tickets are available.

Family Dining

Feeding Kids
Near the Tower

Hungry children and long restaurant waits do not mix. Here are the most practical options for feeding families near the Eiffel Tower.

01

Picnic on the Champ de Mars

The most family-friendly option is a picnic on the grass of the Champ de Mars. Pick up baguettes, cheese, fruit, and pastries from a nearby boulangerie. Children can eat at their own pace and run around between bites. No reservations needed, no waiting, no worrying about noise levels. Bring a blanket and enjoy the tower view.

02

Crêpe Stands & Quick Bites

Several crêpe stands operate near the tower and along Rue de l'Université. A Nutella crêpe is universally popular with children and costs around €4–6. There are also sandwich shops and bakeries within a 5-minute walk on Rue Cler, one of Paris's best food streets and genuinely enjoyable for the whole family.

03

On-Tower Dining

The 1st floor has a buffet-style restaurant and snack bars where children can choose what they want. Prices are higher than ground level but reasonable for an attraction. The 2nd floor Jules Verne restaurant is a Michelin-starred fine dining experience that is not suitable for young children. For a special meal, the 1st floor 58 Tour Eiffel is a better family choice.

04

Family Restaurants Nearby

Rue Cler (10-minute walk) has family-friendly cafés with children's menus. Avenue de la Bourdonnais has several brasseries accustomed to families. For a quick sit-down meal, the Café de l'Homme at the Trocadéro has beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere. Always try to eat before 12:00 or after 14:00 to avoid the lunch rush.

Learning & Preparation

Making It Educational
& What to Bring

Engineering Conversations

The Eiffel Tower is a brilliant way to get children interested in engineering and construction. It was built from 18,038 individual iron pieces joined by 2.5 million rivets. Ask your children why the base is so wide, how wind affects tall structures, and why the tower is shaped like a curve. The 1st floor exhibition includes displays about the tower's construction that older children find fascinating.

History Made Real

Built for the 1889 World's Fair and originally meant to stand for only 20 years, the tower was saved because it was useful as a radio antenna. Gustave Eiffel built a secret apartment at the top. The tower has been painted 19 times in its history. These stories captivate children far more than abstract history lessons. Read a children's book about the Eiffel Tower before your trip to build anticipation.

Geography from Above

The view from the upper levels is a live geography lesson. Children can trace the Seine River, identify different neighborhoods, and understand how a city is laid out. Bring a simple map of Paris and challenge older children to orient it correctly using the landmarks they can see. The tower provides orientation tables on each viewing platform that label key sights.

What to Pack

Essentials: Snacks, water bottle, light jacket or windbreaker, sunscreen in summer. For young children: Favorite small toy, pacifier, baby carrier if using stairs. For older children: Camera or phone for photos, a small notebook to sketch or journal. For everyone: Comfortable shoes with good grip, tissues, hand sanitizer, and patience.

View Ticket Prices & Booking →

Common Questions

Family Visit
FAQ

Is the Eiffel Tower suitable for toddlers?

Yes. Children under 4 enter free, strollers are allowed in the elevators, and the 1st floor glass floor captivates toddlers. Plan a shorter visit of 60–90 minutes and bring snacks and comfort items. The 1st and 2nd floors are spacious enough for toddlers to move around safely with supervision. Avoid the summit on windy days with very young children.

Can I bring a stroller to the Eiffel Tower?

Yes, but only if you use the elevator. Strollers are not permitted on the stairs under any circumstances. The observation areas on the 1st and 2nd floors are accessible with a stroller. A compact, foldable stroller is recommended as the elevators can get crowded. If you want to take the stairs, bring a baby carrier instead.

Are there family tickets for the Eiffel Tower?

There is no single bundled "family ticket," but children receive significant discounts. Under 4: free. Ages 4–11: roughly 75% off adult pricing. Ages 12–24: youth rates at about 50% off. A family of four with young children can visit the summit for around €67 or the 2nd floor for around €43. Book online to guarantee your time slot.

What if my child is afraid of heights?

Start on the 1st floor, which feels more enclosed and less daunting. The glass floor can be approached gradually. Some children who are nervous about the open-air platforms feel completely fine indoors looking through windows. If your child is uncomfortable, do not force it. The 1st floor alone is a worthwhile visit, and the views from the Champ de Mars below are also spectacular.

Is there a place to buy souvenirs for kids?

Yes. There are gift shops on the 1st and 2nd floors selling Eiffel Tower keychains, miniature towers, postcards, and children's books. Prices are higher than at shops around Paris. For better value, the street vendors around the Champ de Mars sell miniature towers for €1–5. Set a souvenir budget with your child before the visit to avoid on-the-spot negotiations.

Are there baby-changing facilities?

Yes. Changing tables are in the restrooms on the 1st and 2nd floors, and at ground level near the ticket offices. The 1st floor has the most spacious and recently updated facilities. Bring your own diapers, wipes, and supplies as these are not available for purchase on the tower. Always change your baby before heading up to the summit, where facilities are minimal.

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