Why Visit the Eiffel Tower at Night Everything You Need to Know

Primary KW: Eiffel tower at night

References: https://everydayparisian.com/where-to-see-the-eiffel-tower-sparkle/ https://www.pariscityvision.com/en/paris/landmarks/eiffel-tower/night https://www.toureiffel.paris/en/the-monument/lights https://www.toureiffel.paris/en/news/history-and-culture/brief-history-towers-lighting https://www.toureiffel.paris/en/news/history-and-culture/everything-you-need-know-about-eiffel-tower-night https://www.eiffeltickets.com/eiffel-tower-at-night/

When thinking about Paris and its many attractions, one always comes to mind first – the iconic Eiffel Tower. This historic landmark is even more magical once night falls, as it’s lit up by projectors, creating a tower that sparkles and glows. Whether you’re visiting the Eiffel Tower for the first time or are a regular visitor, exploring the Eiffel Tower at night is a must-do.

So, why visit the Eiffel Tower at night?

Besides the beautiful Eiffel Tower light show, which provides a gorgeous golden glow, there are other reasons to head to this landmark after dark. For one, fewer people typically visit the Eiffel Tower on tours at night. Most tourists check out The Iron Lady (the Eiffel Tower) while the sun is still out.

Additionally, depending on the night you visit, you can also climb the tower in the evening. This activity allows you to see the City of Lights from a different perspective. As a note, the tower is only open during certain seasons, days, etc., so check the hours online before visiting to see the tower’s golden lighting.

The History of the Eiffel Tower Lights

The Eiffel Tower’s lighting is not a new phenomenon, as it has been illuminated since it was first installed in 1889. However, the way it is lit up has changed drastically over the years. When the tower was inaugurated, electricity was not yet invented. So, ten thousand gaslights were installed on the tower to help display its form. There were also two spotlights and a beacon set up.

Then, when electricity was invented in the 1900s, gaslights were swapped for electric bulbs. The World’s Fair of 1937 brought about additional change. Instead of lighting the tower from the outside, André Granet decided to illuminate the tower from the inside. During this process, 1,290 lights were installed.

The Beginning of the Tower’s Golden Lighting

It was not until 1985 that this landmark’s lights were altered again. Pierre Bideau, an electrician/lighting engineer, attached three hundred thirty-six lights to the tower directly. This is the same Eiffel Tower lighting that is on display today. In 2,000, mountain climbs attached sparkling lights to the Eiffel Tower. Though originally this was meant to be temporary, the lights were re-added in 2002 and continue to provide a glittering effect in the evening. Even though the sparkling lights are large in quantity, they use very little energy.

In 2004, the lights installed by Pierre Bideau were swapped out for projectors, which use much less electrical power. Because of this swap, energy consumption has dropped by about 40%. Every night, the Eiffel Tower light show comes to life on the hour, every hour. Originally turning on for ten minutes each time, the lights have been reduced to five minutes to help lower the annual energy consumption.

Besides its regular evening light show, there have been multiple occasions where the tower has displayed other light colors, wording, and designs. For example, in 2016, the tower displayed green lights to celebrate the implementation of the Paris Climate Agreement.

What do you need to know about the Eiffel Tower at night?

There are many ways to enjoy the Eiffel Tower at night. For example, you can stroll along the Seine to view the Tower’s beacon and lights. You can also view the tower’s lights by enjoying a nighttime cruise on the Seine.

Other ways to see the tower include walking through Place du Trocadéro. Other viewing areas include Pont Alexandre III, The Champ de Mars, Arc de Triomphe, and Montmartre. You can also tour the inside of the tower in the evening. The restaurants inside the Eiffel Tower are also open at night, so you can enjoy the city views while getting a bite to eat.

How long does the light show last?

As mentioned, the Eiffel Tower light show only lasts for five minutes each evening. This was shortened to help reduce energy consumption. It typically occurs between 8 pm and 2 am each night, depending on when the sun sets. The last show of the evening is longer, lasting for 10 minutes.

How Night Visits in Summer and Winter Differ

The Eiffel Tower is lit up at night throughout the entire year. However, the hours change slightly in summer and winter. During summer, the lights happen between dusk and 2 am. The hours are shortened in winter, so the light shows only occur until 1 am.

The hours of operation (going inside the tower) also change depending on the season. In the summertime, the Eiffel Tower is open until midnight. After the middle of September, the hours change to 11 pm.

Tips for Seeing the Eiffel Tower at Night

1. Visit the Eiffel Tower close to the light show.

Since the lights only happen on the hour, getting to the tower at the correct time is essential to see the lights. Aim to get there at least 5-10 minutes before the lights turn on so you can find the best spot. Otherwise, you may miss the lights and have to wait around for another hour before they turn on.

2. You can check out the tower from afar.

You can still experience a magical moment at night without being right next to the Eiffel Tower. The lights are visible from dozens of miles away. If you aren’t in the mood for a tour (Eiffel interior), find a spot or a restaurant nearby and enjoy the show.

3. Check the weather before visiting.

On cloudy nights, the lights are challenging to see. Before heading to the Eiffel Tower, ensure you check the weather. If the sky is clear, you’ll be able to see the lights on the tower much more easily.

4. Get your tickets close to your visit time.

While it may be tempting to purchase your ticket to the tower ahead of time, it may not always be the best option. Always check the weather first before purchasing your ticket. Otherwise, you may be stuck checking out the lights when it’s cloudy or rainy.

5. Don’t forget to stop by the souvenir shop.

If it’s your first time visiting the Eiffel Tower at night, you’ll want to commemorate it with a souvenir. A few shops nearby are open in the evening (some even until 11:30 pm) with various items to purchase.

Check out our blog for more articles (and tips!) on visiting popular attractions and locations. We explore everything from famous tourist destinations in Europe to outdoor activities in the US.