The Eiffel Tower is perhaps the most recognizable structure in the world, the very symbol, pride and joy of Paris. This imposing structure, standing 318 meters above ground, can be seen from almost any open area in the city. One cannot realize its magnificence until one actually comes face-to-iron with the massive monument.

Built by Gustave Eiffel and designed by engineers Maurice Koechlin and Emile Nouguier, the Eiffel Tower took more than two years to be completed. It is comprised of 2,500,000 rivets, 18,000 pieces of iron, and it weighs 10,100 tons, all of which includes the office of Gustave Eiffel, which sits at the top of the structure. The tower was inaugurated March 31, 1889, and dedicated to the Universal Exposition, which celebrated the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution.

Approaching the Eiffel Tower, one will not only be mesmerized by the sheer size of the structure, but also the activity going on underneath it. Throngs of tourists bounce back and forth from countless street performers, food stands, restaurants and vendors, selling everything from ice cream to souvenirs to photographs and more. Once you’ve soaked in all the activity underneath the tower, it is time to take your ride to the top.

To purchase your tickets, you will most likely be forced to wait in an overwhelmingly large admission line, depending on the season. (We suggest arriving early as possible to avoid any such lines). There are three separate levels to the Eiffel Tower. You will want to take the elevator to all of these levels, though many find it more rewarding to climb the infinite number of steps. There are also two different elevators: one that takes visitors to the first and second floors, and another, complete with a whole new line of waiting tourists, that takes visitors to the very top. In our opinion, the best view of the city is on the second level. It is broader, still very high above ground, and, unlike the top level, there is no cage between you and the open air, making for better views and photo opts. Additionally, the top level is very confining; it is much smaller than the two lower levels, and therefore always jammed with people.