A visit to Paris will never be complete without seeing France’s symbol to the world…The Eiffel Tower.
This was my 2nd time to visit Paris. My first was 18 years ago. Back then we joined a group tour which gave us a very limited time to explore downtown Paris, specifically in Champ de Mars where the Eiffel tower is located. This time around, we did a 5-day DIY Paris adventure. We were lucky that the place we rented was few minutes away from Eiffel. We saw it in various sides, angles and viewpoints. From the boat during our Seine river cruise, from our train rides, from the Trocadero metro exit and yes, even from our room balcony.
Named after its designer and builder, Engr Gustave Eiffel, this impressive and iconic tower, also locally called “La Dame de Fer” (Iron Lady) is considered a true technical and architectural achievement and wonder, considering that it was built in the 1800s. And it hasn’t lost its charm and beauty since day 1.
So you may ask, when’s the best time to visit the Eiffel Tower, daytime or night time? My answer – both. On a clear day, the tower is perfect for those “kodak” moments. It’s also ideal for travelers with kids and senior citizens, like us, as it’s easier to maneuver and access the side streets and transport services leading to the tower. From the top of the Eiffel Tower, daytime gives you 360 degree of all the famous Paris landmarks. Not to mention that the weather during winter is kinder during daytime.
But the Eiffel Tower turns magical at night time. It lights up, glowing in golden hue. At exactly 6 pm, and every hour on the hour, until 1 am, the tower sparkles for five minutes, transforming the tower to a spectacular sight of glimmer. The lights, ambiance and cool weather will definitely put everyone who sees it in a romantic mood. The combination of illuminated Seine River (reflection from the tower lights) along with its bridges is such a sight to behold.
In this recent trip of ours, Eiffel in love all over again.
