Paris Attractions
The Eiffel Tower © ainet
Eiffel Tower
Gustave Eiffel, the architect of the Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel)
could never have guessed that it would become Paris's signature
sightseeing attraction and bring more than six million visitors a
year. It was built as a temporary structure to commemorate the
centenary of the French Revolution and was opened by the Prince of
Wales, later King Edward VII of England. The Eiffel Tower was
considered an eyesore by many and there were petitions to have it
pulled down. It was saved only because it had become an important
antenna for telegraphy. It towers 984ft (300m) above the Champ de
Mars and until 1930 was the world's tallest building. The highest
of its three levels offers a wonderful panoramic view over
Paris.
Address: Champ de Mars 7;
Website: www.tour-eiffel.fr;
Telephone: (01) 4411 2323 (recorded information);
Transport: RER Champ de Mars-Tour Eiffel station; Métro Bir-Hakeim, Trocadéro, Ecole Militaire; bus 42, 69, 72, 82, 87;
Opening time: Daily; 9.30am to 11.45pm (September to mid-June), 9am to 12.45am (mid-June to August);
Admission: Elevator – 1st and 2nd floor €8; 3rd floor €13 (adults). Stairs - €4.50 (2nd floor). Concessions available
