Eiffel Tower elevator tickets are how most visitors go up: a lift ride to the second floor, and a second lift to the summit if the ticket includes it. In this collection the all-in elevator ticket starts from EUR 79 per person, and a cheaper guided second floor ticket starts from EUR 52. Here is my view in one line: if you want the whole tower and do not want a workout, book the lift, and pick the ticket by which level you really need. This page explains which lift goes where, how the ride to the top works and who should avoid stairs.
What are Eiffel Tower elevator tickets?
They are tickets that give you lift access to the tower’s levels, usually with a reserved time slot. Instead of climbing, you ride the elevator to the second floor, and on some tickets you continue to the summit.
The main listing is the elevator ticket with second floor and summit access. It includes elevator entry to the first and second floors, access to the summit, access to the first floor on your way down and unlimited time inside the tower. A guide meets you at the start, gives a short introduction and leaves after the second floor. Tips, transfers, food and drinks are not included.
Which lift goes where?
The lift takes you to the second floor first. From the second floor, a separate lift ride goes up to the summit. You do not go from the ground to the top in one ride.
I want you to keep this in your head, because it changes how you plan. The first floor is a stop on the way, the second floor is the main deck and the summit is the last stage. The stairs ticket shows the same structure from the other side: you climb 704 steps to level 2, then ride the elevator to the summit if you add it. So even a lift ticket is a two-stage journey to the top, with its own wait at each stage. Please confirm current lift arrangements on the official Eiffel Tower website, since operations can change.
How does the two-stage ride to the summit work?
You ride to the second floor, enjoy the deck, then join the summit lift. The listing notes that summit access is standard access, so you may share the lift with other visitors and queue at the top.
Here is what I would do. Go to the second floor first, take your photos, then decide on the summit while you are there, if your ticket allows it. If the sky is hazy, skip the top. If the sky is clear, go up and give yourself a buffer for the queue. The all-in ticket lets you stay inside the tower as long as you like, which is what makes this staged approach possible. I would not rush it. For more on what the top offers, read my guide to Eiffel Tower summit tickets.
How much do Eiffel Tower lift tickets cost?
They start from EUR 52 for a guided second floor ticket and from EUR 79 for the all-in lift ticket with the summit, dated 2026-09-21. The final price depends on your date, options and group.
The gap between EUR 52 and EUR 79 pays for the summit and the unlimited time. I would only pay it if you want the top. My Eiffel Tower ticket price guide shows every level side by side.
Do elevator tickets include a host or guide?
The main elevator ticket includes a guide who meets you at the start and gives a short introduction. The guide handles the entry so you do not need to work out which queue is yours, but the guide leaves after the second floor.
That is a bonus, not the main event. You get commentary at the start and on the way to the second floor, then you explore freely. I like that balance: you get context without a full lecture. If you want a longer guided visit, this is not it. If you want a lift, a slot and a helpful start, it fits.
Who should avoid the stairs?
Anyone with knee or heart concerns, small children or a tight schedule should choose the elevator. The stairs ticket is 704 steps and the listing calls it a real physical effort.
I would be plain about it. If climbing worries you, do not try it for the saving. The lift ticket is the safer, simpler choice, and the extra cost buys you a reserved slot and a calmer day. For a full look at the climb and who it suits, see my page on Eiffel Tower stairs tickets.
Are the lifts suitable for wheelchairs and reduced mobility?
The lifts are the route for visitors who cannot climb, but access details and conditions can change, and I will not guess them. Check the official site and your booking terms for current rules on your date.
What I can say is that a lift ticket is the right starting point, not the stairs. For a fuller picture of wheelchair access, disabled visitor tickets and where to confirm the rules, read my guide to Eiffel Tower accessibility. If you have specific needs, contact the operator before you buy.
What does reserved access really mean for lift tickets?
Reserved access means you have a time slot and a guided start, so you skip the confusion of finding your queue. It does not remove security, and the summit lift can still have a line.
The listing says you get reserved access to the first and second floors and standard access to the summit. That difference matters. I would build in extra time, arrive about 15 minutes early and keep your bag small to speed through security. Late arrivals can lose their reserved slot, so do not cut it close.
Is the elevator ticket worth it over the second floor only?
It is worth it if the summit matters to you and you want unlimited time inside the tower. It is not worth it if you only want a quick look or you get anxious at height.
My verdict: if the forecast is clear and this is your first visit, the all-in lift ticket is the one I would book, because it saves you from a sold-out summit. If the forecast is uncertain, the cheaper second floor ticket is safer, since you are not paying for the top up front. The listing itself says a cheaper second floor ticket is the safe choice if you are unsure about heights or the weather. To weigh the two levels head to head, use my summit vs second floor comparison.
What should you know before you go up?
Arrive early, keep your bag small, bring a light jacket for the top and give yourself two to three hours if you want both levels and the glass floor. Queues are usually shorter early in the day.
On the way down, stop at the first floor and walk on the glass floor. It only takes a few minutes and makes a good photo. I would also leave time for the Champ de Mars gardens afterwards. If you want to be sure the second floor is enough for you, my page on Eiffel Tower second floor tickets explains what you get and what you skip.
Where do you meet for an elevator ticket?
You meet your guide near the tower at the start of your time slot, and your booking confirmation lists the exact meeting point. Read it before you leave and allow extra time for the walk and security.
The tower is at the Champ de Mars in the 7th arrondissement. The closest Metro stop is Bir-Hakeim on line 6, and the RER C station is Champ de Mars Tour Eiffel. Both are a short walk from the base. I would treat the voucher as the source of truth for the meeting point.
My recommendation
Book Eiffel Tower elevator tickets if you want lift access and either level. My pick for the whole tower is the elevator ticket with second floor and summit from EUR 79 per person. If you want a cheaper start and a short guided intro, take the second floor ticket with a guide from EUR 52 and decide on the summit later.
For every option in one place, visit the Eiffel Tower tickets homepage, and for costs by level, see my Eiffel Tower ticket price guide.
Frequently asked questions
How much are Eiffel Tower elevator tickets?
They start from EUR 52 for a guided second floor ticket and from EUR 79 for the all-in ticket with the summit. The final price depends on your date and options.
Does the elevator go to the summit?
Yes, in two stages. You ride to the second floor first, then take a separate lift to the summit if your ticket includes it.
Is the guide with me the whole time?
No. The guide gives an introduction and leaves after the second floor visit, and you continue on your own.
Can I stay as long as I like?
On the all-in elevator ticket, yes. It includes unlimited time inside the tower once you are in.
Is the elevator better than the stairs?
For most visitors, yes. It costs more but saves effort and gives reserved entry. The stairs are cheaper and suit fit visitors with time to spare.
