The mystery of the Eiffel Tower steps: How many are there really?

The Eiffel Tower, the iconic symbol of Paris, is a majestic iron structure that draws millions of visitors from around the world each year. It is known for its beauty, history, and, of course, its staircases. You may have wondered just how many steps make up this famous tower. In this article, we will delve into the mystery of the Eiffel Tower's steps and discover the actual count.

Did you know ?

Before we dive into the details, here's an interesting tidbit: the Eiffel Tower actually has two types of staircases. The first is accessible to the public and leads up to the second floor of the tower, while the second is used exclusively by maintenance personnel to access the summit.

Stairs accessible to the public

The Eiffel Tower has a total height of 324 meters, but public access typically stops at the second floor, at a height of approximately 115 meters. This is where the stairs leading to the upper levels are located. But how many are there exactly?

The stairs that lead from the ground floor to the first floor amount to 328 steps. Then, to reach the second floor from the first, you'll need to ascend an additional 340 steps. So, if you do the math, there is a total of 668 steps to reach the second floor of the Eiffel Tower.

The mystery of the summit steps

Now, let's turn to the mystery of the steps that lead to the summit. Unlike the steps between the ground floor and the second floor, those leading to the summit are not open to the public. They are reserved for maintenance personnel and are primarily used for the tower's upkeep.

The exact number of steps leading to the summit of the Eiffel Tower is a matter of debate. Some sources suggest there are approximately 300, while others mention 360 steps. The variation may be due to modifications made over the years for safety and maintenance reasons. In any case, it's important to note that these steps are not accessible to ordinary visitors.

In conclusion, the number of steps in the Eiffel Tower depends on where you intend to go. If you plan to ascend to the second floor, be prepared to climb 668 steps. However, if your dream is to stand at the summit of this Parisian icon, you'll need to rely on your imagination, as the steps to the summit are unfortunately not open to the public.

The Eiffel Tower remains one of the world's most famous attractions, regardless of the number of steps and mysteries surrounding it. Enjoy your visit to Paris and take in the panoramic view of the City of Light from its upper levels while exploring the fascinating history of this iconic structure.

Make sure to take your time to explore every nook and cranny of the Eiffel Tower and admire the beauty of the City of Light from this unique perspective. And, most importantly, visit the souvenir shops on each level to find your true piece of Parisian rooftop : Toit de Paris.

Happy travels in Paris!