The Best (and Weirdest) Tourists’ Reviews of the Eiffel Tower
Some people go to the Eiffel Tower for the view, others for the vibes, but a surprising number walk away with thoughts that are downright bizarre. From high expectations to hilarious disappointments, here’s a peek at what real visitors had to say about one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.
The Eiffel Tower: A Dizzying Descent
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One visitor enjoyed the sweeping views from the Eiffel Tower but sobered up fast on the long way down. At 330 meters (1,083 feet), it’s Paris’s tallest structure. With three viewing decks and countless steps, the descent feels longer; especially if you’ve had a little too much French wine.
Flag Restrictions at the Eiffel Tower
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Someone showed up ready to wave a standard-sized flag at the Eiffel Tower and got stopped cold at security. During events like the Olympics, tighter rules mean items like flags get confiscated or checked. It’s not personal; it’s just Paris running a tight ship during peak season.
Construction and Amenities Near the Eiffel Tower
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During the Olympics, tourists noticed construction zones around the Eiffel Tower and a frustrating lack of public restrooms nearby. Ongoing prep for the Games brought infrastructure upgrades meant to enhance the area, but the short-term effect left visitors navigating blocked paths and limited facilities in one of Paris’s busiest spots.
Eiffel Tower: Just a Tower?
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Some tourists walked away unimpressed, brushing off the Eiffel Tower as “just a tower.” But when it opened in 1889, it was the tallest manmade structure in the world. Built for the World’s Fair, its iron lattice design marked a bold leap in engineering—and still defines the Paris skyline today
The Louvre’s Vastness: A Double-Edged Sword
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A lot of people walk into the Louvre thinking it’s a museum visit. It’s actually more of an endurance test. Spanning over 72,000 square meters, the Louvre is the world’s largest art museum, housing approximately 38,000 objects from prehistory to the 21st century. Planning ahead can help visitors navigate its extensive galleries.
Dining Options Within the Louvre
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One reviewer seemed relieved to find burgers and a Starbucks break inside the Louvre. It’s true; the museum has plenty of food options. So if your feet need a break and your brain needs caffeine, there’s no shame in grabbing fries with a side of 18th-century sculpture.
Management Concerns at the Louvre
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The Louvre may be full of masterpieces, but not everyone loves the experience. Complaints about poor crowd control and confusing layouts come up often. The museum, designed to accommodate 4 million visitors annually, now sees over 8 million, leading to challenges in visitor flow and experience.
The Louvre: A Must-See Despite Challenges
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Despite the gripes, many said the Louvre is still essential. Seeing the Mona Lisa, even from behind ten phones, is something most won’t forget. It might not be the peaceful cultural moment you imagined, but it’s a genuine peek into world history under one roof.
The Arc de Triomphe’s Spiraling Stairs
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Several folks mentioned getting dizzy while climbing the Arc de Triomphe. With 284 tight, spiral steps and a narrow design, it’s a mini leg day. But the reward is a 360-degree view over the Champs-Élysées and Paris rooftops that’s tough to beat.
Overhyped Expectations at the Arc de Triomphe
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A few visitors felt the Arc de Triomphe didn’t quite live up to its glossy photo reputation. While it might seem smaller or less dramatic in person, it’s still one of the most historically symbolic spots in Paris. Expect less Instagram drama, more quiet awe.
Olympic Crowds at the Arc de Triomphe
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During the 2024 Olympics, the Arc de Triomphe became a hot spot again. One tourist said they ended up there by accident and caught part of a ceremony. Even with the crowds, the added Olympic energy made the whole scene more exciting than usual.
Cultural Interactions at the Arc de Triomphe
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One review praised the Arc’s architecture but slammed local behavior. Rudeness in Paris is a stereotype, but it’s not everyone’s experience. Some travelers found that even a clumsy “bonjour” softened interactions. Patience helps too—especially when everyone’s a little hot, tired, and stuck in line.
Tourist Crowds Around the Eiffel Tower
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Roughly 25,000 people visit the Eiffel Tower each day. That makes it one of the most photographed places on Earth; and one of the busiest. For quieter moments, seasoned travelers recommend going after sunset or early in the morning, when the crowds thin and the atmosphere shifts
Rat Warnings in Eiffel Tower Parks
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A guest staying nearby expected cinematic romance around the Eiffel Tower. Instead, they found mobs of tourists, souvenir vendors, and signs warning not to feed rats. Paris can still be charming—but when you’re navigating selfie sticks, it’s harder to feel the love.
The Mona Lisa’s Crowded Viewing Experience
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Seeing the Mona Lisa in person sounds amazing; until you get there and realize she’s tiny and behind a wall of phones. Still, people come from across the world just to see her smirk. You won’t have her to yourself, but you’ll always remember the moment.