The Eiffel Tower, known as the Iron Lady in France, is famous for its beautiful architecture and mesmerizing light shows.
This 1083-foot-tall monument is often featured in the backgrounds of movies, literature, art, and much more in a mesmerizing golden light, making it the most popular tourist attraction.
The light show of the Eiffel Tower is one of the must-see experiences, and almost every visitor to Paris wishes to witness this mesmerizing sight.
The light show is accompanied by magical displays of vibrant colors and images on special occasions. They move and change to match the music played in the background.
If you plan to visit the Eiffel Tower, don’t miss this opportunity.
In this article, we’ll tell you everything about the Eiffel Tower light show, including its timings, the best place to watch it and how you can experience the light show at its best.
What Exactly is the Eiffel Tower Light Show?
The Eiffel Tower has over 20,000 efficient LED light bulbs that can produce various colors and patterns.
Every evening after dark, the Tower gets illuminated with these lights, creating an awe-inspiring sight for every Eiffel visitor.
The display often involves the use of special lighting effects, sometimes synchronized with music, to enhance the beauty of the structure.
The lights are strategically placed on the tower’s framework, and the structure is aglow with various colors and patterns.
Eiffel Tower Light Show Timings
With the help of light-sensitive twilight sensors, the golden lights of the Eiffel Tower turn on as soon as it gets dark.
The lights of the Tower and beacon are lit up every evening from dusk until 11.45 pm.
The lights of the tower sparkle for 5 minutes at the beginning of every hour, starting from dusk time after it lights up.
The last sparkle happens at 11 pm, while the lights get switched off 45 minutes after the last sparkle.
If you wish to visit the tower during the initial hours of the light show, arrive 30 minutes before sunset to catch the stunning view from the summit as the sun sets over Paris, then stay for the Eiffel Tower light show after sunset.
Best Time of the Year to Visit
The Eiffel Tower light shows are conducted every day of the year.
It is best to visit the Eiffel Tower light shows in Spring, between late March and May. The crowds are less during these months, giving you a clearer view of the Tower in its splendid glory.
The last display of the light show conducted daily is worth watching as it differs from the others. The lights twinkle and move at a faster pace, creating beautiful formations.
Best Places to View the Eiffel Tower Light Show – Highlights
The Eiffel Tower is one of the tallest structures in Paris. Tourists can view the interior of the Eiffel Tower from any of the three floors accessible to the public.
Being visible from 50 miles away, there are several quiet spots to view the light show.
However, for a perfect view of the Eiffel Tower, illuminated by lights, here are some of the best locations for watching this light show:
- Seine River Cruise
Sailing on the Seine River with a view of the glimmering Eiffel Tower light show makes for the most picturesque scenery, providing the most memorable experience to all visitors.
The reflection of the Paris Eiffel Tower, with the background of the setting sun in the lake, is what most people dream of when they think of Paris.
Enjoy the most exquisite Parisian cuisine while looking at the lights from the cruise.
Couples should try the 3-course dinner on the Seine River Cruise with the breathtaking scenery for a memorable romantic experience.
Sipping on a cool, refreshing drink while watching the sparkle of the Tower will make you feel like the main character of a movie. You can have this experience on the Happy Hour Evening Cruise along the River Seine, with unlimited drinks and entertainment.
- Champ De Mars
The beautiful garden of Champ De Mars is located at the foot of the Eiffel Tower and promises the most unobstructed view of the light show.
Visitors who want a complete tour of the Eiffel Tower can begin their evening by visiting the second floor and summit of the tower in the early evening. An enchanting view of Paris is visible from the top of the Tower.
The Eiffel Tower restaurants are some of the most famous in France. Madame Brasserie, a popular restaurant in the Tower, serves the most delicious French cuisine. Dining here is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and is highly recommended for first-time visitors. There is also a fun-mystery game at the entrance to welcome you!
After your lavish dinner and exceptional sunset views from the Tower, visitors can take a peaceful stroll through Champ De Mars. It is an excellent place to take portrait photos with the sparkling tower behind you.
- The bustling streets of Paris
Visitors who want to explore many more attractions in Paris can hop on an exciting open-bus tour ride. The bus drives along many popular tourist attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, the Opera, the Louvre Museum, and more!
You can also access an audio guide on this ride and learn more about the history of The Eiffel Tower Light Shows and other attractions in the language of your choice.
You can even explore the interiors of the Eiffel Tower and hop on a bus afterward to view the shining tower from a better scenic spot. The bus is packed with friendly tourists and locals. You can make new friends here!
Those looking for a more private tour experience can hire a private vehicle with a knowledgeable guide. The guide will direct you to the best locations for a clear view of the Eiffel Tower light show. You can choose the parts of the city you want to visit on this trip!
Facts About the Eiffel Tower Light Show
- The Eiffel Tower Paris Light Show began on 31 December 1985 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Eiffel Tower and has continued ever since.
- 20,000 lightbulbs are installed on the Eiffel Tower to create this spectacular show daily.
- The Tower is lit by LED bulbs that do not harm the environment as they consume less energy. The Tower uses around 8800kW of electricity per year.
- There are around 336 light projectors equipped with sodium lamps, which help display images of the Eiffel Tower.
- The light show lasts 5 minutes at the beginning of every hour after sunset. The lights on the Eiffel Tower are synchronized to create a magical experience for all visitors.
- Every display show on special occasions is accompanied by background music, vibrant images and color displays to celebrate. The Eiffel Tower Light Show 2023, 1 October, shone a bright pink color to spread awareness for breast cancer.
- The last light show, conducted at 11 pm, goes faster with many moving sparkling lights. It is different from the light shows shown previously on the same day.
- You can see these lights up to 50 miles away from the Eiffel Tower.
FAQs on the Eiffel Tower Light Show
What is the Eiffel Tower Light Show time?
The Eiffel Tower light show begins after the sun sets. The lights shine for 5 minutes at the beginning of every hour. The last light show is at 11 pm.
Where can I watch the Eiffel Tower light show?
The best spots to view the Eiffel Tower light show are:
– Seine River Cruise
– Champ De Mars
– Place Du Trocadero
Does the Eiffel Tower have a light show every night?
Yes, the Eiffel Tower has a light show every night of the year.
Is it worth going up the Eiffel Tower at night?
Yes. You can enjoy the scenic sunset from the tower before it gets dark. You can also enjoy a luxurious dining experience at the restaurants in the tower.
Is it better to see the Eiffel Tower in day or night?
The crowds around the Eiffel Tower are less during the day. The best view of the Eiffel Tower can be observed at night, with its sparkling exterior and displays.
Can you photograph the Eiffel Tower light show?
Yes, no law states that photography of the Eiffel Tower light show is illegal.
How often does the Eiffel Tower light up at night?
The Eiffel Tower Light Show begins as soon as the sky turns dark and lights up at the beginning of five minutes before every hour