The Eiffel Tower is in central Paris on the Left Bank, beside the Seine and the Champ de Mars park. For most first-time visitors, the best all-around choice is public transport (Metro or RER): it’s usually the fastest, the most predictable, and the least stressful around an area that can get very busy.
If you’re deciding quickly:
- Choose Train (Metro/RER) for the easiest, most reliable arrival.
- Choose Bus if you want an above-ground ride and you’re not in a hurry.
- Choose Taxi for comfort (luggage, late night, family), but expect traffic and drop-off limits.
- From the airports, a train-based route is typically the most time-consistent, while taxis are the simplest door-to-door option.
How to get to Eiffel Tower of Train
“Train” in Paris usually means the Metro (subway) or the RER (commuter rail). Both are excellent for the Eiffel Tower because several stations sit within an easy walk.
Most convenient overall (short walk): Bir-Hakeim (Metro)
This is often the simplest station to aim for if you want the shortest, most straightforward walk to the tower area. It’s a popular choice for tourists and works well for a “get there efficiently” plan.
Best for classic views: Trocadéro (Metro)
If your priority is arriving with a dramatic, postcard-style viewpoint, many visitors prefer approaching from the Trocadéro side. The walk is longer than from Bir-Hakeim, but the approach feels iconic.
Most direct if you’re already on commuter rail: Champ de Mars–Tour Eiffel (RER C)
If your route naturally connects to RER C, this stop can feel like a near-direct arrival because it’s close to the Champ de Mars side.
A simple alternative: École Militaire (Metro)
This can be a comfortable option depending on where you’re staying, with a straightforward walk through the 7th arrondissement.
What train users should keep in mind
- Expect walking: even the closest stations still require a short walk, and the area can be crowded.
- Choose convenience over “perfect”: the “best station” is often the one with the fewest transfers from your hotel.
- Luggage and stairs: some stations involve stairs and corridors; if you’re carrying heavy bags, a slightly longer ride with fewer station changes can feel much easier.
How to get to Eiffel Tower of Bus
Buses can be a great way to reach the Eiffel Tower area if you want to stay above ground and see Paris as you go. They’re especially useful when your accommodation is already on a direct bus route and you’d rather avoid Metro transfers.
Why the bus can be a good idea
- Scenic: you get street-level views instead of tunnels.
- Simple for short hops: if you’re already nearby, a bus can feel like a direct ride into the neighborhood.
- Good for some travelers who dislike the Metro: fewer underground corridors and signage can feel more intuitive.
Trade-offs
- Traffic and delays: the Eiffel Tower area is popular, and road congestion can be heavy—especially late morning through early evening.
- Route changes: central Paris routes can be temporarily diverted for events, construction, or security measures.
- Stop placement: your bus may drop you “near the area,” then you’ll walk the final stretch.
Best way to use buses
Think of the bus as a “drop me close” option, not a precision tool. It’s perfect when your schedule is flexible and you’re happy to arrive a little earlier (or later) depending on traffic.
How to get to Eiffel Tower of Taxi
A taxi (or ride-hailing car) is the most comfortable option and can be the easiest choice when you’re traveling with luggage, children, or a group. The main downside is that central Paris traffic can make short distances take longer than expected.
When taxi is worth it
- You have heavy bags or mobility concerns and want minimal walking and stairs.
- You’re traveling as a small group and can split the cost.
- You’re heading there late at night when public transport is less frequent.
- You prefer door-to-door comfort in rain, cold, or intense heat.
What to expect near the Eiffel Tower
- Traffic can be slow around the Seine and major avenues near the tower.
- Drivers may not drop you at the exact spot you imagine. Depending on road conditions and crowd control, they may stop a short walk away.
- The last few minutes on foot are normal, especially during peak visitor times.
A practical taxi mindset
Taxi is best for comfort, not speed. If arriving at a specific time matters (timed entry, meeting a tour), Metro/RER is usually more predictable.
How to get to Eiffel Tower of From the Airport
Paris has two main airports for international travelers: Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY). The best option depends on your priorities: cost, speed, simplicity, and how much luggage you have.
From Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
Most reliable for timing: airport rail + Metro/RER connection
CDG is well connected to central Paris by train. A train-based route is usually the best balance of price and predictability, especially during daytime. From central interchanges, you can connect to the Metro or to RER C (depending on your route) and finish with a short walk from a nearby station such as Bir-Hakeim, Trocadéro, or Champ de Mars–Tour Eiffel.
Simplest door-to-door: taxi
A taxi can be comfortable after a long flight, but traffic into Paris can be unpredictable. If you land during rush hour, the train may feel faster and less stressful.
From Orly (ORY)
Orly has multiple ways to connect into the Paris public transport network, after which you continue by Metro or RER and walk the final minutes to the tower area.
Good for most travelers: public transport connection into Paris
If you’re traveling light, public transport is often straightforward. Once you’re in the central network, you finish via a nearby Metro/RER stop.
Best with lots of luggage: taxi
For families or travelers with multiple suitcases, a taxi can be the easiest experience, even if it’s not always the fastest.
Airport tip that saves headaches
Don’t choose an airport route based only on the first leg. Your comfort often depends on the last transfer and the final walk. If you want a smoother experience, prioritize fewer changes and an arrival station that’s easy to navigate.
Comparison table
| Option | Best for | Convenience | Time reliability | Comfort with luggage | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train (Metro/RER) | Most visitors, first-timers, timed plans | High | Very high | Medium | Low–Medium |
| Bus | Scenic approach, nearby areas, flexible timing | Medium | Medium | Medium | Low |
| Taxi / ride-hail | Comfort, groups, heavy luggage, late night | High | Medium–Low (traffic) | High | High |
| From the airport (public transport) | Budget + predictable timing | Medium–High | High | Medium | Medium |
| From the airport (taxi) | Door-to-door simplicity | High | Medium (traffic) | Very high | High |
FAQ
Which station is closest to the Eiffel Tower?
Several stations are within walking distance. The most “short-walk” option is usually Bir-Hakeim, while Champ de Mars–Tour Eiffel (RER C) can feel direct if you’re already on that line.
What’s the best station for photos and a classic approach?
Many visitors prefer arriving via Trocadéro because the walk-in view is iconic, even though it’s a bit longer.
Is the bus a good choice for first-time visitors?
Yes—if you’re not in a hurry. For time-sensitive plans, trains are more predictable.
Is taxi practical near the Eiffel Tower?
It’s comfortable, but traffic can be slow and drop-off points may be limited when it’s crowded. Plan for a short walk at the end.
What’s the easiest airport route for most travelers?
A train-based route into central Paris with a short Metro/RER connection is usually the most reliable. If you have heavy luggage, a taxi can be simpler.
Sources: Official website of https://www.toureiffel.paris/