Alison Smale's story about the Eiffel Tower in today's N&O reads like a generic travel guide. Here's the real deal:
- Just so ya know, the line to ascend the Tower can be two or more hours long. Honestly, there are better things to do in Paris than wait on a massive line for the honor of spending beaucoup bucks on a tourist trap.
- The roof of the Pompidou Center offers a marvelous view of Paris. It's free with your admission to the museum.
- The Arc de Triomphe also has a rooftop oberservation deck. No line.
- Notre Dame has an observation deck as well. Not much of a wait except on holidays like Easter.
- No one with bad knees or a heart condition should even consider the stairs up the Eiffel Tower. Ditto small kids. It's a grueling hike.
Here's an alternative to really appreciate the power and beauty of La Tour Eiffel:
- Start at the Arc de Triomphe (the Metro stops right there). Check out the observation tower. Take a few pictures.
- Proceed down Avenue Kleber. Grab lunch at a cafe or get some sandwiches to go.
- Ave Kleber ends at the Trocadero, a fantastic neo-classical structure. As you come around the Troc, the Eiffel Tower is in front of you with all of Paris spread out like supplicants in a cathedral. One of the most amazing things about this view is the space surrounding the Tower. The view from the Troc is the perfect spot to appreciate the majesty of the Tower.
- Descend the steps from the Troc, cross the street, buy an ice cream cone or a crepe and stroll beneath the Tower to the park. Lie down on the grass and look up at the Tower. No view like it in the entire world.
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