Eiffel Tower Tickets Sold Out Today? Last-Minute Tricks That Actually Work

Categories: Eiffel Tower Travel Tips
Jan 19, 2026 By: Hayat Aadil
If you woke up excited to visit Paris’s most iconic landmark only to see the message Eiffel Tower Tickets sold out, don’t panic you’re not alone. In 2026, the Eiffel Tower is receiving record-breaking visitors, and tickets often disappear days (sometimes weeks) in advance, especially during summer, weekends, and holidays. But the good news? You still have multiple ways to get inside the Eiffel Tower even when official tickets are unavailable. This friendly, practical guide will walk you through real solutions that thousands of travelers use every day to enter the Tower successfully even at the last minute.

Why the Eiffel Tower Gets Sold Out So Often in 2026

Seeing the message Eiffel Tower Tickets sold out can be frustrating, but it happens for real reasons. The renovation work in selected areas, higher security checks, and controlled crowd management mean fewer daily entries. The summit, especially, often hits capacity faster than other levels. Add high tourist demand, and you get a perfect recipe for no availability. Understanding this helps you plan better and gives you confidence that last-minute alternatives are completely normal.

Last-Minute Eiffel Tower Tickets

Best Last-Minute Tricks When the Eiffel Tower Ticket Is Sold Out

1. Check Again Early Morning Spot Opens Randomly

It might sound simple, but many visitors overlook this. Even if you see Eiffel Tower sold out today, refresh the official website around:
  • 6:30 AM – 8:00 AM (Paris Time)
  • 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
This is when cancellations, expired reservations, or system resets release last-minute Eiffel Tower tickets. Several travelers secure same-day spots just by checking again.

2. Try the Stair Tickets They Rarely Sell Out

If lift tickets are gone, try Eiffel Tower stair tickets, which are almost always available. Yes, you’ll climb around 600 steps, but the viewpoint is incredible and you avoid long lift queues. Stair tickets are also cheaper perfect for spontaneous travelers.

3. Book a Guided Tour The Easiest Last-Minute Entry

Even when official tickets show no tickets, tour companies sometimes still have availability because they reserve slots in advance. Search for:
  • Summit access tours
  • Second-floor tours
  • Priority entry guided tours
These often include skip-the-line passes, so you get inside faster. This is the most reliable same-day solution.

4. Try Visiting Later at Night

This trick is underrated but works beautifully. The Eiffel Tower becomes less crowded after 9 PM, and walk-up stair tickets sometimes become available even during peak season. If you’re flexible, this could be your easiest way in.

5. Check Nearby Kiosks for Last-Minute Tickets

Around Trocadéro, Quai Branly, and Champ de Mars, you’ll find travel agencies and kiosks that occasionally offer leftover same-day Eiffel Tower tickets. They sell fast, but they’re real and safe just ensure you look for official travel partners.

6. Book a Restaurant at the Eiffel Tower

This trick surprises most visitors. Restaurants like:
  • Madame Brasserie
  • Jules Verne
Sometimes include tower access with reservations. Even if Eiffel Tower no tickets is the message online, you might still enter legally through the restaurant route. It’s not the cheapest method, but it’s a premium experience with guaranteed access.

Also Read: Eiffel Tower Paris, France Guide, Everything First-Time Visitors Want To Know

Eiffel Tower Paris, France Guide
What to Do If the Summit Is Sold Out?

The summit (top floor) is usually the first to disappear. If you only see second-floor availability, grab it don’t wait. Once inside, check if you can upgrade at the second floor. Sometimes small batches are released onsite. If not, remember: The second floor still offers an amazing view and is more comfortable due to less wind and crowding.

Extra Smart Tips to Avoid Sold-Out Situations

  • Book 3–4 Weeks Early During Peak Season: If you’re visiting between April-August, plan. It can save you time, stress, and money.
  • Avoid Saturdays & Public Holidays: They sell out first always.
  • Choose Early Morning or Late Evening Slots: They stay available longer than afternoon slots.
  • Monitor Official Social Media Alerts: The Eiffel Tower’s official channels sometimes post real-time ticket updates.
  • Best Time of the Year to Get Last-Minute Tickets
Some months are easier for spontaneous visits:
  • Easiest months: January, February, March, November
  • Hardest months: June, July, August, December
Going on weekdays (Mon–Thu) also gives you a better chance.

What to Avoid When Tickets are Sold Out

Many visitors fall for scams when they panic, so be careful:
  • Never buy tickets from random sellers on the street
  • Avoid unofficial websites claiming guaranteed entry
  • Do not wait until the last-minute during summers
Stick to official and approved sources only.

Final Thoughts You Can Still Visit Even When Sold Out

Seeing Eiffel Tower tickets sold out” instantly ruins the mood, but it shouldn’t. Thousands of travelers successfully enter each day using these same techniques stair tickets, guided tours, morning refresh, restaurant entry, or same-day tours. Whether you’re a spontaneous explorer or a last-minute booker, you still have great options to make your Eiffel Tower dream come true. With the right trick, right timing, and a bit of patience, your Paris experience will still be unforgettable.

FAQs About Eiffel Tower Tickets Sold Out Today

Q1. Are Eiffel Tower tickets really sold out today?

Ans: Yes, Eiffel Tower tickets often sell out the same day, especially for the Summit. However, limited tickets may still be available through stair access, evening slots, or authorized third-party sellers.

Q2. Can I buy Eiffel Tower tickets at the counter if they are sold out online?

Ans: Sometimes. While online tickets sell out faster, a small number of stairway and second-floor tickets may still be available at the on-site ticket office, depending on crowd levels.

Q3. Do guided tours have tickets when general entry is sold out?

Ans: Yes. Many guided tours reserve ticket blocks in advance, making them one of the best last-minute options when standard Eiffel Tower tickets are unavailable.

Q4. What is the best time to check for last-minute Eiffel Tower tickets?

Ans: Early morning (7–9 AM) and late afternoon are the best times, as cancelled or released tickets often reappear during these hours on official and authorized platforms.

Q5. Can I still visit the Eiffel Tower area without a ticket today?

Ans: Yes. Even if tickets are sold out, you can still visit the Trocadéro, Champ de Mars, and nearby viewpoints for great views and photos of the Eiffel Tower without entry tickets.