Everything To Know About The Eiffel Tower Top Floor Closing In January 2026

If you’re planning a winter trip to Paris, here’s something important you should know: the top floor of the Eiffel Tower will be closed from January 5 to February 6, 2026. Don’t worry you can still visit the 1st and 2nd floors, enjoy stunning views, and experience all the festive winter vibes. But the summit? It takes a short annual break for essential work.

This guide covers why the summit closes, what you can still enjoy, and how to plan your visit without missing anything special.

Why the Eiffel Tower Summit Closes Every January

The start of the year is when the top of the Eiffel Tower gets its yearly transformation. The summit is extremely exposed much more than most visitors realize. When the wind at ground level is around 31 mph (50 km/h), it can reach over 50 mph (80 km/h) at the top. Add freezing temperatures, snow, rain, hail, and intense sunlight, and you can imagine the kind of wear this iconic landmark endures.

Because of these extreme conditions, the Eiffel Tower team performs essential maintenance and renovation work every January. This includes:

• Structural inspections
• Weather-related repairs
• Deep cleaning
• Elevator maintenance

These updates aren’t optional they help preserve the Tower for millions of visitors who dream of climbing to the top each year.

The Duolift® Elevators Get Their Upgrade

One of the biggest tasks during the January 2026 closure is the modernization of the Duolift™ elevators (DUO 1 and DUO 2). These are the elevators that carry visitors from the second floor to the summit, and they play a major role in the overall experience.

The upgrades include:

• Better performance
• Higher reliability
• More energy-efficient operation
• Smoother travel for visitors
• Improved ease of operation for technicians

These elevators operate constantly throughout the year, so January becomes the perfect “rest month” to give them a technical refresh.

Don’t Skip the 1st & 2nd Floors, They’re Magical in Winter

While the summit takes a break, the lower floors remain fully open and honestly, they’re more wonderful than many people expect.
You’ll still enjoy:

1. Breathtaking 360° Views of Paris

The 2nd floor viewpoint offers some of the best panoramic views in the city perfect for winter photography lovers.

2. Shopping & Snacks

The 2nd floor is full of cozy cafés, fun souvenir shops, and even the Pierre Hermé macaron bar (don’t skip it… seriously).

3. A Winter Terrace on the 1st Floor

This spot is the warm, comforting heart of winter at the Eiffel Tower. You’ll find:

• Hot chocolate
• Mulled wine
• Pancakes
• Waffles
• Sweets
• Seasonal treats

It’s the perfect way to warm up while feeling the Tower’s iron structure all around you.

4. Front-row Seats for the Light Show

If you visit in the evening, you’ll see Paris glow from above and enjoy the Eiffel Tower sparkle show right from the inside.

Should You Still Visit During the Closure? Absolutely.

Many travelers think visiting during the summit closure is a bad idea but that’s not true. January comes with a few hidden perks:

• Fewer crowds
• Shorter lines
• More peaceful photo spots
• Better availability for tickets
• Lower travel costs in Paris

Plus, the atmosphere of Paris in winter is something you can’t replicate in other months.

Visit the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Book Your Eiffel Tower Tickets Now and Enjoy a Seamless, Memorable Experience.

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FAQs About Eiffel Tower January Closing 2026

Q1. Why is the Eiffel Tower summit closed in January 2026?

Ans: Because of essential maintenance, repairs, and elevator modernization due to extreme weather exposure.

Q2. Can I still visit the Eiffel Tower during the summit closure?

Ans: Yes! The 1st and 2nd floors remain open with full access.

Q3. Are Eiffel Tower tickets cheaper during the closure?

Ans: Prices may vary, but availability is usually higher due to fewer visitors.

Q4. What can I do on the 1st and 2nd floors during winter?

Ans: Enjoy the winter terrace, snacks, macaron bar, panoramic views, shops, and evening light shows.

Q5. When will the summit reopen?

Ans: The top floor will reopen on February 7, 2026.