First Level

Overview

Perched 57 meters (187 feet) above the Champ de Mars, the First Level of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France, offers a unique and engaging experience distinct from its higher counterparts. It is the largest of the tower's three visitor levels, providing ample space to explore and enjoy. This level has been thoughtfully reimagined to offer visitors an immersive journey into the history and grandeur of this iconic Parisian landmark.

From this vantage point, you can take in sweeping views of the city's celebrated monuments and the Seine River, often providing a different perspective than the higher floors. Beyond the panoramic vistas, the First Level is a hub of activity, featuring interactive exhibits, dining options, and a thrilling glass floor that allows you to gaze directly down to the esplanade below. It's a place designed for both contemplation and discovery, making it an essential stop for any traveler.

History & Cultural Background

The Eiffel Tower itself was constructed between 1887 and 1889 as the magnificent entrance arch for the 1889 Universal Exhibition, celebrating the centennial of the French Revolution. The First Level was completed on March 20, 1888, marking a significant milestone in the tower's rapid construction. Initially, the tower faced considerable criticism from some of Paris's leading artists and intellectuals, who viewed it as an 'iron monstrosity' or an 'eyesore'. Despite these early objections, the tower, and its first level, quickly became a success, attracting nearly 30,000 visitors to ascend its steps even before the elevators were fully operational. The First Level originally housed four restaurants, each offering a different cuisine, showcasing the tower's role as a major attraction from its inception.

Over the decades, the First Level has undergone various transformations, including a significant refurbishment in 2014 that introduced the now-famous transparent glass floor. These modern enhancements integrate seamlessly with the tower's historic framework, continuing its legacy as both a symbol of architectural innovation and a beloved cultural icon.

What Makes It Special

The defining feature of the First Level is undoubtedly its transparent glass floor, installed during the 2014 refurbishment. Stepping onto this glass walkway, 57 meters above the ground, offers a truly unique and dizzying sensation, allowing visitors to 'experience the void' directly beneath their feet.

Beyond this thrilling architectural marvel, the First Level is home to 'Madame Brasserie', a contemporary restaurant led by Chef Thierry Marx, offering an ethical and seasonal culinary experience. There are also shops and interactive exhibits that delve into the tower's rich history and construction, providing a cultural trail for curious minds. Visitors can even see a fragment of the original spiral staircase, a tangible piece of Gustave Eiffel's engineering legacy.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

One fascinating detail is the engraving of 72 names of French scientists, engineers, and mathematicians around the periphery of the First Level, added by Gustave Eiffel to honor those who contributed to France's scientific prowess. This act transformed the tower into a vertical pantheon of French ingenuity. Another intriguing tidbit is the anecdote of French writer Guy de Maupassant, who famously despised the Eiffel Tower but frequented its first-floor restaurant, reportedly because it was 'the only place in Paris where he could eat without seeing its otherwise unavoidable profile.'

Historically, the First Level once housed a post office, which was known as France's smallest and most beautiful, allowing visitors to send postcards with a special tower postmark. While the specific setup has changed, the spirit of connecting with the world from this iconic height remains.

Visitor Perspective

Accessing the First Level offers flexibility; you can choose to take the elevators or, for a more active experience, climb the stairs. There are over 300 steps from ground level to the First Level. Many visitors find the ascent by stairs to be a rewarding experience, providing unique photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the iron lattice structure up close.

Once on the First Level, the atmosphere is vibrant yet less crowded than the summit. It's an ideal spot for families, with interactive exhibits and space for children to engage. The views, though not as expansive as the top, are still spectacular, offering clear sightlines to landmarks like the Sacré-Cœur, Les Invalides, and the Arc de Triomphe, and a close-up perspective of the cityscape. Whether enjoying a meal, walking on the glass floor, or simply soaking in the Parisian ambiance, the First Level provides a memorable and comprehensive introduction to the Eiffel Tower experience.