The Eiffel Tower, a beloved symbol of Paris, is set to raise its ticket prices starting June 17. This decision has received mixed reactions from both locals and tourists.
Reason for the Price Hike
Paris City Hall approved a 20% increase in ticket prices. This hike aims to cover the growing renovation costs and economic challenges the tower has faced recently.
source: istock
Importance of Maintenance
Gustave Eiffel, the tower's creator, recommended repainting the tower every seven years to prevent rust. Unfortunately, the Eiffel Tower has not had a thorough paint job in over ten years.
New Ticket Prices
- Adults: The new price for an elevator ride to the summit will be 35.30 euros ($38.31), up from 29.40 euros ($31.91).
- Children (12-14 years): Tickets will increase to 17.70 euros ($19.21).
- Young children (4-11 years): Their tickets will rise to 8.90 euros ($9.66).
Impact of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic severely affected global tourism. The Eiffel Tower saw a sharp drop in visitors, with numbers falling to less than 1.6 million in 2020 from nearly 6.2 million the previous year. Although visitor numbers have been recovering, reaching 6.3 million in 2023, financial difficulties remain.
source: istock
Financial Measures
To address these challenges, the Paris City Council has implemented several measures. These include a recapitalization plan for the tower's operator, Société d’Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel (SETE), and a reduction in the annual fee the operator pays to manage the tower.
Ongoing Concerns
Despite these efforts, there are ongoing concerns about whether the funds allocated are sufficient for the tower's maintenance needs. Earlier this year, a strike highlighted the need for sustainable financial solutions.
Future Outlook
As Paris prepares to host the 2024 Olympics, travelers should expect higher expenses. The Eiffel Tower, a timeless Parisian icon, requires ongoing support to maintain its legacy for future generations.
