Eiffel Tower Ticket Prices to Increase Amidst Renovation and Financial Struggles
Starting June 17, visitors to the Eiffel Tower will face increased ticket prices, with a rise of up to 20%. This price hike, which will see adult tickets to the summit by elevator increase from 29.40 to 35.30 euros, is primarily driven by financial strains attributed to the health crisis and the discovery of lead during renovation works. The new prices are pending validation by Parisian elected officials this Saturday.
Ticket prices for young people (ages 12-24) will increase from 14.70 to 17.70 euros, while costs for children aged 4 to 11, disabled individuals, and their accompanying persons will rise from 7.40 to 8.90 euros. Stair access to the second floor will see adult prices increase from 11.80 to 14.20 euros, youth prices from 5.90 to 7.10 euros, and children's prices from 3 to 3.60 euros. Meanwhile, entry remains free for those under 4 years old and active solidarity income holders (RSA).
These steep price hikes were anticipated during a strike in February, leading to a six-day closure of the iconic Parisian landmark. The significant increase is necessary to offset the monument's substantial operating loss of around 113 million euros due to the COVID-19 pandemic from 2020 to 2022. The turnover for Sete, the operating company, plummeted sharply over these years, with 2020 seeing only 26 million euros compared to the forecasted 106 million euros.
Additionally, the renovation costs have soared due to new lead prevention measures, bringing the overall renovation slate to an estimated 136 million euros. These costs are part of an ongoing effort that includes painting work initiated in 2017 and planned renovations starting in 2025, which will further impact operational areas. The amendments to the public service delegation contract, which ties Sete to the City of Paris, aim to address these new financial requirements and operational constraints.
As the Eiffel Tower returns to pre-pandemic visitor numbers with nearly six million tourists in 2023, Sete is also planning additional investment. An extra 145 million euros has been allocated for future works, with the City of Paris making adjustments to the calculation of the operating fee, reflecting 51 million euros in revenue abandonment.
- The planned renovations and increased costs for the Eiffel Tower come at a time when Paris is preparing for a potential surge in tourism. The city officials and Sete are optimistic that the improved infrastructure and safety measures will continue to draw visitors from around the globe.
- Jean-François Martins, president of Sete, explained that extending the public service delegation by one year will help 'smooth out our depreciation' and allow for better financial planning and resource allocation. Such strategic initiatives are deemed crucial for preserving the historical monument while ensuring its viability and accessibility for future generations.
