The company that operates the Eiffel Tower has announced that it will increase the entrance prices for the famous landmark by around 20 percent shortly before the start of the Olympic Games, reports the French daily “The ParisianFrom June 17, visitors will have to dig deeper into their pockets to visit the symbolic landmark of the French capital.
As the newspaper further reports, a lift ride to the top of the Eiffel Tower will then cost 35.30 euros instead of the previous 29.40 euros for adults. For those who prefer to climb the steps to the second floor, the price will rise from 10 euros to 14.20 euros.
Significant losses during the Corona pandemic
The operating company justifies the price increase primarily with the high losses during the corona crisis, according to “Le Parisien”. The Eiffel Tower, which attracted around 6.3 million visitors in 2023, recorded losses of more than 100 million euros during the pandemic, which were only partially covered by the city of Paris.
In the period 2020-2022, the tourist attraction “recorded an operating loss of around 113 million euros,” according to a resolution that was examined this week in the Paris City Council, according to “Le Parisien”. “The Sete’s turnover fell sharply in 2020 (26 million euros, while it was forecast at 106 million euros),” it continues.
New paint causes additional costs
In addition, the cost of maintaining the 135-year-old building has increased considerably. In addition to the Corona losses, there were additional costs for the tower’s 21st coat of paint, during which toxic lead was discovered when old layers of paint were removed. According to “Le Parisien”, painting the tower, which Parisians affectionately call “dame de fer” (lady of iron), is already a challenge, requiring around 60 tons of paint to be applied.
The increased entrance fees for the Eiffel Tower remain in place, according to reports from the “Mirror“ will remain in effect after the Olympic Games, which will take place from July 26 to August 11. However, other price increases in Paris, such as for metro and bus tickets, will only apply temporarily during the Games.