Eiffel Tower ticket prices to increase by 20% for renovation funding

France's famous Eiffel Tower is raising its ticket prices by 20%, according to a report by CNN's affiliate BFMTV. This increase is necessary to help cover the costs of renovation work and financial losses during the coronavirus pandemic.

Starting June 17, an adult ticket that includes an elevator ride to the top of the Parisian landmark will cost €35.30 ($38.31), up from the previous price of €29.40 ($31.91), as reported by BFMTV. Children between the ages of 12 and 14 will pay €17.70 ($19.21) for the same ticket, while children aged four to 11 will be charged €8.90 ($9.66) to reach the summit of the tower.

A view of the Eiffel tower in Paris. The Eiffel Tower is a structure built by Alexandre Gustave Eiffel for the Universal Exhibition of 1889 in Paris. This Parisian monument, symbol of France is one of the most visited places in the world. (Photo by Atilano Garcia / SOPA Images/Sipa USA)(Sipa via AP Images)

The Eiffel Tower in Paris is a famous structure designed by Alexandre Gustave Eiffel for the Universal Exhibition of 1889. As a symbol of France, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations globally. (Photo by Atilano Garcia / SOPA Images/Sipa USA)(Sipa via AP Images)

Atilano Garcia/SOPA/Sipa/AP

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The Eiffel Tower is said to be in urgent need of repairs due to a significant loss of revenue caused by the health crisis between 2020 and 2022. BFMTV reported that the price increase has been implemented as a result of this financial challenge.

In 2020, the Eiffel Tower had fewer visitors with less than 1.6 million people compared to nearly 6.2 million visitors the year before, according to SETE, the company that operates the monument. The number of visitors slightly increased to less than 2.1 million the following year.

SETE reported that in both 2020 and the following year, the operating costs of the Eiffel Tower were approximately three times higher than the landmark's total turnover.

Renovation work, including "lead prevention measures" for painting the tower, is one of the factors contributing to the cost increase, as reported by BFMTV. The painting project is scheduled to continue until 2027, with additional work planned for the elevators, resulting in occasional closures.

SETE has been contacted by CNN for a comment on the matter.

Editor's P/S:

The Eiffel Tower's price hike is a necessary measure to ensure the iconic landmark's future. While the 20% increase may seem steep, it is crucial to cover the costs of essential renovations and offset the financial losses incurred during the pandemic. The Eiffel Tower has long been a symbol of France and a popular tourist destination, so it is imperative to maintain its grandeur and safety for future generations.

The financial challenges faced by the Eiffel Tower in recent years highlight the importance of tourism for cultural landmarks. The pandemic's impact on visitor numbers has had a severe impact on the Eiffel Tower's revenue, making it difficult to cover operating costs and fund necessary maintenance. The price increase, while unfortunate, is a responsible step towards ensuring the Eiffel Tower's continued operation and preservation.