Eiffel Tower shut for tourists as Paris swelters under heat wave
Paris, July 2, 2025 – As a powerful heatwave grips France, authorities have closed the summit of the Eiffel Tower to visitors for safety reasons. Temperatures in Paris soared above 40°C (104°F), prompting the shutdown of the tower’s highest viewing platform on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Heatwave Puts Paris on High Alert
Paris is facing record-breaking heat, with temperatures ranging between 39°C and 41°C this week. Météo-France issued a red alert, the highest level of warning, for the capital and surrounding areas. Health officials have warned that the heat poses serious risks to older people, young children, and those with medical conditions.
Eiffel Tower Top Level Closed Temporarily
SETE, the company that manages the Eiffel Tower, closed the top floor on July 1 and 2. They kept the lower levels open for visitors. However, they advised tourists to postpone summit visits or rebook for later days.
In a statement, SETE explained the decision: “Extreme heat at the summit makes conditions unsafe. We must protect both staff and visitors.”
Pre-booked ticket holders received refunds or options to change their visit date. On Tuesday, the tower stopped accepting new entries at 2:30 p.m. and fully closed by 4:00 p.m. Staff on-site helped guide visitors to shaded areas and exits.
Paris Responds with Emergency Actions
City officials launched Plan Canicule (Heatwave Plan) to support residents and tourists. They opened cooling shelters, extended swimming pool hours, and sent mobile teams to distribute water. Volunteers checked on older people living alone, a key concern during heat emergencies.
Many schools in the region shut down temporarily or canceled outdoor activities. Over 1,500 schools across France adjusted schedules to avoid exposing students and staff to the heat.
Public transport also felt the pressure. Metro systems ran slower than usual. Authorities reduced vehicle speeds on highways to avoid accidents and prevent engine failures caused by overheating.
Heatwave Spreads Across Europe
France isn’t alone. Much of Europe is enduring similar conditions. Spain recorded highs over 45°C in major cities like Madrid and Seville. Portugal reached a new June record of 46.6°C in Mora.
Wildfires broke out in parts of Greece and Turkey, forcing local evacuations. Italy and Germany also reported heat-related hospital cases. In the U.K., emergency services issued health warnings as temperatures hit the highest levels of the year.
Dr. Céline Martinez, a climate scientist at Sorbonne University, said:
“This heatwave highlights the growing impact of climate change. Cities like Paris must prepare for more extreme weather in the coming years.”
Tourists React with Concern and Understanding
Many tourists visiting the Eiffel Tower felt disappointed but understood the decision.
“We came from Canada to see the view from the top,” said Maria Fletcher, 28. “But the heat is intense. We’re happy they put safety first.”
Hotels and restaurants across Paris offered free water refills and shaded rest areas. Tourists adjusted their plans by exploring indoor attractions, air-conditioned museums, and evening boat rides on the Seine.
Travel Tips for Paris During the Heatwave
If you’re in Paris this week, take steps to protect yourself:
- Avoid going out from 12 PM to 4 PM.
- Use public cooling centers and stay indoors when possible.
- Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
- Check official sites for updates on attraction hours and closures.
These small steps can help you stay safe and still enjoy your trip.
When Will It Cool Down?
Weather forecasts suggest a slight drop in temperature by Thursday night. More relief should arrive by the weekend. Until then, officials urge everyone to stay alert and limit outdoor activity.
Once conditions improve, the Eiffel Tower will reopen its summit. Tourists will again enjoy breathtaking views of the City of Light—but for now, safety takes priority.
