Rick Steves Recommends Tourists Keep An Eye Out For This Hidden Eiffel Tower Secret

When in Paris, the Eiffel Tower stands out as the city's most iconic landmark. Since its construction was completed in 1889 to commemorate the centennial of the French Revolution, this wrought iron tower has drawn millions of visitors, all vying for a trip to the top of the tower to see the tremendous view of Paris. However, according to travel guru and public television host Rick Steves, one of the things tourists need to know before visiting the Eiffel Tower is where to look for the hidden secret at the very top.

As Steve notes in his blog, Rick Steves' Europe, the architect of the tower a little sanctuary at the top of his eponymous tower. "Few people realize that Gustave Eiffel built himself a little hideaway apartment on the top level of the tower. Eiffel used the plush space for quiet reflection and occasional visitors, and resisted all offers to rent it out," writes Steves.

While this top platform of the tower was always meant to accommodate visitors, Eiffel hid his little apartment at the very top of the tower, above the observation deck and just below the iconic spire. While no longer in operation, keen-eyed observers can still see the space where Eiffel desinged new inventions and entertained guests. It's still furnished, too.

Getting to the top of the Eiffel Tower to visit the secret apartment is not as simple as getting on a single elevator. Because of its unique construction, two different elevators take you between observation platforms. To see the apartment, you'll need to buy a ticket to view the top of the tower. Ride the elevator (or climb the 775 steps) to the second level, where you can get the best views from the Eiffel Tower, then queue for the next elevator.

Aside from the astounding view, the top level also comes complete with a restaurant and champagne bar. Your ticket up there also allows you to look at the apartment, which is viewable through a glass pane on this level. Originally, the space occupied over 1,000 square feet and included a bathroom, kitchen, piano, sitting room, and office space. Today, only the office remains, the rest of the apartment being taken up with machinery.

Inside the exhibit, visitors will see a restored replica of Eiffel's office, complete with period furniture and tools. There are also three wax figures: Eiffel, his daughter, Claire, and Thomas Edison. They occupy the space, bringing a believability that showcases the original intention behind the space. Most tours to the top of the tower will include a stop at the exhibit, though visitors cannot go inside.