There are many famous towers in Europe that operate as major tourist attractions. Europe's long and cultured history has produced a number of tremendous monuments, many of which remain standing to this day. Towers have become iconic symbols for many European cities, particularly in London, Seville, Paris and Pisa.

Tower of London (England)

The Tower of London is one of England's most famous landmarks. Construction of this tower began in 1078 AD at the behest of William the Conqueror, according to the iExplore Travel Guide. Situated on the north banks of the River Thames, the Tower of London has functioned over the centuries as a fortress, royal residence and even as a prison. In modern times the tower has served as a museum and home of the Crown Jewels. Yeoman Warders, also known as Beefeaters, still patrol the grounds as they did long ago when this sect of royal guards protected the kings that once lived here. According to Frommer's Travel Guide, tours of the tower are available to the public for an admission fee. Children under the age of four get in for free.

Tower of London
Tower Hill, EC3
London, England
011 (+44) 20-7709-0765

Giralda Tower (Spain)

The Giralda Tower stands out as the most recognizable monument in all of Seville, Spain, according to Frommer's Travel Guide. The tower looms over Seville's cathedral, the biggest Gothic building in the world and the third-largest cathedral in Europe. The Christian monarchs of Spain built the cathedral and tower in the late 1400s after retaking southern Spain from the Moors. The cathedral now covers the site where an ancient mosque once stood. Inside the cathedral lies the tomb of famed explorer Christopher Columbus. A spiraling ramp leads tourists from the cathedral floor to the top of the Giralda Tower where a lofty observation deck offers panoramic views of the city. The tower's massive bells hang overhead, and the lush Patio of Oranges opens up below the tower, creating an unforgettable scene. According to Frommer's, an entrance fee is necessary for access to the Giralda Tower and the cathedral, except on Sundays when entry is free because the building opens its doors to the general public for mass.

Giralda Tower
Av. de la Constitución s/n
Seville, Spain
011 (+34) 95-421-4971

Eiffel Tower (France)

Few if any tourist attractions hold as much romantic fame as the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. French engineer Gustave Eiffel constructed this tower for the World Exhibition of 1889, according to Fodor's Travel Guide. The Eiffel Tower eventually became emblematic of the Parisian landscape, captivating countless visitors with its cast-iron frame and arching design. Fodor's recommends visiting the Eiffel Tower at night when the girders light up and glitter against the city's skyline. Stairs will take you up as far as the third floor, and an elevator whisks visitors all the way up to the top of the structure. Visitors can access the various levels of the Eiffel Tower, and the entrance fee corresponds to the level of the tower, with higher levels being more expensive.

Eiffel Tower
Quai Branly, Trocadéro/Tour Eiffel
Paris, France
011 (+33) 01-4411-2323

Leaning Tower of Pisa (Italy)

Italy's Leaning Tower of Pisa also ranks among the most popular monuments in Europe. This freestanding bell tower sits next to the cathedral of the city of Pisa. The Tower of Pisa was built in 1173 AD, according to Destination 360. Several years later the poorly laid foundation began to shift, and the tower gradually tilted down at an angle. Several architects have made attempts at renovations and additions over the centuries, but the tower still slouches to the side with its signature lean. A combination of counterweights and soil excavations keeps the tower in place now, ensuring its structural integrity for the foreseeable future. Fodor's Travel Guide recommends climbing to the top of the tower for sweeping views of the city and Tuscan countryside. Get there early or make reservations for entry to the tower in advance to avoid long lines. According to Frommer's, all visitors must pay an admission fee.

Leaning Tower of Pisa
Piazza del Duomo
Pisa, Italy
o11 (+39) 50-387-2210

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