Les Invalides: Napoleon's Tomb & Army Museum Entry

Champs-Élysées, Paris



Take a deep dive into the History of France through one of the largest collections of military history and art. Don’t miss the tomb of Napoleon I under the majestic golden Dôme des Invalides.

Overview

The Hôtel National des Invalides in Paris suits history enthusiasts interested in military heritage and French history.

Highlights

  • Explore one of Paris’s most prestigious monuments located in the city center
  • Visit Napoleon Bonaparte’s tomb in the Dome Church
  • View one of the largest arms and armor collections worldwide
  • Discover an extensive military history collection spanning centuries

Description

The Hôtel National des Invalides houses the Musée de l’Armée, featuring over 500,000 artifacts from the Middle Ages to the present day. Originally built by Louis XIV to accommodate veterans and wounded soldiers, it now serves as a museum showcasing France’s military heritage.

Admire the gilded Dome Church, Napoleon's resting place since 1861, and explore collections of armor, weapons, swords, cannons, uniforms, paintings, photographs, and personal items linked to France's historical figures.

Interactive digital devices enhance the experience by providing insights into key battles that shaped France’s history.

Includes

  • Permanent collections
  • Dome Church (Napoleon’s tomb)
  • Museum of Plans-Reliefs
  • Museum of the Order of the Liberation
  • Temporary exhibitions
  • Access to family activities on Saturdays and Sundays at 11 AM and 2:30 PM (in French, €7 per child, subject to availability)

Excludes

  • Guided tours
  • Pre-booked free tickets (only available on-site)
  • Multimedia guide (€5, available for purchase on-site)
  • Tickets for family activities (€7 per child, available on-site, subject to availability)

Important Information

  • Access from Esplanade des Invalides: 10 AM to 6 PM; Place Vauban: 2 PM to 6 PM
  • Cloakrooms are available on-site
  • Admission is free for visitors under 18 and EU citizens under 26, but tickets are required and must be collected at the museum office before entry
  • Ticket counters close 30 minutes before the museum closes
  • Closed on January 1, May 1, and December 25

Cancellation Policy

This activity is non-refundable.

For the best experience, book your ticket on-site and plan your visit during weekday mornings to avoid crowds. Bring an ID to collect free admission tickets if eligible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Les Invalides is a historic complex in Paris housing Napoleon Bonaparte’s tomb and the Musée de l’Armée, showcasing France’s military heritage.
Napoleon Bonaparte’s tomb is located under the Dome Church within Les Invalides.
Visitors can explore over 500,000 military artifacts including weapons, armor, and uniforms from the Middle Ages to modern times.
Napoleon’s tomb is situated beneath the Dome Church inside the Hôtel National des Invalides in Paris.
Les Invalides was originally built in the 17th century by Louis XIV to house war veterans.
Photography policies can vary, so it is best to check the official website for current rules about photography inside Les Invalides.
Tickets generally grant entry to both Napoleon’s tomb and the Musée de l’Armée, but verify details on the official site.
Yes, Les Invalides is accessible via several Paris metro and bus lines serving the central area.
Visiting on weekdays or early mornings tends to be less crowded, though current conditions should be checked online.
Yes, Les Invalides offers a rich military history experience that can engage children and history enthusiasts of all ages.

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