Without a doubt, the Les Invalides complex is one of the most iconic monuments in the French capital and houses the tomb of one of the most important figures in the history of Paris, Napoleon.
It is an expansive site, so you should set aside an entire morning to explore it thoroughly. While it’s possible to see it faster, the place is steeped in so much history that it’s worth taking your time and savoring every part. In our view, it’s a must-visit if you are in Paris, as both the Cathedral of Les Invalides and Napoleon’s Tomb are among the most significant sites in Europe.
Visiting Les Invalides is highly recommended for anyone interested in delving into centuries of French military and cultural history. Here, you can stroll through the exhibitions at the Army Museum or enter the religious site of Saint-Louis-des-Invalides Cathedral.
So, get your most comfortable shoes ready, bring your camera, and set aside a few hours because you’re about to witness one of the most emblematic monuments in Paris. You might even find it worthwhile to read up on the history of Napoleon or French military exploits to enrich your visit.
History of Les Invalides
The Hôtel National des Invalides, as it is known in French, was built in the 17th century by architect Libéral Bruant under the orders of King Louis XIV. Construction of the palace was completed in 1674, while the church was finished in 1706 after years of extended work.
The complex was originally intended to provide shelter and care for veterans and soldiers who were left disabled during their service and had nowhere to go. It is said that more than 4,000 retired soldiers once lived here, often earning their keep by mending the uniforms of active soldiers.
But beyond serving as a home, Les Invalides also offered numerous facilities, such as a hospital and the headquarters of the National Office for Veterans and War Victims. Its role extended beyond healthcare, becoming a symbol of the king’s grandeur and the French nation’s prestige.
In 1708, the complex saw the addition of the Dôme Church, crowned with its gilded dome, now a Parisian landmark. Initially built as a royal chapel, today it is best known for housing the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte, which visitors can see up close.
During the French Revolution, the site was looted and repurposed as an armory by revolutionaries. In the 19th century, additional buildings were added, including museums like the Army Museum, the Musée des Plans-Reliefs, and the Musée de l’Ordre de la Libération.
Today, although it no longer functions as a hospital, it remains a home for war veterans, serving as a tribute to those who fought and served France. To make the most of your visit, be sure to understand the unique blend of architectural and historical elements that make it a monument to national pride.
What to See at Les Invalides in Paris
Before diving into all the sights at Les Invalides, I want to suggest a few exciting activities you can enjoy while in Paris:
- Eiffel Tower Summit or Second Level Access
- Moulin Rouge Cabaret Ticket with Champagne
- Skip-the-Line Louvre Museum Entry
- Palace and Gardens of Versailles Admission
Within this architectural marvel, you’ll find several must-see attractions, including Napoleon’s mausoleum, Saint-Louis Cathedral, and the museum dedicated to the French military. A comprehensive visit to Les Invalides generally takes between 2 to 3 hours (similar to a visit to the Eiffel Tower), depending on the number of museums and churches you wish to see.
We recommend arriving early in the morning to avoid long queues, as entry can become challenging by midday. Also, exploring nearby attractions afterward could give you a full day of discovery.
Dôme Church
The Dôme Church was designed by Jules Hardouin-Mansart and built between 1677 and 1706 as part of Les Invalides. It is a masterpiece of French Baroque architecture, renowned for its grandeur and ornate detailing, including the magnificent golden dome visible from many parts of Paris. The dome soars 107 meters high and is covered in gold leaf, making it a striking part of the city’s skyline.
The interior of the dome is adorned with frescoes by Charles de La Fosse, depicting scenes from the life of Saint Louis (King of France and patron saint of the church). These frescoes contribute to a sense of grandeur and opulence, perfectly in line with the majestic spirit of Paris during this era.
Napoleon Bonaparte’s Tomb
If you’re wondering where Napoleon is buried, this is the place. Since 1840, the body of Napoleon, one of France’s most pivotal historical figures, has rested here, having been transferred from the island of Saint Helena.
Moreover, the complex also houses the remains of his son, Napoleon II, and his brothers Joseph and Jérôme Bonaparte. Nearby lie the graves of several French marshals who fought in World War I.
The tomb is situated beneath the gilded dome of the Saint-Louis Chapel, under which stands the grand mausoleum in the center of the room, though it cannot be visited from inside. The sarcophagus, crafted from red quartzite, sits on a pedestal of green granite, encircled by inscriptions listing Napoleon’s greatest military victories. The crypt is surrounded by sculptures representing peace, victory, and Napoleon’s enduring strength.
Saint-Louis Cathedral
The cathedral consists of two separate churches housed within the same structure (Saint-Louis des Invalides and Église du Dôme). King Louis XIV envisioned this layout to keep the royal family separate from the soldiers who lived there when attending mass.
Originally, the cathedral was designed as a place of worship for the residents of Les Invalides, but its significance has grown over time, becoming both a religious and military emblem for France.
Its classical French architectural style is marked by symmetry and a relatively austere interior, blending Baroque and classical elements. Inside, you’ll find marble columns, statues of saints, and stained-glass windows depicting religious scenes.
Of note in the cathedral’s architecture is the impressive dome, shared with the Dôme Church. This striking structure rises high above Paris, symbolizing the connection between the divine and the earthly. If you’re thinking about taking photos inside the cathedral, you’re welcome to do so, as long as you don’t use flash, out of respect for the sanctity of the site and to preserve the artwork.
The Army Museum
While the most significant feature of the museum is undoubtedly Napoleon’s mausoleum, there are many other fascinating exhibits to explore. Les Invalides is perhaps one of the best museums in Paris and is considered one of the world’s finest military museums.
Among the highlights is the Army Museum (Musée de l’Armée). It ranks as one of the most extensive and comprehensive museums in the world focused on military history and weaponry. Here, you can trace the evolution of warfare and military life from ancient times to the present.
The museum is housed in the historic Hôtel des Invalides, an architecturally significant building. Inside, you’ll discover various galleries and thematic sections dedicated to different eras and aspects of military history.
The museum’s artistic and historical wealth, with stunning rooms showcasing weapons, cannons, and military uniforms, make it a truly essential visit. The museum’s permanent collection features over 500,000 items, including weapons, armor, uniforms, and military artifacts.
Additionally, the permanent exhibition includes the Charles de Gaulle collection, honoring the former French president who served from 1958 to 1969 and played a crucial role in France’s recent past.
Key Sections and Exhibits:
- World Wars I and II
- Napoleon
- The French Revolution
Exploring this museum is like taking a journey through time, full of historic artifacts and displays that honor the courage, strategy, and sacrifices of the French military. Be prepared for a detailed and inspiring lesson in military heritage.
Musée des Plans-Reliefs
The Musée des Plans-Reliefs stands out from most other museums you’ll see in the city. Here, you’ll have access to a collection of relief models of cities and fortresses, used for military engineering and urban planning in the 17th and 18th centuries.
It all began during the reign of Louis XIV, who commissioned these models for military purposes so that combat strategies could be planned in a detailed and realistic manner. Made from wood, metal, and papier-mâché, these models are strikingly lifelike and impressively detailed.
In total, you can view more than 100 models depicting cities, fortresses, and landscapes of France and its former colonies. Each model is incredibly intricate, showing not only the main structures but also the surrounding terrain.
During your visit, you can explore the models using interactive touch screens and multimedia presentations. These features provide tourists with a wealth of information about the models and allow for a deeper understanding of French history and how military campaigns were planned. If you’re interested in historical and strategic insights, this museum is a fascinating experience.
Musée de l’Ordre de la Libération
The last museum we’ll cover is a tribute to the men and women who fought for France’s freedom during World War II. This museum provides an in-depth look at the French Resistance through photographs and testimonies from people of that era.
One of the museum’s most significant sections covers the Free French Forces, which fought in campaigns abroad (in Africa, Asia, and Europe) under Charles de Gaulle’s leadership. Finally, there is a powerful section dedicated to the Liberation of Paris in 1944, featuring videos, photographs, and personal artifacts of those who played a role in freeing the city.
Exhibits include:
- Uniforms and equipment
- Weapons and documents
- Medals and honors
The museum aims to honor the bravery of French citizens who fought against the Nazi occupation, ensuring that the memory of these unsung heroes remains alive for future generations. This museum is not just a historical site but a place of reflection on the sacrifices made for freedom.
Les Invalides: Hours and Tickets
The complex operates during the following hours:
- April to September: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
- October to March: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Note that on the first Friday of every month, there is a special evening visit from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. The site is entirely closed on January 1, May 1, and December 25.
As for the different types of tickets for Les Invalides:
1. General Admission:
Includes entry to Napoleon’s tomb and skip-the-line access to the entire complex: Musée de l’Armée, Dôme des Invalides, Musée des Plans-Reliefs, and Musée de l’Ordre de la Libération. This day ticket allows unlimited time to explore all the buildings within Les Invalides.
RESERVE2. Aura Invalides Show:
A nighttime access ticket that offers a 50-minute immersive multimedia show. This spectacular light and sound experience takes place in the area of the golden dome, providing a unique and engaging way to view the site.
3. Guided Tour:
This 2.5-hour guided tour features an expert guide who will explain all the details of the cathedral, Napoleon’s tomb, and the Army Museum. It’s a great way to gain a deeper understanding of this historic site in a small group of up to 8 people.
4. Free Entry:
Access to the interior of Les Invalides is free under the following conditions:
- Children under 18 years old
- European citizens aged 18 to 25
- People with reduced mobility and military personnel
- Also free with the Paris Pass discount card.
Visiting at the right time can make your experience more pleasant and give you a unique insight into France’s rich historical tapestry.
It’s best to purchase your tickets for Les Invalides online in advance, so you can avoid the long queues that often form at the palace.
How to Get to Les Invalides
Address: 129 Rue de Grenelle
Les Invalides is easily accessible thanks to Paris’s excellent public transport network. Here are some of the best ways to reach the site:
Metro
- Invalides Station (Lines 8 and 13)
- La Tour-Maubourg Station (Line 8)
- Varenne Station (Line 13)
RER Suburban Train
Get off at Invalides Station (Line C), and from there, it’s just a short walk to the complex. This option is particularly convenient if you’re coming from the outskirts of the city and don’t have direct access to the metro.
Bus
If you’d like to see the city as you travel, taking the bus is a great option. The lines that stop near Les Invalides are 28, 49, 63, 69, 82, 83, 87, and 92.
You can also use the Tootbus hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus, which stops at key attractions around the city. You can book tickets for the Tootbus at this link.
Extra Tip: Remember to keep an eye on metro and bus schedules, as they can change slightly on weekends or holidays. Planning ahead will help you make the most of your time exploring this historic site.