Les Invalides is a vast complex commissioned by Louis XIV in 1670 as a home and hospital for wounded and aged soldiers; today it is best known as home to the Musée de l'Armée (one of France's largest military history museums) and the tomb of Napoleon I. Beneath a gilded golden dome, Napoleon's red quartzite sarcophagus rests in an open crypt; the Dôme des Invalides was the tallest structure in Paris until the Eiffel Tower was built. As of 2026 the Cour d'Honneur (Court of Honour) has reopened after a full repaving, while Phase 2 of the MINERVE renovation (2026-2030) is under way, so some galleries may close in stages. Spanning arms and armour through the Napoleonic era to both World Wars, it is one of Paris's essential stops for anyone interested in history and architecture.
Napoleon I's tomb in the crypt beneath the dome - a red quartzite sarcophagus on a green granite base, ringed by twelve statues of Victory
The gilded dome (about 107 m high) designed by Jules Hardouin-Mansart, with lavish ceiling frescoes and a re-gilded exterior
Other notable burials - Marshals Foch and Lyautey, the fortification engineer Vauban, Turenne, Napoleon II (the Aiglon), and Joseph and Jérôme Bonaparte
The Army Museum's permanent collections - medieval arms and armour, the Louis XIV to Napoleon III galleries, and the two World Wars and Charles de Gaulle historial
The free-access Court of Honour and the Saint-Louis-des-Invalides cathedral, lined with captured cannon and military standards
Good to know
SafetyPickpockets work the Invalides and La Tour-Maubourg stations (metro lines 8 and 13, RER C) and the route toward the Eiffel Tower. Wear bags in front, keep zips closed, and never carry a phone or wallet in a back pocket.
CautionNear the adjacent Champ de Mars and Eiffel Tower, watch for petition/clipboard scams (fake deaf-charity donations), the 'found gold ring' trick, and people trying to tie a friendship bracelet on your wrist. Avoid eye contact and walk on firmly.
RulesThere is a security bag check at the entrance, and large suitcases or big backpacks are not admitted. Ticket counters close 30 minutes before the site does, so allow enough time.
MannersNapoleon's tomb, the Dome church, and the Saint-Louis cathedral are a burial site and religious spaces. Keep your voice down, behave quietly, and avoid overly revealing clothing.
SeasonIn peak July the mornings draw crowds and the open courtyard offers little shade in the heat. Arriving right at opening (10 am) and heading to Napoleon's tomb first is the quietest option.
RulesThe first Monday of the month may be partial access (dome, Saint-Louis cathedral, and temporary exhibition only), though this restriction does not apply in July-September. Always confirm prices, hours, and any renovation closures on the official website before visiting.
Practical info
Reach it on foot from La Tour-Maubourg (metro line 8) or Invalides (lines 8, 13 and RER C); the Court of Honour and Saint-Louis cathedral are free to enter. A single combined ticket (Army Museum, Napoleon's tomb, Dome church, Museum of Relief Maps, and Museum of the Order of the Liberation) is around 17 euros for adults, and the Paris Museum Pass is accepted, but prices and opening hours can change, so check the latest before you go.
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