Les Invalides tours and tickets
Beneath the golden dome, Napoleon’s tomb and the Army Museum hold centuries of French military history.
Hours of operation
10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Open to 10:00 PM first Fridays.
Tickets required
Free or discounted admission available for eligible groups.
Best time to visit
Early morning or after 6:00 PM on first Fridays.
Most popular Les Invalides tours
Get an insider’s view of Les Invalides in Paris.
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About Les Invalides
Les Invalides was commissioned by King Louis XIV in 1670 to shelter wounded soldiers, and still functions as a military hospital today. Beneath its gilded dome lies Napoleon Bonaparte’s tomb, and its galleries hold over 500,000 objects spanning centuries of French military history.
Top highlights for your visit
The Dôme des Invalides
Designed by Jules Hardouin-Mansart and Robert de Cotte, this gilded Baroque dome is the architectural centerpiece of the entire complex—and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the Paris skyline.
Napoleon’s tomb
Within the Dôme des Invalides, Napoleon Bonaparte’s red quartzite tomb rests in a circular crypt surrounded by statues representing his military victories. The tomb was moved to the dome in 1861 and has remained there ever since.
Musée de l’Armée
One of the largest military history museums in the world, the Musee de l’Armee chronicles the French armed forces from the 13th century through 1945. Its collection contains more than 500,000 artifacts.
Cathédrale Saint-Louis des Invalides
Known as the soldiers’ chapel, this elegant cathedral first opened to wounded war veterans in 1679. An active Roman Catholic house of worship, it serves as the seat of the Bishop to the French armed forces.
Les Invalides FAQs
What is Les Invalides used for today?
Les Invalides is still very much a living place. Alongside its role as a museum and monument, it remains a working military hospital and serves as the headquarters for the military governor of Paris. The soldiers’ chapel remains an active Roman Catholic place of worship, welcoming both visitors and worshippers.
Why is Les Invalides famous?
Commissioned by King Louis XIV in 1670 as a home for wounded veterans, Les Invalides is best known today for the Dôme des Invalides. Inside, you can look down at the monumental red quartzite tomb of Napoléon Bonaparte. For anyone curious about French history, Les Invalides is one of the most moving stops in Paris.
Is it free to enter Les Invalides?
Entry is free for visitors under 18, European Union residents under 26, job seekers, and disabled visitors with an accompanying adult. Admission is free for everyone once a year on Bastille Day, July 14.
Can I use the Paris Museum Pass at Les Invalides?
Yes, the Paris Museum Pass is accepted here. It covers access to the Musée de l’Armée, the Dôme Church, and Napoléon’s tomb, so you can take your time exploring without any extra cost.
Is Les Invalides wheelchair accessible?
Most of the Musée de l’Armée is fully accessible, with elevators and ramps throughout. Unfortunately, the Dôme Church, where Napoléon’s tomb is located, is not accessible to wheelchair users because of interior and exterior staircases. Free wheelchair rentals are available at the ticket desks with valid ID.
How do I get to Les Invalides using public transport?
Les Invalides sits in Paris's 7th arrondissement and is easy to reach. You can take Metro Line 8 to La Tour-Maubourg or Invalides, Metro Line 13 to Varenne or Invalides, or the RER C train directly to the Invalides station.
Can I bring my luggage or large bags inside?
Large bags, suitcases, and bulky items are not permitted inside the museum. A free cloakroom is available for standard-sized bags up to 55 x 35 x 25 cm, so you can explore comfortably without lugging everything around.
Are guided tours or audio guides available?
Yes. You can rent a digital audio guide in several languages or book an expert-led guided tour through the official ticket office. Tours are available on topics like the World Wars or the life of Napoléon, so whatever brings you here, there’s a way to go a little deeper.
Things to know before visiting Les Invalides
Entry and dress code
- Admission includes the permanent collections and major highlights.
- The museum is open every day except January 1, May 1, and December 25.
- Entry is free for visitors under 18, EU residents under 26, job seekers, and disabled visitors with one accompanying adult.
What to bring
- Wear comfortable shoes. The courtyards and galleries involve a lot of walking.
- Bring a warm layer. The interior of the Dôme des Invalides can be chilly, even in spring and summer.
- The Paris Museum Pass is accepted and covers the major highlights.
Additional information
- Large bags, suitcases, and bulky items are not permitted inside.
- All visitors pass through a mandatory security screening on arrival.
- The Dôme Church is not accessible to wheelchair users due to staircases.