The Museum and Exhibitions ticket at Les Invalides costs €17 for a full-price adult admission, while the discounted rate is €12. Certain categories of visitors, such as children, may be eligible for free entry under specific conditions. Additionally, there is a late-night opening option, priced at €10, which allows visitors to explore the site after regular closing time. From April to October, Les Invalides typically welcomes visitors between 10:00 and 18:00, and from November to March, closing time usually shifts to 17:00. These hours apply daily, although special events can occasionally affect the schedule. We visited Les Invalides on February 13, 2025, and verified all the above details on that date.
About Les Invalides
Originally commissioned by King Louis XIV in 1670, Les Invalides was designed to provide accommodations and medical care for wounded soldiers. Today, it comprises multiple museums and monuments, including the impressive Army Museum, the Musée de l’Ordre de la Libération, and the Musée des Plans-Reliefs. The most recognizable feature is the gilded Dôme des Invalides, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture that can be seen from various points across Paris. Beneath the magnificent dome lies the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte, resting on a high pedestal within a circular crypt, surrounded by statues and grand marble pillars.
Dome of Les Invalides
Dome of the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte at Les Invalides
Tomb of Napoleon Les Invalides Paris France.
Inside the Army Museum, we explored galleries that trace French military history from the medieval era through both World Wars. We observed suits of armor, weapons, uniforms, and historical maps that provide insight into pivotal moments of European conflict. We suggest allowing at least two or three hours to thoroughly tour the halls and exhibits, as there is a wealth of information to absorb. We were particularly fascinated by the detailed models of fortifications on display in the Musée des Plans-Reliefs, which showcase the ingenuity of French military engineering.
Throughout our visit, we noted how each section of Les Invalides offers a unique perspective. The courtyards are lined with cannons and decorative details, reflecting France’s martial heritage. The interior spaces present a balance between grand ceremonial architecture and solemn remembrance of those who served. We encourage walking slowly through each gallery to appreciate the exhibits’ chronological narrative. Every section highlights a different era, and we found that understanding the historical progression greatly enriched our visit.
Nearby Points of Interest
Once you have experienced Les Invalides, we suggest walking to the nearby Rodin Museum, celebrated for its tranquil sculpture gardens and expansive collection of Auguste Rodin’s works. The Musée d’Orsay, located just across the Seine, is another excellent choice if you are interested in Impressionist art. For a lunch break or a relaxing dinner, we recommend Café de l’Esplanade, situated a short stroll from the main entrance. This spot offers classic French cuisine with a contemporary touch. Another good option is Bistrot Belhara, known for its warm atmosphere and traditional dishes.
For visitors wishing to unwind or shop after the tour, there are charming boutiques and cafés in the adjacent streets. We suggest spending some time around the Champ de Mars, where you can enjoy views of the Eiffel Tower and reflect on the extensive history you have just discovered. If you prefer a quieter setting, consider finding a small café in one of the side streets, where you can rest with a coffee or a pastry before continuing your day in Paris.