Les Invalides travel guide

Les Invalides, also known as Hôtel National des Invalides, is a remarkable complex of buildings in Paris, embodying France's military history. It was commissioned by Louis XIV in 1670 as a home and hospital for aged and unwell soldiers. The project, directed by architect Libéral Bruant, was completed in 1676.

The most iconic feature of Les Invalides is the Dôme des Invalides, a grand, gold-domed church completed in 1708. Originally a royal chapel, the Dôme now houses the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte, making this site a significant landmark in French history.

Throughout the centuries, Les Invalides has evolved to become a prestigious military museum - Musée de l'Armée, showcasing an extensive collection of arms, armor, and artillery. This historic monument continues to function as a hospital and retirement home for war veterans, a symbol of France's respect and care for its military heroes.

Les Invalides is renowned for its grandeur and architectural brilliance, particularly its golden dome, the Dôme des Invalides, which is one of the defining features of the Paris skyline. This dome is not just gold in color, it's actually coated in real gold leaf, making it a spectacular sight. It was once the tallest structure in Paris until the Eiffel Tower was constructed.

Inside Les Invalides, you'll find the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte, a significant figure in French and world history. His tomb is made from red quartzite and rests on a green granite base, making it an impressive sight. The complex also houses the Musée de l'Armée, one of the world's most comprehensive military museums. Noteworthy is the variety of collections, showcasing weapons, armor, and artifacts from various periods, from ancient times to the present day. Furthermore, the complex's beautifully manicured gardens and courtyards are also a unique feature, offering a place of tranquility amidst the bustling city.

Located in the dynamic Invalides, the popular Les Invalides is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Paris or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through France.

Paris is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Paris offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Paris and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Champ de Mars, and Sacré-Cœur.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Paris has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Paris, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in France!

Les Invalides is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Paris, France. If you're flying in, Charles de Gaulle Airport is approximately 15 miles (24.2 km) away from Paris. From there, you can easily reach Les Invalides by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Paris, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Les Invalides, which is located 1.6 miles (2.6 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Les Invalides, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is 129 Rue de Grenelle, 75007 Paris, France.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Les Invalides!

The best time to explore Les Invalides is from mid-Spring to early Autumn, specifically from April to October. During this time, Paris experiences mild to warm weather, ideal for exploring the vast complex of Les Invalides, which includes the Army Museum and Napoleon's tomb. Summer, particularly July and August, sees the highest number of tourists, resulting in larger crowds and longer wait times. For a quieter experience, consider visiting in the shoulder months of April, May, September and October. In addition to fewer crowds, these months often host special events, such as 'Nuit des Musées' (Night of Museums) in May, when museums across the city, including Les Invalides, stay open late into the night. So, if you want to enjoy the rich history, stunning architecture and unique events at their best, plan your visit to Les Invalides in these months.

To truly enjoy your visit to Les Invalides, joining a tour that features this popular building complex in Paris is highly recommended. As one of France's most iconic attractions, Les Invalides draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Les Invalides starting at just 39.64 EUR below.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Les Invalides and other top attractions in Paris than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Paris include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Les Invalides's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Les Invalides and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind building complex in France.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Les Invalides and France's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Charles de Gaulle Airport and the city of Paris, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in France cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Paris and beyond.

Conveniently explore Les Invalides and plenty more captivating attractions in Paris by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Les Invalides and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Paris has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Les Invalides below.

Aside from Les Invalides, Paris is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Paris, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Arc de Triomphe.

Eiffel Tower is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Paris, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 320,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Eiffel Tower is Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France.

Another appreciated attraction in Paris is Louvre Museum. Like Eiffel Tower, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 260,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.

Arc de Triomphe is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Paris. This museum and top attraction in Paris has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 190,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Paris below.