Les Invalides Tours and Activities

Les Invalides
Les Invalides
Les Invalides
Les Invalides
Les Invalides


Gain insight into French military history at this Baroque complex, which contains several museums and military monuments, including the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte.

Les Invalides is a historic military complex that includes several museums, monuments and churches. Brush up on French military history at its trio of museums, stroll along the grand lawns of the Esplanade des Invalides and see the ostentatious tomb of the famous French dictator Napoleon Bonaparte.

The structure was originally built as an army hospital between 1670 and 1676 under orders from Louis XIV. During the French Revolution, the complex was stormed by rioters who seized weaponry on their way to the Bastille. Today, parts of the complex are still reserved for French war veterans, with a hospital and military retirement residence on-site.

Before entering Les Invalides, stroll along the lawns of Esplanade des Invalides, which stretch for 1,640 feet (500 metres) in front of the main entrance. This space is a popular picnic and sunbathing spot.

Inside the complex, explore three separate museums: the Musée de l’Armée (the Army Museum), the Musée des Plans-Reliefs (the Museum of Military Models) and the Musée d’Histoire Contemporain (the Museum of Contemporary History). Devote most time to the Musée de l’Armée, the largest and most comprehensive of the three. Examine military armour and artifacts from ancient to modern times, including Napoleon’s lavish pistols and Joseph Parrocel’s Battle of Cassel painting.

Save time to see the Église du Dôme church, located at the back of the complex. Gaze up at its dazzling gold cupola, which was a source of inspiration for the United States Capitol building. Investigate Napoleon Bonaparte’s extravagant tomb, which is located in the church. The emperor’s remains are entombed in six Russian doll-style coffins located inside a red quartzite sarcophagus that sits on a green granite base.

Les Invalides is located in the 7th arrondissement. Reach it with a short walk from the La Tour Maubourg, Invalides, Varenne or Saint-Françoise-Xavier metro stations. Les Invalides is open daily, although the Musée de l’Armée is closed on the first Monday of every month between October and June.

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Best Lodging Options Near Les Invalides

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3 out of 5
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Eiffel Rive Gauche

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My Maison In Paris - Invalides

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Les Invalides

While visiting Les Invalides in Paris, don't miss out on exciting activities such as group tours and Paris sightseeing excursions that showcase the city's rich history. Enjoy the stunning sunsets and consider catching a theatre performance nearby for a complete cultural experience. Whether you choose a Paris tour including the Eiffel Tower or other captivating tours, you'll find plenty to do in this historic area.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Les Invalides, visit Le Bon Marché, located 1.1km away, or explore the vibrant Marché rue de Buci, just 1.6km from your location. If you're up for a drive, Galeries Lafayette is a popular shopping mall only 3.2km away.

Recreation

At Parc des Princes, immerse yourself in the energetic sports atmosphere while enjoying various recreational activities. Nearby, La Machine du Moulin Rouge offers a romantic dance experience, blending entertainment and culture. For music lovers, Paris Olympia presents vibrant concerts, ensuring an unforgettable experience just 1.6km from Les Invalides.

Adventure

For an adventurous day in Les Invalides, visit Aquaboulevard, a vibrant waterpark located 3.2km away, perfect for family fun. Explore the Montmartre Funicular, also 3.2km away, offering scenic views, or hike the beautiful Sentier du Douanier, located 1.6km away, for breathtaking outdoor scenery.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Palais de Tokyo, a lively nightclub with a romantic atmosphere, just 1.4km from Les Invalides. For a cultural evening, catch a show at the Odeon Theatre, located 1.6km away, or enjoy family fun at Au P’tit Saint-Lambert, also 1.6km away.

Find the best attractions near Les Invalides

When visiting Les Invalides in Paris, immerse yourself in its rich culture by exploring attractions like the Hôtel National des Invalides and the Invalides Museum. Wander through charming streets and enjoy the vibrant piazza squares that cater to family experiences and urban exploration. Les Invalides is a perfect blend of history and art, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking a culturally enriching experience in the heart of France.

  • Eiffel Tower: A must-see iconic landmark, the Eiffel Tower stands 1.3km from Les Invalides. Experience breathtaking views of Paris from its observation decks, and immerse yourself in the cultural ambiance surrounding this global symbol of romance and innovation.
  • Louvre Museum: Located 1.6km from Les Invalides, the Louvre Museum is a world-renowned art institution. Home to thousands of works, including the Mona Lisa, its stunning architecture and rich history offer a captivating glimpse into art and culture.
  • Champs-Élysées: This famous avenue, situated 1.4km from Les Invalides, buzzes with city vibes. Stroll along its tree-lined walkways, shop at luxury boutiques, and enjoy delightful cafés while soaking in the vibrant Parisian atmosphere.

Best time to go to Les Invalides

Visitor numbers around Les Invalides is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Les Invalides is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January39.6°F (4.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February41.0°F (5.0°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March46.4°F (8.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April51.8°F (11.0°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June64.4°F (18.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July68.2°F (20.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August68.4°F (20.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
September63.1°F (17.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
November47.5°F (8.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Les Invalides

To save money on your visit to Les Invalides, consider travelling in the off-peak months of January to February and August, when hotel prices tend to be lower. Booking your accommodation about a month in advance can also help you find the best deals. Look for last-minute offers on platforms like Expedia, especially on Mondays, which are typically cheaper. Enjoy free attractions nearby, such as the Arc de Triomphe and Luxembourg Gardens, and explore public transport options, or simply walk to save costs. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities in a package can further enhance your savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Les Invalides are January to February and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June and September to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Les Invalides about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Les Invalides is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Les Invalides is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange the results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you spot the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy some savings by combining your Les Invalides hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.