Les Invalides & Napoleon's Tomb
A golden-domed monument complex housing Napoleon's tomb and France's main army museum.
The call
Worth it if you're watching the budget and you're traveling as a couple.
Short answer
Is Les Invalides & Napoleon's Tomb worth it?
Les Invalides & Napoleon's Tomb deserves a place on most first itineraries.
The answer depends on your budget, time and travel style; the breakdown below shows who gets the most value.
Why
- 01
The gilded dome is a landmark in its own right, and beneath it Napoleon lies in a grand red-quartzite sarcophagus.
- 02
The Musée de l'Armée is comprehensive — a lot for military-history buffs, a bit much for everyone else.
- 03
Napoleon Bonaparte lies in an open crypt directly beneath the gilded Dôme, in a burgundy quartzite sarcophagus on a green granite base — the emotional highlight of any visit.
franceguide.info - 04
Hardouin-Mansart's dome peaks at 107 metres and is one of the most remarkable elements of the whole site, crowning the royal Saint-Louis chapel.
napoleon.org
Is it a fit?
Go if
This is your first trip to Paris
If you want Napoleon's story and the military timeline explained clearly, it delivers; enter from the Dôme side if the tomb is your priority.
You're watching the budget
Les Invalides & Napoleon's Tomb earns the spend, even on a tight budget.
You're traveling as a couple
As a couple, Les Invalides & Napoleon's Tomb is an easy yes.
You're traveling solo
Solo, Les Invalides & Napoleon's Tomb is an easy yes.
Plan it well
- Cost
- €15 (free under 18 / EU under 26)
- Timing
- The first hour on a weekday morning is noticeably calmer than weekend afternoons; a first-Friday evening opening runs until 10pm.
- Booking
- Standard ticket includes a free digital audio guide (bring earphones); buy online to save time and combine the Army Museum with the tomb.
- Allow
- 1.5–2.5 hrs
- Accessibility
- The complex is large with some level changes; check accessible routes in advance, as the historic Dôme church and upper galleries can pose barriers.
- Getting there
- Métro La Tour-Maubourg or Varenne (line 13), or Invalides (line 8, RER C) on the Esplanade side.