Les Invalides: Napoleons Tomb & Army Museum Entry

Nestled in the heart of Paris, Les Invalides is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts. Boasting a wealth of military artifacts and Napoleon Bonaparte’s grand tomb, this iconic complex offers an immersive journey through France’s storied past. With a variety of ticketing options and engaging exhibitions, visitors can easily tailor their experience to suit their interests. Whether you’re drawn to the imposing architecture or the captivating narratives woven throughout the museum, one thing is certain – a visit to Les Invalides promises to leave a lasting impression. Uncover the secrets that lie within these hallowed halls, and discover why this landmark continues to captivate audiences from around the world.

Key Points

• Tickets for Les Invalides are priced from $17.74 per person, with free admission for children under 18 and EU citizens under 26.
• The museum houses the Musée de l’Armée, one of the largest military museums globally, featuring over 500,000 artifacts from the Middle Ages to present.
• The Dome Church within the complex houses the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte, a key permanent collection at the museum.
• Advance ticket purchases are recommended to avoid long queues at cash desks, as the museum closes at 6 PM with tills closing 30 minutes prior.
• The museum offers interactive digital experiences and rotating temporary exhibitions that provide dynamic insights into French military history and culture.

Ticket Pricing and Information

Tickets for Les Invalides, which houses Napoleon’s tomb and the Musée de l’Armée, cost from $17.74 per person.

The non-refundable tickets are valid for 1 day. Children under 18 and EU citizens under 26 get free admission, but a ticket is required on-site.

Family activity tickets are available for €7 per child. Visitors can avoid long queues at the cash desk by purchasing tickets in advance.

The museum closing time is 6 PM, and the tills close 30 minutes prior. Visitors should keep their tickets accessible to enter the various museum sections.

Museum Overview and Highlights

The Les Invalides complex houses the Muséum de l’Armée, one of the world’s largest military museums.

With over 500,000 pieces spanning the Middle Ages to the present, the museum boasts an impressive collection of artifacts, including:

• Napoleon Bonaparte’s tomb in the Dome Church
• The largest arms and armor collection globally
• Interactive digital experiences that bring history to life

Visitors can explore the museum’s permanent exhibitions, as well as temporary exhibits that showcase the rich military heritage of France.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, the Muséum de l’Armée is a must-visit destination.

Permanent Collections

What’re the permanent collections visitors can explore at the Muséum de l’Armée?

The museum’s most notable permanent collection is the Dome Church, which houses the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte.

Visitors can also discover the Museum of Plans-Reliefs, showcasing detailed scale models of fortified cities.

Another permanent exhibition is the Museum of l’Ordre de la Libération, featuring artifacts and exhibits related to this prestigious order created by Charles de Gaulle.

These permanent collections provide a comprehensive look at France’s military history, from the Middle Ages to the present day.

With over 500,000 pieces on display, the Muséum de l’Armée offers an immersive and informative experience for history enthusiasts.

Temporary Exhibitions

Along With its impressive permanent collections, the Muséum de l’Armée also features a range of temporary exhibitions showcasing various aspects of French military history and culture.

These rotating exhibits offer visitors a chance to delve deeper into specific themes and events, providing a more dynamic and engaging experience.

Some recent temporary exhibitions have included:

• "From the Front: French Art of the Great War," highlighting the artistic response to World War I
• "Jeanne d’Arc, une histoire française," exploring the life and legacy of the iconic French heroine
• "1914-1918: Enduring Memories," a multimedia exhibition commemorating the centenary of the First World War

Visitor Entry and Access

Visitors can enter the Les Invalides complex from two main entry points: the Esplanade des Invalides and the Place Vauban.

The Esplanade des Invalides is open from 10 AM to 6 PM, while the Place Vauban entrance is accessible from 2 PM to 6 PM.

Cloakroom facilities are available on-site. Purchasing tickets in advance can help avoid long queues at the cash desks.

Visitors must keep their tickets accessible as they’ll need to present them to access the museum’s various sections.

The museum’s tills close 30 minutes before the closing time, so it’s advisable to plan your visit accordingly.

Cloakroom and Queues

Cloakrooms are available on-site for visitors’ convenience. This allows guests to store any bulky items or coats while exploring the museum.

Long queues at the cash desk can be avoided by purchasing tickets in advance. This ensures a quicker entry and more time to enjoy the exhibits.

Some key tips for visiting Les Invalides:

• Use the cloakroom to store any unnecessary items
• Buy tickets ahead of time to skip the long lines
• Arrive early to beat the crowds and have more time to explore

Tills close 30 minutes before the museum’s closing time, so be sure to allow enough time for your visit.

Ticket Purchase Ease

How easy is it to purchase tickets for Les Invalides? Visitors can avoid long queues at the cash desk by purchasing tickets in advance. This convenient option allows them to have their tickets ready for entry to the various museum sections.

Ticket purchasing is straightforward, with clear pricing information provided. Visitors just need to keep their ticket accessible to present it when required.

The museum also offers family activity tickets that can be purchased on-site for €7 per child.

Customer Ratings and Feedback

Les Invalides has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from visitors, with an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 5,583 reviews.

Visitors have praised the museum’s value for money, with a 4.5/5 rating, as well as the exceptional service and organization, each earning a 4.5/5 score.

However, some feedback has been mixed regarding the variety and maintenance of the exhibits.

Key highlights from the reviews include:

• Ease of ticket purchasing to avoid long queues at the cash desk
• Informative and engaging experience for visitors of all ages
• Well-maintained and organized museum sections, including Napoleon’s tomb

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Cameras and Photography Allowed Inside the Museum?

Photography is generally allowed inside the museum, though visitors should check for any restricted areas. Tripods and flash photography may be prohibited. Visitors are advised to respect museum policies and fellow guests when taking photos.

Is There a Guided Tour Option Available?

Yes, the museum offers guided tours led by knowledgeable staff. Visitors can opt for a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the museum’s exhibits and Napoleon’s tomb, enhancing their overall experience.

What Are the Facilities for Disabled Visitors?

The museum offers accessible facilities for disabled visitors, including wheelchair-friendly routes, elevators, and adapted restrooms. Audio guides and guided tours are available to enhance the experience for visitors with disabilities.

Can I Bring Food and Drinks Inside the Museum?

Visitors can’t bring their own food and drinks inside the museum. However, there are on-site cafes and restaurants where visitors can purchase refreshments. Bringing outside food and drinks is generally not allowed in order to maintain the museum’s cleanliness and atmosphere.

What Are the Nearest Public Transportation Options?

The nearest public transportation options are the metro stations Invalides and Varenne. Both stations are within a short walking distance to the museum’s entrances.

Sum Up

Les Invalides offers an immersive military history experience, with Napoleon’s tomb and the Musée de l’Armée’s vast collections. Advance ticket purchase is recommended to skip queues and ensure a smooth visit. With engaging exhibitions, free admission for children and young adults, and a vast array of artifacts, it’s a must-see destination for history enthusiasts visiting Paris.