Skip-the-line Invalides Dome Louis XIV & Napoleon Tour - Exclusive Guided Tour

Paris, FR
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (51 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Tour guide exclusively for you (does not apply if you choose "save! book semi-private" option)
  • inclusion
    Wheelchair friendly (does not apply if you choose "save! book semi-private" option)
  • inclusion
    Duration 2 hours
  • inclusion
    All entrance fees
  • inclusion
    Skip-the-line guided museum tour

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Tour price does not include hotel pickup or drop-off (we recommend uber or taxi)
  • exclusion
    Tour does not include gratuities (optional)
  • exclusion
    Temporary exhibitions not included

Meeting Point

Meet your guide outside the main gate of Invalides. The main gate is located on the north entrance at Place des Invalides facing the famous Alexandre III bridge. It’s is the main entrance to enter the Invalides. 

Meeting point

75007 Paris , France

End point

End Point

Meet your guide outside the main gate of Invalides. The main gate is located on the north entrance at Place des Invalides facing the famous Alexandre III bridge. It’s is the main entrance to enter the Invalides. 

Meeting point

75007 Paris , France

End point

What to expect

1

Cathedrale Saint-Louis des Invalides

Your guide will lead you through the epic courtyard of the Invalides, discussing its 17th century roots as a veteran’s hospital under King Louis XIV. You’ll visit the cathedral that Louis had built for his former troops, who found respite here after returning from battle. After discussing the Sun King’s contributions to France’s military history, you’ll learn all about the nation’s most elite leader, Napoleon Bonaparte. A brilliant general and audacious emperor, he is synonymous with France’s gold days of military conquest. Ultimately pushing too far, Napoleon died in exile, though his remains are interred underneath the magnificent gold dome. Come face to face with his tomb, as well as the tombs of those closest to him, while basking in the ornate homage to this leader. Spend some time in the museum to learn all about this man, beyond his famous stature, through artifacts, recreations, and military maps that walk you through his many wins and defeats.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Included
2

Musee de l’Armee des Invalides

Your guide will lead you through the epic courtyard of the Invalides, discussing its 17th century roots as a veteran’s hospital under King Louis XIV. You’ll visit the cathedral that Louis had built for his former troops, who found respite here after returning from battle. After discussing the Sun King’s contributions to France’s military history, you’ll learn all about the nation’s most elite leader, Napoleon Bonaparte. A brilliant general and audacious emperor, he is synonymous with France’s gold days of military conquest. Ultimately pushing too far, Napoleon died in exile, though his remains are interred underneath the magnificent gold dome. Come face to face with his tomb, as well as the tombs of those closest to him, while basking in the ornate homage to this leader. Spend some time in the museum to learn all about this man, beyond his famous stature, through artifacts, recreations, and military maps that walk you through his many wins and defeats.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Additional information
    It is imperative that you provide us with guests MOBILE PHONE NUMBER (including country code)
  • Additional information
    Notes: Invalides dome and museum may be subjected to occasional closures without previous warning from the museum management. When this occurs, we will provide guests with an appropriate alternative if the museum opening time is delayed more than 1h from the tour starting time. In these cases we are unable to provide refunds or discounts. Appropriate dress is required for entry into some sites on this tour. No large bags or suitcases are allowed inside the museum, only handbags or small thin bag packs are allowed through security. Due to increased security measures at many attractions some lines may form on tours with 'Skip the Line' or 'No Wait' access. Some specific rooms inside the museum are subjected to a very quiet or restricted right to speak inside, in this cases your guide will provide the information about this places before entering the specific rooms where this rule applies. Some collections may vary along the year.
  • Additional information
    IMPORTANT RE: WHEELCHAIR FRIENDLY **Wheelchair friendly tour is only available as a PRIVATE TOUR (if you chose the "SEMI-PRIVATE TOUR" option, you will not be able to have a tour or a refund)**
Provided by Babylon Tours Paris

What our experts say

  • icon
    Grab lunch at nearby Café de l'Esplanade.
  • icon
    Visit the nearby Musée Rodin for art lovers.
  • icon
    Check museum hours before visiting.
  • icon
    Dress appropriately for cathedral entry.
  • icon
    Use public transport; it's very convenient.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Discover France’s turbulent and illustrious military history on this exclusive guided museum tour of the Musée de l’Armée. Housed inside the gold-domed building known as the Hotel des Invalides, this tour will unveil secrets and stories for history buffs and anyone interested in topics like Napoleon and the World Wars.

What to expect?

During this tour, visitors can anticipate a captivating journey through two key locations - the Cathedrale Saint-Louis des Invalides and the Musee de l’Armee des Invalides. Led by an expert guide, you'll explore the epic courtyard of Invalides and dive into its 17th-century roots as a veteran’s hospital under King Louis XIV. Inside the cathedral, you'll discover the rich history behind Louis XIV's contributions to France’s military and learn about the nation’s most elite leader, Napoleon Bonaparte. Next, you'll venture into the Musee de l’Armee, where you'll come face to face with Napoleon's tomb and the tombs of those closest to him. This museum also offers a wealth of artifacts, recreations, and military maps, providing a comprehensive understanding of Napoleon's victories and defeats.

Who is this for?

This exclusive guided tour is perfect for history enthusiasts and curious travelers eager to delve into France's military past. Whether you are a fan of Napoleon Bonaparte, interested in the World Wars, or simply fascinated by the art of war, this experience will immerse you in captivating stories and historical insights. It is suitable for visitors of all ages and backgrounds, as the tour is designed to educate and entertain a wide audience.

Why book this?

Embark on this exclusive guided tour and unlock the secrets of France's military history. Gain a deeper understanding of King Louis XIV's legacy and the audacious emperor, Napoleon Bonaparte. Explore the grandeur of the Cathedrale Saint-Louis des Invalides and witness Napoleon's tomb beneath its magnificent gold dome. With an expert guide leading the way, you'll be captivated by the artifacts, recreations, and military maps that shed light on Napoleon's triumphs and failures. This exclusive tour offers an immersive experience, bringing history to life and providing valuable insights into the significant moments that shaped France.

Good to know

The meeting point for this tour is right outside the main gate of Invalides, facing the famous Alexandre III bridge. The total duration of the tour is 120 minutes, with each location visited taking approximately 60 minutes. The tour is inclusive of several elements, while some exclusions may apply. Make sure to arrive on time and bring comfortable footwear, as there will be some walking involved. Prepare to be amazed by the intricate details and stories that make the Musée de l’Armée a must-visit destination in Paris.

Reviews

Travelers who have embarked on this exclusive guided tour have raved about the captivating journey and the wealth of historical knowledge gained. Many express appreciation for the expert guidance provided by their tour guides, who bring the past to life through fascinating stories and vivid descriptions. Visitors particularly enjoy the opportunity to stand before Napoleon's tomb and witness firsthand the grandeur of the gold-domed Cathedrale Saint-Louis des Invalides. Overall, reviewers have left with a profound appreciation for France's military history and the significance of the Musée de l’Armée.

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