Private Les Invalides Dome Tour with Babylon Tours Paris
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves standing and walking moderate distances within a museum and courtyard.
Overview
Step inside the Hôtel des Invalides for a private, expert-led tour uncovering French military history, from Louis XIV’s reign to Napoleon’s legendary tomb beneath the dome.
Les Invalides Dome (w/ Tomb of Napoleon) Guided Tour - Private (ENGLISH)
2 hrs | SKIP-THE-LINE | Perfect for History and War Buffs
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 2-hour private tour of the Hôtel des Invalides, where you'll uncover France's military history from Louis XIV to Napoleon Bonaparte. Explore the grand courtyard, visit Napoleon's monumental tomb, and marvel at the stunning architecture and extensive artifacts in the Musée de l’Armée, guided by an expert.
Book way in advance - we sell out
Rates
- Adult: - €105 - €269
- Youth: - €105 (Ages 10 - 17)
- Child: - €85 (9 and under)
Duration
2 hours
Meeting Point
Meet your guide outside the main gate of Invalides
About
- From the Sun King, Louis XIV himself, to France’s most notorious general, Napoleon Bonaparte, this 2 hour semi-private tour will cover some of the nation’s most powerful leaders.
- Up to 8 guests will join an expert guide who will introduce you all to the Musée de l’Armée, housed inside the gold-domed building known as the Hotel des Invalides.
- Both history experts and amateurs will be entranced by the vast collection of artifacts and show of opulence at this museum.
- This tour is in English.
Includes
- Skip-The-Line Semi-Private Museum Tour
- ""Semi-Private"" Means Group Size Is Never More Than 8 Guests Maximum
- Professional Tour Guide
- Tour Includes All Entrance Fees
- Duration 2 Hours
Excludes
- Tour price does NOT include Hotel Pickup or Drop-Off (we recommend UBER or Taxi)
- Tour does NOT include gratuities (OPTIONAL)
- This tour is NOT available for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair
Full Tour Description
From the Sun King, Louis XIV himself, to France’s most notorious general, Napoleon Bonaparte, this 2 hour private guided museum tour will cover some of the nation’s most powerful leaders. Join an expert guide who will introduce you all to the Musée de l’Armée, housed inside the gold-domed building known as the Hotel des Invalides. Both history experts and amateurs will be entranced by the vast collection of artifacts and show of opulence at this museum.
Begin by exploring the courtyard of the Invalides where your guide will reveal its 17th century roots as a veteran’s hospital under King Louis XIV, the Sun King. Walk through the cathedral dedicated to Louis’ troops who retired here in relative comfort. Louis XIV, however, was not the only leader to contribute to France’s military history. While most discuss his height, your guide will discuss the achievements of Napoleon Bonaparte as France’s most brilliant military general. While a bit too ambitious, this French emperor eventually stretched himself too thin, and once defeated, Napoleon died in exile. Today, thanks to the kings of the 19th century, his remains are housed underneath the magnificent gold dome at Invalides. Visit his tomb, as well as the tombs of those closest to him, while dropping your jaw at the ornate homage to this leader. Afterwards, stroll the museum to learn even more about this about man through artifacts, recreations, and military maps that detail his ups and downs as a military genius.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early
Plan to meet your guide 10 minutes before the start time outside the main gate to ensure a prompt departure.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The tour involves walking through museum halls and the courtyard, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is recommended.
Pack Light
Only small handbags or thin backpacks are allowed inside the museum security, so leave large bags behind.
Bring Photo ID
A government-issued ID or passport copy is required for entry and ticket verification.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban pigeons often congregate in the courtyard.
- Seasonal migratory birds can be spotted along the Seine nearby.
History
Hôtel des Invalides was founded in 1670 by Louis XIV as a hospital and retirement home for war veterans, evolving into a military museum and the resting place of Napoleon.
Conservation
Ongoing efforts in Paris focus on preserving historical monuments like the Invalides while managing visitor impact to safeguard the architecture and collections.
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Adventure Hotspots in Paris
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Necessary for navigating museum galleries and the outdoor courtyard comfortably.
Weather-Appropriate Layers
Paris weather can shift—bring layers to stay comfortable inside and out.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Small Bag or Purse
Only small bags are allowed through museum security, so pack light.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture architectural details and memorable moments, though photography rules vary inside.