Les Invalides, a Parisian treasure trove, beckons visitors to uncover five centuries of military history, majestic architecture, and Napoleon’s tomb. Ticket prices start from $17.18 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Enjoy access to permanent collections, temporary exhibitions, and family activities on weekends. Explore the world’s largest arms and armor collection, and discover the Hotel National des Invalides’ unforgettable experience. As you step into this magnificent complex, you’ll uncover the intricate details of French military operations and more – and that’s just the beginning of your journey.
Key Points
• Explore Les Invalides, a museum showcasing five centuries of military history, including Napoleon Bonaparte’s tomb and the world’s largest arms and armor collection.
• Get access to permanent collections, temporary exhibitions, and family activities on weekends with a ticket that starts from $17.18 per person.
• Enjoy hassle-free booking with the option to reserve a spot now and pay later, plus free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Take your time to explore the museum, which is open from 10 AM to 6 PM, with extended hours during the Olympic Games and wheelchair-accessible facilities.
• Allocate at least half a day to explore the vast collections and exhibitions, and plan ahead by checking the museum’s schedule and temporary exhibitions.
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Ticket Information and Prices
With tickets starting from a mere $17.18 per person, visitors can indulge in a day of rich history and culture at Les Invalides, complete with the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This affordable entry fee grants access to a treasure trove of experiences, allowing guests to plan their day with confidence.
What’s more, they can reserve their spot now and pay later, ensuring a hassle-free booking process.
The ticket’s validity for one day ensures that visitors can take their time to soak up the grandeur of this iconic institution.
With wheelchair accessibility and convenient check-in times, Les Invalides has thoughtfully catered to diverse needs, making it an inclusive and unforgettable experience.
What to Expect and Highlights
Five centuries of military history await discovery at Les Invalides, where the grandeur of the Hotel National des Invalides sets the tone for an unforgettable experience.
As visitors step into this iconic landmark, they’re immersed in a world of rich history, stunning architecture, and fascinating exhibits.
The highlights of this experience include:
Exploring the majestic Dome Church, where Napoleon Bonaparte’s tomb lies.
Discovering the world’s largest arms and armor collection.
Unraveling the stories behind over 500,000 pieces from the Middle Ages to present day.
Witnessing the temporary exhibition of Special Forces L’exposition.
Enjoying access to family activities on weekends.
Museum Collections and Exhibits
The Musée de l’Armée‘s vast collections, spanning centuries and continents, unfold like a rich tapestry, woven from the threads of human ingenuity, courage, and conflict.
Over 500,000 pieces, from the Middle Ages to present day, await discovery.
The arms and armor collection, one of the largest in the world, is a standout, with intricately crafted suits and weaponry on display.
The museum’s exhibits also explore the history of French military operations, showcasing artifacts from significant battles and campaigns.
Temporary exhibitions, such as the Special Forces exhibit, offer a fresh perspective on the evolution of warfare.
As visitors wander through the galleries, they’re treated to a nuanced exploration of human conflict and the art of warfare.
Inclusions and Benefits
Beyond the impressive Museum Collections and Exhibits, Les Invalides offers a comprehensive package of inclusions and benefits that enhance the overall visitor experience.
With a ticket, visitors can enjoy a range of perks, including:
Access to permanent collections, including the Dome Church and Napoleon’s tomb.
Admission to temporary exhibitions, such as the Special Forces exhibition.
Entry to the Museum of Plans-Reliefs and the Museum of l’Ordre de la Libération.
Participation in family activities on weekends (subject to availability).
Free admission for under 18s and EU citizens under 26, with tickets available onsite.
Practical Information and Tips
Planning a visit to Les Invalides requires some preparation, so it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the museum’s operating hours, accessibility, and other logistical details to make the most of your experience.
Les Invalides opens from 10 AM to 6 PM, with extended hours during the Olympic Games.
Cloakrooms are available, and free admission is granted to those under 18 years old and EU citizens under 26 years old.
It’s also important to note that tills close 30 minutes before the museum closes, and the museum is closed on January 1, May 1, and December 25.
Accessibility and Special Offers
Les Invalides caters to diverse visitors with its wheelchair-accessible facilities, ensuring equal opportunities for all to explore the vast collections and exhibits.
To further enhance the experience, the museum offers several special deals and perks.
Free admission is granted to those under 18 years old and EU citizens under 26 years old.
The museum also offers a reserve now & pay later option for tickets, allowing for flexibility in planning.
Plus, visitors can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
On weekends, the museum provides access to family activities at 11 AM and 2:30 PM in French, subject to availability.
Discounted tickets are available from $17.18 per person.
Visitor Reviews and Ratings
Les Invalides has clearly struck a chord with its visitors, with an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 5, based on a staggering 5150 reviews.
The museum’s exceptional value for money, superior service, and well-organized exhibits have earned it high praise from travelers.
Reviewers rave about the sheer scale and diversity of the collections, with many expressing gratitude for the opportunity to pay their respects at Napoleon’s tomb.
A few visitors have noted that the museum can get crowded, but most agree that it’s a small price to pay for the unforgettable experience Les Invalides offers.
Plan Your Visit to Les Invalides
Seventy-five percent of visitors recommend allocating at least half a day to explore the vast collections and exhibitions at Les Invalides, ensuring a leisurely pace to absorb the rich history and grandeur on display.
To make the most of your visit, plan ahead by checking the museum’s schedule and temporary exhibitions.
- Arrive early to beat the crowds
- Wear comfortable shoes for a day of walking
- Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated
- Take advantage of the free family activities on weekends
- Don’t forget to grab a map to navigate the complex’s many rooms and halls
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Common questions
Are Photography and Filming Allowed Inside the Museum?
She wonders whether capturing precious moments is permitted within the hallowed halls. Fortunately, visitors are allowed to take non-commercial photos and videos for personal use, but tripods, flash, and commercial filming require prior permission.
Can I Bring My Pet or Service Animal Inside?
She wonders if her furry friend can accompany her inside; unfortunately, pets are not allowed, but service animals are welcome, ensuring equal access for all visitors, including those with disabilities.
Are There Dining Options Available Within the Museum Complex?
She seeks sustenance amidst the grandeur, wondering if dining options await within the complex. Indeed, visitors can indulge in on-site cafes and restaurants, offering a range of culinary delights to refuel during their cultural escapade.
Can I Store My Luggage or Large Items at the Museum?
She can conveniently store her luggage or large items at the museum’s cloakrooms, available for visitors, allowing her to freely explore the exhibits without the burden of bulky bags or items.
Is the Museum Suitable for Young Children or Strollers?
She wonders if the museum is suitable for young children or strollers, and fortunately, it is; the venue offers wheelchair accessibility and family activities on weekends, making it an enjoyable experience for all ages.
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Final Words
As she departs Les Invalides, she carries with her a deeper understanding of France’s rich military history and the legacy of its most iconic leader.
The museum’s grandeur and vast collections have left an indelible mark, making her visit an unforgettable experience.
With its convenient location, flexible ticket options, and excellent customer reviews, Les Invalides is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to uncover the fascinating stories behind France’s military past.
