Napoleon Tomb Paris – Best Activities, Highlights & Things to Do (2025)
Visit Napoleon Bonaparte’s Tomb under the golden dome of Les Invalides, one of Paris’s most impressive historic sites. Explore the Dôme des Invalides, the Army Museum (Musée de l’Armée), royal chapels, and First & Second World War galleries. This 2025 guide explains what to see, the best tours and tickets, nearby attractions, and practical tips to plan your visit.
Top Experiences at Napoleon’s Tomb & Les Invalides
Les Invalides is more than one monument – it’s a whole complex of museums, churches, courtyards, and memorials. Here are the main experiences you shouldn’t miss once you’re inside.
Napoleon’s Sarcophagus in the Dôme
Stand above the circular crypt where Napoleon I rests in a massive red quartzite sarcophagus, surrounded by marble reliefs celebrating his military campaigns and reforms.
Army Museum Collections
Explore one of Europe’s richest military history museums, with armor, weapons, uniforms, paintings, and models spanning from the Middle Ages to the 21st century.
Napoleonic Galleries
See rooms dedicated to the Napoleonic era – from the Revolution and Empire to Waterloo – including maps, personal items, and portraits of key figures.
Royal & Military Chapels
Admire the Baroque interior of the Dôme des Invalides and the adjoining Saint-Louis des Invalides church, originally built as a royal chapel for Louis XIV’s veterans.
Tombs of Other Marshals
Look for the tombs of other major French commanders – including Maréchal Foch and Vauban – who are buried near Napoleon, reflecting their place in French history.
World War I & II Exhibits
Learn how France experienced the World Wars through uniforms, weapons, posters, and immersive displays that connect the Napoleonic era to modern conflicts.
Courtyards & Cannons
Step into the Cour d’Honneur (Honor Courtyard) lined with historic cannons and enjoy classic views of Les Invalides’ symmetrical façades and arcades.
Evening Atmosphere & Illuminations
After your visit, walk around the complex at dusk for beautiful views of the illuminated golden dome, one of Paris’s most recognizable night-time landmarks.
Things to Do Around Napoleon’s Tomb & Les Invalides
Les Invalides sits in the 7th arrondissement, close to the Seine and the Eiffel Tower. It’s easy to turn a visit to Napoleon’s Tomb into a full Paris sightseeing day.
Walk to the Eiffel Tower
From Les Invalides, stroll 15–20 minutes through elegant streets and parks to reach the Eiffel Tower and the Champ de Mars, ideal for photos and picnics.
Seine Riverside Promenade
Head towards the Seine for views of Pont Alexandre III, the Grand Palais, and the riverfront, with plenty of spots to pause and take in the scenery.
Musée Rodin
Just a short walk away, the Rodin Museum combines sculpture, a historic mansion, and peaceful gardens where you can see The Thinker in the open air.
Champs-Élysées & Concorde
Continue your route via the Pont Alexandre III toward the Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde, and central Paris landmarks.
Seine River Cruise
Book a Seine sightseeing cruise that glides past Les Invalides, the Eiffel Tower, and Notre-Dame – a relaxing way to see the skyline after museum time.
Cafés & Brasseries in the 7th
The surrounding streets are full of classic Paris cafés and brasseries where you can stop for coffee, a glass of wine, or a traditional French lunch.
Which Napoleon’s Tomb Ticket or Tour Should You Choose?
You can visit Napoleon’s Tomb on a simple entry ticket or join guided tours that focus on his life, battles, and legacy. These are some of the most useful options:
Les Invalides: Napoleon’s Tomb & Army Museum Entry
A timed-entry ticket that includes access to the Dôme des Invalides (Napoleon’s Tomb), the Army Museum, World War galleries, and the main courtyards.
Napoleon & Military History Guided Tour
Join a small-group guided tour focusing on Napoleon’s life and campaigns, with commentary inside the Army Museum and around the Dôme des Invalides.
Napoleon Audio Tour & Museum Visit
Use an audio-guided visit to explore at your own pace, with stories about Napoleon’s rise, daily life, and the symbolism of his tomb and the golden dome.
Les Invalides & Paris Highlights Combos
Some passes and combos include Les Invalides plus other top sights – ideal if you’re planning a busy Paris itinerary and want to save time at ticket lines.
Evening or Themed Napoleon Walks
Look for Napoleon-themed walking tours that link Les Invalides with other sites tied to his rule, giving you a broader view of his impact on Paris.
Tip: Many tickets on GetYourGuide offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before your visit, so you can keep plans flexible if the weather or your schedule changes.
Food & Drink Near Napoleon’s Tomb
You won’t find a big restaurant inside the Dôme itself, but the area around Les Invalides is perfect for a relaxed Parisian meal before or after your visit.
Rue Cler Market Street
Walk over to Rue Cler, a lively market street lined with bakeries, cheese shops, and wine bars – ideal for snacks or a casual meal.
Classic Parisian Brasseries
Around Les Invalides and the Eiffel Tower you’ll find traditional brasseries serving onion soup, steak-frites, and crème brûlée.
Cafés with Dome Views
Several cafés on nearby avenues offer terraces where you can sip coffee or a glass of wine while admiring the golden dome in the distance.
Takeaway for the Seine or Champ de Mars
Pick up takeaway sandwiches or pastries and enjoy an informal picnic on the Seine riverbanks or the Champ de Mars lawns.
Quick Visitor Tips for Napoleon’s Tomb & Les Invalides
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings are usually quieter. Weekends and public holidays can be busier, especially during peak season (spring, early summer, and autumn).
How Long to Allow
Plan at least 1.5–2 hours to see Napoleon’s Tomb and the main Army Museum galleries. Military history fans may want 3 hours or more.
Dress & Atmosphere
There’s no strict dress code, but the tomb is inside a church-like space. Smart casual and comfortable shoes are perfect for walking and standing.
Bags & Security
Expect airport-style security checks. Large backpacks or luggage may not be allowed, so travel light if possible.
Photography Rules
Photography is usually allowed in many areas, but flash, tripods, or selfie sticks can be restricted – always follow on-site signs and staff instructions.
Accessibility & Elevators
Les Invalides is partly historic, but there are lifts and adapted routes in many zones. Check the latest accessibility details on the official site before you go.
Location & Transport
Les Invalides is in the 7th arrondissement, close to metro and RER stops such as Invalides, La Tour-Maubourg, and Varenne, plus several bus lines.
Tickets & Booking
To avoid queues, book skip-the-line or timed tickets online. Check the cancellation policy and opening hours for your exact travel dates.
Ready to Visit Napoleon’s Tomb in Paris?
Discover the resting place of Napoleon Bonaparte, explore centuries of French military history, and enjoy some of the best views and walks in central Paris. Book your Napoleon’s Tomb and Les Invalides tickets, add a guided tour, and build a memorable 2025 Paris itinerary.