How to Get to Les Invalides
Getting to Les Invalides in Paris is easy thanks to its central location in the 7th arrondissement. The quickest option is usually public transport: take the Metro to Invalides station (served by Line 8 and Line 13) and follow signs toward the Esplanade des Invalides. You can also use the RER C and get off at Invalides, which is handy if you’re coming from areas along the river or from major stops like Saint-Michel. Several bus routes stop nearby, making it convenient if you prefer seeing the city on the way.
If you’re arriving by car, plan for slow traffic and limited parking around Quai d’Orsay, Boulevard Saint-Germain, and Rue de Constantine. Using a nearby paid parking garage and walking the last few minutes is often less stressful.
By cycling, follow bike lanes along the Seine—especially the route by Pont Alexandre III—and lock your bike at racks near the esplanade. Walking is also a great choice: from Musée d’Orsay it’s a scenic 15–20 minute stroll along the river, and from the Eiffel Tower it’s an enjoyable riverside walk too. Once you arrive, you’ll spot the iconic Dôme des Invalides, home to Napoleon’s tomb, and the impressive Hôtel des Invalides complex.
Where is Les Invalides Located
Coordinates of Les Invalides
Useful info
How to get to Les Invalides by public transportation?
- To get to Les Invalides in Paris by metro, take Line 8 or Line 13 and get off at the La Tour-Maubourg station. From there, it’s a short walk to the iconic complex, which houses the Musée de l’Armée and the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte. Alternatively, you can take Line 12 and get off at the Assemblée Nationale station, which is also within walking distance.
- To go by bus, take a Paris bus that stops near Invalides—popular lines include 28, 63, 69, 83, 93, and 94. Get off at “Invalides” or nearby stops by Esplanade des Invalides, then walk a few minutes to the entrance. Great option for sightseeing on the way.
- If you want to go by tram, Paris doesn’t have a tram stop at Les Invalides. Take the tram to a major hub (like Porte de Versailles or Pont du Garigliano), then switch to Metro Line 8/13 or RER C to Invalides, followed by a short walk to the site.
How to get to Les Invalides on foot or by bike?
- Cycle to Les Invalides via the Seine riverbanks (Quai d’Orsay) or Boulevard Saint-Germain, both bike-friendly routes. Use marked cycle lanes, then lock up at nearby bike racks around Esplanade des Invalides or by Pont Alexandre III for a short walk in.
- Walk to Les Invalides along the Seine from Musée d’Orsay (about 15–20 min) via Quai d’Orsay, or from Saint-Germain-des-Prés (around 25–30 min) via Boulevard Saint-Germain. Follow signs to Esplanade des Invalides for an easy, scenic approach.
How to get to Les Invalides by car?
- Drive via Quai d’Orsay or Boulevard Saint-Germain toward Esplanade des Invalides (75007). Use GPS: “Hôtel des Invalides”. Expect traffic and limited parking; try nearby paid garages around Rue de Constantine or Pont Alexandre III.
- You can park in paid street spots around Esplanade des Invalides, Rue de Constantine, and Quai d’Orsay (often busy). For easier parking, use nearby underground garages around Pont Alexandre III / Invalides, then walk 5–10 min.
- But it is advised to avoid driving to Les Invalides: central Paris traffic is slow, parking is scarce and pricey, and nearby streets can be restricted during events. Metro/RER and buses are faster, less stressful, and drop you close to the entrance.
Les Invalides Map
Best itinerary including a visit to Les Invalides
Book your visit to Les Invalides on Tiqets, save your mobile ticket, and aim for an early slot (arrive around 09:45 for security). With priority entrance, head straight to the Musée de l’Armée during the quietest first hour. The complex is typically open 10:00–18:00, with last admission about 30 minutes before closing.
A simple, best-flow itinerary:
Start outside in the Cour d’Honneur to see the artillery displays, then go inside while galleries are still calm.
Begin at the Dôme des Invalides early, when crowds are low. Spend 20–30 minutes admiring the golden dome and visiting Napoleon’s Tomb.
Move through the main collections for 60–90 minutes. Follow a chronological route (medieval armor and historic weapons → modern galleries), and focus on one “big chapter” such as the World War sections instead of trying to see everything.
Use the included audio guide app for the highlights you care about most, then keep moving—this museum rewards momentum.
Finish with the smaller museums: the Plans-Reliefs models (about 30 minutes) and the Order of Liberation (about 20 minutes), then check any temporary exhibitions if you still have energy.
For a great break, plan lunch nearby on Rue Cler. In the afternoon, walk toward Pont Alexandre III and the Seine for photos, or pair your visit with a nearby museum. If you want a memorable finale, consider the AURA light-and-sound experience at Invalides (when available). Helpful landmarks: accessible entry is near Place Vauban; the address is Rue de Grenelle. End with a stroll across the Esplanade des Invalides.
