One story, told properly, ending under the golden dome at Napoleon's tomb.
Quick Overview
- Your group only (up to 6 people)
- Duration: About 2 hours
- What we see: The Cour d'honneur, the armour collection, your chosen thread, the Dôme and the tomb
- What's special: You choose the story: Napoleon from officer to exile, or the World Wars from Verdun to the Liberation
- Your thread: Napoleon, or the World Wars (tell me when you book)
- Days: Every day
- Pace: Unhurried, and shaped around what you love
- Languages: English; ask if you need another language
- Best for: History lovers, families, travellers on their way to Normandy
- Your guide: Me, a state-licensed guide-conférencier with a background in French art history
The Experience
The Invalides is vast, and trying to see all of it is exhausting. So we choose one story and tell it well.
With Napoleon, we follow him from young officer to emperor and exile, with his hat, his coat and his campaigns. With the World Wars, we go from the trenches of Verdun to D-Day, the Liberation of Paris and de Gaulle. Both start in Louis XIV's courtyard for wounded soldiers and pass the knights' armour.
Both end in the Dôme church. Looking down from the balustrade at Napoleon's tomb, with the gilded dome above you, is one of the great moments in Paris.
Route & Walking Info
- Distance: About 2 km
- Terrain: Cobbled courtyards, stairs inside (lifts in most areas)
- Pace: Whatever feels good to you. We take breaks when we need them.
- Accessibility: If you need to avoid stairs or long walks, tell me before booking and I'll adapt the route.
Good to Know
- Meeting Point: Main gate of the Hôtel des Invalides, esplanade side. I'll send a map link and very clear instructions once you book.
- Timing: Try to be there 10 minutes early so we can start smoothly.
- Metro: Varenne or La Tour-Maubourg (lines 13 and 8).
- Ceremonies: The Dôme sometimes closes for official ceremonies. If so, I'll tell you in advance and adapt.
- Shoes: Wear your most comfortable ones. Really.
- Bags: Keep them small; many sites have security checks.
- Late Arrivals: If you're late, it cuts into our time, but I'll make sure you still see the essentials.
Optional Add-Ons
- Rodin museum next door (a half day)
- Occupation of Paris walk after the museum
- Other Languages (Ask me about availability)
- Afternoon Planning (I can help you map out the rest of your day nearby)
After You Book
- A personal confirmation once I've checked the date. I confirm every booking myself.
- My meeting instructions, clear and simple.
- I'll ask what you're most curious about (or what you'd rather skip), and shape the visit around it.
- Mobility needs or children in the group? Tell me early and I'll plan for it.
- Want lunch or dinner afterwards? I'll suggest a table I'd book myself nearby.
FAQ
Is it really private? Yes. Just you, your group, and me.
Can we cover both Napoleon and the World Wars? In 2 hours it's one or the other, done properly. For both, ask me for a 3-hour version.
Is it suitable for children? Yes, especially the armour and the Napoleon thread.
Send me your dates and what you love most, and I'll shape the day around you.