The National Residence of the Invalids (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is The National Residence of the Invalids?
What makes it 76% Kids-Friendly: Kids under 12 enter free and can join investigation games, craft workshops and child menus, but French-only texts and sombre war themes may limit engagement length.
Positives:
- Free entry for children: Under-18s enter the museum galleries at no cost.
- Stroller & elevator access: Most areas have ramps and lifts; you can bring a stroller except in the Dôme.
- Family-friendly café: Le Carré des Invalides offers a dedicated children’s menu at €8.50.
Challenges:
- Dôme stair access: The climb to the dome has no elevator—be prepared to carry younger children.
- Limited English in kids’ tours: Most family workshops and games are in French; bring simple translations.
What is The National Residence of the Invalids?
- A French Baroque veterans’ complex built by order of Louis XIV in the 1670s to house and rehabilitate soldiers wounded or aged in service
- A national military monument encompassing the Musée de l’Armée, the Musée des Plans-Reliefs and Napoleon’s tomb beneath its gilded dome
- An architectural exemplar of French classicism marked by formal quadrangular courtyards, symmetrical facades and a soaring 107-meter golden dome
What is so special about The National Residence of the Invalids for with kids?
- Free entry for under-18s
- Climb the golden Dome and visit Napoleon’s tomb
- Interactive investigation game for ages 7+
- Child-friendly audio guide with stories and map
- Kids’ meals and terrace views at the on-site café
- Stroller access in most areas (except Dome)
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to see the Dome, try the family game, and enjoy a break at the café without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in The National Residence of the Invalids
Golden Dome & Napoleon’s Tomb:
Climb to the Dôme’s base to admire gilded murals and visit Napoleon’s tomb below.
Tip: Hold children’s hands on the stairs and take breaks at each landing.
Family Investigation Game:
Solve puzzles across the museum’s galleries in a 1.5-hour treasure hunt.
Tip: Pick up the game booklet at the ticket desk and adapt clues for younger kids.
Kids Audio Guide:
Download the free digital guide to hear child-friendly stories and follow a map.
Tip: Connect to the “Musee_Armee” Wi-Fi and bring headphones for each child.
Musée de l’Armée Exhibits:
Explore medieval armor, historic weapons, and modern military gear.
Tip: Use the family booklet to spot favorite objects and ask staff for demo tips.
Le Carré des Invalides Café:
Enjoy a “Petit Soldat” kids’ meal and rest on the terrace overlooking Place Vauban.
Tip: Order the set menu for a balanced meal under €9 and book a table ahead on weekends.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The National Residence of the Invalids
- Use the Paris Museum Pass: Skip ticket lines and enter directly at the museum entrance.
- Arrive before opening: Beat the crowds by arriving at 10:00 when galleries first open.
Reviews of The National Residence of the Invalids
W T
I went for a visit and as a British person, there was a moment of me almost crying as a grown adult when in front of me; a French school class of children were told about the Battle of Britain and about the sacrifices of British fighter pilots against the invading nazi regime. The hotel des Invalides doesn’t just talk about the French struggle for freedom but recognises their allies and the part w...
Trouvaille B
We bought tickets onsite without issue. This place is large so we spent about 1.5 hours here. Some of the artifacts on display are amazing! I am not a huge history buff but this museum definitely kept my attention.
Dávid Förgeteg
An amazing building complex! The spacious green place in front of it is wonderful, the grass js just Wow! You can lay on it and it is very comfy. The building itself is huge. You can go in some parts of it for free. At the end, under the dome you can see the tomb of Napoleon. It needs an admission ticket but the view is great even from the entrance.
Strsljen47
Les Invalides in Paris is a stunning historic complex, famous for its golden dome, Napoleon’s tomb, and the French Army Museum. Beautiful architecture, rich history, and well curated exhibits make it a must visit for history lovers, though it can get crowded during peak hours.
Thiago Rezende
A fantastic complex of churches and museums focusing on military history. Although famous for Napoleon's tomb, a visit to the museums is a must. The collection of weapons and military uniforms is impressive, and the history of the two world wars is told in an immersive way and with great detail.
When is the best time to visit The National Residence of the Invalids (Paris, France)?
In summer, picnic in the Cour d’Honneur where kids can run freely. In winter, visit on a first-Friday evening for special lighting and shorter lines.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult admission (2×€17) | EUR 34 |
| Kids admission (under 18) | EUR 0 |
| Kids meal (2×€8.50) | EUR 17 |
| Adult meal (2×€15) | EUR 30 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 81 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of The National Residence of the Invalids
Address: 75007 Paris, France
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