Uncover the captivating history and artistic legacy of Paris on this comprehensive walking tour. From the grand military complex of Les Invalides to the renowned Musée Rodin, this 3-hour exploration led by an expert art historian offers an immersive experience. Explore Napoleon’s iconic tomb, then step into the world of renowned sculptor Auguste Rodin, discovering masterpieces like "The Thinker." With insights into France’s rich cultural heritage, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the city’s military and artistic treasures. What secrets will you uncover on this captivating journey?
Key Points
-
This private walking tour explores the 17th-century Les Invalides complex, including Napoleon’s tomb in the Dôme des Invalides, and the Musée Rodin.
-
The 3-hour tour is led by an expert art historian guide, offering insights into the historical significance and architectural highlights of the sites.
-
Visitors can explore the Musée de l’Armée, showcasing France’s military history, and the Musée Rodin, home to renowned sculptures like "The Thinker."
-
The tour starts at the Hôtel des Invalides and concludes at the Musée Rodin, accessible via the La Tour-Maubourg and Varenne metro stations.
-
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals, providing a comprehensive and enriching experience for visitors.
👉 Check out our guide to the 2 Best Guided Tours In Musee D Orsay
Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Highlights
- Meeting and Logistics
- Tour Experience
- Inclusions and Accessibility
- Reviews and Ratings
- Exploring Les Invalides
- Napoleon’s Iconic Tomb
- Discovering Musée Rodin
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Is the Best Time of Day to Visit?
- Can We Take Photos Inside the Museums?
- Are Audio Guides Available for the Tour?
- Do We Need to Book the Tour in Advance?
- Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
- The Sum Up
- Our Top Picks in Paris
- More Walking Tours in Paris
- More Tours in Paris
- More Tour Reviews in Paris
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Paris we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview and Highlights
This private walking tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the historic Les Invalides complex and the renowned Musée Rodin in Paris.
Over the course of 3 hours, travelers will explore the 17th-century military compound, including the iconic Dôme des Invalides which houses Napoleon’s grand six-coffin sarcophagus.
Key highlights also encompass the Musée de l’Armée and the Musée Rodin, showcasing masterpieces like "The Thinker" and "The Gates of Hell."
Led by an expert art historian guide, the tour provides fascinating insights into the historical events that have shaped these iconic Parisian landmarks.
Suitable for moderate fitness levels, this experience is a must for anyone seeking an in-depth look at French history and culture.
If you're enjoying exploring Paris on foot, you'll love these other walking tours we recommend
Meeting and Logistics
The meeting point for this tour is at the Hôtel des Invalides, located at 75007 Paris, France.
From there, the group will depart from the Place des Invalides, the main entrance, which is accessible via the La Tour-Maubourg (line 8) and Varenne (line 13) metro stations.
The tour will end at the Musée Rodin, situated at 77 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris.
This private tour, led by a professional art historian guide, provides insights into the historical events that have shaped Les Invalides and the Musée Rodin, offering a comprehensive and enriching experience for visitors.
Tour Experience
A professional art historian guide leads this private tour, providing insightful commentary on the historical events and significance of the sites visited.
Guests will explore the 17th-century military complex of Les Invalides, including the Dôme des Invalides, which houses Napoleon’s grand six-coffin sarcophagus.
The tour also includes visits to the Musée de l’Armée and the Musée Rodin, showcasing renowned works like ‘The Thinker’ and ‘The Gates of Hell’.
Along the way, the guide shares insights into the impact of the French Revolution on Les Invalides.
Moderate walking is involved, so comfortable footwear is recommended for this enriching and informative experience.
Inclusions and Accessibility
The tour includes all necessary tickets and gratuities, providing a comprehensive private experience. While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, moderate physical fitness is required. However, the tour is stroller accessible and service animals are allowed.
| Inclusions | Accessibility |
|---|---|
| All Tickets | Not Wheelchair Accessible |
| Private Tour Experience | Moderate Physical Fitness Required |
| Gratuities | Stroller Accessible |
| Service Animals Allowed |
Reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and charm, though some suggest audio guides could offer better value. Overall, families and groups have shared enjoyable and educational experiences on this tour.
Reviews and Ratings
Consistently, reviews of the Les Invalides and Musée Rodin Walking Tour highlight the guide’s extensive knowledge and engaging charm, with an overall rating of 4.0 out of 8 reviews.
Positive remarks praise the guide’s ability to provide insights into historical events, including the French Revolution’s impact on Les Invalides.
However, some feedback suggests the tour could be better valued compared to the price, with recommendations for using audio guides as a lower-cost alternative.
Want to keep it personal? More private experiences we love in Paris
Exploring Les Invalides
Situated along the Left Bank of the Seine River, Les Invalides stands as a majestic 17th-century military complex that has become a revered destination for history enthusiasts and art lovers alike.
Visitors can explore the Dôme des Invalides, which houses Napoleon’s six-coffin sarcophagus, and the Musée de l’Armée, an impressive museum showcasing France’s military history.
The complex also includes the Musée des Plans-Relief, displaying large-scale architectural models, and the St Louis-des-Invalides Cathedral, renowned for its ornate Baroque interior.
With a professional art historian guide, guests can explore the fascinating history and significance of this iconic Parisian landmark.
Napoleon’s Iconic Tomb
At the heart of Les Invalides lies Napoleon’s iconic tomb, a magnificent six-coffin sarcophagus housed within the grand Dôme des Invalides.
Visitors can marvel at this impressive final resting place of the renowned French emperor, surrounded by allegorical statues and murals depicting his military campaigns.
The tomb’s simple yet elegant design reflects Napoleon’s legacy, with the sarcophagus made from reddish-purple quartzite and placed on a green granite base.
A visit to this iconic monument offers a powerful insight into the life and legacy of one of history’s most influential figures, providing a fitting culmination to the tour of Les Invalides.
Discovering Musée Rodin
After exploring the grand military complex of Les Invalides and paying homage to Napoleon’s imposing tomb, the walking tour continues on to the nearby Musée Rodin.
This stunning museum showcases the life’s work of the renowned French sculptor, Auguste Rodin. Visitors will marvel at iconic masterpieces like "The Thinker" and "The Gates of Hell," as well as lesser-known sculptures, drawings, and paintings.
The guide provides insightful commentary, bringing Rodin’s artistic vision to life. The museum’s tranquil gardens offer a serene respite, allowing guests to fully enjoy the sculptor’s world.
This comprehensive tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Paris’ rich artistic and military history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Day to Visit?
The best time to visit is in the morning when the site is less crowded, allowing for more personalized attention from the guide and easier navigation through the museums. Afternoon visits may be more crowded.
Can We Take Photos Inside the Museums?
Yes, visitors can generally take photos inside the museums during this private tour. However, flash photography may be prohibited to protect the artworks. Visitors should check with the guide for any specific camera rules at each museum site.
Are Audio Guides Available for the Tour?
Audio guides are not included in the tour, but they can be rented separately at the museums for a lower cost than the guided tour. This allows visitors to explore the sites at their own pace.
Do We Need to Book the Tour in Advance?
Yes, booking the tour in advance is recommended as availability is limited. This private tour of Les Invalides and Musée Rodin in Paris fills up quickly, so securing your spot ahead of time is advised.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no formal dress code for this tour. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes. The tour involves moderate walking, so dressing for comfort is recommended.
Private Tour: Les Invalides, Napoleon, and Musée Rodin Walking Tour
The Sum Up
Enjoy French history and art on this captivating tour. Uncover the fascinating legacy of Napoleon at Les Invalides, then explore the masterpieces of Rodin at the renowned Musée Rodin. Led by an expert guide, this enriching experience offers deep insights into France’s military and artistic heritage, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for the country’s rich cultural tapestry.
