Accessibility Guide: Visiting Les Invalides in a Wheelchair

Paris is notorious for accessibility challenges, and Les Invalides—a fortress built in the 1670s—might seem daunting. However, the museum has made significant improvements.

The Good News

• Free Entry: Visitors with disabilities and one companion enter for free. Go directly to the priority line.
• Equipment: Wheelchairs are available for loan at the reception (ID required).

Navigating the Site

• Entrances: The main entrance on the Esplanade (North) is grand but has cobblestones. The Place Vauban (South) entrance is often easier for drop-offs by taxi.
• Elevators: Most permanent exhibitions are accessible via elevators.
• The Dome: The ground floor (Napoleon’s Tomb viewed from above) is accessible. The crypt (downstairs, right next to the sarcophagus) has a lift, but check if it's operational before you go as it undergoes maintenance.
• Cobblestones: The Cour d'Honneur is paved with historic cobblestones. They are bumpy. There are smooth flagstone paths along the edges—stick to those!

Restrooms

Accessible restrooms are available on the ground floor near the ticket offices and in the Turenne wing.

Verifying the status of elevators on the official website before your visit is always a smart move.