Not far from the Champs de Mars and bordered to the north by the Seine, the Invalides district imposes its monumental grandeur with the Palais Bourbon, the Champ-de-Mars, the Orsay and Rodin museums, the Ecole Militaire and the Alexandre III bridge in perspective. Located in the 7th arrondissement, this district is calm and lively with its shops, and has many green areas that make this district very pleasant. Majestic buildings and old private mansions line the long avenues as well as the more confidential streets. This is the district of the ministries and embassies, the centre of French politics and administration, where restaurants and local shops mingle with residents, MPs and intellectuals.
The Hôtel National des Invalides is the symbol of the power of this district, you can visit Napoleon's tomb and contemplate the magnificent golden dome that overlooks this famous district. Then go to the Rodin Museum where you will find a remarkable collection of works by the sculptor Augiste Rodin, this museum can be visited until 20:45.
The Palais Bourbon, which has housed the Parliament in various forms since 1798, was built in 1726 for Louise Françoise, daughter of Louis XIV and Madame de Montespan, widow of the Duke of Bourbon. The Parliament can be visited free of charge, by reservation only, and to a group of people invited by a deputy minister.
The Alexandre III bridge is a must-see when visiting the Invalides district. In addition to its architectural aspect, it allows you to relive the events that marked the capital. You can also choose a guided tour.
The Musée d'Orsay is famous for its Impressionist and Art Nouveau paintings. It presents art deco objects, photographs and sculptures. It is housed in a former railway station inaugurated in 1900 on the occasion of the Universal Exhibition, and the building alone is worth a visit.
