Aura Invalides: Paris’ ultimate nighttime light & sound experience

What is Aura Invalides?

Aura Invalides is a 50-minute immersive experience at the Dôme des Invalides that will completely transform the way you see this historic landmark. Through a stunning mix of light projections, orchestral music, and special effects, Napoleon’s tomb and the Dôme’s architecture come alive like never before. It’s a magical blend of history and modern technology, giving you a fresh perspective on one of Paris’ most iconic sites.

📍 Where does it take place?

The Aura Invalides show takes place in the Dôme des Invalides, one of Paris’ most historic and visually striking landmarks. Originally built as a royal chapel, it’s now home to Napoleon Bonaparte’s tomb and stands as a tribute to French military history.

Find on maps

Address: Dôme des Invalides, 129 Rue de Grenelle, 75007 Paris, France

What can you expect from your Aura Invalides experience?

Visitors experiencing Aura Immersive light show at Invalides, Paris.
Visitors observing Aura Immersive light display at Invalides, Paris.
Dome interior with vibrant frescoes at Invalides Aura Immersive Experience, Paris.
Napoleon's Tomb with floral wreaths at Invalides, Paris Army Museum.
Audience at Aura Immersive show, Invalides stage with colorful light projections.
1/5

Exclusive access at night

Get the chance to explore the Dôme des Invalides after hours, giving you a quieter, more personal experience of the space.

50 minutes of immersive magic

The 50-minute show combines light projections, orchestral music, and sound effects to bring the six chapels, Napoleon’s tomb, and the 90-meter-high vaulted ceiling to life. It’s a show that brings history right to your senses.

A sensory experience like no other

Imagine 3D video mapping bringing Napoleon’s tomb and the Dôme’s stunning architecture to life with light and sound. It’s an experience that makes history feel real, in a way you’ve never seen before.

See Napoleon’s tomb like never before

Napoleon’s final resting place isn’t just historical; it’s a highlight of the show. Aura Invalides brings his tomb to life, adding a whole new layer to this iconic spot.

The best of Paris in one experience

Where else can you see history, architecture, and digital art all in one place? Aura Invalides lets you explore the Dôme’s grandeur through a modern, immersive lens that no other tour can offer.

From happy customers

Loved by 46 million+
RAKOTOMALALA Aro Tsitohaina Ambinintsoa
FR

Rakotomalala

France
Dec 2025
5/5

review-image
I had a magical time. The manipulation of sound and visuals was undeniably magical. I also toured the chapels, which made the experience even more enriching in terms of general culture.
Bruno Cesar Goncalves da Silva
BR

Bruno

Brazil
Jan 2026
5/5

review-image
The quality and comfort of the boat, as well as the guide presenting beautiful Paris in several languages, which is very good and makes it easier for tourists!
Kattia Morales
US

Kattia

United States
Dec 2025
5/5

review-image

review-image

review-image
We loved the cruise ride the guide was very informative about the top places and prepared us before we saw them so we could take pictures.
Joao Rafael Neves e Souza
PT

Joao

Portugal
Dec 2025
5/5

review-image
Visiting Les Invalides was impressive. The museum is huge, and the collection of knight armor is astonishing. Really enjoyed the visit.
Floriane Deneuville-Mayer
FR

Floriane

France
Nov 2025
5/5

review-image

review-image

review-image

+1 more

Despite the crowds, I didn't have to wait for anything, and was able to take the tour as I wished, at my own pace and according to my own emotions. It's a magnificent place, steeped in history, where you feel accompanied by the people, young and old, who made it happen.
Kemilly Larissa Ferreira de Matos
BR

Kemilly

Brazil
Aug 2025
5/5

review-image

review-image

review-image
The museum is beautiful. The garden is a spectacle in itself. It was the first museum I went to in Paris, a delight to spend the day in. Take your time, the museum isn't big but it's worth spending time sitting in the garden enjoying the view. I was surprised. Everything worked out with the ticket and it also avoided the queues.
Iwona Głowacka
AT

Iwona

Austria
Aug 2025
4/5

review-image

review-image
Extremely big museum worth seeing if you're into history - with elements for kids as well! The ticketing was easy, although if you are eligible for a free ticket you need to get it at the counter first since they need to check your ID. Otherwise it was great, the cruise was also a very cool experience with great sights + the departure was every 30 mins for us so we could plan it really well - overall definitely worth booking!
GUERITEAU JEAN-LUC
FR

Gueriteau

France
Jan 2026
5/5
Ease of obtaining tickets Easy-to-install phone app and smooth page navigation for obtaining ordered tickets

🔑 How to access Aura Invalides?

To enjoy the Aura Immersive Experience at the Dôme des Invalides, here’s what you need to know:

  • Separate ticket required: Aura is a special experience and not included with regular Dôme admission. You must purchase an Aura ticket to attend.
  • Online booking only: Tickets are sold exclusively online. They cannot be purchased at the site, so make sure to reserve your spot in advance.
  • Nighttime entry: The show is only available in the evening, and Aura ticket holders get exclusive access after hours.
  • Arrival recommendation: Arrive 15–20 minutes before your showtime to ensure you can settle in and enjoy the experience fully.
  • Important: Booking ahead is essential as spots for this exclusive show are limited.

Behind the scenes: How was Aura Invalides created?

The Aura Invalides experience was crafted by Moment Factory, a creative studio known for its work on immersive experiences. The team spent over a year working closely with the Musée de l’Armée to ensure the show enhanced the Dôme’s architectural beauty while respecting its historical importance.

Aura Immersive light show at Invalides, Paris, with vibrant projections on historic architecture.

Creative minds at work

A team of lighting designers, 3D artists, and sound designers spent over a year making sure the show complements the Dôme’s historical beauty while adding a touch of modern magic.

People experiencing Aura Immersive light show at Invalides, Paris.

Respecting history

Every light, sound, and effect was designed to enhance the monument’s charm without taking away from its heritage.

Frequently asked questions about the Aura Invalides show

Is there seating at the show or is it a walk-through?

The experience is ambulatory. Visitors walk through the Dôme and chapels, and no seating is provided during the show.

What is the entry procedure?

Entrance is via Place Vauban, not the Esplanade side. Your ticket will include full instructions, including the exact time and location of entry. No other entrances are permitted for the event.

Can I bring a stroller or large items?

For safety and space reasons, strollers, large bags, luggage, scooters, and other bulky items are not allowed. Please plan accordingly before your visit.

Is Aura Invalides wheelchair accessible?

No, the experience is not wheelchair accessible due to the historic structure of the Dôme and the presence of stairs.

What should I wear?

The Dôme can be quite cold, especially in winter. It’s recommended to wear warm clothing, including hats, scarves, and gloves.

What rules must be respected onsite?
  • Maintain quiet outside until entering the Dôme, as it’s near the Institution nationale des Invalides.
  • Food and drinks are strictly prohibited.
  • Smoking is not allowed anywhere onsite.
Does the ticket include access to other parts of Les Invalides?

After the show, visitors can access the main floor and Napoleon’s tomb, but lower levels, museums, and exhibitions are not included.

More reads

Napoleon Bonaparte’s tomb in Les Invalides, Paris, surrounded by marble statues.

Napoleon's tomb

Visitors entering the Paris Army Museum at Invalides.

Army Museum

Visitors viewing Napoleon's Tomb at the Invalides, Paris Army Museum.

Plan your visit