Paris & Napoleon

Discover the most notable Parisian sites related to the Emperor of France

Join our expert local guide for an enthralling 3-hour journey through Paris, tracing the monumental legacy of Napoleon Bonaparte, one of France's most illustrious historical figures. Discover how the city's iconic landmarks, commissioned by Napoleon to immortalize his reign, weave a narrative of his formidable influence across the French capital.
Immerse yourself in the dramatic past of the Church of Saint-Roch, a pivotal site in the ascent of Napoleon. It was here, amidst the tumultuous events of 13 Vendémiaire, that Napoleon, then a young and ambitious general, showcased his military prowess and strategic insight. Tasked with suppressing a royalist uprising that threatened the revolutionary government, Napoleon made a decisive move by deploying cannon fire against the insurgents gathered at Saint-Roch. This bold action quashed the rebellion and marked a turning point in his career, cementing his reputation as a formidable military leader and setting the stage for his rise to power. The Church of Saint-Roch stands as a testament to this critical juncture in French history, inviting visitors to reflect on the moment when Napoleon's fate intertwined with that of the nation.
Explore the significance of Place Vendôme, where the majestic Vendôme Column rises skywards. This column, erected by Napoleon to commemorate the French army's victory at the Battle of Austerlitz in 1805, symbolizes his military genius and the imperial ambition that shaped an era.
At Napoleon's behest, the Louvre, formerly known as the Muséum Central des Arts, was reborn as the Musée Napoléon, reflecting his dominion. His European conquests brought a deluge of artistic treasures to the museum's doorstep, with invaluable pieces from Italy, Egypt, and beyond entering its halls through conquest or diplomacy. This era saw the acquisition of iconic works like the Venus de Milo and the Mona Lisa, the latter acquired after the Treaty of Tolentino. Napoleon envisioned Paris as the world's cultural epicenter, with the Louvre at its heart, embodying the French Empire's wealth and artistic prowess. Despite the post-defeat return of many artworks to their original homes, Napoleon's legacy at the Louvre remains indelible. His tenure heralded the museum as a public entity dedicated to sharing the wealth of global cultural heritage, cementing its status as a pivotal guardian of art and history and showcasing France's cultural magnificence.
From the Louvre, enjoy a private transfer to Le Invalides.
Conclude your journey at Les Invalides, a magnificent complex that was originally a veterans' hospital founded by Louis XIV. Today, it hosts an army museum that is a treasure trove of Napoleon memorabilia. Within its walls, you'll find a wealth of artifacts that offer insight into the life and legacy of one of history's most iconic leaders, from his personal effects to the grand narratives of his battles and governance.
This tour promises not just a walk through Paris but a voyage back in time to the days when Napoleon's influence was at its zenith. It offers a unique perspective on the city and the indelible mark left by its most famous son.