One Day in Montmartre – A Detailed Itinerary

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Ain’t no place like Montmartre!

A trip to Paris won’t be complete without visiting Montmartre. The neighborhood is a remarkable microcosm not to be missed.

Located in the 18th arrondissement, Montmartre is one of the prettiest districts in Paris, and if there is one place you shouldn’t skip, it’s definitely this one. 

I’ve visited the neighborhood many times; and yet, Montmartre still manages to surprise me. Recently, I have compiled a comprehensive travel guide to Montmartre. Now,here’s my (free) self-guided Montmartre itinerary. So that you can spend less time planning and more time enjoying your best Parisian experience. 

One Day in Montmartre: Map

One Day in Montmartre: The Complete Itinerary

Step 1- The Wall of Love (Le Mur des ‘Je t’aime’) 

Start by taking the Parisian Metro (Metro Line 12) and exit at “Abbesses station”. Head north on Rue de la Vieuville toward Place des Abbesses. The Wall of Love (Mur des ‘Je t’aime’ in French) is located in the Square Jehan Rictus. 

Created in 2000 by Frederic Baron and Claire Kito, the 40-square meter mural is a wall dedicated to love. The mural is composed of 612 tiles of enameled lava, and displays 311 ways to write ‘I love you’ in 250 different languages. We, of course, found it in Nepali! The little red splashes on the wall represent the pieces of a broken heart. 

Step 2- Place Emile Goudeau & Bateau Lavoir

Modigliani Institut Archives Légales, Paris-Rome – Public Domain

Head back to Place des Abbesses and turn right on Rue des Abbesses. Then, turn right on Rue Ravignan and go straight on until you reach Place Emile Goudeau. 

Located on the charming square ‘Place Emile Goudeau’ (No.13), ‘Bateau-Lavoir’ is a building that houses workspaces for young artists. 

Bateau-Lavoir was originally a piano factory. But in 1889, the owner decided to divide the building into a dozen of small artist workshops. Bateau-Lavoir soon became the residence of many famous artists and writers: Paul Gauguin, Pablo Picasso, Modigliani, Max Jacob, Henri Matisse, Guillaume Apollinaire, Renoir and many others. It is there that Picasso made his famous painting ‘Les Demoiselles d’Avignon’ in 1907. ‘Bateau-Lavoir’ was the nickname given by Max Jacob. It means ‘Laundry Boat’ in French. With its small studios distributed along a long narrow corridor, the interior of the building looked like a boat, and there was only one water point (‘Lavoir’ means ‘wash house’ in French). A fire completely destroyed the building in 1970; only the façade survived the accident. The Bateau-Lavoir was totally rebuilt in 1978. 

Step 3- Café des Deux Moulins 

Head back to Rue des Abbesses via Rue Ravignan. Turn right and continue on Rue des Abbesses. Turn left on Rue Lepic. Go straight until you reach the Café des Deux Moulins at No.15, rue Lepic. 

Before visiting Montmartre, you might want to watch ‘Le Fabuleux destin d’Amélie Poulain’. The 2001 French movie is great and its main location is the Montmartre district. In the movie, Amelie works at ‘Le Café des Deux Moulins’. The café became quite a tourist attraction, but has managed to stay very authentic somehow.

Although there are some bad reviews on Internet regarding the service, I went there few times (including one time pregnant asking a slight change (or two) in the menu), and the staff was always helpful and super friendly. Besides, the food is quite good and prices are very reasonable. Give it a try, at least for a coffee!

Step 4- Montmartre Cemetery

Turn right on Rue Cauchois, then turn right again to stay on Rue Cauchois and continue on Rue Constance. Turn left on Rue Joseph de Maistre. Then, turn left on Rue Caulaincourt (walk across the bridge). Take the stairs to reach Avenue Rachel. Go straight (under the bridge) and you’ll reach the Cemetery of Montmartre.

Montmartre Cemetery is the second largest cemetery in Paris. It is a peaceful and beautiful place located in the heart of Montmartre. It is known as the Cemetery of the Artists. 

One of the most unique tombs you’ll see is, without doubt, the one belonging to Michel Berger, France Gall and their daughter Pauline Hamburger. Another famous grave is the (quite impressive) tomb of Dalida.

Step 5- Van Gogh’s House

Vincent van Gogh – Self-Portrait – 1889

Head back to Rue Joseph de Maistre via Rue Caulaincourt. Turn left on Rue Lepic. At No.54 Rue Lepic, you’ll find the former apartment of Vincent Van Gogh, one of the greatest post-Impressionist painters of all time.

Vincent Van Gogh lived in this building, on the 3rd floor, with his brother Théo Van Gogh, from 1886 to 1888, before relocating to the south of France. The room of Vincent had a small window with open views on the roofs of Paris, and he quickly created many paintings of the Paris skyline, as well as the Montmartre countryside and windmills. It is also in Montmartre that Van Gogh produced his extraordinary series of self-portraits.

Step 6- Rue Durantin and La Cour aux Juifs

Head north on Rue Lepic and turn right on Rue Durantin. Rue Durantin is a street that is quite well-known by the locals, not much by the tourists though. However, it is a street that is worth to wander through, at least for its stunning architecture. 

At No.40 Rue Durantin, you’ll find one of the most beautiful courtyards in Paris. Dating back from the Restoration period, it is known as ‘La Cour aux Juifs’, and has always been a favorite location for filmmakers.

Step 7- Moulin Blute Fin and Moulin de la Galette

Continue on Rue Durantin and turn left on Rue Tholozé. From this street, you’ll see the old Moulin de la Galette (Blute-Fin), built in 1622, in front of you and from there, you can reach Rue Lepic.Turn right on Rue Lepic. At No.83 Rue Lepic, you’ll find ‘le Moulin de la Galette’ (Radet), built in 1717.

These windmills are the last two windmills of the 14 windmills that stood once on the Butte Montmartre. 

Originally used to grind flour, these two windmills soon became a guinguette where people came to eat a millet galette (flat brown bread) with a glass of milk. Then, the glass of milk was replaced by a glass of wine and the guinguette became a cabaret. In 1834, the place was extended and became a popular and iconic open-air dancing hall with gardens. It is at the ‘Moulin de la Galette’ that Auguste Renoir made his famous painting ‘Le Bal du Moulin de la Galette’ in 1876 (now in Musée d’Orsay).

The windmill Radet was restored in 1978 but never used again. However, le Moulin de la Galette was transformed into a restaurant around 40 years ago. It was one of the favorite restaurants of Dalida. 

Step 8- Le Passe-Muraille

Turn left on Rue Girardon and then, turn right on Place Marcel Aymé. Check out the sculpture “Le Passe-Muraille”, a statue stuck in a wall.

The sculpture was inspired by Marcel Aymé’s book “Le Passe-Muraille” and represents the fictional character Léon Dutilleul who had the power to walk through walls but ended up stuck into one after abusing his power.

The statue was made in 1989 by sculptor Jean Marais and is dedicated to the writer Marcel Aymé, who was a resident of Montmartre. The statue represents the writer Marcel Ayméhimself in the role of Léon Dutilleul.

Step 9- Avenue Junot, Villa Léandre et le Rocher de la Sorcière   

Head back toward Rue Girardon and continue straight on Avenue Junot.

There is the Montmartre of tourists who stay around the Sacré-Coeur and Place du Tertre, and there is the ‘Montmartre of the Montmartrois’ (the residents of Montmartre don’t call themselves Parisians but Montmartrois). Trust me, you also want to wander the backstreets.

‘Avenue Junot’ is one of the most expensive avenues in Paris. This discreet avenue isn’t very touristic. Nevertheless, Avenue Junot offers many surprises: 

— Le Club Lepic Abbesses Pétanque (CLAP): a hidden place where you can play ‘pétanque’ (les boules) with locals (French style) in a very (French) countryside atmosphere.

— Located at 23, Avenue Junot, the most secret Parisian Hotel of Montmartre ‘Hotel Particulier Montmartre’ opened since 2007. Former residence of the Hermes family, the Hotel has only 5 Suites and is known to be quite exclusive. Many celebrities (such as Brad Pitt, Kristen Stewart, …) prefer the discretion of this romantic refuge to a Palace. 

— Did you know that there is a witch’s rock in Montmartre? This one is totally off-the-beaten-track. Hidden behind a fence in a private passageway between No.23, avenue Junot and No.65, Rue Lepic, the witch’s rock is one of the last vestiges of the Maquis de Montmartre (former ghetto of Montmartre). Many of the habitants thought for a long time that it was a meteorite that felt here to protect the home of a witch (in fact, it is an ancient disused fountain and the rock is nothing but fake!). The passage isn’t accessible to the public. However, there is a way to still witness the Witch’s rock. You can now eat (or have a tea) at the restaurant of the ‘Hotel Particulier Montmartre’, and from there, you can access the passageway to see the rock.

Accessible from Avenue Junot between the No.23 and No.27, the picturesque ‘Villa Léandre’ is really an atypical street. Built in 1926, it is the most charming impasse of Montmartre. Here, you’ll find British-style houses with small cute front yards. Do not miss the No.10, a nod to the residence of the Britain’s Prime Minister, 10 Downing Street in London.

Step 10- Square Suzanne Buisson

Head back toward Rue Girardon and take the first impasse on your left (before reaching Rue Girardon): the impasse Girardon will take you to the hidden Square Suzanne Buisson.

The Square Suzanne Buisson, named after the French political activist Suzanne Buisson, is popular for its beheaded statue of Saint-Denis holding his own head in his hands. 

Saint-Denis is known as the most famous cephalophore (a saint who is depicted carrying his own head) in Christianity. Saint-Denis was a Christian martyr and the first Bishop of Paris. It is said that after being decapitated, Saint-Denis took his head and walked kilometers; it is supposedly here, on the fountain where the statue is standing, that Saint-Denis stopped to clean his head.

Step 11- Allée des Brouillards  

From the Square Suzanne Buisson, head north toward Place Casadesus, turn right and you’ll reach the Allée des Brouillards.  

L’Allée des Brouillards is quite an unusual street. Nestled between Place Dalida and Place Casadesus, the unique Allée des Brouillards (meaning ‘Mist Alley’) has still kept a special ‘je-ne-sais-quoi’ mystery. Many renowned artists lived in the pavilions of the Allée des Brouillards: Kees van Dongen, Poulbot, Renoir, …

In the 18th century, the windmill and the farm located on Allée des Brouillards were bought by the lawyer Legrand-Ducampjean who built a Villa, nicknamed Châteaudes Brouillards. 

Step 12- Place Dalida

Continue on the Allée des Brouillards until you reach Place Dalida. 

Located on the corner of the picturesque Rue de l’Abreuvoir and Rue Girardon, Place Dalida is a cute little square named after the iconic singer. In 1997, commemorating the 10th anniversary of Dalida’s death, the city of Paris renamed this square ‘Place Dalida’ and installeda bronze bust of her at its center to pay homage to the star. The statue was sculpted by French artist Aslan.

Born in Cairo, Egypt, in 1933, Yolanda Cristina Gigliotti, better known as Dalida, made Montmartre her home when she bought a beautiful mansion located No.11 bis Rue d’Orchampt in 1962. Dalida lived in this house until her death in 1987. She was an important figure of Montmartre and Dalida is etched in the collective memory of the Montmartre residents. 

Located near the Place Dalida (No. 16 Rue Girardon), you’ll find the world renowned Cité Internationale des Arts. Founded in 1965, the foundation offers studio residencies to artists from all over the world.

Step 13- La Maison Rose

Head east on Rue de l’Abreuvoir toward ‘La Maison Rose’. 

Located on the corner of Rue de l’Abreuvoir and Rue des Saules, the picturesque ‘Maison Rose’ is one of the most beautiful houses in Montmartre. Maurice Utrillo quickly fell in love with this little pink house and painted it many times; one of his most famous paintings was ‘La Petite Maison Rose’ back in the 1900s; it made ‘La Maison Rose’ quite famous worldwide.

The pretty little pink house hasn’t changed much since its opening. 

In the 1900s, Laure Germaine Gargallo, one of Picasso’s muses, was the friend of many artists of Montmartre. Among all her suitors, she chose and married the painter Ramon Pichot Girones in 1905. Together, they bought this house on the corner of two cobbled streets in the heart of Montmartre. They painted the house in pink and transformed it into a modest restaurant in 1908. La Maison Rose was born. Throughout its history, the restaurant has welcomed many talented artists: Utrillo, Camus, Picasso, Edith Piaf, …

Step 14- Le Clos Montmartre

Turn left on Rue des Saules and you’ll reach the Clos Montmartre at the corner of Rue Saint-Vincent and Rue des Saules.

Le Clos Montmartre’ is one of the last vineyards in Paris and belongs to the City of Paris. 

The ancestral wine growing tradition exists since a long time in Paris. The vineyards of Montmartre date back to the Gallo Roman period, and reached its peak in the 18th century. However, the Clos Montmartre only exists since 1933. It was initially created to save the land from urbanization; and today, its main purpose is to maintain the viticulture heritage of Montmartre.

Covering 1,556 m2, the Clos Montmartre manages to produce between 1,500 to 2,000 bottles every year coming from their 1,600 feet of vines. You can buy Clos Montmartre’s wine only in few places: at the Museum of Montmartre, at ‘la Maison des Epicuriens’ (rue Lamarck), on their website ‘Comité des Fêtes de Montmartre’ or at the restaurant ‘Le Négociant’ (Place Jean Gabin). 

Unfortunately, Le Clos Montmartre is closed to the public. However, every year, in October, there is a (fantastic) 5-day Grape Harvest Festival (‘Fête des vendanges’ in French) and the vineyard opens its door for the occasion.

Today, the Grape Harvest Festival of Montmartre is the 3rd most popular event in Paris. Although there are so many specialties to taste and drink, it is a tradition to taste the wine of Montmartre at the Clos Montmartre (and of course, booking in advance is necessary to visit the Clos Montmartre). Sure, it won’t be the best wine you’ll taste in France but I am quite sure you’ll like the folklore linked to it.  

Step 15- Au Lapin Agile

Right across the street from the Montmartre vineyard (Clos Montmartre), you’ll find the cabaret “Au Lapin Agile” at No.22, rue des Saules.

The illustrious cabaret ‘Au Lapin Agile’ is quite an institution in Montmartre. It is the last 19th century cabaret celebrating French music in Paris. It opened 1860, and it is still in operation today. In fact, it didn’t change much since its debut. 

Formerly named ‘Au rendez-vous des voleurs’ (‘At the meeting point of the thieves’ in English), then ‘Au Cabaret des Assassins’, the house was originally a bar covered with portraits of murderers. The caricaturist André Gill painted the signboard with the famous rabbit on it, which eventually gave its current name to the Cabaret. People began to call the cabaret ‘At Gill’s Rabbit’ (in French, Au Lapin à Gill), and over time, it became ‘Au Lapin Agile’. This place is deeply connected with the history of Montmartre and attracted many artists (Picasso, Modigliani, Apollinaire, Toulouse Lautrec, Utrillo to name but a few). 

The most famous prank of the village happened here, at the ‘Lapin Agile’. Roland Dorgelès presented a painting ‘Sunset over the Adriatic’ supposedly made by an artist named ‘Boronali’, part of the new Excessivist movement, and it had great success. But, neither Boronali, nor the Excessivist movement existed. All of it was invented by Dorgelès. In reality, the painting was made by Lolo, the donkey of Frédé (the owner of the cabaret at that time), with a paintbrush attached to his tail. 

‘Au Lapin Agile’ is ‘the’ place to be for an authentic Parisian experience. There, you’ll find the old Montmartre vibe, the Paris of yesteryear everyone is looking for. 

Step 16- Museum of Montmartre

Head back toward la Maison Rose and continue on Rue des Saules. Turn left on Rue Cortot. At No.12 Rue Cortot, you’ll find the museum of Montmartre.

The small ‘Museum of Montmartre’ is located inside one of the oldest buildings in Montmartre. It was founded in 1960 but the building dates back to the 17th century. The museum contains many paintings, drawings, posters, photographs and manuscripts depicting the story of Montmartre. 

The ‘Musée de Montmartre’ hosts a permanent collection retracing the history of Montmartre and its residents, and is located in the House of Bel Air (‘Maison du Bel Air’ in French). The temporary exhibitions are held in the ‘Hotel Demarne’. Besides the museum per se, you can also visit the former atelier-apartment of Suzanne Valadon. It is also at the Museum of Montmartre that you can find a scale model of Montmartre.

Even if you don’t attend to visit a museum during your visit in Montmartre, it is worth to know that you can walk into the ‘Jardins Renoir’ (Renoir gardens) for only 5 euros. The view over the Clos Montmartre vineyard is just amazing from there. The ‘Jardins Renoir’ are 3 gardens dedicated to the famous painter Auguste Renoir. In 1876, Auguste Renoir made the beautiful painting ‘La balançoire’ (‘The Swing’) right in this exact garden and you can even sit on a swing that is the exact replica of the one in the painting. 

Step 17- Dalí Museum

Head back to Rue des Saules, turn left and continue down to the very picturesque ‘Le Consulat’ restaurant. 

Turn left on Rue Norvins and then, turn right on Rue Poulbot. Continue until you reach the Dalímuseum, at No.11 Rue Poulbot.

I am a pretty huge fan of Salvador Dalí. I have previously visited the Dali museum in Figueres and also his house in Portlligat, both located in Spain. Of course, I have also visited the museum dedicated to Salvador Dalí in Montmartre.

Founded by Art collector Beniamino Levi 1991, the museum displays over 300 artworks of the Spanish surrealist artist Salvador Dali from paintings to sculptures and engravings. It is the largest private collection dedicated to Salvador Dalí.

There are Dalí artworks for sale in the gallery next door (you’ll pass through it before exiting the museum).

Step 18- Place du Tertre

Continue on Rue Poulbot toward Place du Calvaire. Turn left and you’ll arrive at Place du Tertre.

Famous for its painters, portrait artists and restaurant terraces, La Place du Tertre, also known as ‘the Artist Square’, is the historic square of the ancient village of Montmartre and an absolute must-see when visiting the district. The word ‘Tertre’ means ‘hillock’ in French and ‘Place’ means ‘Public square’. 

There, you’ll find many local painters, portraitists and caricaturists working in the open air. This is the perfect opportunity to have your portrait drawn or painted (or why not a caricature!). 

I’ll be honest, the Artist Square has changed a bit over the past 15-20 years though. The artists were always in conflict with the restaurant owners; but now, it seems that restaurants are expanding their terraces more and more, taking advantage of the picturesque nature of this unique square. Tourists come to Place du Tertre to see the artists, not to go to a terrace. The seductive folklore of the Place du Tertre is, of course, still attractive, even though it is now fully dedicated to tourism. Especially in summer, this place can be very crowded.

Beware of some shops that are selling paintings ‘Made in Place du Tertre’, most of them (and I mean literally thousands of them) are, in fact, made in China (cheaper it is, more the chances are that it was made in China). Please do the artists a favor and maintain the tradition: if you wish to buy a painting, buy it directly from the artist of your choice at Place du Tertre. I did one portrait 12 years ago and I still have it; I can assure you that it is an amazing souvenir to keep. Do not hesitate to take your time and wander around the place to find your favorite artist.

Another important landmark in Place du Tertre is ‘Chez la mère Catherine’. Founded in 1793, this restaurant is considered as the oldest bistro in Paris. The legend says it is there that the word Bistro was born. After Napoleon defeat, in 1814, Russians Cossacks were occupying France; some of the Russian soldiers came to ‘Chez la mère Catherine’ and bothered by the slow service, asked in Russian ‘Bystro! Bystro!’ meaning ‘Fast! Fast!’, hence the creation of the name ‘Bistro’. French linguists argued against this theory and proved that the word ‘bistrot’ came from the slang French ‘bistraud’, meaning ‘wine servant’ at the time. However, legend still stands at ‘Chez la mère Catherine’ and we love it! 

Step 19- Sacré-Coeur Basilica  

Cross the Place du Tertre to reach Rue Norvins, and turn right on Rue du Mont-Cenis. Then, turn left on Rue Azais and you’ll arrive on the Parvis of Sacré-Cœur. 

Perched at the very top of the hill of Montmartre (the highest point in Paris), 130 meters above the ground, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart (‘Basilique du Sacré-Cœur’ in French) is a beautiful Roman Catholic church watching over Paris. The magnificent white Basilica is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. 

The construction of the Sacré-Coeur Basilica came from a ‘National Vow’ initiated by two faithful followers (Alexandre Legentil and Hubert Rohault de Fleury) in 1870, after the defeat of France in the Franco-Prussian war. The Basilica was designed by Paul Abadie and its construction took around 40 years, from 1875 to 1914. Achieved in 1914 and consecrated in 1919 (after the World War I), the Sacré-Coeur Basilica is, since then, considered as the emblematic symbol of Montmartre. 

With its Romano-Byzantine architecture, the white Basilica, dominating the skyline, stands out from the other Gothic churches in Paris. If the Sacré-Coeur Basilica always looks brand new, it is due to its white travertine stones. The travertine stones come from the quarry of Château-Landon, Seine-et-Marne, and are known for exuding calcite and washing themselves in contact with rainwater.

The interior architecture of the Basilica is quite stunning. Inside the Sacré-Coeur, you’ll have the chance to admire the largest mosaic in France (and one of the largest in the world): the 475m2 ‘Mosaic of Christ in Glory’, representing the risen Christ with his golden heart surrounded by his Adorers. The Basilica also possesses another jewel: one of the heaviest bells in the world (weighing 19 tons), known as ‘La Savoyarde’.

Located on the left side of the Basilica, you’ll find the crypt of the Martyrium. The crypt possesses the tombs of Cardinals Guibert and Richard who laid the foundation stone of the Basilica, the heart of the faithful follower Alexandre Legentil who made the ‘vow’ to dedicate a church to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the foundation stone of the Basilica, the chapel of Saint-Peter and the treasures offered to the Basilica. 

Also located on the left side of the Basilica, you’ll find the main access to the dome. The dome is probably one of the best viewpoints of Paris. In fact, it is the second highest point in Paris after the Eiffel Tower and you’ll have to climb 300 steps to reach it. 

The Sacré-Coeur Basilica is the second most visited religious monument in Paris, after the Notre-Dame cathedral (of course, right now, it is the first as the Notre-Dame cathedral is currently under reconstruction). Although the Basilica is extremely touristy, coming here is well worth the visit. 

Step 20- Marché Saint-Pierre  

Important Note: Beware ~ There are men with (supposedly cheap) friendship bracelets at the bottom of the staircases of the Basilica who will try to grab your wrist and tie one of their bracelets on you. They will demand money for it. Please, ignore them and don’t let them approach you, nor touch you. If they approach you, don’t get intimidated and shout a firm ‘no’ to them if they insist. If you wish to avoid them completely, instead of using the main stairs, take the stairs on the western side of the Hill (Rue Foyatier).

Take the stairs down via Rue Foyatier. Turn left onto Place Saint-Pierre and continue toward the Marché Saint-Pierre. 

The Marché Saint-Pierre (Saint-Pierre Market) is the largest fabric market in Paris. It is the perfect place to buy fabric for creating your own clothes. Any fabric you could possibly want, you can find it here. The biggest (and most popular) stores are Reine, Dreyfus and Moline. Many people (Parisians and tourists, professional designers and amateurs) walk the streets of the Saint-Pierre Market every day. Here, you’ll find everything you need to create your own design.

Tips: If you plan to buy some fabrics here, take a peek in the haberdashery Saint-Pierre behind Dreyfus. 

Step 21- Halle Saint-Pierre

Head back toward Place Saint-Pierre and on your right, you’ll find the Halle Saint-Pierre. 

The Halle Saint-Pierre is known for housing the Museum of Naïve Art (Museum of Primitive Art and Outsider Art), one of the most bizarre museums in Paris. Former covered market built in 1868, the Museum opened its doors in 1986.

The Museum has a permanent collection but also hosts temporary exhibitions. The Halle Saint-Pierre isn’t only a museum; it also has a gallery, a library, an auditorium and a coffee shop.  

Step 22- Musée de la Vie Romantique  

Paris. The City of Love. The City of Romance. I couldn’t do a Montmartre itinerary without the charming ‘Musée de la Vie Romantique’ (The Museum of Romantic Life).

Head back to Place Saint-Pierre and turn left on Rue de Steinkerque. Turn right on Boulevard de Rochechouard. Continue on Boulevard de Clichy and turn left on Rue Jean-Baptiste Pigalle. Turn right on Rue Chaptal and you’ll find the Musée de la Vie Romantiqueat No.16 Rue Chaptal.

Located in the heart of the Pigalle district, the ‘Musée de la Vie Romantique’ was the residence of Dutch painter Ary Scheffer (1795-1858). In 1956, the house was sold to the State and in 1982, it became a museum. Many illustrious personalities, including Dickens, George Sand, Delacroix and Chopin, were regularly invited to Scheffer’s parties in his house. 

The museum is divided into 2 parts: the ground floor is dedicated to writer George Sand and the 1st floor to Scheffer’s paintings and works of other contemporary artists, all from the Romantic period.

The museum is free of charge (except if there is a temporary exhibition).

After your visit to the museum, spend some time in the romantic style garden and its lovely ‘Café du Musée de la Vie Romantique’. 

Step 23- Moulin Rouge

A trip to Montmartre won’t be complete without visiting the nearby Red-Light district, Pigalle. Of all the attractions in Pigalle, Moulin Rouge is surely the one who truly symbolizes the soul of the district.

From the exit of Musée de la vie romantique, turn right. Then, turn right on Rue Blanche. Go straight on until you’ll reach the ‘Moulin Rouge’ in front of you, at No.82 Boulevard de Clichy.

Created in 1889, Moulin Rouge is the most famous cabaret in France, if not in the world. It is principally known as the birthplace of the French Cancan. 

The ‘Féerie show’ is performed every day, 365 days a year, since 1999, and tickets always sells out instantly. The Moulin Rouge offers 2 cabaret shows per night: one at 9pm and one at 11pm. It is also possible to book a dinner there at 7pm followed with a 9pm show. The cabaret is purely French and before booking, you have to know that the shows in Moulin Rouge involve many topless dancers. Despite that, the shows are sophisticated and spectacular. A show at the Moulin Rouge is always described as an amazing and unique experience. 

Even if you do not attend a show, it is still worth it to stop by for capturing the view of the legendary Red Windmill.

How to get to Montmartre?

The best way to reach Montmartre is by metro. You can access Montmartre from the Metro Station Abbesses (Metro Line 12) ~ if you follow this itinerary ~ or from the Metro Station Anvers (Metro Line 2) but be prepared to climb 270 steps to reach the Basilica. You can also access the Basilica by taking the funicular (price of a metro ticket) or by taking the little train (Petit Train de Montmartre). If you want to begin your visit around Pigalle or Rue Lepic, Metro Station Blanche (Metro Line 2) is a good starting point.

If you’d like to use the metro occasionally during your stay, and if you are 2 travelers, it is more cost-effective to take a carnet with 10 tickets (5 tickets each) as it only costs 14.90€. If you are using the metro several times, taking the weekly pass ‘Forfait Navigo Semaine’ (22.80€ + 5€ for the card) is the most convenient (and cheapest) way to travel without hassle. The use of public transportation is unlimited in all zones and you can use the Metro, but also the RER, bus, train and tramway within those zones. 

The Paris PassLib (available for 1, 2, 3 or 5 days) is really the best cost-effective option if you wish to visit many museums and monuments in Paris. Plus, with this Pass, you’ll get unlimited public transportation (zones 1 to 3), access to sightseeing buses and a river cruise. 

Best time to visit Montmartre

 ‘Paris is always a good idea’, they say.

Winter is a great season to visit Montmartre, especially if it’s snowing. It is the perfect time to enjoy the really cute Christmas market of Montmartre, and a ‘vin chaud’ (mulled wine) of course. It is a magical experience to see Montmartre covered in snow. 

During the spring season, the weather is particularly pleasant. The flowers (especially cherry blossoms, magnolia, wisteria and tulips) are in bloom, and the streets are absolutely gorgeous.

Although many Parisians are on holidays in July and August, there are still many tourists visiting the city of love. But the atmosphere is very agreeable and in fact, more laidback in summer. The views from the Sacré-Coeur are also the best during the summertime. Unfortunately, many restaurants and shops are closed in August.

Autumn is my favorite season to visit Montmartre. Autumn sees generally less tourists and the weather is great. It is the best moment to visit Montmartre, enjoy local festivals and blend with locals. Besides, the colorful fall foliage of Montmartre is so stunning that it is worth the visit alone. 

Where to eat in Montmartre?

La Boîte aux Lettres 

Address: 108, Rue Lepic, 75018 Paris

Why?

For its authentic (local) atmosphere, its traditional French food and its special menu ‘pour les indécis’ (for the one who don’t know what to choose, the chef decides for you).

Le Coq Rico 

Address: 98, Rue Lepic, 75018 Paris

Why?

A legendary restaurant with the best roasted chickens of Paris. Besides it is a Michelin restaurant!

Le Jardin d’en face 

Address: 29, Rue des 3 Freres, 75018 Paris

Why?

For its very friendly staff, local laidback atmosphere and delicious food. Far away from the tourist traps!

Terrass’’ 

Address: 12-14, Rue Joseph de Maistre, 75018 Paris

Why?

For its rooftop and amazing panoramic view over Paris. I highly recommend the dinner experience with the Eiffel Tower sparkling in the background.

Le refuge des Fondus

Address: 17, Rue des 3 Freres, 75018 Paris

Why?

If you love cheese and drinking wine in baby bottles! 

Le Poulbot 

Address: 3, Rue Poulbot, 75018 Paris 

Why?

For the atmosphere, the location and the tasty traditional French food. It is located in a very touristic street but has managed to keep its authentic local feel (even if it’s in the heart of Montmartre).


For more travel inspiration in Paris, follow my Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/paris_kathmandu/


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