There’s something about Montmartre.
Located in the northern part of Paris, in the 18th arrondissement, Montmartre is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful districts in Paris. It is also known as one of Paris’ most charming and romantic neighborhoods.
Montmartre may no longer be what it once was and its original ambience might have a bit changed, but its bohemian spirit is still alive. Sure, it is one of the most visited districts in Paris; and it can feel like a tourist trap if you aren’t prepared. But Montmartre isn’t just for tourists. Even though you will most likely be surrounded by many tourists at first (especially around the Sacré Coeur), this guide will help you discover another side of Montmartre. Roaming the cobbled backstreets of the district will have you feeling like you’re walking through a village.
Montmartre has been home (and a refuge!) to many artists, writers and poets: Van Gogh, Picasso, Renoir, Dali, Brel, Brassens, Aznavour, Dalida to name but a few. With its quaint cobbled streets, quirky houses and endless stairs, Montmartre possesses an irresistible ‘je-ne-sais-quoi’ that charms everybody. The neighborhood certainly lives up to its bohemian reputation. It has kept its own unique atmosphere; and that’s exactly the reason why it attracts millions of visitors from all around the world each year.
Whether you’re visiting Montmartre for the first time or the twentieth, here are the 24 very best things to see and do, plus tips on how to get there, essential things to know before you go, best time to visit, and where to eat.
| Did you know? Montmartre was only integrated in the City of Paris in 1860. The name ‘Montmartre’ comes from its hill, la Butte Montmartre, nicknamed ‘Mount of Martyrs’ (Mont des Martyrs in French ~ Mons Martyrum in Latin ~ ‘Martre’ meaning ‘martyr’ in old French). |
Table of Contents
What to see and what to do in Montmartre?
Montmartre Map
The Basilique du Sacré-Coeur (Sacré-Coeur Basilica)
Where? Main entrance: Esplanade du Sacré-Coeur, 75018 Paris.
Access: You can access the Basilica from Metro Station Anvers (Metro Line 2 ~ you’ll have to climb 270 steps to reach the Basilica) or from Metro Station Abbesses (Metro Line 12). You can also take the funicular (price of a metro ticket) or the little train (Petit Train de Montmartre) up to the Sacré-Coeur.
Price: Entry to the Basilica is free for all. But if you want to visit the dome or the crypt, you must buy a ticket.
When? Every day from 6am to 10:30pm. The dome is open every day from 8:30am to 8pm (May to September) and from 9am to 5pm (October to April).
Sadly, no photography or filming is allowed inside the Basilica.
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.
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) up to the Sacré-Coeur. Besides, it is a way nicer climb up to the Sacré-Coeur than the one from the Square Louise Michel.
Place du Tertre (The Artist Square)
Where? Place du Tertre is located just a few meters away from the Sacré-Coeur Basilica.
Access: Abbesses station (Metro Line 12) or Anvers station (Metro Line 2).
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!
Place Dalida
Where? On the corner of Rue de l’Abreuvoir and Rue Girardon.
Access: Lamarck – Caulaincourt station (Metro Line 12).
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 installed a 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 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.
Dalida recorded up to 700 songs in 9 different languages and sold more than 170 million albums. Sadly, she had a tormented life and a tragic destiny. Dalida died on May 3, 1987 by suicide.
Note: Place Dalida is featured in the popular Netflix series ‘Emily in Paris’.
Au Lapin Agile
Where? 22, rue des Saules, 75018 Paris.
Access: Lamarck-Caulaincourt station (Metro Line 12).
Price: 28€ (Show with a drink of your choice included) | Students under 26 years old: 20€. Beware: No credit card allowed (cash only).
When? Tuesdays to Sundays from 9pm to 1am.
The illustrious cabaret ‘Au Lapin Agile’ is quite an institution in Montmartre. Right across the street from the Montmartre vineyard (Clos Montmartre), ‘Au Lapin Agile’ is the last 19th century cabaret celebrating French music in Paris. It opened in 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.
Le Moulin de la Galette (The Last Windmills of Montmartre)
Where? 83, rue Lepic, 75018 Paris.
Access: Lamarck-Caulaincourt station (Metro Line 12) or Abbesses station (Metro Line 12).
It is quite something to see windmills in Paris.
There are actually two windmills in Montmartre: the windmill Radet ~ actual restaurant Moulin de la Galette ~ (built in 1717), located at 83 rue Lepic, and the windmill Blute-Fin (built in 1622), located at 75 rue Lepic (sadly not open to the public but you can still see it at a distance standing atop the hill). 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.
La Maison Rose
Where? 2 rue de l’Abreuvoir, 75018 Paris.
Access: Lamarck-Caulaincourt station (Metro Line 12).
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, …
Clos Montmartre (The Vineyard of Paris)
Where? On the corner of Rue Saint-Vincent and Rue des Saules, right across the street from ‘Au Lapin Agile’.
Access: Lamarck-Caulaincourt station (Metro Line 12).
When? In October during the Grape Harvest Festival.
Did you know that Montmartre possesses a secret vineyard and produces its own wine?
‘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.
Museum of Montmartre
Where? 12, rue Cortot, 75018 Paris.
Access: Lamarck-Caulaincourt station (Metro Line 12).
Price: 13€. Students under 26 years: 10€. Youth rate (from 10 to 17 years old): 7€. Free under 10 years old. You can access the Renoir gardens for 5€.
When? Every day from 11am to 6pm (October to March) and from 10am to 7pm (April to September).
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.
The Wall of Love (Mur des ‘Je t’aime’)
Where? Square Jehan Rictus, Place des Abbesses, 75018 Paris.
Access: Abbesses station (Metro Line 12).
Price: Free.
The Wall of Love (Mur des ‘Je t’aime’ in French), located in the Square Jehan Rictus near the metro Abbesses, is a wall dedicated to love.
Created in 2000 by Frederic Baron and Claire Kito, the 40-square meter mural is composed of 612 tiles of enameled lava. The mural 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.
Come and find love in your own language!
Le Passe-Muraille (Walker Through Walls)
Where? Place Marcel Aymé, 75018 Paris.
Access: Lamarck-Caulaincourt station (Metro Line 12).
Le Passe-Muraille is a statue stuck in a wall and is located Place Marcel Aymé.
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 Aymé himself in the role of Léon Dutilleul.
Café des Deux Moulins (Amélie Poulain)
Where? 15, rue Lepic, 75018 Paris.
Access: Blanche station (Metro Line 2) or Abbesses station (Metro Line 12).
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!
Marché Saint-Pierre, the Fabric Market of Paris
Where? Around Place Saint-Pierre: rue d’Orsel, rue Charles-Nodier, rue Livingstone, rue Seveste, rue Pierre-Picard, 75018 Paris.
Access: Anvers station (Metro Line 2) and Barbes Rochechouart station (Metro Lines 2 and 4).
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.
Halle Saint-Pierre (Museum of Naïve Art – Max Fourny)
Where? 2, rue Ronsard, 75018 Paris.
Access: Abbesses station (Metro Line 12) or Anvers station (Metro Line 2).
Price: 9€ (to access the temporary exhibitions). But you can go to the nice coffee shop without paying the entry fee.
When? Mondays to Fridays from 11am to 6pm, Saturday from 11am to 7pm and Sundays 12pm to 6pm.
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.
Dalí Paris (Dalí Museum)
Where? 11, rue Poulbot, 75018 Paris.
Access: Abbesses station (Metro Line 12) or Lamarck-Caulaincourt station (Metro Line 12).
Price: 12€. Reduced price: 9€ (under 26 years-old). Free under 8 years old.
When? Wednesday to Sunday from 11am to 5:30pm.
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. And as usual, I loved it!
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).
Place Emile Goudeau and Bateau-Lavoir
Where? 13 place Emile Goudeau, 75018 Paris.
Access: Abbesses station (Metro Line 12).
Located on the charming square ‘Place Emile Goudeau’, ‘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. There is not much to see in Bateau-Lavoir (the building is not open to the public) except the window display and the pretty Square Emile Goudeau; but if you are an art lover or history buff like me, it is worth stopping by and remembering the important role this place played in the art history.
Avenue Junot, La Villa Léandre & Le Rocher de la sorcière (The Witch’s Rock)
Where? Avenue Junot & Villa Léandre, 75018 Paris.
Access? Lamarck-Caulaincourt station (Metro Line 12).
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 23, avenue Junot and 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.
— ‘Marcel’, the trendiest restaurant in Montmartre!
Accessible from Avenue Junot between the 23 and 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.
Rue Durantin & La Cour aux Juifs
Access: Abbesses station (Metro Line 12) or Lamarck-Caulaincourt station (Metro Line 12).
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.
It is in this street that Delacroix had his atelier (at No.20) in 1907. It is also from here that you can join Rue Lepic and see the old Moulin de la Galette (Blute-Fin). Located 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.
Allée des Brouillards & Château des Brouillards
Access: Lamarck-Caulaincourt station (Metro Line 12).
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 Château des Brouillards.
The Steep Staircases of Montmartre
Where? Everywhere.
Montmartre is no stranger to hills. It is the highest point in Paris. No wonder there are staircases everywhere in Montmartre! We love them as much as we hate them (Thanks Krishna for carrying the stroller! Truly!).
Stairways are as much important as the other cultural landmarks. It is part of the picturesque Montmartre. And, you won’t be able to avoid them anyway! So be ready to enjoy them.
Square Suzanne Buisson & the Legend of Saint-Denis
Access: Lamarck-Caulaincourt station (Metro Line 12).
Located near the Château des Brouillards, 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.
Montmartre Cemetery and the Cat School
Where? 20, avenue Rachel, 75018 Paris.
Access: La Fourche station (Metro Line 13), Blanche station (Metro line 2) or Lamarck-Caulaincourt station (Metro Line 12).
When? Every day from 8am to 6pm.
The Cemetery of Montmartre is a peaceful and beautiful place located in the heart of Montmartre. Known as the Cemetery of the Artists, it is the second largest cemetery in Paris.
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.
The Cemetery of Montmartre, besides being the resting place of many French personalities (Zola, Stendhal, Jeanne Moreau, Alexandre Dumas…) is where you can find one of the most unusual associations in Paris: the ‘Cat School’, created in 1978, to save and protect the stray cats.
Moulin Rouge
Where? 82, boulevard de Clichy, 75018 Paris.
Access: Blanche station (Metro line 2).
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.
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.
Please note that photos and videos are not allowed inside.
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.
Musée de la vie romantique
Where? 16, rue Chaptal, in the 9th arrondissement.
Access: Blanche station (Metro Line 2) or Pigalle station (Metro Lines 2 and 12).
Price: Free. But when there are temporary exhibitions, an entrance fee is charged.
When? Tuesdays to Sundays from 10am to 6pm.
Paris. The City of Love. The City of Romance. I couldn’t write about Montmartre without mentioning the charming ‘Musée de la Vie Romantique’ (The Museum of Romantic Life).
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 2nd 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’.
The Sinking House of Montmartre
Where? The view can be captured on the way up to the Sacré Coeur near the top on your right side when you are climbing the stairs.
This photo spot is pretty famous on Instagram!
The Sinking house is only a photographic illusion and the camera trick is, in fact, quite simple. Nothing extraordinary as this is mainly for the photo shoot.
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How to get to Montmartre?
The best way to reach Montmartre is by metro. You can access Montmartre from the Metro Station Anvers (Metro Line 2) but be prepared to climb 270 steps to reach the Basilica; or from the Metro Station Abbesses (Metro Line 12). 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.
Note there are left-luggage facilities near many metro stations, where you can leave your bags in a locker while you visit Paris. Check out these two websites for more info:
Things to know before visiting Montmartre
Beware of scams & how to avoid them
Unfortunately, as Montmartre’s popularity continues to increase, so do tourist scams and pickpockets.
The most common scam in Montmartre is the friendship bracelet scam. 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) up to the Sacré-Coeur. Besides, it is a way nicer climb up to the Sacré-Coeur than the one from the Square Louise Michel.
Unfortunately, there are also other scams there. Among them, there is the ‘fake petition scam’. Young girls will ask you to sign a petition for some charity. Whether you sign or you refuse, they’ll manage to engage with you and somehow distract you while others are robbing you.
There are also many pickpockets in Montmartre, particularly near the metro Anvers, Pigalle and Abbesses. Always keep your phone and valuables tucked closely to you. Do not leave your purse or bag open.
This shouldn’t discourage you to visit the wonderful village of Montmartre. Just take your precautions before you go. Better safe than sorry, as they say.
Free walking tours
There are amazing free Montmartre walking tours available with locals, like this one with Discover Walks. Although free, the tours are really worth it and people usually tip around 12€ for this tour.
Be prepared to climb (a lot of!) steep streets and staircases
Montmartre is a hill and the highest point in Paris. So be prepared to walk on steep cobble streets and climb a lot of staircases. Bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes.
Go there early in the morning
Montmartre is one of the most visited areas in Paris; it is no surprise that the district is always crowded! To avoid the crowds, favor early mornings. Try to avoid weekends.
Explore the backstreets and don’t be afraid to get lost
Take your time to wander the back streets. Spent at least one hour exploring in search of hidden gems. Without phone, map, nor guidebook. Don’t be afraid to go off-the-beaten-path, don’t be afraid to get lost, you never know what great places, things or experiences you might stumble upon.
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?
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).
Address: 98, Rue Lepic, 75018 Paris
Why?
A legendary restaurant with the best roasted chickens of Paris. Besides it is a Michelin restaurant!
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!
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.
Address: 17, Rue des 3 Freres, 75018 Paris
Why?
If you love cheese and drinking wine in baby bottles!
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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I have visited Montmartre but this article encouraged me to visit it again as I haven’t really visited all the places, next time I will follow your guide. Thank you very much for your detailed information about Montmartre.