Located in Paris’ 18th arrondissement, Montmartre rises 130 meters above the city on its highest hill, offering one of the most charming walking experiences in the French capital.
Quick Navigation
Starting Point: Blanche Metro Station
Begin your walk at Metro Station Blanche (Line 2), which puts you right at the foot of Montmartre’s historic district.
First Stop: Moulin Rouge
The iconic red windmill of the Moulin Rouge cabaret stands at 82 Boulevard de Clichy, operating since 1889.
Moulin Rouge Show Tips
- Book tickets at least 2 months in advance
- Show times: 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM daily
- Dress code: Smart casual (no shorts or sportswear)
- Price range: €87-€420
Walking Up Rue Lepic
Take the winding Rue Lepic uphill, passing the apartment where Vincent van Gogh lived with his brother Theo at number 54.
Place du Tertre
This charming square remains the heart of Montmartre’s artistic community, with painters offering portraits and landscapes to passing tourists.
⏰ Best Time to Visit Place du Tertre
- Early morning (before 10 AM) for fewer crowds
- Sunset for the best atmosphere
- Avoid midday during peak tourist season (July-August)
Sacré-Cœur Basilica
The white-domed basilica offers panoramic views of Paris from its position at the summit of Montmartre.
Sacré-Cœur Visiting Information
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 10:30 PM daily
- Free entrance to the church
- Dome access: €6 (306 steps)
- No photos allowed inside
Hidden Gems Along the Way
- Le Mur des Je t’aime – Wall of Love at Square Jehan Rictus
- Montmartre Vineyard – Paris’ last working vineyard at Rue des Saules
- La Maison Rose – Pink house restaurant immortalized by painter Maurice Utrillo
♂️ Walking Tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the steep streets
- Bring water, especially in summer
- Allow 2-3 hours for the complete tour
- Consider taking the Montmartre Funicular (1 metro ticket) to avoid climbing steps
End your tour at Abbesses Metro Station (Line 12), known for its original Art Nouveau entrance designed by Hector Guimard.
Additional Points of Interest
Le Bateau-Lavoir
This historic building at 13 Rue Ravignan was once home to artists like Pablo Picasso and Amedeo Modigliani. While not open to the public, its façade tells the story of Montmartre’s bohemian past.
Au Lapin Agile
One of the oldest cabarets in Paris, established in 1860. Famous artists and writers like Picasso and Apollinaire were regular patrons.
Cabaret Information
- Shows start at 9:00 PM
- Reservations recommended
- Traditional French songs and poetry
- Price: €65 including one drink
Espace Dalí
A unique museum featuring over 300 works by Salvador Dalí, including sculptures and engravings.
Dining Recommendations
️ Where to Eat in Montmartre
- Le Consulat – Historic café with traditional French cuisine
- La Galette des Moulins – Authentic Breton crêpes
- Le Coq Rico – Upscale poultry restaurant with city views
- Hardware Société – Popular brunch spot
Conclusion
Montmartre remains one of Paris’ most enchanting neighborhoods, where artistic heritage meets modern-day charm. Whether you’re interested in history, art, cuisine, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, this hilltop village within the city offers something for everyone.
Final Recommendations
- Visit during shoulder season (April-May or September-October) for optimal weather and fewer crowds
- Consider joining a guided walking tour for historical insights
- Keep valuables secure as tourist areas can attract pickpockets
- Download a map offline as the winding streets can be confusing
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Montmartre to avoid crowds?
Early morning (before 10 AM) or evening after 6 PM are the best times to visit Montmartre. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, and visiting during off-season (November to March) ensures fewer tourists. - How do I get to Montmartre using public transportation?
Take Metro lines 2 (to Anvers or Blanche) or 12 (to Abbesses), or Bus 30, 54, 80, or 85. The Funiculaire de Montmartre at the base of the hill offers an alternative to climbing the stairs. - Is Sacré-Cœur Basilica free to visit?
Yes, entrance to Sacré-Cœur Basilica is free. However, there is a fee to climb the dome or visit the crypt. Photography is not permitted inside the basilica. - Where can I find the famous artists’ square in Montmartre?
Place du Tertre, located just a few minutes from Sacré-Cœur, is where artists set up their easels and offer portraits and paintings. It’s open daily from around 10 AM until late evening. - What are the most iconic windmills to see in Montmartre?
Moulin Rouge in Boulevard de Clichy is the most famous, though it’s a cabaret today. The historic Moulin de la Galette on rue Lepic is one of the last two surviving windmills from Montmartre’s agricultural past. - Where is the famous “I Love You Wall” located?
The Le Mur des Je t’aime is located in Square Jehan Rictus, Place des Abbesses. It features “I love you” written in 250 languages. - What restaurants serve authentic French cuisine in Montmartre?
La Maison Rose, Le Consulat, and Le Petit Moulin are among the most authentic and historic restaurants in Montmartre, serving traditional French cuisine. - Where can I find the Montmartre Vineyard (Clos Montmartre)?
The vineyard is located at 12 Rue Cortot, behind the Musée de Montmartre. It’s the last active vineyard in Paris, producing about 500 liters of wine annually. - How many steps are there to climb to reach Sacré-Cœur?
There are 222 steps from the base of the hill to Sacré-Cœur if you take the stairs. However, you can avoid this by using the Funiculaire de Montmartre. - What museums can I visit in Montmartre?
Key museums include the Musée de Montmartre (showcasing the area’s artistic history), Espace Dalí (featuring Salvador Dalí’s works), and the Halle Saint-Pierre (dedicated to art brut and contemporary folk art).
