Montmartre is one of Paris’s best treasured areas and is an amazing neighborhood you just need to explore in Paris. let me talk about what to do in Montmartre, but fore that it is important we learn more about Montmartre and how to get around.
Montmartre is on a hill in the 18th arrondissement and with a brick paths, charming cafés, and a great artistic history.
Artists, authors, and free spirits, like Van Gogh and Picasso, have also been drawn to this lively location a long time ago. So even though you are interested in art, history, or the views, it is a great place to be.
Here’s how to get around and some of the things you can do in Montmartre, from must-visit sights to hidden gems.
1. Begin at the Moulin Rouge
The famous bar Moulin Rouge has been a part of Montmartre since 1889 and is a fantastic spot to start your trip from.
To learn more about Montmartre’s rich past, Then I suggest you start with the red windmill, which is a symbol of this renowned area and has inspired artists and novelists alike.
Discover the Dinner Show at the Moulin Rouge and get the most out of Montmartre with an expert guide on GetYourGuide for Moulin Rouge Cabaret Show Ticket with Champagne.
This expert-led journey delivers a unique peek into the essence of the place and assures you won’t miss its lesser-known attractions.
2. Walk Through Montmartre’s Historic Streets
Montmartre’s streets are rich with stories. Some of the essential sites during your journey can be Rue Lepic.
Where Van Gogh resided, and Place du Tertre, a busy location where artists set up their easels and show their work. Walking in these streets is like entering into a painting.
Must-Visit Landmarks
- Le Bateau-Lavoir: A hub for early-20th-century artists, Picasso once called this house home. It remains a sign of Montmartre’s artistic past.
- Place Émile-Goudeau: Located near Le Bateau-Lavoir, this square offers a glimpse into the lives of the artists who once visited it.
3. The Wall of Love: A Celebration of Romance
The Wall of Love is known as Le Mur des Je T’aime, this mural shows the sentence “I love you” in over 250 languages and no wonder people just want to come to get the feel of it because it actually gives the environment that vibe.
The “Wall of love” is in the tranquil Square Jehan Rictus. The artistic work is both an ode to marriage and a lovely treat to stumble upon, which you will want to experience yourself
4. Sample a Classic Croissant
A trip to Montmartre would be incomplete without trying a freshly baked croissant. Make a stop at Le Grenier à Pain—winner of numerous awards for its delicious cakes.
Sampling these baked goods links you to the local culture, making your visit truly special.
5. Walk in the Footsteps of Dalida
French music star Dalida lived in Montmartre, and her figure stands as a tribute to her heritage.
Her dramatic life and soulful songs have left an indelible mark on Paris, and fans still come to her statue near Rue Girardon.
Take a moment here to think on Montmartre’s impact in shaping culture icons.
6. Discover Montmartre’s Vineyard
Montmartre is home to Paris’s last living farm, Clos Montmartre. Hidden among the neighborhood’s twisting roads, this vineyard produces a little amount of wine each year.
If you visit in October, you might experience the annual Fête des Vendanges, a feast of the grape crop with parades, tastings, and street festivals.
7. Step into History at the Basilica of Sacré-Coeur
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, often known as Sacré-Coeur, is one of the city’s most recognizable buildings.
The church is situated on Montmartre’s highest hill and gives a wonderful view of Paris.
Its brilliant white domes and Byzantine style lure, where travelers from around the world come to experience a calm period inside with a welcome relief from the hectic streets.
Highlights of Sacré-Cœur
- The Dome: Climb to the summit for one of the greatest views in Paris.
- The Mosaic: Marvel at one of the greatest murals in the world, Christ in Majesty, housed within the church.
This immersive experience is perfect for anybody wishing to discover both well-known destinations and hidden gems.
8. Explore the Legacy of the Lapin Agile
At Lapin Agile, one of Paris’s oldest cabarets, the creative soul of Montmartre comes alive. Famous for its links with artists like Picasso, this cabaret gives a real peek into the district’s bohemian heritage.
Stop by this wonderful site and picture what it may have been like during its time.
9. Hidden Viewpoints for Unforgettable Photos
Beyond Sacré-Cœur’s famed vantage point, Montmartre offers several secret locations that give wonderful views of Paris.
Square Marcel Bleustein-Blanchet, for instance, offers a calm location to sit and soak in the views.
Montmartre’s elevated elevation makes it perfect for panoramic pictures, especially around sunset.
This guided tour ensures you’ll leave with both memorable pictures and stories.
An In-Depth Look At The Getyourguide Montmartre Tour
One of the greatest ways to properly value Montmartre is with an organized walking tour. The Paris: Hidden Gems of Montmartre with Local Guide is an excellent alternative for anyone who wishes to avoid the crowds and dig into the history and charm of Montmartre.
Here’s what to expect:
- Tour Duration: Spend two engaging hours touring the district’s lesser-known landmarks.
- Expert Local Guide: With a competent art scholar as your guide, This will help you discover insights about the artists who inspired Montmartre and the unique tales behind its landmarks.
- Itinerary Highlights: Begin in the Moulin Rouge before going through Montmartre’s stone streets, with stops at the Wall of Love, Lapin Agile, and the ultimate location of Sacré-Coeur.
- Unique Experiences: Sample an award-winning croissant, learn about Dalida’s life, and visit secret passages that show the best views.
Why Choose This Tour
The main reasons for this tour goes far way beyond the usual sights, although it is great for those who want a real Montmartre experience.
The small group size means you’ll have a more personalized adventure, with the freedom to ask questions and take in the sights without rushing.
Book your Paris: Hidden Gems of Montmartre with Local Guide tour on GetYourGuide. With choices to book now and pay later, you can keep your plans flexible while ensuring your spot on this exclusive tour.
Practical Tips for Exploring Montmartre
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Montmartre’s sidewalks and steep hills are part of its charm, but they can be tough on your feet. Look for easy, flexible shoes to explore the area with ease.
- Arrive Early or Late for Sacré-Coeur: Sacré-Cœur gets plenty of people, especially during peak hours. Arriving early in the morning or later in the evening gives for a more peaceful experience and a chance to take pictures without heavy crowds.
- Bring a Light Jacket: Montmartre is breezy, especially in spring and fall, so come with a light . If you’re coming during summer, you have to come with a hat and sunscreen, at least this helps you to stay cool during long walks.
- Carry Cash for Small Purchases: Many artists, street sellers, and small cafés prefer cash. Keep some euros on hand for small purchases, especially when browsing art stalls at Place du Tertre.
- Plan for Steps: Montmartre’s steep hills and stairs are famous. While there is a lift that gets you to Sacré-Cœur, expect stairs throughout the area. Take breaks if needed, and enjoy the beautiful views along the way.
- Respect Local Customs: Montmartre is a mix of tourist action and local life. Be careful when visiting home areas and quieter spots by keeping noise to a minimum and respecting private spaces.
- Capture the Sunset: For a memorable view, head to Sacré-Cœur or one of Montmartre’s secret vantage points at sunset. The soft light over Paris is beautiful and offers amazing photo possibilities.
- Stay Aware of Your Belongings: Like many famous spots, Montmartre can draw pickpockets. Keep valuables safe, especially around busy places like Sacré-Cœur and the metro.
- Explore Beyond the Main Sights: While Sacré-Cœur, Place du Tertre, and the Wall of Love are must-sees, take time to wander Montmartre’s quieter streets for secret gems, from local bakeries to vintage shops and unexpected views.
Recommended hidden gem:
- Montmartre Cheese, Wine & Pastry Guided Walking Tour
- Montmartre Food Tasting Walking Tour with Secret Dish
Final Thoughts
Montmartre’s charm is majorly based on the blend of artistic heritage, the amazing views, and energetic environment.
By taking the time to stroll its streets, enjoy its cafés, and dive into its past, you will get a better regard for this magnificent section of Paris.
Let Montmartre enchant you as it has artists and dreamers for decades. You can also be interest about the Boulevard Montmartre at night.
