37 Best Things to Do in Montmartre, From a Paris Local

Montmartre is one of those Paris neighborhoods where it’s surprisingly easy to spend half a day seeing the famous sights and still miss some of the best parts.

This guide covers the best things to do in Montmartre, from the must-see sights to lesser-known places and local spots, so you can plan your visit without missing the highlights.

With its cobbled streets, artists, and sweeping views over Paris, Montmartre is one of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods. But knowing what’s actually worth your time and what you can skip makes all the difference.

I’ve lived in Paris for over 20 years and have explored Montmartre countless times. One mistake I often see first-time visitors make is getting off at Abbesses, walking over to the funicular, seeing Sacré-Coeur, and thinking they’ve seen Montmartre.

But there’s so much more to the neighborhood than the famous basilica.

Whether it’s your first time in Paris or you want to experience Montmartre beyond the usual tourist stops, I’ll show you the famous attractions worth seeing, the places most visitors overlook, and my personal favorites.

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Best Things to Do in Montmartre

Montmartre has so much more to see than Sacré-Cœur and Moulin Rouge. Give yourself at least a few hours to wander beyond the basilica and explore its historic streets, little squares, museums, cafés, and quieter corners.

After countless visits to the neighborhood, these are the 38 things I recommend seeing and doing in Montmartre.

#1 Visit the Basilica Sacré-Coeur

You can’t come to Montmartre for the first time and not see Sacré-Cœur. Sitting at the highest point in the neighborhood, the basilica is one of Montmartre’s most recognizable landmarks, with fantastic views across Paris from the steps in front.

Entry to Sacré-Cœur is free, so I recommend going inside even if you only have a few hours in Montmartre. Even when the queue looks long, I’ve always found that it moves quickly, and you’re usually inside in no time.

But don’t make the mistake of seeing the basilica and heading straight back down the hill. Sacré-Cœur may be Montmartre’s most famous attraction, but some of my favorite parts of the neighborhood are in the streets behind it.

If you want an even higher view over Paris, you can also climb the dome for a fee. Just keep in mind that there are around 300 steps and no elevator, so this isn’t the best option if you have trouble with stairs.

#2 Explore Montmartre on a Walking Tour with Tastings

→ My pick: Montmartre Guided Walking Tour with Tastings

If it’s your first time in Montmartre and you’d like someone to show you around, this walking tour is a great introduction to the neighborhood.

I haven’t taken this exact Montmartre tour, but I did a tour with the same company in the Marais and loved the concept. Rather than spending the entire tour talking about history, we explored the neighborhood with our guide Robert and stopped for little tastings along the way.

I found it a really fun way to get to know an area of Paris, especially if you’ve just arrived and aren’t quite sure where to start.

Their Montmartre tour follows a similar concept, combining a guided walk through the neighborhood with tastings along the way.

It’s also more affordable than many of the dedicated food tours in Montmartre, which makes it a good choice if you want a guided introduction to the neighborhood without spending too much.

Who I’d recommend it for: First time visitors who want to get their bearings in Montmartre, learn a little about the neighborhood, and try some French specialties along the way.

→ Check prices and availability for your dates.

#3 See a Cabaret Show at the Moulin Rouge

→ Shows sell out, check availability for your dates and book ahead.

You’ve probably already seen the Moulin Rouge’s famous red windmill, but you can also go inside for one of its nightly cabaret shows.

The Moulin Rouge has been part of Montmartre since 1889, and today its shows are all about elaborate costumes, dancing, feathers, music, and plenty of sparkle.

But is seeing a show at the Moulin Rouge a must when visiting Paris? I don’t think so, especially considering the price.

If you love musicals, shows, and an evening of entertainment, then the Moulin Rouge is a fun experience and a memorable night out in Paris. But if that kind of entertainment isn’t really your thing, I would skip it in the blink of an eye.

At the end of the day, it’s a show, and there are plenty of other ways to spend an evening in Paris.

Who I’d recommend it for: Anyone who loves live shows, theatrical entertainment, and the idea of experiencing an iconic Parisian cabaret.

#4 Visit the Musée de Montmartre

➤ Read more here: Musée de Montmartre: Discover the Heart of Bohemian Paris

If you’re curious about why Montmartre became such an important artists’ neighborhood, the Musée de Montmartre is one of the best places to visit.

The museum sits at the top of the hill, not far from Sacré-Cœur and La Maison Rose, and tells the story of Montmartre through paintings, posters, photographs, and other pieces connected to the neighborhood’s artistic past.

But what I particularly love about the Musée de Montmartre is that there’s more to it than the museum itself. Don’t rush off once you’ve seen the exhibitions.

Take some time to wander through the beautiful Renoir Gardens and stop at Café Renoir for a coffee or tea. It’s a lovely place to slow down for a while, especially after walking around Montmartre.

From the gardens, you can also look down onto the Montmartre vineyard, which is easy to miss if you don’t know it’s there. If you’re visiting around the time of the Montmartre grape harvest festival, check the museum gift shop, where you can buy a bottle of wine produced from the Montmartre vineyard.

Who I’d recommend it for: Anyone interested in Montmartre’s history and art, but also travelers who want a quieter break from the busy streets around Sacré-Cœur and Place du Tertre.

→ Secure your entry time here — especially if you’re visiting on a busy weekend.

#5 Wander on Rue de l’Abreuvoir

If you’re looking for one of the prettiest streets in Montmartre, walk down Rue de l’Abreuvoir.

Rue de l’Abreuvoir is often called the most beautiful street in Paris. I haven’t walked every single street in the city , but I understand why it gets that title.

The gentle curve, cobblestones, and ivy covered façades give you that village feel Montmartre is famous for. At the top, you’ll find La Maison Rose, while the Dalida bust is just around the corner at the lower end.

If you want that classic Montmartre photo, this is one of the best places to take it.

My tip: Come early if you can. Rue de l’Abreuvoir is no secret, and later in the day you’ll be sharing that pretty view with plenty of other visitors.

#6 Get your portrait done at Place du Tertre

Just a few steps from Sacré-Cœur, Place du Tertre is the famous artists’ square you’ve probably seen in photos of Montmartre.

Artists set up their easels around the square, and if you fancy taking home a more personal souvenir from Paris, you can have your portrait or caricature drawn right here.

I’ve never had mine done because it’s simply not for me, but many visitors love it. The nice thing is that you can easily walk around the square first and compare the work of the different artists. Their styles vary quite a bit, so have a look around and see which one appeals to you before choosing someone.

My tip: I wouldn’t necessarily stop at Place du Tertre for lunch or dinner. It’s one of the most touristy places in Paris, and while you’ll probably get a perfectly decent meal, there are better, cheaper, and more authentic places to eat elsewhere in Montmartre.

That said, I have absolutely no problem stopping here for a coffee. In fact, it’s a perfect spot for people watching.

#7 Explore Montmartre with the “Petit Train”

Explore Montmartre without all those hills and stairs? Hop on the Petit Train de Montmartre. Book your tickets here

The little tourist train runs between the lower part of Montmartre near the Moulin Rouge and the top of the hill around Sacré-Coeur and Place du Tertre. You can sit back while it takes you through the neighborhood instead of making the climb yourself.

Would I choose the Petit Train over walking around Montmartre? Not if you’re comfortable walking. You’ll see much more of the neighborhood on foot, and part of the fun of Montmartre is wandering down the little streets and noticing things along the way.

But not everyone wants to spend their visit climbing hills and stairs. If you have mobility concerns, are traveling with someone who tires easily, or simply want to save your legs, the Petit Train makes a lot of sense.

💡 My Tip: You don’t have to choose between the train and walking. You can use the Petit Train to get up the hill and then explore more of Montmartre on foot once you’re at the top.

Check prices and tickets for the Petit Train here.

#8 Watch the Sunset over Paris

The steps in front of Sacré-Cœur are one of my favorite places to watch the sunset over Paris. It gets crowded, busy, and lively, but that’s part of the experience.

I’ve spent many evenings sitting here, and there’s usually plenty going on around you. You’ll often hear musicians playing, people chatting on the steps, and vendors walking around selling cold beer and wine.

I know buying drinks from the roaming vendors might be a little controversial, but I’ve done it plenty of times. You’ll pay a bit more than you would at a supermarket, but I consider the extra couple of euros the delivery fee. You get your drink without having to move an inch and can simply stay put and enjoy the view.

If that sounds too busy for you, head instead to the terrace at Relais de la Butte, on a quieter side of the hill. You can sit down with a drink and enjoy beautiful views across the Paris rooftops without the crowds on the Sacré-Cœur steps.

My pick: Choose the Sacré-Cœur steps if you want music, people, and atmosphere. Choose Relais de la Butte if you’d rather have a seat, a drink, and a calmer sunset.

#9 The Vineyard of Montmartre (Clos Montmartre)

Montmartre’s small vineyard, Clos Montmartre, is one of the neighborhood’s most surprising sights. Tucked behind gates near the top of the hill, it feels almost out of place and is a lovely reminder that Montmartre was once a village surrounded by fields and windmills.

You can normally only see the vineyard through the gates, but guided visits are occasionally organized. I joined one recently and loved the experience. Walking between the rows of vines while hearing about Montmartre’s wine growing history gives you an entirely different perspective on the neighborhood.

The wine itself is produced in very small quantities, largely by volunteers. You won’t normally find it in shops, but around the annual Fête des Vendanges, you can buy bottles at the Musée de Montmartre, with the proceeds supporting local charities.

Last year, I bought a bottle for €35. Was it the best value bottle of French wine I’ve ever bought? Probably not. But that wasn’t really the point. It felt less like buying a bottle of wine and more like contributing to a very Montmartre tradition.

#10 Find all 3 Windmills of Montmartre

Ever wondered why the Moulin Rouge has a windmill on its roof?

Long before Montmartre became famous for artists and cabarets, the hill was dotted with windmills. In the 19th century, there were around 30 of them, used for everything from grinding flour to pressing grapes.

You can still see these old windmills in paintings at the Musée de Montmartre, but today only two historic windmills remain on the hill:

• Moulin de la Galette, also known as Blute Fin, dates back to 1622. It’s privately owned, so you can’t visit the inside.
• Moulin du Radet dates from 1717 and is now incorporated into a restaurant.

And yes, I count the bright red windmill on top of the Moulin Rouge as number three, even though that one is decorative rather than historic.

If the name Moulin de la Galette sounds familiar, there’s a good reason. Renoir’s famous painting Bal du moulin de la Galette was inspired by this very spot.

So if you’re interested in Impressionism in Paris, don’t just look for the windmills. You’re also standing in one of the places that inspired one of the most famous paintings of Montmartre.

#11 Visit Église Saint Pierre de Montmartre

Église Saint Pierre de Montmartre is easy to overlook when you have the enormous Sacré-Cœur next door, and many visitors walk straight past. But it’s worth popping inside while you’re here. Construction began in 1133, making it one of the oldest surviving churches in Paris.

The interior is much simpler than Sacré-Cœur, with old stone columns and beautiful stained glass, but what I particularly like is how peaceful it feels.

You can step out of one of the busiest areas of Montmartre and, within minutes, find yourself somewhere surprisingly quiet.

My tip: You don’t need to plan a separate visit or allow lots of time for it. If you’re already visiting Sacré-Cœur, simply pop in before continuing through Montmartre.

#12 Snap a Picture of La Maison Rose

La Maison Rose is easily one of the most photographed corners in Montmartre. With its pink façade, green shutters, and ivy covered walls, it’s hard to walk past without taking a picture.

The house was purchased in the early 20th century by Catalan painter Ramon Pichot, who used it as both a home and studio. His wife, Germaine Gargallo, painted the house pink and later opened the restaurant that is still here today.

And unlike some of the very touristy restaurants around Montmartre, La Maison Rose isn’t just a pretty photo spot. I’ve eaten here, and the food is actually good.

So take your picture, but if you’re looking for somewhere to eat in Montmartre, you can also consider stopping for a meal rather than simply photographing the façade and moving on.

#13 Visit the Montmartre Cemetery

Visiting a cemetery might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning your time in Paris, but Parisian cemeteries are fascinating places to wander. They feel almost like open air museums, filled with elaborate tombs, sculptures, and stories.

While Père Lachaise Cemetery gets most of the attention, Montmartre has its own impressive cemetery right beneath the hill.

Among the people buried here are painter Edgar Degas and singer Dalida, whose grave is one of the most visited in the cemetery. But also France Gall has her last resting place here.

One common misconception: many assume Alexandre Dumas, author of The Three Musketeers, is buried here. In fact, his remains were transferred to the Panthéon, where France honors some of its most significant historical figures.

💡 My tip: The cemetery is a great place to start your walk through Montmartre. Get off the Métro at Place de Clichy, visit the cemetery first, then leave through the main entrance and continue towards Rue Lepic and up into Montmartre.

Make sure you exit through the main entrance rather than the eastern exit. The eastern exit leaves you farther away from the part of Montmartre you’ll most likely want to explore next.

#14 Take the Funiculaire de Montmartre

If you don’t fancy climbing the stairs up to Sacré-Cœur, take the Montmartre Funicular instead.

If you arrive at Abbesses Métro station, you’ll find the funicular just a short walk down Rue Yvonne le Tac. From there, you can ride straight up towards Sacré-Cœur and avoid most of Montmartre’s steep slopes and stairs.

The ride is very short, but it saves you from tackling the long staircase beside it and is especially useful if you have trouble walking uphill or simply want to save your energy for exploring Montmartre.

The funicular is a normal part of the RATP public transportation system, just like the Métro, so you can use your regular Métro ticket to ride it. You don’t need to buy a special ticket for the funicular.

Lesser-Known Things to Do in Montmartre

Once you’ve seen Sacré-Cœur and Place du Tertre, there are plenty of smaller sights to discover along the way. And don’t worry, you won’t need to extend your Montmartre visit by hours to see them.

Most are right along the usual routes through the neighborhood and take only a few minutes to visit. The trick is knowing they’re there. Many are surprisingly easy to walk straight past without ever noticing them.

#15 Find Le Passe Muraille

One of Montmartre’s more unexpected landmarks is Le Passe-Muraille, a life-sized bronze sculpture hidden away on Place Marcel Aymé.

The statue pays tribute to French writer Marcel Aymé and his short story Le Passe Muraille, or The Man Who Walked Through Walls. In the story, the main character suddenly discovers that he can walk through solid walls, a talent he uses for increasingly mischievous and criminal adventures.

Things eventually go wrong when his powers fail at the worst possible moment, leaving him stuck halfway through a wall. And that’s exactly the scene the sculpture captures.

If you’ve never heard of Marcel Aymé, don’t worry. Neither had I until my son had to read Le Passe Muraille for school. That’s actually how I discovered the story behind this quirky Montmartre sculpture myself.

It only takes a few minutes to stop here, and it’s exactly the kind of place you could easily walk straight past without knowing the story behind it.

#16 Find the Buste de Dalida

Dalida was one of France’s most celebrated singers, with an international career that spanned decades. She lived in Montmartre, and her connection to the neighborhood is still very visible today.

If you visit the Cimetière de Montmartre, you can see her grave, which remains one of the most visited there. You’ll also come across the Bust of Dalida at the lower end of Rue de l’Abreuvoir.

For years, one part of the statue looked noticeably different: Dalida’s chest. So many visitors posed for photos with their hands on her breasts that the bronze became polished and discolored from all the touching.

In 2026, the bust was restored and her chest finally matches the rest of the sculpture again. And while I know posing like this was considered a funny Montmartre photo for years, I think by 2026 we can leave that tradition behind and show her a little more respect.

Hopefully, this time the color stays that way.

#17 Discover the Two Vintage Carousels of Montmartre

You’ve probably seen the carousel at the foot of Sacré-Cœur in photos. Known as the Carrousel Saint Pierre, it sits right below the basilica and has one of the prettiest backdrops of any carousel in Paris.

But there’s actually a second carousel in Montmartre that’s surprisingly easy to miss.

You’ll find it right by Abbesses Métro station, close to Le Mur des Je t’aime. Despite being in such a central spot, it somehow disappears into the busy backdrop of Abbesses, and it’s easy to walk straight past without noticing it.

I particularly like it in the evening when the lights come on and it stands out a little more from everything going on around it.

You don’t need to go out of your way to see either carousel. They’re simply two charming little details to look out for as you make your way through Montmartre.

#18 Take a picture of the Sinking House

I almost hesitate to include this one because it’s a bit silly, but since we’re aiming for a complete guide to Montmartre, here it is.

Right next to Sacré-Cœur, there’s a house that appears to be sinking into the ground. Of course, the house is perfectly fine. The illusion is created by the steep hill and the angle of your camera.

Tilt your camera when taking the photo, and suddenly the house looks as though it’s sliding straight down the hill.

Once you know where it is, it’s a fun little thing to look out for while you’re at Sacré-Cœur, but I certainly wouldn’t make a special trip to Montmartre just to see it.

A little silly? Absolutely.

Will you probably take the photo anyway? Also absolutely.

#19 Find the Hidden Lantern in Autumn

It does sound a little like the “sinking house,” doesn’t it? Another small detail that somehow became a full blown Montmartre attraction.

If you’re visiting Paris in autumn and notice a line of people waiting to take a picture in front of a simple street lantern, congratulations, you’ve found it.

The lamp post is partly covered in ivy that turns deep red and orange in autumn. With the right light, it looks beautifully cinematic and creates exactly the kind of moody Paris scene that does very well on Instagram.

Is it just a lantern? Yes, it is.

Would I queue for ages to take a picture with it? Absolutely not. But if you’re passing by in autumn and there’s no line, it’s a pretty little spot that’s worth looking out for.

#20 Say I Love You at “Le Mur de Je T’aime”

Le Mur des Je t’aime, or the I Love You Wall, is exactly what the name suggests: a tiled wall covered with the words I love you in more than 250 languages.

You’ll find it inside Square Jehan Rictus, just steps from the Abbesses Métro station, so it’s an easy stop if you’re starting your Montmartre visit here.

💡 Important: The area around the I Love You Wall has been closed for works for a while now. You can still see the wall from a distance, but I’m afraid it’s not a great photo opportunity at the moment.

Once the area reopens, it’s a sweet spot for a photo, especially if you’re visiting Paris as a couple. Until then, I wouldn’t make a special detour for it, but if you’re at Abbesses anyway, you can still have a look.

#21 Walk the Stairs at Abbesses Metro Station

I see the Abbesses Metro Station often popping up on lists of things NOT to do in Paris and for a long time, I couldn’t understand why.

Too dark? Too sketchy? Too dirty? Nope. It’s the stairs.

Abbesses is one of the deepest Métro stations in Paris, sitting about 36 meters below ground. If you decide to take the spiral staircase instead of the elevator, you’re in for quite a climb.

I’ve done it, and let me tell you, those stairs feel much longer once you’re halfway up.

The good news is that you absolutely don’t have to walk them. There are elevators, and unless you fancy a workout, I recommend taking one. You might have to wait a little during busy times, but your legs will thank you once you start walking up and down the hills of Montmartre.

Once outside, take a moment to look at the beautiful Art Nouveau Métro entrance before continuing into the neighborhood.

Lamarck Caulaincourt, another Métro station serving Montmartre, is also deep underground, so the same advice applies there.

💡 My Tip: If you see stairs at Abbesses and think, “How bad can it be?” you have been warned.

#22 Look for Space Invaders

➤ Read more here: Space Invader in Paris: A Street Art Hunt

Maybe you’ve never heard of Invader, but I’m almost certain you’ve seen his work somewhere in Paris.

Look closely at walls, street corners, and building façades, and you’ll occasionally spot small mosaics made from colorful tiles. Many resemble the pixelated characters from the old Space Invaders video game, and there are plenty hiding around Montmartre.

You can simply keep an eye out for them as you explore, or turn it into a proper treasure hunt with the Flash Invaders app. When you find one, scan it with the app and collect points.

The best part is that you don’t need to change your Montmartre itinerary to find them. Just start looking as you walk around and suddenly you’ll notice little mosaics you probably would have walked straight past before.

#23 Get Your Own “Old Press” Copy

When you’re wandering around Sacré-Cœur, keep an eye out for Old Press, a vintage-style photographer whose setup looks like it comes straight from another era.

They take your picture in front of Sacré-Cœur and print it onto a newspaper page, giving you a rather unique souvenir from Paris.

When I was in Montmartre with my friend Merryl, we spotted them and decided to get our picture taken. It was fun, the newspaper turned out lovely, and what surprised me most was how quick the whole thing was. It took just seconds.

There’s no fixed price. It’s donation-based, so you simply pay what the experience is worth to you.

💡 My Tip: Old Press isn’t always at Sacré-Cœur, so don’t plan your day around finding them. If you happen to spot them, though, I think it’s a fun little Montmartre souvenir. And if you miss them here, I’ve also seen them around Pont Neuf in central Paris.

Art & Culture in Montmartre

Montmartre’s connection with art is impossible to miss. Some of the most famous artists in the world lived and worked here, but art is still very much part of the neighborhood today.

Beyond the museums, you’ll find portrait painters, street artists, musicians, galleries, and sometimes little performances happening as you walk around.

#24 Visit the beautiful Halle Saint-Pierre

Halle Saint Pierre is worth popping into even if you’re not planning to visit an exhibition. The beautiful old market hall sits just below Sacré-Cœur and is home to exhibition spaces, a bookstore, and a café.

The museum focuses largely on outsider art and art brut, with temporary exhibitions and works from the Max Fourny collection.

But you don’t need to be an art lover to stop by. I particularly like browsing the shop here. They have beautiful postcards, so have a look before you leave.

There’s also a nice café inside, which makes Halle Saint Pierre a good place to stop for a coffee and a little break before tackling more of Montmartre.

💡 My Tip: Even if you don’t have time for the museum, pop inside for a quick browse. It’s right along the usual Montmartre route and doesn’t require a big detour.

➤ Join my friend Kasia on one of her Art tours: more info here

You don’t need to visit a museum to experience the artistic side of Montmartre. You’ll come across artists and musicians simply by walking around the neighborhood.

Place du Tertre is the obvious place to watch painters at work, while the steps around Sacré-Cœur are one of my favorite places to stop and listen to street musicians.

Don’t rush through. If someone is playing and you like the music, sit down for a few minutes and enjoy it. Some of my favorite moments in Montmartre have been exactly that simple.

Want to learn more about Montmartre’s art? My friend Kasia runs art tours in Paris, and if you’d rather explore with someone who can explain the artists, stories, and history behind what you’re seeing, I recommend having a look at her Montmartre tour.

#26 Attend the Fête des Vendanges

➤ Read more here: The Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival: Fête des Vendanges (2026)

If you’re visiting Paris in early October, check whether your dates coincide with the Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre.

The festival celebrates the annual grape harvest from Montmartre’s little vineyard, but in practical terms, it’s several days of eating, drinking, music, parades, and festivities throughout the neighborhood.

I’ve been several times, and for me, the food and wine stands are one of the best parts. Producers come from different regions of France, so you can wander around tasting wine and trying regional specialties as you go.

This is also when you may get the chance to buy a bottle of wine produced from the Montmartre vineyard itself. Last year, I paid €35 for one. You’re not really buying it because it’s the best value bottle of French wine you’ll ever find. Part of the fun is supporting this very local Montmartre tradition, especially since the profits from the wine are donated to local charities.

Officially, it’s all about the grape harvest and Parisian winemaking traditions. Unofficially? It’s an excellent excuse to eat and drink your way through Montmartre.

💡 My Tip: It gets busy, so expect Montmartre to be much more crowded than usual during the festival. But if your Paris trip happens to coincide with it, I would absolutely go.

2026 Dates: 7 to 11 October

#27 Visit the Dalí Museum

Just steps from Place du Tertre, Dalí Paris is dedicated entirely to the surrealist world of Salvador Dalí. The collection includes sculptures, engravings, drawings, and prints, so there’s much more to see than the melting clocks most of us immediately associate with him.

It’s much smaller than the major Paris museums, which is actually part of its appeal. You can get your dose of art without committing several hours of your day to a museum.

That said, I wouldn’t consider the Dalí Museum a must when visiting Montmartre. If you’re not particularly interested in Dalí or surrealism, I’d spend your time exploring the neighborhood instead.

But if you love his work, it’s an easy addition to your Montmartre itinerary. You’re already just steps from Place du Tertre, so you don’t have to make a special trip across Paris to visit.

Who I’d recommend it for: Dalí fans, anyone interested in surrealism, and travelers who want a smaller art museum without taking on the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay.

#28 Attend the Fête de la Coquille in January

Read my complete article: Fête de la Coquille in Montmartre (Food Festival)

If you’re visiting Paris in January, there’s another Montmartre food festival worth knowing about: the Fête de la Coquille Saint Jacques, usually held over two days at Place des Abbesses.

The star of the festival is the scallop, but there’s plenty more to eat. You’ll find Breton specialties such as buttery Kouign Amann, Galette Saucisse, cider, and other products from Brittany.

There’s also traditional Breton music and dancing, with performers in regional costumes parading through the streets around Abbesses.

For me, this is one of those little local events that makes visiting Paris outside the main tourist season more interesting. You’re not coming to admire another monument. You’re standing around Place des Abbesses eating scallops, drinking Breton cider, and watching traditional dancers in the middle of Montmartre.

💡 My Tip: Come hungry. The food is the main reason I’d go, and I wouldn’t eat lunch beforehand.

#29 Look for the Filming Locations from Amélie

If you love films about Paris and Amélie in particular, keep an eye out for a few familiar places while exploring Montmartre.

The most famous is Café des 2 Moulins on Rue Lepic, where Amélie worked as a waitress in the film. You can still stop here for a coffee or crème brûlée, or simply have a quick look as you walk along Rue Lepic.

Not far away, you’ll find the former Épicerie Collignon on Rue des Trois Frères, the grocery store from the film.

Neither requires a special detour, which is why I think they’re fun to look out for. If you’re an Amélie fan, you’ll recognize them immediately. If you’ve never seen the film, I wouldn’t specifically seek them out and would simply enjoy Montmartre instead.

💡 My Tip: Watch Amélie before your trip to Paris if you haven’t seen it yet. You’ll recognize quite a few corners of Montmartre when you get here.

#30 See a Show at the Lapin Agile

The Cabaret Au Lapin Agile has been part of Montmartre since the 19th century. In its early days, it had names such as the Rendez Vous des Voleurs and later the Cabaret des Assassins. It does give you an idea of what a much rougher place Montmartre once was, doesn’t it?

But my favorite bit of its history is how the Lapin Agile got its name.

Artist André Gill painted a sign for the cabaret showing a rabbit jumping out of a cooking pot. People began referring to the place as Le Lapin à Gill, meaning Gill’s rabbit. Over time, Lapin à Gill turned into Lapin Agile, or “the agile rabbit.”

The cabaret later became a meeting place for artists, writers, and musicians, including some of the big names associated with Montmartre’s artistic past.

And it’s still a working cabaret today. The experience is very different from the big production you’ll get at the Moulin Rouge. The Lapin Agile is smaller and focuses on traditional French songs, poetry, and music.

If the Moulin Rouge sounds too flashy or expensive for you, but you’d still like to experience a Parisian cabaret while in Montmartre, I’d have a look at the Lapin Agile instead.

Where to Eat & Drink in Montmartre

There are plenty of places to eat in Montmartre, but this is also one of the easiest neighborhoods in Paris to end up somewhere very touristy simply because you’re hungry and it’s right in front of you.

I usually prefer heading a few streets away from Place du Tertre for better food and prices. These are some of the places in Montmartre I’ve tried and would recommend, whether you’re looking for a proper French meal, crêpes, ice cream, or simply somewhere to stop for coffee.

#31 Have Lunch in Bouillon Pigalle

Address: 22 Bd de Clichy, 75018 Paris

If you want to try classic French dishes without spending a fortune, Bouillon Pigalle is one of my favorite options around Montmartre.

One big advantage is that you can book a table in advance. I highly recommend doing that because the queues at popular bouillons can get very long, and I’d much rather have a reservation than spend part of my afternoon waiting outside.

The food is simple, traditional, and very reasonably priced. Think onion soup, escargots, boeuf bourguignon, and other French classics.

The last time I ate here, we paid less than €50 for two people for a full meal, including wine and coffee. For Paris, I think that’s excellent value.

I’ve also always found the service friendly and efficient, even when the restaurant is packed.

💡 My Tip: Reserve a table if you can. One of the biggest advantages of Bouillon Pigalle is getting the classic bouillon experience without necessarily having to stand in a long queue first.

#32 Eat at La Maison Rose

Address: 2 Rue de l’Abreuvoir, 75018 Paris

I’ll admit, I hesitated before booking a table at La Maison Rose. With a façade this famous, I half expected a touristy restaurant with an overpriced and forgettable meal.

But it turned out to be quite the opposite.

My friend and I shared a vegan mezze to start, and for my main, I chose the plat du jour: chicken with a honey and lemon sauce. Both were delicious, and the service was warm and attentive.

Of course, part of the experience is the setting. You’re having lunch at one of the most recognizable little pink houses in Montmartre, right on Rue de l’Abreuvoir.

For the quality of the food and the location, I thought it was very well priced.

Would I eat here again? Yes. La Maison Rose may be one of the most photographed places in Montmartre, but thankfully, it’s more than just a pretty façade.

#33 Comptoir Breizh

Address: 9 Rue des Abbesses, 75018 Paris

If you’re after something more casual, with reasonable prices and no reservation stress, Comptoir Breizh is a reliable choice.

Full disclosure: the restaurant is owned by an extended member of my family, so I’m obviously not completely unbiased here. We’ve gone there over the years partly to see family, so keep that in mind when you take my recommendation.

That said, I’ve eaten here several times and have always left satisfied. The menu focuses on classic Breton food, especially savory buckwheat galettes and sweet crêpes, ideally with a glass of cider to go with them.

It’s right by Abbesses Métro station and feels more casual than many of the restaurants higher up around the main tourist sights.

And don’t confuse it with the more famous Breizh Café. I’ve tried that one too and, personally, it didn’t wow me.

If you want a simple galette or crêpe around Abbesses without making a big event out of lunch, Comptoir Breizh is a good option.

#34 Get Ice Cream at Bachir

If you fancy something sweet while exploring Montmartre, Bachir is a great place to stop for ice cream.

Bachir is a Lebanese ice cream shop known for its organic ice cream and slightly different flavors.

I tried the Fleur d’Oranger ice cream covered in crushed pistachios and loved it. Then again, I’m a huge pistachio fan, so I’m probably a very easy audience.

The orange blossom flavor is slightly floral, while the generous coating of crushed pistachios adds plenty of crunch. If you like pistachios as much as I do, definitely get yours covered in them.

It’s an easy little sweet stop while you’re walking around Montmartre, especially on a warm day.

#35 Take a Coffee at Le Consulat

Address: 18 Rue Norvins, 75018 Paris

Le Consulat is one of those Montmartre cafés you’ve probably seen in photos before you even arrive. With its red façade, green shutters, and little terrace, it’s hard to walk past without noticing it.

Is it touristy? Very. But that doesn’t mean you have to avoid it.

I particularly like it for people watching. From the terrace, you have a perfect view of everyone making their way up Rue Norvins towards Place du Tertre, so there’s always something going on in front of you.

As I mentioned earlier, I wouldn’t necessarily choose the busiest part of Montmartre for a long lunch or dinner. But for a coffee, I have absolutely no problem sitting somewhere touristy if the location is this good.

💡 My Tip: Grab a table on the terrace if you can. This is one of those places where you’re coming as much for the people watching and the Montmartre atmosphere as you are for the coffee.

#36 La Boîte aux Lettres

Address: 108 Rue Lepic, 75018 Paris

La Boîte aux Lettres is a classic French bistro on a quieter stretch of Rue Lepic, away from the busiest parts of Montmartre.

I went here with my parents and my son, and the food was great. What I particularly liked is that the dishes are original without being weird or overly gastronomic. My parents can be a little skeptical when it comes to food they don’t know, and they both loved their meals.

And if you’re traveling with a fussier eater, there are simpler choices too. My son went for the burger, so there really was something for everyone.

On warm days, the terrace is also a lovely place to sit. It feels much calmer than the busy restaurants and squares around Sacré-Coeur.

💡 My Tip: I’d recommend La Boîte aux Lettres if you want a proper French bistro meal but are traveling with people who have very different tastes. The food is interesting enough for someone who wants to try something different, without being so adventurous that less confident eaters struggle to find something.

#37 Have a Coffee at One of Montmartre’s Many Cafés

There are countless cafés in Montmartre and, honestly, I wouldn’t overthink this one. If you see a lovely terrace in a nice spot, grab a table and order a coffee. It’s just coffee, and if the setting is good and you’re enjoying the view, you can’t go too wrong.

Sometimes the best coffee break in Montmartre is simply the one that comes at the right moment, especially after walking up and down all those hills.

If you’re more serious about your coffee, though, I’d be a little more selective. The Beans on Fire is one of my favorites for properly good coffee, and I also liked Torré Coffee Shop, where I had good coffee and some very nice cakes.

💡 My Tip: Choose your café for the terrace and atmosphere if you just want a break. If the quality of the coffee itself matters to you, head to The Beans on Fire or Torré Coffee Shop.

Where is Montmartre in Paris?

Montmartre is located in the 18th arrondissement, in the northern part of Paris.

On a map, it can look quite far from the center, but Paris is relatively compact. From central Paris, you can usually reach Montmartre in around 20 minutes by Metro.

To give you a better idea of the distance, walking from Montmartre to the Louvre takes roughly 40 minutes. So while Montmartre feels a little removed from central Paris, it really isn’t that far away.

If you’re wondering about the area because you’ve heard mixed things about the 18th arrondissement, I cover that separately in my local guide: Is Montmartre Safe? A Local’s Perspective.

How to Get to Montmartre in Paris

If you’re not nearby, the Metro is the easiest way to get to Montmartre. Which station you choose mostly depends on where you want to start exploring from.

The most convenient stations within Montmartre are:

• Abbesses, Line 12: A great starting point if you want to begin around Rue des Abbesses and the Wall of Love before walking up towards Sacré-Coeur. And remember what I said earlier about those stairs: take the elevator unless you fancy the climb.
• Lamarck Caulaincourt, Line 12: A good choice if you want to start on the quieter side of Montmartre and explore your way towards the main sights. Take the elevator!

Other stations within easy walking distance include:

• Anvers, Line 2: Convenient for approaching Sacré-Coeur from below.
• Blanche and Pigalle, Line 2: Useful if you want to start around the Moulin Rouge and walk up through Montmartre.
• Place de Clichy, Line 13: A good option if you want to start with Montmartre Cemetery.
• Barbès Rochechouart, Lines 2 and 4: Also within walking distance, although for a first visit I generally prefer arriving at one of the stations above. Barbès is quite rough.

Best Time to Visit Montmartre

There really isn’t a bad time of year to visit Montmartre. I come here throughout the year, and every season has something different going for it.

In spring and summer, people picnic on the grass and steps around Sacré-Coeur, and on warm evenings the area stays lively well after sunset.

Autumn is probably one of my favorite times in Montmartre. The fall colors are beautiful, especially around the little vineyard, and October brings the Fête des Vendanges that I mentioned earlier.

In winter, Montmartre has a very different atmosphere. It’s quieter, the Christmas market sets up around Abbesses, and on a crisp sunny day it can be lovely for walking.

But honestly, the time of day makes a bigger difference than the season.

Montmartre is one of the most visited neighborhoods in Paris, and the narrow streets can get extremely busy, especially around Sacré-Coeur and Place du Tertre in the afternoon.

If you want to experience Montmartre with fewer people around, go in the morning or come back much later in the evening.

How to Beat the Crowds in Montmartre

Montmartre gets busy, especially on sunny weekends. If you have a choice, visit on a weekday and come in the morning rather than the afternoon. The difference can be huge.

But I know that’s not always realistic. If you’re in Paris for just a few days and Saturday is your Montmartre day, then Saturday it is.

In that case, come early if you can. You’ll have a much nicer time around places like Rue de l’Abreuvoir and Place du Tertre before the streets fill up and the tour groups arrive.

But even on the busiest of busy days, you can still find calmer streets in Montmartre. Most visitors stick to the same routes around Sacré-Coeur and Place du Tertre, so venture a little farther out, turn into the side streets, and explore. It’s worth it.

And don’t worry too much about avoiding crowds completely. Montmartre is popular for a reason, and some of the liveliness is part of the experience. I’d rather you visit at a busy time than skip the neighborhood because you couldn’t fit in the perfect Tuesday morning.

If crowds are something you generally struggle with when visiting Paris, I created Paris Without The Overwhelm, with my strategies for seeing a calmer side of the city without missing the highlights. See what’s inside →

Or flip it entirely: go late.

I personally love Montmartre late in the evening. After the daytime crowds disappear, the hill quiets down and the neighborhood feels completely different.

One of my favorite bars is just north of Montmartre, and I often take a detour through the neighborhood on my way home. Around midnight, the streets are much calmer, the views over Paris sparkle, and Montmartre feels a little magical.

Of course, as anywhere in Paris, stay aware of your surroundings, especially if you’re walking around late at night. If you’re not comfortable being out late, there’s no reason to force it just to avoid the crowds.

For more specific information about the neighborhood and the areas I recommend being more cautious around, read my Safety Tips for Montmartre.

Map of Montmartre: The Top Sights

With so many places mentioned in this guide, it helps to see where everything actually is.

I’ve pinned all the sights, restaurants, and other places mentioned above on the map below, so you can easily see what’s close together and plan your route through Montmartre.

To save the map, click the small square icon in the upper right corner to open it in Google Maps. From there, you can save it to your account or share it with yourself for your trip.

Is Montmartre Worth Visiting?

Yes, absolutely, especially if it’s your first trip to Paris. But I think the biggest mistake is coming all the way to Montmartre just to see Sacré-Coeur and then heading straight back down the hill.

The basilica is worth seeing, but so much of what I love about Montmartre is in the streets around it. Walk behind Sacré-Coeur, explore around Rue des Abbesses and Rue Lepic, stop somewhere for coffee or lunch, and leave yourself a little time to wander.

You don’t need an entire day either. A few hours is enough to see the main sights and get a good feel for the neighborhood, although it’s very easy to stay longer once you stop for lunch or a glass of wine.

If it’s your first visit, pick a few things from this list that genuinely interest you rather than trying to see all 37. And whatever you do, don’t just see Sacré-Coeur and leave. You’ll have missed my favorite part of Montmartre.

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À bientôt,

Lena

Parisienne since 2006 🇫🇷
Sharing Paris life, French culture, cafés, food & honest travel tips

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