Crowned by the Sacré-Coeur Basilica, historic Montmartre in Paris’ 18th arrondissement is famed for its cobblestone streets, artsy past and present, and central hill. Visitors flock here to imagine what life was like during the Belle Epoque—when artists such as Dalí, Renoir, Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec, and Picasso lived and worked in Montmartre—as well as get their portrait sketched in Place du Tertre.
Montmartre is included in many city sightseeing tours alongside other top attractions, which are great options for time-pressed travelers in Paris. For a more in-depth look at Montmartre, select an experience tailored to your interests, such as a Montmartre food tour or an art-themed walking tour. For nighttime fun, head to a cabaret show at the Moulin Rouge, located down the hill in Pigalle.
Montmartre is one of the most charming and historic districts in Paris, known for its bohemian atmosphere, artistic heritage, and stunning city views. Perched on a hill in the 18th arrondissement, it has long been a magnet for artists, writers, and free spirits.
Highlights of Montmartre
1. The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur
At the highest point in Paris, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Its white domes and Roman-Byzantine architecture make it one of Paris’s most recognizable landmarks. Inside, you’ll find beautiful mosaics, including the famous Christ in Majesty, and you can climb the dome for an even more spectacular view.
2. Place du Tertre
This lively square is the heart of Montmartre’s artistic scene. Lined with cafés and filled with street artists offering portraits and caricatures, Place du Tertre retains the charm of the early 20th century, when artists like Picasso and Modigliani lived and worked in the area.
3. The Artistic Legacy
Montmartre has a rich artistic history. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it was home to artists like Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. You can visit the Musée de Montmartre, which showcases the area’s artistic past and offers a glimpse into the studios of famous painters.
4. The Iconic Windmills and Cabarets
Montmartre was once covered in vineyards and windmills, some of which remain today. The Moulin de la Galette, now a restaurant, inspired Renoir’s famous painting Bal du moulin de la Galette. And of course, Moulin Rouge, the world-famous cabaret, is located at the foot of Montmartre, offering extravagant shows and a glimpse into Parisian nightlife.
5. The Hidden Vineyards
One of Montmartre’s best-kept secrets is the Clos Montmartre, a small vineyard that still produces wine. It’s a reminder of Montmartre’s past as a rural village before becoming part of Paris in 1860.
6. Secret Alleys and Staircases
Montmartre is full of picturesque cobbled streets and staircases that lead to hidden corners. The Rue de l’Abreuvoir is one of the most beautiful streets, home to the charming Maison Rose, a pink-hued café that has been a favorite of artists for decades.
7. The Wall of Love
A romantic stop in Montmartre, the “I Love You” Wall (Le Mur des Je t’aime) in Square Jehan-Rictus is a blue-tiled wall inscribed with “I love you” in over 250 languages.
Why visit Montmartre?
Montmartre offers a unique blend of history, art, and village-like charm, making it one of the most atmospheric areas in Paris. Whether you’re wandering its narrow streets, enjoying a coffee at a local café, or admiring the view from Sacré-Cœur, it’s a place that captures the soul of the city.
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