Things to do in the Montmartre district
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- Things to do in the Montmartre district
It features in several of Van Gogh’s paintings and it was here that the French Cancan was performed on stage for the very first time. Indeed, behind the sublime picture-postcard views, Montmartre bears witness to an avant-garde, frivolous past. The cabarets and cafés of this ancient village were the lively haunts of many a 19th-century artist, from Renoir to Toulouse-Lautrec. Nowadays, the streets of Montmartre still buzz with that artistic fervour. The impressionists have yielded to the portrait artists on Place du Tertre and the red windmill sails of the Moulin Rouge continue to light up the sky of Paris.
Now it’s your turn to experience the magic of Montmartre. Take to the numerous, steep narrow streets to explore the world of Amélie Poulain from a different angle. Dizzying views over the capital, Belle Époque artistic features, a quiet lunch in a private mansion and much more… Get ready for a fabulous experience in the Paris Region.
The basilica that makes Montmartre so sublime
From the top of Montmartre hill, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica watches over Paris. Standing 83 metres tall, it offers a stunning view of the capital… if you don’t mind climbing its 300 steps up to the dome. The Basilica appears dazzling white in the daytime, but looks quite different after dark. Enjoy a moonlight stroll to see its bewitching, lit-up façade.
Montmartre, home of the art of French Cancan
At the foot of Montmartre hill, things are hotting up at the Moulin Rouge… Head for Pigalle to enjoy one of the city’s most scandalously glamourous and iconic experiences. The frills and thrills of the French Cancan have delighted the entire world since 1889. So dress up to the nines and prepare to enjoy this magical extravaganza of Paris.
Art and history tours in the heart of Montmartre
Before taking over the museums, art’s first home was among the narrow streets of Montmartre, at places such as the Bateau-Lavoir building. It was a refuge for penniless artists in the early 20th century, and Picasso, Apollinaire, Modigliani and other illustrious figures also took up residence here. Even today, a number of other sites continue to reflect the bohemian spirit of Montmartre. From historic art studios to modern facilities, come and experience art at its purest.
Montmartre through the eyes of artists
Near the Sacré-Cœur stands the Montmartre Museum, the loyal witness to a century past. Built during the 17th century, this beautiful building houses the studios of Renoir, Suzanne Valadon and Raoul Dufy. Nowadays, the museum tells the story of the district based on their works and multiple archive documents. To get the full picture, take a break at the Café Renoir before walking through the Clos Montmartre vineyard, just a stone’s throw from the museum.
La Halle Saint Pierre, or the art of anti-conformism
The Halle Saint Pierre, adjacent to the gardens on Montmartre hill, has lived many lives. Built in 1868 by one of Baltard’s students, it was a market hall before being converted into a school and, later, a municipal garage. Today, modern art reigns supreme inside this structure of glass and steel. With its exhibitions, auditorium, bookshop and café, this is a great place to expand your knowledge… as well as your bookcase.
Surrealism galore at the Dalí Museum Paris
Although Dalí lived in this district for only a few years, his works remain very much present in Montmartre. Once you’ve had your portrait done on Place du Tertre, go and visit one of the largest private collections devoted to this artist from Catalonia. Discover 300 or so of his sculptures, paintings and sketches, and try to solve the mystery behind this leading light in surrealist art.
The Montmartre district is an open-air museum
Museums aside, the poetic charm of Montmartre oozes from every cobblestone street, cemetery pathway and tree-lined square. Succumb to the charm of the artworks on Place du Tertre or the musical performances of street artists, to embrace Montmartre in all its beauty as you explore.
A walk to the Sacré-Cœur in the shade of ancient trees
Just down from the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, you’ll find Square Louise Michel where you can enjoy a breather away from the crowds of the Montmartre district. The traditional merry-go-round and greenery make this the perfect place for families to take a break. After climbing the 222 steps from the square to the top of the hill, you’ll be rewarded with a fabulous view… Unless of course you prefer the lazy but pleasant option of taking the funicular instead.
Artists rubbing shoulders at Montmartre cemetery
Built on the former gypsum quarries, this necropolis located behind the hill shelters more than 20,000 tombs. Among them are those of some famous Parisian artists, including the likes of Stendhal, Truffaut and La Goulue, the French Cancan queen. During your poetic stroll, stop to contemplate the tomb of Dalida. Like a madonna, she brightens up the cemetery pathways with her golden rays.
Declarations of love on the walls of Montmartre
Want to declare your undying love for your partner or the city of Paris? Head for the Wall of Love on Place des Abbesses. This mural comprised of 612 tiles displays messages in over 300 languages. A wall full of sweet nothings collected by Frédéric Baron and assembled by artist Clair Kito.
Around Montmartre in 14 stops
Museum, park, square… Don’t know what to visit next? Then let the little train guide you through the history of Montmartre. The ride takes 40 minutes or so and takes you to see all the district’s most beautiful sights. Board at Place Blanche, opposite the Moulin Rouge, or at Place du Tertre if you’re starting at the top of the hill.
Appreciate Montmartre through its restaurants
Montmartre nurtures the mind and soul… as well as your stomach. From busy restaurants to secret terraces, the district cultivates the art of fine dining. You’ll be spoilt for choice between its historic establishments and trendy eateries.
Slices of life in the Montmartre of old
In a nutshell, “Loving, eating, drinking and singing” are your watchwords at La Bonne Franquette. Established in 1925 in a historic 16th-century building, this place of old-fashioned charm is popular among wine enthusiasts and meat lovers alike. Historically, it was the haunt of many impressionist painters who came to sip at absinthe during their breaks. If you need proof, go and see the famous Van Gogh painting entitled Guinguette, now exhibited at the Orsay Museum.
Vestige from the rural era of Montmartre
A windmill has stood up to the test of time here in the heart of Paris. Between its village dances and open-air guinguette, this legendary restaurant was for a long time the haunt of everyone who was in anyone in Paris. Its charm, still intact is loyally portrayed in Renoir’s painting, Dance at le Moulin de la Galette. Relive the spirit of yesteryear in its inner garden, as bucolic as it gets.
Culinary experience in a private mansion
Want to get away from the city noise right here in Montmartre? It can be done. The discreet Passage de la Sorcière leads you to the Hôtel Particulier, one of the city’s best kept secrets. The vast, elegant garden of this historic mansion invites you to take a pleasant break. Its restaurant, Le Grand Salon, is perfect for anything from Sunday brunch to a bucolic afternoon tea or evening cocktails.
Going out for drinks in the heart of the vibrant Montmartre district
There’s nothing nicer than sipping at drinks on the terrace to soak up the atmosphere of Montmartre and the Parisian sunshine. But when it’s cool and cloudy, the district also has plenty of typical cafés where you can snuggle up with a delicious hot chocolate. In a rooftop bar or on a street corner, enjoy a drink at the summit of the City of Light.
Terrass’’ Hotel Rooftop Bar
If Montmartre hill isn’t high enough for you, head for the 7th floor of the Terrass” Hotel to feast your eyes on the view. In summer, the terrace invites you to get comfy in one of its soft armchairs to enjoy a Spritz with your head in the clouds.
La Machine du Moulin Rouge
The Machine du Moulin Rouge owes its success to the reputation of its famous neighbour, but also to its lively and merry programme. 3 venues, 3 settings: the Central for the latest in live music, the Chaufferie in the basement to hotten things up on the dance floor, and the [Bar à Bulles] for a drink between concert performances.
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