Guide du quartier de Montmartre in Paris

Are you about to stay in Paris? Make a stop to visit Montmartre, the incontournable district of the capital!

What other place than Montmartre to discover Paris from its sacred heart? It is one of the many Parisian neighborhoods, forming today a large part of the 18th arrondissement of the capital. Known for its basilica and the view it offers on the city, visiting Montmartre is an obligation. In fact, life is more blossoming, and more joyous, through its steep streets, its famous stairs and its many theatres.

Visiting Montmartre is also plunging into an atmosphere and a bohemian way of life that you will not find anywhere else... Are we there?

The district of Montmartre in a few words

The butte has always been the main element of the Montmartre district, whose history dates back very far. First of all, the name Montmartre comes from the Gallo-Roman era, when a temple dedicated to the god of war, Mars, was in place of the present Saint-Pierre church. Crossing the centuries, the “mount of Mars” became “mount of the Martyrs” then “mount Mart”. The word martre being the translation of the word martyr into old French.

Formerly an independent commune, Montmartre is attached to the capital in the mid-19th century during the Paris Review. This integration is synonymous with renewal for the “Butte-Montmartre”, which then becomes a popular place for many artists of the time. But unfortunately, it will be little by little for the benefit of the rest of the city. However, the Montmartre district does not defuse. There is still a source of inspiration for many people who like to discover it a little more every day.

What to see and what to do in the district of Montmartre in Paris?

Basilica of the Sacred Heart and Square Louise Michel

Clear and unavoidable, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart is the main centre of interest in Montmartre. First of all, because it is very quickly spotted, due to its altitude (130 meters), and then, because it represents the neighborhood to it-seule. Like the Eiffel Tower, it is a symbol of Paris and visiting Montmartre without stopping there is an error. Built in 1874, it overlooks all Paris and is connected to the Square Louise Michel, a large green space, by huge stairs.

The Funicular of Montmartre

The Funicular will allow you to reach the top of the Butte-Montmartre, including the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. Directly accessible on metro lines 2 (Avers stop) and 12 (Abbesses stop), it is an original way to grave the butt. In less than two minutes and for the price of a metro ticket, reach the top and easily reach the basilica.

Pigalle, seductive and sensual

A few steps from the Basilica of the Sacred Heart is Pigalle. In contrast to the Montmartre hill, Pigalle is a very popular area by tourists. His reputation is no longer to be done, and you will realize it by yourself.

There are still a few special sex-shops and bars that line the streets, but the idea of a disinhibited Pigalle is false. In the summer, it is a green area, with its many trees planted along the large Boulevard de Clichy.

The parish and church

Visiting Montmartre is not just about the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. Indeed, there are other monuments such as the parish of Saint-Pierre de Montmartre, juxtaposed with basilica. Built in 1134, it is the second oldest still standing parish in all Paris and has a captivating history.

Also discover the church of Saint-Jean de Montmartre, built in 1894, whose facade of red brick is very recognizable.

The cemetery of Montmartre

Also discover the Cemetery of Montmartre, a true haven of peace for walkers, is very frequent because of the inhumed presence of many personalities.

For example, find the grave of Dalida, Michel Galabru, the couple Michel Berger and France Gall, or the tomb of Stendhal or Émile Zola. Many artists are buried there, giving another aspect of visit.

The Wall of I love you

If you want your trip to take a romantic turn, go to the Wall of Love you, Square Jehan-Rictus. Love is translated into almost 300 languages, and all is written on a 40 m2 black tiles wall. This work, imagined by Frédéric Baron and Claire Kito, symbolizes unity and humanity. But above all, she makes the love she should show.

Guided visits to Montmartre

Le Petit Train

Even in Montmartre, the classic and eternal Petit Train made his round, for the happiness of his passengers. The neighborhood is sometimes a bit complicated to explore because of its many stairs, the Petit Train allows you to discover it without effort.

Thought to give you a complete overview of the Montmartre district, this guided tour will delight the young and old.

Walking tour of Montmartre district

We only know a neighbourhood once we’ve been through it long and wide. This is why we offer you a walking tour, ideal for the bohemian and artistic atmosphere of Montmartre. Accompanied by a guide, learn everything there is to learn about the neighbourhood, its history, its artists and its daily life.

Explore Montmartre by investigating

At a time when the escape-games are fashionable, enter the dance and solve a romantic enigma while visiting Montmartre. Just follow the clues that will be revealed to you via a smartphone app. They will guide you through the Montmartre district, offering you the opportunity to discover the secrets.

It is an original way to visit Montmartre while having fun!

Dinner-spectacle Moulin Rouge

Visiting Montmartre without taking the time to linger in one of the most famous cabarets in Paris (and the world) is very bad.

So, you'll have a show dinner at the Moulin Rouge and enjoy your evening in a unique, festive and gastronomic atmosphere! That said, entries are often victims of their success, book them as soon as possible.

Discovering the secret corners

Exit the clusters of tourists, exit the beaten paths and learn to visit Montmartre otherwise.

With a local guide, enter the secret places of the neighborhood, and reveal uncommon but at least charming corners. Then finish your visit in apotheosis: spend a moment at Lapin Agile, another iconic cabaret in Paris.

Gastronomic tour of Montmartre

This guided tour of Montmartre is perfect for those who have the love of the dear and the heritage. For three hours, enjoy the typical local treats: pastries, cheeses, chocolates, wine...

Enjoy the visit to observe the symbolic buildings of Montmartre as the Sacred Heart. Not only will the gourmet guide transport you to the most delicious corners, but it will also show you spectacular places. Don’t wait anymore, go to the appreciable.

The best hotels to stay in the Montmartre district of Paris

Against all expectations, hotels in Paris are not all out of price.

For example, from 60 € per night, stay at Luxelthe Hotel 10 minutes from the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. The decoration is modern and full of charm, sufficiently refined to give the rooms a sober atmosphere. For this price there, you can also opt for the double star establishment, the Hotel Roma Sacré-Coeur At the foot of the butt. The rooms are warm and comfortable. Perfect for a two-way stay.

Finally, for those with sufficient budget, we advise you Terrass Hotel and his four stars. Its panoramic terrace will offer you a second chance to observe Paris in its entirety. The decoration is made with taste in the spirit “ chic artist”.

Where to eat in the Montmartre district?

Visiting Montmartre will make you hungry. But no worries, the neighborhood has many restaurants that are worth the detour.

First, we recommend the very popular Jardin d’en Face . Located on Rue des Trois Frères, it is highly recommended to book if you want to have a table. Otherwise, in the same street, choose the traditional cuisine restaurant La Vache et le Cuisinier , renowned for its authenticity. Finally, for slightly shy scholarships, go to The Good Franquette . Family business for over 45 years, this hotel is very welcoming and pays tribute to French cuisine in a bucolic atmosphere.

To conclude, those who want to immerse themselves in a bicentennial Parisian atmosphere, go to the Good Bock , the oldest restaurant in the neighborhood, built in 1879, and highly appreciated by artists since.

How to get to the Montmartre district in Paris?

To visit the Montmartre district in Paris, you will have the embarrassment of choice. The city of Paris is extremely well served by public transport, so it is very easy to move there.

Metro

By metro, four lines allow you to reach Montmartre:

• 2 (7 stops: Place de Clichy, Blanche, Pigalle, Antwerp, Barbès-Rochechouart, Stalingrad, La Chapelle),
• 4 (Barbès-Rochechouart, Château Rouge, Marcadet-Poissonniers, Simplon, Porte de Clignancourt),
• 12 (7 stops: (Pigalle, Abbesses, Lamarck-Caulaincourt, Jules Joffrin, Marcadet – Poissonniers, Marx Dormoy, Porte de la Chapelle),
• 13 (4 stops : Place de Clichy, La Forche, Guy Môquet, Porte de Saint-Ouen).

Bus

• Lines 30, 31, 54, 67, 74, 80, 85, and 95.
• Special bus : line 40, formerly called Montmartrobus.

You now know how to visit Montmartre, you only have to enjoy the ride!