Montmartre
Montmartre is undoubtedly one of the most iconic neighborhoods in Paris. Perched on a hill in the 18th arrondissement, it has retained the soul of a village with timeless charm. Whether you're an art lover, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a picturesque walk, Montmartre is full of hidden treasures waiting to be explored. Here’s our selection of the best things to do in Montmartre for an authentic and memorable experience.
Take in the View from the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur
No visit to Montmartre is complete without climbing the steps to the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur. This Roman-Byzantine masterpiece offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Paris. The interior, equally stunning, is worth visiting for its monumental mosaics. Tip: arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Stroll Through Place du Tertre
Just a few steps from the basilica, Place du Tertre is the beating heart of Montmartre. Lined with cafés and bustling with street artists, it captures the bohemian spirit of the neighborhood. You can have your portrait drawn or simply soak up the lively ambiance of this quintessentially Parisian square.
Wander Through the Picturesque Streets
Montmartre is a true maze of charming streets. Don’t miss Rue de l’Abreuvoir, one of the prettiest streets in Paris, adorned with ivy-covered houses and pastel facades. Nearby, Villa Léandre, a quiet lane with an English village vibe, is also worth discovering. Every corner tells a story.
Visit the Musée de Montmartre
Dive into the artistic heritage of the neighborhood at the Musée de Montmartre. Housed in a former artist’s residence, the museum chronicles the vibrant cultural life of Montmartre through works by Renoir, Toulouse-Lautrec, Utrillo and more. Its hidden garden offers a serene view over Montmartre’s historic vineyard.
Enjoy a Coffee on a Terrace
There’s nothing like a gourmet break to soak in the local atmosphere. Take a seat on the terrace of Le Consulat or La Bonne Franquette, two legendary cafés once frequented by the great painters of the past.
Discover the “I Love You” Wall
For a romantic moment, head to Place des Abbesses and its famous “I Love You Wall”, where the phrase is written in over 300 languages. A must-see for lovers from all over the world.
Getting to Montmartre from Hôtel du Jeu de Paume
Located in the heart of Paris on the Île Saint-Louis, Hôtel du Jeu de Paume offers the perfect base to explore the city. Reaching Montmartre is easy:
-
Take Metro Line 1 from Saint-Paul station (an 8-minute walk from the hotel) to Châtelet,
-
Then switch to Line 4 to Barbès-Rochechouart,
-
Finally, walk or transfer to Line 2 to Anvers, where you can either take the funicular or climb the steps to the Sacré-Cœur.
The total journey takes about 25 to 30 minutes, bringing you directly to the foot of the Montmartre hill. It’s the perfect stress-free getaway from a peaceful location in the heart of historic Paris.