Guide to Monmartre
Overview
Home of the stunning ivory Basilica of Sacre-Cour, Medieval cobblestone streets and windmills, Monmartre, is one of the most famous and distinctive neighborhoods of Paris. Despite being absorbed into the city in 1860, it was largely untouched during the Haussmannian renovation of Paris. The best way to explore this historic neighborhood is anchoring yourself on the Basilica of Sacre-Coeur and wandering Monmartre’s steep (the neighborhood is home to Butte Monmartre, the highest hill in Paris, standing over 130 meters tall), charming streets.
Map of Key Sites & Favorite Places
A Walk through Monmartre
Monmartre is bounded by Boulevard de Clichy and Boulevard de Rochechouart. Starting at metro Blanche or Anvers, visitors can gradually immerse themselves in Montmartre's ambiance, either by foot or with the assistance of a small white "mini-train" (a “funicular”) for those with mobility issues or families with young children.
Exiting Anvers station reveals a different atmosphere, with neon signs, bustling sidewalks, and a diverse mix of people. While Montmartre itself has been somewhat gentrified, neighboring areas like Barbes-Rochechouart can be rough at night. During the day, however, these areas offer budget-friendly shopping options.
The walk continues through Rue de Steinkerque, known for its clothing stores and fabric shops, before reaching Place St. Pierre, where visitors can access the basilica's gardens and enjoy the view. Nearby attractions include the Montmartre Museum and Marche St. Pierre fabric store.
Ascending the hill to the basilica, visitors can choose between the funicular or climbing the steps for a rewarding view of Paris. Other points of interest include the Church of St. Pierre and the iconic Place du Tertre, once frequented by legendary artists.
Exploring further, visitors can discover historic streets, such as Rue Cortot and Rue des Saules, which showcase Montmartre's rich heritage. Look out for vineyards where grapes are still grown today—the harvest is celebrated in October during a festival called the Fete des Vendanges.
Notable Monuments and Museums
Basilica du Sacre-Couer
The iconic, all white Basilica of Sacre-Couer is a late 19th century Roman Catholic church. Inspired by Romano-Byzantine architecture, the church was designed by Paul Abadie (architect of several other famous churches and Hotel de Ville) and construction commenced in 1876. The basilica is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus Christ and was envisioned as a symbol of divine love and as a tribute to the lives lost in the Franco-Prussian War.
Built on a site with a long history of worship dating back to pagan times, it served as a place where worshippers sought closeness to the gods. The decision to erect the basilica also carried political and cultural weight. It was a vow by the people of Paris to honor the fallen and to atone for the sins of the Commune of Paris, the revolutionary government following France's defeat.
The construction of Sacre-Couer was meticulous, with Abadie selecting a chalky travertine stone that possessed self-cleaning properties. This ensured that the basilica's pristine white exterior remained untouched by the passage of time, with rain acting as a natural cleanser. Inside, the basilica dazzles with intricate mosaics, including a monumental depiction of Christ surrounded by devotees.
Beyond its religious significance, Sacre-Couer offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of Paris. As the second-highest point in the city after the Eiffel Tower, it provides an unparalleled vantage point to watch the lights of Paris illuminate the skyline.
Practical Information: Hours - 6:30 AM - 10:30 PM daily | Free apart from the dome which may be climbed for 7 euro; there is often a long line to enter but it moves quickly | Note that modest dress is required (no specific prohibitions/requirements, though at minimum hats should be removed prior to entry) | More information here.
Place du Terte
The famed Place du Terte is located in the heart of Monmartre. This picturesque square houses restaurants and artists (there are over 100 permanent easels) painting landscapes that are available for purchase as well as caricatures and portraits, which you may sit for and purchase. There is no set schedule for artists in the area, though they generally work from the morning through early evening and occupy a reserved 1 sq m spot.
The Place du Terte is not only a popular spot for tourists, however, but also has a storied history as the site of Monmartre village’s first town hall in 1790. Indeed, Place du Terte was home to the first bistro in Paris, Cafe Chez la mere Catherine, founded in 1793. Legend has it that the word “bistro” itself traces its origins to this very cafe when rushed Cossacks shouted “Bistro!” (Meaning “Quick!” In Russian) during the Russian occupation in 1814.
Musee de la Vie Romantique
The Musée de la Vie Romantique, nestled at the foot of Montmartre hill in Paris' 9th arrondissement, is one of the city's literary museums, alongside the Maison de Balzac and the Maison de Victor Hugo. Housed within an 1830s hôtel particulier, it was once the residence of painter Ary Scheffer, renowned for hosting influential Friday-evening salons frequented by luminaries like George Sand, Frédéric Chopin, and Eugène Delacroix. After a transformation into a museum in 1982 and subsequent renovations, it reopened as the Musée de la Vie Romantique in 1987.
Under the leadership of Daniel Marchesseau and later Jérôme Farigoule, the museum has flourished, expanding its collection and attracting a growing number of visitors. Its exhibits include a wealth of artifacts related to George Sand, such as family portraits, personal belongings, and plaster casts of Chopin's hand and Sand's arm. The second floor boasts Romantic artworks, including paintings by Scheffer and his contemporaries, along with sculptures by renowned artists like Bartholdi and David d'Angers.
Practical Information: Address - 16 Rue Chaptal, 75009 | Hours - 10 AM - 6 PM Tues. - Sun. | Purchase tickets in advance and explore the website here.
Dali Paris
Dalie Pari (f/k/a Espace Dali) is a gallery in France that features a permanent exhibition of approx. 300 of surrealist painter Salvador Dali’s original works, and is primarily focused on sculptures and engravings. Some highlights include his work Space Elephant as well as sculptures and engravings depicting Alice in Wonderland, Don Quixote and religious subjects. Adjacent to Dali Paris are two art galleries worth a stop—one where additional works are exhibited (and some may be purchased!) as well as Galerie Monmartre which exhibits contemporary artwork. Dali Paris was curated by Italian gallerist and art collector, Beniamino Levi, as part of the Dali Universe collection.
Practical Information: Address - 11 Rue Poulbot, 75018 | Hours - 10 AM - 6:30 PM Daily | Purchase tickets and learn more here.
Where to Eat, Drink & Shop in Monmartre
Restaurants
Hardware Societe (10 Rue Lamarck, 75018 | Open for breakfast and lunch daily) - Aussie transplants to Paris opened Hardware Societe serving Australian style breakfast and brunch along with great coffee. Perfect for a light yet delicious meal to break up all the steak frites. No reservations.
L’Esquisse (151 Bis Ru Marcadet, 75018 | Open Tuesday - Saturday for lunch and dinner) - This spot serves hip and creative yet unpretentious takes on classic French food with an excellent wine list. Reservations not required (though recommended and generally fine a few days in advance) and are available online 1 month in advance.
L’Arcane (52 Rue Lamarck, 75018 | Open Tuesday - Saturday for lunch and dinner) - Gourmands flock to one Michelin starred L’Arcane which serves seasonal tasting menus. If the weather is nice, be sure to book a tale on their gorgeous green terrace. Reservations are available each week online here and are strongly recommended.
Mokko (3 Rue Francoeur, 75018 | Open Tuesday - Saturday for dinner) - At the base of Monmarre, the team at Mokko serve up market fresh and modern French dishes with the occasional dash of Asian flair. The head chef, Arthur Hantz, is self-taught and began his career as a dishwasher. Mokko’s website is currently down, but reservations are available 1 month out through ZenChef here.
Bouillon Pigalle (22 Bd de Clichy, 75018 | Open daily with continuous service) - Part of the Bouillon empire started by Bouillon Chartier, all Bouillon restaurants are meant to be affordable and focus on hearty meals and a warm environment. This may not be the best meal of your trip, but it the environment is quite fun and is always open for walk ins from 12 PM - 12 AM (no reservations)—join the queue outside and enjoy!
Le Boite aux Lettres (108 Rue Lepic, 75018 | Open Monday - Saturday for lunch and dinner) - This is our favorite restaurant in Monmartre and offers creative and delicious French mains and salads with a cozy bistro vibe and great wine list. Reservations are available online here several months in advance and recommended but not required.
Bars & Coffee Shops
The Beans on Fire (61 rue des Tois Freres, 75018 | Open daily from 8 AM - 6 PM) - The Beans on Fire is one of our favorite coffee shops in Paris and features a wide range of coffee beans all roasted onsite.
Rooftop Bar at the Terrass Hotel (12-14 Rue Joseph des Maistre, 75018 | Open daily) - The rooftop bar of the Terrass Hotel is an excellent spot to enjoy a drink with a view of Paris. No reservations.
Le Cantine de la Cigale (124 Blvd Marguerite de Rochechouart, 75018 | Open daily) - La Cantine de la Cigale is a chic and modern rock and roll bar and restaurant that often hosts intimate concerts. Graphic artist and DJ Uncle O is the creative mind behind the space’s logo and musical selection, which selects from the best of garage, alternative, punk and lo-fi. No reservations for small groups or drinks only.
Shopping
La Butte Fromagère (32 Rue des Abbesses, 75018 | Open Tuesday - Saturday with a break for lunch) - Artisanal cheese shop offering aged Comté, Mimolette, Saint-Félicien, and goat cheese primarily sourced from small French farms.
La Cave des Abbesses (43 Rue des Abbesses, 75018 | Open Tuesday - Sunday with a break for lunch on weekdays) - La Cave des Abbesses was established in 1986 and is a combination of a wine store, wine bar and pâté purveyor. It is the ideal spot for enjoying an aperotif or picking up a bottle for a picnic.
Rock Bottles (22 Rue du Ruisseau, 75018 | Open daily) - Beloved by French somms, Rock Bottles offers a curated selection of organic and biodynamic wines from well-established and up and coming producers.
Vintage Stores - Monmarte is home to several famous vintage shops including the following:
Numéro Deux - Appointment-only showroom for vintage Levi’s, particularly 501s.
Chinemachine - Both designer and vintage party dresses.
Vintage Inspiration Paris - Small curated selection of designer pieces.