When people think of Paris, they often envision the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, or maybe a leisurely stroll along the Seine. But for me, Paris is synonymous with Montmartre. Until quite recently, this was the neighborhood I lived in in Paris, and it is still where I spend much of my time. Montmartre, with its cobbled streets, vibrant arts scene, and charming cafés, offers a unique blend of history and modern-day allure.
This isn’t just a tourist spot; it’s a real neighborhood with a lot to offer. From hidden gardens to bustling markets, Montmartre captures your heart and makes you feel right at home. Join me as I take you on a journey through the best things to do in Montmartre, my little slice of Parisian paradise.
Here’s an overview:
Insider Tip: Where to Find the Best Food Experience in Montmarte
Whether you’re a foodie or not, you need to eat. So might as well make it something delicious and learn something about the food in the process, right?
If you want to have the best food experience in Montmarte, we highly recommend joining one of the below tours:
➡ Chef PJ’s Montmartre Food Tour: Find the best Parisian treats in the neighborhood followed by a homemade three-course meal paired with French wines and the best pastries and chocolates – BOOK NOW!
➡ A Montmartre Picnic Adventure: This adventure starts with a funicular ride up the hill, followed by a tour led by Chef PJ’s family that delves into the history and soul of Montmartre. The picnic features a hand-curated gourmet spread of local specialties, including pastries, quiches, and wines, enjoyed in the scenic setting of Chef PJ’s restaurant with panoramic views. – BOOK NOW!
Best Things To Do in Montmartre – A Local’s Guide
Having spent a lot of time in Montmarte, I know of a few good spots to visit and things to do in the neighborhood. Here are my favorite things to do in Montmarte.
Related read: A Guide to the Arrondissements of Paris
Enjoy the Views
Look at the views, not only from the top of Sacre Cour but also from the restaurants and hotels.
Hills (with staircases) are everywhere, and the views are everywhere. Stop and look around at the most charming neighborhood in Paris.
While you are at it, stop and smell the roses. You will find rose bushes in many places. They exist to be beautiful, much like Paris itself.
Beware of Pickpockets
WARNING: Because of the many tourists, there are many scams. Ignore anyone with a petition, keep your purse zipped and closed, keep your wallet in the front of your trousers, and keep no cell phones in the back pocket.
Crime is not violent, but you may pay less attention to your surroundings while admiring the paintings or the view.
Be aware. In 10 years, I have had no issues, but it does happen, so be aware.
Check out our guide: Basic and Simple Tips to Avoid Pickpockets in Paris
Visit the Markets
Go to the markets. Both the local businesses and the Street markets.
I love the Goutte d’Or area for authentic food products from West Africa. The neighborhood is much more than the top of the hill; near the City Hall is a neighborhood with Halal butchers and a large Arabic population.
Paris is a melting pot of cultures and foods. The only way to honestly know the area is on foot.
Stop for a coffee or a wine as you like and spend at least one day wandering.
The Vineyard of Paris
Visit Vignes du Clos, a vineyard in the center of Montmartre, is a must-see.
You will be forgiven if you assume it is a relic of Ancient times. The city created the Vineyard in 1933 to stop further development and pay tribute to the vineyards of the past.
The quality of the wine is not the best, but the vineyard is beautiful. It is fenced-in, so you can walk the perimeter and enjoy the views.
The Travel Dudes team visited it on their winter trip to Paris. Watch the video:
[embedded content]
Place du Tertre
Place du Tertre was once the heart of the 1133 Benedictine Montmartre Abbey.
After the revolution, it was opened to the public and became the town square. It has been a gathering place for artists, musicians, and the aforementioned pickpockets for centuries.
Ignore the tacky caricature artists and look for those who produce actual paintings. They are often not expensive and can be a wonderful memory of your time in Paris.
The artists who painted here are Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, Pierre Brissaud, Matisse, André Derai, Suzanne Valadon, Pierre-Auguste, Renoir, Edgar Degas, and Salvador Dalí.
Artist Studios Le Bateau-Lavoir
“Le Bateau-Lavoir” is the nickname for a former factory converted into 20 small artists studios. Picasso lived and worked here starting in 1904.
The interior was destroyed by fire in 1970, so only the facade remains, but it has an interactive window that allows you to know the artists who worked within.
The Cemetery of Montmartre
Visit the Montmartre Cemetery.
Many city cemeteries were closed, and the bones were transferred to the Catacombs. Edgar Degas’s, among other artists’, remains are there.
If you have been to New Orleans, you will see that the cemetery is similar to the ones there in that there are often little houses because of the dampness of the earth. They are called the cities of the dead.
Moreau’s Home
Museum National Gustave Moreau: Moreau’s home has been transformed into this museum, and it is worth a visit to see the incredible interior and thousands of paintings and sketches.
It is a visual feast.
Unlike the Louvre, where tourists line up to see the postage stamp-sized Mona Lisa behind glass, I have never seen this museum crowded.
You can take your time and enjoy the art while imagining life in this treasure of a house.
Go Out for Drinks at the Lounge Au Lapin Agile
Au Lapin Agile 22 Rue des Saules has been continuously used since 1860.
Moulin Rouge is a spectacle for tourists, but this lounge attracts a mix of locals and tourists and is a musical fixture in the neighborhood.
Stop by to reserve a table or make a reservation online. Dine elsewhere; they only serve drinks.
Related read: How to Eat Like a Local in Paris
The Church of St. Pierre de Montmartre
Visit The Church of St. Pierre de Montmartre. I much prefer it to Sacre Cour.
Construction began in 1133, though it is believed that a church has stood on this site since the 3rd century. This is history, and it has a simple but beautiful interior.
It is free to visit.
Montmartre is the neighborhood of the iconoclast, the Parisian Island of Misfit Toys.
A list of 10 would be too conformist for this unique part of the city. I stop at Nine because the tenth is you. You decide in which direction to wander, in which Artisan bakery you must try the Jambon baguette, and in which bar of coffee house to sit or sip.
Whatever you do, no visit to Paris is complete with only a look at the tower. Spend at least one day in the most unique and charming part of the city.
Chef PJ’s Picnic: A Montmartre Picnic
Transform a simple meal into a memorable feast with Chef PJ’s Montmartre Picnic Tour. Join this delightful adventure with a charming ride up the hill on a funicular, followed by a fun tour led by Chef PJ’s family that reveals the rich history and essence of Montmartre.
Treat yourself to a delicious picnic spread of local delights handpicked by Chef PJ, including mouthwatering pastries, savory quiches, and exquisite wines, all enjoyed in the picturesque setting of Chef PJ’s restaurant with stunning panoramic views. This tour is ideal for those seeking a unique combination of culinary excellence and cultural immersion, offering a refreshing alternative to typical tourist activities.
Price: €109 each
Starts at 10:30 or 13:30
Duration: 3.5 hours
Unveil the Soul of Paris – Chef PJ’s Montmartre Food Tour
Experience the enchanting allure of Montmartre with Chef PJ, a talented Parisian chef who brings the vibrant culture and unique flavors of his city to life. Join this tour for an insider’s peek into the local food scene, led by a chef with deep roots and extensive experience in Paris’s dynamic district. Start off with a classic “café au lait” and freshly baked croissant at a charming café, just like a true Parisian.
Upon arrival at Chef PJ’s restaurant, prepare for a homemade three-course meal paired with carefully selected French wines – Rosé, White, and Red – and wrap it up with a discussion on the finest pastries and chocolates in town, all while sipping on a glass of “Pet-Nat.”
Embark on a personal journey through Montmartre’s hidden treasures, sampling secret recipes and hearing captivating stories along the way. With Chef PJ’s outstanding reputation from previous food tours, you’re guaranteed a memorable and highly acclaimed experience.
Price: €129 each
Starts at 11:00 at Blanche Subway Station.
Duration: 5 hours.
Live Guide: English.
Unfit for vegans.
