12 Things to Do in the Montmartre Neighborhood

Visiting this neighbourhood is one of the best things you can do on your trip to Paris. Montmartre has retained its traditional charm since the 19th century, making it authentic and unique. The cradle of Parisian art exudes life and joy in every corner.

It is not a large neighbourhood, but it has many activities and iconic sites that you can visit in a single day. In this article, you will discover everything you need to see and visit to get to know Montmartre in great detail.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Montmartre. The most famous Parisian cabaret was built in 1889 and remains a symbol of Parisian nightlife today. It is located in the Red Light District (Pigalle) and I recommend spending an evening enjoying the incredible Moulin Rouge show, which lasts about two hours, with music, lights and the popular Doriss Girls.

You can attend just the show or book dinner and a show. It is advisable to book in advance, as tickets sell out quickly. If it's not within your budget, you can also book a tour of the Moulin Rouge, Sacré-Cœur and Montmartre for €16 to learn about its history from the outside.

• Opening hours: 6.45 p.m. and 8.45 p.m. depending on the season.
• Price: from approximately £170 for the show only.

Although the name may not ring a bell, this is the famous café from the film Amélie, where the main character worked. Today, it is an almost obligatory stop for those visiting Montmartre. It is located between Rue Lepic and Rue Cauchois, right between the two most iconic windmills: the Moulin Rouge and the Moulin de la Galette.

Its red façade and interior filled with photos and references to the film will make you recognise the place immediately. It is ideal for having a drink or trying traditional bistro dishes. It is also one of the stops included if you decide to book a tour of Montmartre.

• Opening hours: Monday to Thursday, 7am to 2pm; Friday to Sunday, 9am to 2pm.

The Sacré Coeur Basilica is one of the most representative monuments in Paris. Located at the top of Montmartre, at an altitude of 130 metres, it offers unique panoramic views of the city. Built in the 19th century, it is dedicated to the heart of Christ and is a place of worship and contemplation.

You can get there by walking up the steps from Square Louise Michel or by taking the funicular from Place Saint Pierre. In addition to visiting the church, you can climb up to the dome or enter the crypt. To make the most of your visit, it is best to book a tour of Montmartre and the Sacré-Coeur.

• Price: around €7 (dome or crypt).
• Opening hours: every day from 6 a.m. to 10.30 p.m.

The Montmartre Museum is a must-see for learning about the artistic history of the neighbourhood. It is surrounded by the charming Renoir gardens and the Clos Montmartre vineyards, the only ones remaining in Paris. Founded in 1960 and reopened in 2011, it occupies the Hotel Dêmarne and the Bel Air House, former residences of artists such as Renoir.

At the Musée de Montmartre, you will find paintings, drawings and posters by artists such as Lautrec, Modigliani and Utrillo, as well as rooms dedicated to the can-can and temporary exhibitions showcasing the cultural life of the neighbourhood.

• Opening hours: every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (until 7 p.m. in high season).
• Price: from €15

The Bateau-Lavoir, on Place Emile Goudeau, was the home and meeting place of great artists such as Picasso, Modigliani and Van Dongen. Although only its façade can be seen, it remains a symbol of modern art in Montmartre.

You can visit it on your own or include it in a tour of Montmartre and the Sacré-Cœur. After the fire that destroyed it, it was rebuilt and is now considered a historical monument. If you are passionate about art, it is worth a quick stop.

Place du Tertre, known as the painters' square, is one of the busiest and most charming places in Montmartre. Very close to Sacré-Cœur, it is full of artists who paint portraits on the spot or sell their works.

The square is also surrounded by cafés and crêperies, such as the typical Parisian crêperies, perfect for taking a break and enjoying the atmosphere. It is also an excellent place to buy souvenirs at a good price.

The Church of Saint Pierre is a medieval gem that goes unnoticed in front of the hustle and bustle of the Sacre Coeur. It is one of the oldest in Paris, built in the 12th century and rebuilt after the French Revolution.

Located on Rue du Mont-Cenis, it offers an atmosphere of peace and contemplation and retains beautiful architecture both outside and inside. An ideal stop for history lovers.

• Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 12pm and 3pm to 6pm.

Café Le Consulat is a legendary spot where artists such as Van Gogh, Picasso and Monet used to eat. Located near the Sacré-Cœur, on Rue Norvins, it has retained its appearance and essence since the 19th century.

It is the perfect place to sample traditional French dishes or have a coffee while watching the neighbourhood come to life. Its façade and history make it one of the most photographed cafés in Paris.

The Mur des Je t'aime is one of the most romantic spots in Montmartre. Located in the Place des Abbesses, this 40 m² mural displays 311 "I love you" messages in 250 languages, written on more than 600 tiles.

A stroll through the park where it is located will allow you to search for your language and enjoy the peaceful and loving atmosphere of the place.

• Price: free.
• Opening hours: free, all day.

The Dalí Museum houses a permanent exhibition with more than 300 works by the genius of surrealism. You can see sculptures, illustrations and limited edition pieces that showcase his talent and symbolic universe. It is located at 11 Rue Poulbot, in the heart of the neighbourhood.

It also offers family workshops and exhibitions on the different facets of the artist. A must-see for lovers of contemporary art.

• Opening hours: every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Price: €13 for adults.

The Petit Train de Montmartre is a fun way to explore the neighbourhood on a guided tour full of history and interesting facts. The tour departs from Place Blanche or Place du Tertre, with 15- and 30-minute routes, and allows you to hop on and off freely to continue exploring at your own pace.

During the tour, you will see places such as the Moulin Rouge, the Sacré-Cœur, the Montmartre Museum and the Saint Vincent Cemetery.

• Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in summer; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in winter.
• Price: €6 per person.

If you want to enjoy the art and flavours of Montmartre, a gastronomic tour is the best option. For 3 or 4 hours, a guide will take you to local wine cellars and restaurants while telling you about the history of the neighbourhood and offering tastings. Check out the information on tours in Montmartre.