What to do in Montmartre?
Discover the artistic and bohemian soul of Paris
Montmartre occupies a truly special place in the heart of Paris and in the imagination of travelers from all over the world. Rising above the city on its iconic hill, in the north of the City of Paris, this historic district of the 18th arrondissement offers a beautiful, picturesque and deeply romantic atmosphere. Often described as a village within the capital, Montmartre charms visitors with its winding rue and street network, cobblestone paths, staircases, hidden gardens, artistic heritage and lively community life.
Whether you plan a short day trip, a relaxed walking tour, a romantic escape for lovers, or a family-friendly stay, there is no shortage of things to do and must-see landmarks in Montmartre. Every corner reveals a new perspective, from lively cafés to quiet squares, offering a balance between vibrant culture and peaceful moments. To visit Montmartre is to take your time, to slow down and enjoy a neighborhood that invites wandering. Visitors naturally choose to walk, pause at a café for coffee or pastries, explore a museum, admire street art, or sit at a restaurant table to enjoy classic French cuisine. Rich in history, art and local traditions, Montmartre continues to fascinate travelers seeking authenticity and charm.
For those wishing to fully immerse themselves in this unique atmosphere, staying close is ideal. Les Jardins de Montmartre hotel offers a comfortable and welcoming base, just a short walk from the main attractions, allowing guests to experience Montmartre at their own rhythm.
Montmartre: a historic hill shaped by legends and artists
Before becoming one of the most famous neighborhoods in Paris, Montmartre was an independent village. Its name comes from the Mont des Martyrs, referring to Saint Denis, who was executed on the hill during the Roman period. Throughout the centuries, Montmartre developed around vineyards, windmills, stone quarries and religious buildings, many of which remain visible today.
During the 19th century, Montmartre became a refuge for artists, drawn by affordable housing, freedom of expression and exceptional light. Painters such as Vincent van Gogh, Auguste Renoir, Maurice Utrillo, Suzanne Valadon and Pablo Picasso lived and worked here, shaping the artistic identity of the neighborhood. Their presence transformed Montmartre into a cultural center whose influence spread far beyond Paris.
The Sacré-Cœur basilica: a landmark above the city
A visit to Montmartre would not be complete without reaching the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur (Basilica of the Sacred Heart), one of the most recognizable landmarks in Paris. Built from white stone, the Sacré Cœur Basilica crowns the summit of the hill and offers a nice view of the city, stretching across rooftops toward the Eiffel Tower.
Visitors can climb the famous steps, best enjoyed with comfortable walking shoes or take the Montmartre funicular, accessible from Rue Foyatier, making the ascent easier for families and travelers with children. At sunset, the panorama becomes truly stunning, making this one of the most iconic and romantic viewpoints in Paris. Below, Square Louise Michel provides a peaceful green space to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Just beside it stands Saint-Pierre de Montmartre Church, one of the oldest churches in Paris, dating back to the 12th century, offering a quieter and more intimate atmosphere that contrasts with the grandeur of the basilica
Place du Tertre and the artistic heart of Montmartre
Just a few steps from the basilica, Place du Tertre embodies the artistic heart of Montmartre. This lively square is lined with a list of portrait artists, painters and artist shops who continue a tradition that dates back more than a century. Walking through the square feels like stepping into an open-air studio where creativity is alive.
Surrounding cafés and restaurants offer inviting terraces, ideal for lunch, dinner or a relaxed afternoon drink. The atmosphere here remains charming and authentic, making Place du Tertre one of the most photographed and loved spots in Montmartre.
Museums and cultural highlights
Montmartre’s artistic legacy is preserved in several museums and cultural spaces. The Musée de Montmartre, located on Rue Cortot, invites tourists to visit the museum and discover the neighborhood’s past through paintings, drawings and historical collections. Famous artists such as Renoir once lived here, and the museum garden overlooks the Clos Montmartre vineyard, one of the city’s hidden treasures.
Nearby, the legendary Bateau-Lavoir served as a creative studio for Picasso and other major figures of modern art. Contemporary art lovers will also enjoy Espace Dalí, dedicated to Salvador Dalí, featuring sculptures, paintings and installations that highlight his surreal imagination.
Moulin Rouge, Pigalle and Parisian nightlife
Just a close walk from the hill, Pigalle reveals a more festive side of Montmartre. The world-famous Moulin Rouge, founded in 1889, is inseparable from the French Cancan and Parisian nightlife. Immortalized by Toulouse-Lautrec, this iconic cabaret remains a symbol of Parisian entertainment.
The Pigalle area is also home to numerous theatres, music venues and live performance sights. In the evening, the neighborhood comes alive, offering shows, concerts and cultural events that make Montmartre a vibrant destination both day and night.
Amélie Poulain and the cinematic side of Montmartre
Montmartre gained international popularity through the film Amélie, which presented a poetic and whimsical vision of Paris. Filming locations such as Café des Deux Moulins, Abbesses Metro Station and nearby streets attract visitors eager to rediscover the film’s magical universe. This cinematic connection reinforces Montmartre’s romantic and nostalgic appeal.
Walking through Montmartre: streets, steps and hidden gems
One of the best ways to explore Montmartre is simply to walk. Streets such as Rue Lepic, Rue des Saules and Rue Saint-Vincent reveal charming houses, fountains, staircases and quiet corners.
The Maison Rose, or Pink House, is one of the neighborhood’s most iconic photo spots, while Lapin Agile, one of Paris’s oldest cabarets, continues to host live music and artistic performances. The Wall of Love (Mur des Je t’aime) at Rue des Abbesses is another romantic highlight, displaying the phrase “I love you” in dozens of languages.
Montmartre with family and children
The neighborhood can also be explored through family activities. Children particularly enjoy the Petit Train de Montmartre, which allows them to travel effortlessly through the steep streets while discovering the history of the neighborhood. The squares and numerous public parks offer pleasant relaxation areas for younger visitors.
Treasure hunts in Montmartre, puzzles, painting workshops, and guided tours tailored for children allow them to learn about the neighborhood's history in a fun way. This makes visiting Montmartre with your family a friendly and enriching experience.
Where to eat in Montmartre: restaurants, cafés, and local meals
Dining is an essential part of the Montmartre experience. From a cozy café to a bar and traditional French restaurants, the neighborhood offers a wide range of delicious options serving classic French dishes and local specialties.
Whether enjoying lunch, brunch or dinner, eating in Montmartre allows visitors to experience the Parisian lifestyle in a relaxed and authentic setting.
Staying in Montmartre: experiencing the neighborhood to the fullest
Staying overnight in Montmartre allows travelers to experience the neighborhood early in the morning or late at night, when the crowds disappear. Les Jardins de Montmartre hotel, located at 131 Rue Ordener, offers a charming and comfortable hotel experience just minutes from the hill.
Les Jardins de Montmartre, a charming hotel in the heart of the neighborhood
The hotel features 38 air-conditioned rooms with modern private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi and soundproofing for a perfect night’s sleep. Room categories range from Single to Deluxe, making the property suitable for solo travelers, couples or families. The establishment offers a warm and contemporary atmosphere with an interior that blends in with the spirit of the neighborhood.
The 24-hour reception provides tips, personalized advice, walking itinerary and recommendations, while a connected concierge service allows guests to book museum tickets, cruises, shows and guided tours easily. The hotel’s breakfast features local food and a thoughtfully prepared menu, offering guests an authentic and delicious way to begin their day in Montmartre.
The “Esprit Montmartre” package, a turnkey experience
For those who want to experience the beauty of Montmartre differently, the hotel offers the Esprit Montmartre Package, designed as a complete immersion in the world of the neighborhood. This package allows you to discover Montmartre without constraints, fully enjoying its atmosphere, history, and iconic sites.
This exclusive offer includes:
- a comfortable room in the heart of the Les Jardins de Montmartre hotel,
- two gourmet buffet breakfasts,
- two tickets for a guided tour of Montmartre on the Petit Train,
- two welcome drinks, late check-out until 2 p.m. to prolong the experience.
For those who wish to experience the magic of Parisian monuments from the water, the Parisian Cruise Package offers an unforgettable experience, combining a memorable stay at Les Jardins de Montmartre with a Bateau-Mouche boat trip along the Seine, with views of the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, to discover Paris from a unique and poetic perspective.
Book my stay in Montmartre for a unique Parisian experience
Montmartre is not simply a place to visit, but an experience to live. From the Sacré Coeur Basilica to hidden streets, artists’ studios, lively cafés and breathtaking views, Montmartre offers one of the richest cultural journeys in Paris with a lot of must see landmarks. In conclusion, Staying in Montmartre allows guests to enjoy an absolutely lovely setting, both vibrant and peaceful, ideal for a memorable Parisian escape.
Staying at Les Jardins de Montmartre allows you to prolong this experience in a comfortable and authentic address with an excellent value for money in the heart of the 18th arrondissement of Paris. Whether for a romantic stroll, a family outing, or a cultural discovery, Montmartre remains one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Paris, to be explored without moderation.
