Paris is a big city and it can get quite overwhelming to plan a trip there. It has several diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and charm. One neighborhood that you should definitely visit when in Paris is Montmartre.
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| walking along Rue de l'Abreuvoir |
Easily my favorite, Montmartre is a picturesque neighborhood that's known for its artistic legacy and captivating ambiance.
Its cobblestone streets lead to the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica, offering panoramic views of the city. The bustling Place du Tertre features street artists who sell artworks and can make a portrait of you on the spot, while the Museum of Montmartre delves into the area's creative history. Not to mention those cute cafés everywhere. This hilltop enclave encapsulates the essence of Parisian charm and artistic inspiration.
How to Get to Montmartre
Montmartre is easily accessible from any arrondissement in the city, and the most convenient way to get there is by Paris Metro. You can take Line 12 and get off at the Abbesses station, which is located near the heart of Montmartre. Alternatively, you can take Line 2 and get off at the Anvers station, which is also close to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
If you prefer to take the bus then that's fine too. Several bus lines serve Montmartre, providing a scenic way to reach the neighborhood. Bus lines 30, 54, and 85 are a few examples that connect to different parts of Montmartre.
Or you can always take a taxi or book a ride through a ride-sharing app. Uber is available in Paris but I prefer Bolt as it has better rates. Still, I'd recommend using public transportation because it's cheaper and it's quite easy to use - just make sure to download Google Maps.
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| see artwork everywhere in Montmartre |
A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Montmartre
There are many things to see at Montmartre and this walking tour takes you to the neighborhood highlights or things that you shouldn't miss out on. Now, take note that there is so much more to see in Montmartre and that the area is filled with so much art. There's always some street art at almost every corner or on some random wall, which I love that I couldn't stop taking photos.
Anyway, for this walking tour guide, let's start at the Abbesses station.
Place des Abbesses
Upon getting off the metro at Abbesses station, you'll find yourself at Place des Abbesses. This charming spot is known for its iconic Art Nouveau metro entrance. Here you can take a moment to appreciate the local cafés and shops in the area.
Le Mur des Je t'aime
Also known as the "Wall of Love", the Le Mur des Je t'aime is located in a small park that's just across the street from Place des Abbesses. This wall features the phrase "I love you" in over 250 languages. The wall is said to be a symbol of love, unity, and the diversity of languages spoken around the world. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists to visit, take photos, and appreciate the message of love and connection it represents.
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| "I love you" in 250 languages |
Place Émile Goudeau
Walk 300 meters to Place Émile Goudeau, which is a small square located named after the French poet, novelist, and founder of the Hydropathes group, Émile Goudeau. The square holds historical significance related to the artistic and literary heritage of Montmartre. This place may not be as well-known as the other landmarks in Montmartre but it's a quaint little spot that adds to the neighborhood's artistic charm.
Le Passe-Muraille and Buste de Dalida
From the square, walk another 300 meters going to Buste de Dalida. Along the way, make sure to catch Le Passe-Muraille, which is a quirky statue of a man emerging from a wall. This was based on a story by French writer, Marcel Aymé.
Buste de Dalida is the bronze bust of the famous French-Italian singer and actress Dalida, who was a beloved and iconic figure in the world of music and entertainment. The bust is a monument dedicated to her memory and it's a meaningful part of Montmartre's cultural landscape.
Rue de l'Abreuvoir
Before you get to the busier parts of Montmartre, you'll walk along the street called Rue de l'Abreuvoir. If you've seen the Netflix series "Emily in Paris" then this street would look really familiar to you.
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| view of the Sacré-Cœur from Rue de l'Abreuvoir |
Rue de l'Abreuvoir is a charming and picturesque street that's known for its artistic ambiance. It's also one of the hidden gems of the area and easily my favorite street in the city.
Place du Tertre
Then head to Place du Tertre, which is the busiest place in the neighborhood. It's also the most popular spot as it's a square that's bustling with activities and is known for its lively atmosphere.
Here you'll find many artists and painters who set up their easels and create artwork in front of visitors. It's a great place to watch artists at work and perhaps even get your portrait painted or sketched. The history of this square dates back centuries, and it was once a gathering place for artists like Picasso and Utrillo. The square's architecture and cobblestone streets contribute to its authentic and charming atmosphere.
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| mural at Place du Tertre |
Surrounding the square are numerous cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee while soaking in the artistic ambiance. Many offer outdoor seating, making it a great spot for people-watching. During your walking tour, you can stop at any of the restaurants here for lunch or to have a quick break and just relax.
Sacré-Cœur Basilica
After lunch, walk to Sacré-Cœur Basilica, which is just 250 meters away from Place du Tertre. Officially known as the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, it's a majestic and iconic religious monument located on the highest point of Montmartre Hill.
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| the stunning facade of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica |
The basilica is renowned for its stunning architectural design, featuring a distinctive white exterior made of travertine stone that contrasts with the surrounding cityscape. The design is a blend of Romano-Byzantine and architectural influences. Make sure to enter the basilica as its interiors are as stunning as the exteriors. Entry to the basilica is free.
You can also enjoy panoramic views of Paris from the steps in front of the basilica. Or you can climb the tower for €6 and see the city from the dome.
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| lovelocks in front of the basilica |
And that's about it. From Sacré-Cœur Basilica, you can take the funicular going down the hill, which is a fun experience on its own. It costs €2.10 to ride the funicular. If you purchased the booklet of metro tickets, then you can use that. You can also use your daily or weekly travel card, such as the Paris Visite and Passe Navigo.
This walking tour won't take up an entire day and if you start early in the morning, you'll be done by around 2pm or 3pm, which leaves you with plenty of time to explore other tourist attractions in Paris..
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