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Montmartre

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Artistic Charm on Paris’s Hill

Montmartre sits on a hill in northern Paris, known for its winding streets and artistic history. The area features the Sacré-Cœur Basilica at its peak, providing wide views of the city. Artists gather in small cafes and open-air markets where painters sell their work directly to visitors. Street performers add lively sounds to daily life. Historic buildings line narrow lanes that climb gently uphill toward cultural landmarks. Montmartre maintains a village feel within Paris while connecting to wider city attractions through public transport.

Neighbourhood in Paris
Climate zone: Mild oceanic

Mild oceanic: Marine-influenced climates with cool summers, mild winters and frequent precipitation year-round, typical of western coasts at mid-latitudes.

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Ticket price: $$$
$Cheap
$$Medium
$$$Expensive, upscale
$$$+Very expensive, luxury
Safety: 7.8
General Safety:8
Accessibility:7
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Tourist English: 4/5
English is widely spoken in Montmartre, especially among shop owners, guides, and service staff, making it easy for visitors to communicate and explore comfortably.
Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Montmartre Summary
Famous for artistic heritage and hilltop views. Wander charming streets, visit artist squares and enjoy cafés overlooking Paris.
France – Quick facts
Power Grid: 230 V, 50 Hz
Plug: Type C , Type E
Type C:
Diagram of a Type C power plug
Type E:
Diagram of a Type E power plug

Read about power adapters
Currency: Euro (EUR)
£1 ≈ €1.19
Cashless info: Rating 5/5
Cashless payments are widely accepted, especially in cities and tourist areas.

Save with a travel credit card
eSIM providers: Best value: Saily
Flexibility: Airalo
Read our in-depth comparison
Tipping: Tipping is optional but appreciated in restaurants (5-10%) and for exceptional service.
Public drinking: Public drinking is allowed in designated areas, but restrictions apply in some cities.
Public smoking: Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces but common in outdoor cafes.
Bastille Day
(July)
Parades and fireworks occur nationwide.
Easter
(March/April)
Cultural celebrations and closures.
Christmas
(December)
Markets and festive events.
Emergency contact: Emergency Numbers: 112 (EU emergency), 15 (Ambulance), 17 (Police), 18 (Fire)
Taxi apps: Uber, Bolt, Heetch
Other: France offers diverse experiences, from art and culture to nature and cuisine. Be cautious in crowded areas.
Best times to travel

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Crowdedness:
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Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.

for Montmartre, France
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High season: May - Sep.
Shoulder season: March - April, Oct., Dec.
Tap on a month for more info Hover over a month for more info
Sacré-Cœur dome and crypt have separate tickets; basilica entry is free
Pickpockets and street scammers are common around Sacré-Cœur and Place du Tertre in peak months
Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre grape harvest festival takes place in early October

Montmartre captures the artistic spirit and history of Paris with its winding streets, historic cafés and panoramic views from the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Once a village outside Paris, it became famous for its vibrant artist community including legends like Picasso and Monet, who made it their home and muse.

The neighborhood offers a lively yet intimate atmosphere, with the bustling Place du Tertre where artists display their work side-by-side with souvenir sellers. Away from the main square, Montmartre’s quieter backstreets reveal charming shops, vintage stores and peaceful spots like Square Willette.

A word of caution: Montmartre can be crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends, making some areas feel a bit commercialized. The steep hills and numerous steps might challenge those with mobility issues, although the funicular offers an easier route to the upper parts.

Despite the crowds, Montmartre’s unique blend of history, art and Parisian charm invites visitors to explore beyond the well-trodden paths and discover the neighborhood’s quieter moments and hidden gems.

Why travel to Montmartre?

🏯Places worth seeing
  • 1 Musée de Montmartre
  • 2 Place du Tertre
  • 3 Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris
  • 4 The Wall of Love
🎡Places for activities
  • 1 Funiculaire de Montmartre
🏞️Natural landmarks
  • 1 Square Louise Michel
🎈Events
  • Montmartre Harvest Festival
  • Jazz Festival

Knowledge before you go

  • Visit early morning to avoid tourist crowds.
  • Wander Rue de l'Abreuvoir and Place du Tertre for authentic artist village atmosphere.
  • Ride funicular up to Sacré-Cœur instead of climbing 222 steep steps.
  • Seek hidden Clos Montmartre vineyard for wine tasting and panoramic Paris skyline views.

How to travel to Montmartre

Montmartre is easily accessible by Paris Metro, with the Abbesses and Anvers stations among the closest stops. From Paris airports, visitors can take trains or buses into the city center then switch to the metro. Walking through the charming streets of Montmartre might require some effort due to its hilly terrain, but a funicular railway is available to ease the climb to the basilica.

Access summary

  • From Charles de Gaulle (CDG): RER B + Metro line 2/4, about 45–70 minutes.
  • From central Paris hotels: Metro to Anvers/Abbesses, then short uphill walk, 10–25 minutes.
  • From London/Brussels: Eurostar to Gare du Nord, then Metro/RER to Montmartre, 25–40 minutes.

Where to stay near Montmartre

Montmartre offers a range of stay options from boutique hotels and charming guesthouses to more upscale accommodations. The area is suited for those who want to immerse themselves in local Parisian life with easy access to major landmarks and vibrant nightlife.

Packing recommendations for Montmartre

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Budget snapshot
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+10 %
Daily expenses in the region are around 10% higher than the average across United States. That means you'll spend more on meals and getting around.
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-3 %
Your exchange rate (GBP to EUR) is 3% better than in recent years. That means travelling now costs around the same compared to the past.

Safety information overview

General safety
8
Montmartre remains relatively safe, with a visible police presence and frequent tourist crowds deterring crime. Petty theft can occur in busy squares; keep valuables secure. Avoid poorly lit alleys after dark, stay aware of pickpockets and follow local advisories for peace of mind.
Accessi­bility
7
Montmartre offers mixed accessibility: many cafés and stairs are steep, but recent renovations added elevators to key attractions like Sacré‑Coeur. Sidewalks can be uneven, yet public transport is well connected, making the neighborhood manageable for most visitors with mobility needs.
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