How long does it take to walk around Montmartre?

A thorough self-guided walk usually takes between 2 to 3 hours. This allows time to appreciate the views from the basilica, explore the hidden alleys, and stop for photos at locations like La Maison Rose.

Is Montmartre safe for solo travelers?

Yes, Montmartre is generally safe for solo travelers, though standard city precautions apply. Be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas like the Sacré-Cœur parvis and avoid the less-populated side streets late at night.

Are there still vineyards in Paris?

Yes, the Vigne du Clos Montmartre is the most famous and last remaining active vineyard in central Paris. It is located on the northern slope of the Montmartre hill and hosts a harvest festival every October.

Where did Picasso live in Paris?

Picasso lived and worked in Le Bateau-Lavoir, located at 13 Place Émile Goudeau in Montmartre. It was in this studio that he painted 'Les Demoiselles d'Avignon' and pioneered the Cubist movement.

Is the Montmartre hill difficult to walk?

The walk is considered challenging due to the steep inclines, many flights of stairs, and uneven cobblestone streets. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the Butte.

Can I see the Sacré-Cœur for free?

Access to the main interior of the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur is free for all visitors. However, there is a fee if you wish to climb the dome for a higher vantage point or visit the crypt.

What is the most famous house in Montmartre?

La Maison Rose is often cited as the most famous house due to its iconic pink color and its history as a subject for painter Maurice Utrillo. It is a landmark of the bohemian era.

Who was Dalida and why is there a statue of her?

Dalida was a famous singer and actress who lived in Montmartre for many years. She remains a beloved figure in French culture, and the bronze bust in Place Dalida serves as a memorial to her enduring legacy.

How do I get to the top of Montmartre without climbing stairs?

The Funiculaire de Montmartre, which can be used with a standard metro ticket, carries passengers from near the Anvers metro station to the base of the Sacré-Cœur, bypassing several hundred steps.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

2 hr 30 min

Duration

6

Stops

Challenging

Difficulty

About This Tour

Step away from the crowded boulevards and ascend to the summit of the Butte, where the village-like atmosphere of Montmartre preserves the spirit of the Belle Époque. This self-guided walk invites you to explore the winding alleys and steep staircases that once served as the playground for the world’s most revolutionary artists. While many visitors stick to the main squares, this walking route delves into the quieter, northern slopes where the neighborhood's true bohemian heart beats. Your journey begins at the majestic Basilique du Sacré-Cœur, offering a panoramic view that stretches across the entire city of Paris. From here, you’ll navigate past the last remaining vineyard in the city, a surprising splash of green amidst the urban stone. Discover the legendary cabarets where poets and painters once traded canvases for meals, and stand before the humble buildings where Cubism was born. This neighborhood stroll is more than just a history lesson; it’s an immersion into a landscape that has inspired countless films and masterpieces. You’ll encounter the iconic pink facade of La Maison Rose and the poignant memorial to Dalida, the 'Saint of Montmartre.' As you wander, you’ll understand why this hilltop remains a sanctuary for dreamers. Because of the steep terrain and numerous steps, this route offers a physical challenge, but the reward is an authentic glimpse into a Paris that feels frozen in time. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, discovering Montmartre at your own pace allows you to notice the small details—the ivy-covered walls, the hidden gardens, and the lingering echoes of the artistic revolution that changed the world. This walking tour Paris experience provides the freedom to pause for a coffee at a local bistro or spend extra time capturing the perfect photograph of the cobblestone streets. It is an essential neighborhood stroll for anyone seeking the romantic and rebellious soul of the city.

Highlights

Panoramic city views from the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur
The secret Vigne du Clos Montmartre vineyard
The historic and quirky Cabaret Au Lapin Agile
The iconic pink house of La Maison Rose
Place Dalida and its poignant bronze tribute
Le Bateau-Lavoir, the birthplace of modern Cubism

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour

Tour Stops (6)

1

Basilique du Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre

Perched at the highest point in Paris, the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur is more than just a religious monument; it is a symbol of the city's complex history. Built between 1875 and 1914, its Romano-Byzantine style stands in stark contrast to the Gothic architecture found elsewhere in Paris. The stone used, known as Château-Landon travertine, actually bleaches itself when it rains, keeping the basilica white despite the city's pollution. Inside, you will find one of the world's largest mosaics, but the real draw for many is the view from the parvis. This site was chosen for its height and spiritual significance, long before it became the landmark we see today.

2

Vigne du Clos Montmartre

Tucked away on the northern slope of the hill is the Vigne du Clos Montmartre, the last active vineyard in the city of Paris. Planted in 1933 to prevent real estate developers from building on the site, this small plot produces around 1,500 bottles of wine annually. The vineyard is a reminder of a time when Montmartre was a rural village covered in vines and windmills. Every October, the neighborhood celebrates the Fête des Vendanges, a harvest festival that draws visitors from across the globe. While the wine is known more for its rarity than its flavor, the vineyard remains a cherished piece of the neighborhood's agricultural heritage.

3

Cabaret Au Lapin Agile

This small, brightly painted cottage is the Cabaret Au Lapin Agile, one of the oldest and most legendary bars in Montmartre. In the early 20th century, it was the preferred hangout for starving artists like Picasso, Modigliani, and Utrillo. The name comes from a mural painted by André Gill featuring a rabbit jumping out of a saucepan—'Le Lapin à Gill' eventually became 'Au Lapin Agile.' It was here that a famous prank took place: a donkey named Lolo had a paintbrush tied to its tail to create an abstract painting that was later exhibited at a prestigious art show to mock modern art critics.

4

La Maison Rose

Possibly the most photographed house in Montmartre, La Maison Rose is famous for its pastel pink walls and green shutters. Its fame dates back to the early 1900s when it was owned by Germaine Pichot, a model and friend of many local artists. Maurice Utrillo, a prominent Montmartre painter, immortalized the house in his work 'The Little Pink House.' Today, it remains a functioning restaurant and a perfect example of the charming, village-like architecture that defines this part of Paris. It sits at the corner of Rue de l'Abreuvoir, often cited as the most beautiful street in the city.

5

Place Dalida

This peaceful square is dedicated to Dalida, the legendary Italian-French singer who lived nearby and became a cultural icon. Known for her tragic life and incredible voice, she sold over 170 million records worldwide. The bronze bust of her, created by sculptor Alain Aslan, is a site of pilgrimage for fans. Local legend says that touching the bust brings good luck, which explains the polished appearance of the bronze. The square itself offers a stunning view down the Rue de l'Abreuvoir toward the Sacré-Cœur, capturing the essence of the neighborhood's romantic and melancholic charm.

6

Le Bateau-Lavoir

Though the original building was destroyed by fire in 1970 and subsequently rebuilt, Le Bateau-Lavoir remains a sacred site in art history. In the early 1900s, this former piano factory served as a studio complex for some of the greatest minds of the century. It was here that Pablo Picasso lived and painted his groundbreaking work, 'Les Demoiselles d'Avignon,' marking the birth of Cubism. The name, meaning 'The Laundry Boat,' was coined by poet Max Jacob because the building was drafty, rickety, and resembled the laundry barges on the Seine. Today, it still houses artist studios, continuing the creative legacy of the hilltop.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most authentic route starts at the Sacré-Cœur and winds through the northern slopes past the Clos Montmartre vineyard and Place Dalida. This avoids the heaviest tourist crowds while visiting key artistic landmarks like Le Bateau-Lavoir.