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what to do in montmartre

What to do in Montmartre

Montmartre is best for a slow walk, classic Paris views, and a mix of art, history, and cafés. The simplest way to enjoy it is to start at the hill and wander downhill through the neighborhood’s most iconic spots.

Quick Scoop

  • Visit Sacré-Cœur for one of the best viewpoints in Paris.
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  • Stroll Place du Tertre and watch artists sketch and paint in the square.
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  • Ride the Montmartre funicular if you want to skip some of the steep climb.
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  • Stop by the Moulin Rouge for an iconic Belle Époque photo and, if you like, a show.
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  • Explore the Musée de Montmartre for the area’s artistic history.
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  • Walk to quieter corners like the vineyard at Clos de Montmartre and the neighborhood’s old streets.
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Best things to see

  1. Sacré-Cœur Basilica — The white-domed basilica is the main landmark and a must for the panorama over Paris.
    2. [4]
  2. Place du Tertre — This square is famous for portrait artists and lively café terraces.
    3. [1][4]
  3. Montmartre Museum — Good for understanding the neighborhood’s bohemian past and its link to painters.
    4. [4]
  4. Clos de Montmartre — A tiny vineyard that feels like a hidden surprise in the middle of the city.
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  5. Moulin Rouge — One of Paris’s most recognizable cabaret venues, especially for an evening outing.
    6. [4]

Good walking route

Start near the base of the hill, take the funicular or climb up, visit Sacré-Cœur, then wander through Place du Tertre and nearby lanes. From there, continue toward the Musée de Montmartre and look for quieter side streets, cafés, and small photo spots instead of staying only on the busiest squares. This area works especially well as a half-day or full- day self-guided walk.

Easy food stops

Montmartre is full of cafés and casual places to pause between sights. A classic move is to sit near Place du Tertre, order a drink or snack, and people-watch while the artists work nearby. If you want a more atmospheric break, choose a café on a side street rather than the busiest square.

Evening ideas

At night, Montmartre becomes more about atmosphere than sightseeing. You can book a cabaret at the Moulin Rouge, have a relaxed dinner in the neighborhood, or head to a rooftop bar such as Terrass’ Hotel for a view over the city. If you prefer something quieter, an evening walk around Sacré-Cœur and the surrounding streets can be memorable too.

Best for different travelers

  • First-time visitors: Sacré-Cœur, Place du Tertre, and the funicular.
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  • Art lovers: Musée de Montmartre, artist squares, and the neighborhood’s street scenes.
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  • Couples: Sunset views, café terraces, and a cabaret night.
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  • Slow travelers: A self-guided walk through the back streets and quieter corners.
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Montmartre works best when you do less, not more: one landmark, one viewpoint, one long walk, and one good stop for food or drinks. That usually gives you the most authentic feel of the neighborhood.

TL;DR: Go to Sacré-Cœur, wander Place du Tertre, explore the old streets and Musée de Montmartre, and end with a café stop or Moulin Rouge evening.