Why Every Paris Trip Needs A Stop In Montmartre
Why Every Paris Trip Needs A Stop In Montmartre | Enjoying En Terrasse Dining
As a self-proclaimed Type A traveler, I’m the one with an icon-coded Google map, a meticulously organized itinerary, and at least three backup restaurants for every meal. So, spending an agenda-free afternoon in Paris felt like I was rebelling against my natural wiring. It was equal parts liberating and mildly terrifying—with a definite emphasis on terrifying.
If you’re craving an afternoon in Paris that feels straight out of a watercolor painting, Montmartre is the place to wander. Tucked on a hilltop, in the 18th arrondissement, this neighborhood still carries the soul of its bohemian past. You can almost feel the creative spirit of painters like Picasso, Van Gogh, and Miro lingering in the air. It’s a pocket of Paris where creativity and romance remain vibrant.
Montmartre sometimes gets a bad rap on social media, often dismissed as too touristy. But that’s simply because it’s one of Paris’ most iconic and beloved neighborhoods. Even with the crowds, Montmartre’s magic hasn’t faded. Venture just a few minutes from the main squares and you’ll find quiet streets, local bakeries, artists’ studios, and the same enchanting spirit that made this area famous long before Instagram.
Today I’m sharing activities that genuinely capture the neighborhood’s charm. And while some may seem like tourist clichés, I promise, it’s worth a stop.
How To Get There
Montmartre is easily accessible by public transport in Paris. A popular route is to take Metro Line 2 to Anvers station, then walk up the hill or ride the funicular from the base of the Sacré-Cœur steps. Alternatively, Metro Line 12 to Abbesses station will drop you right in the heart of Montmartre. If you’re looking to burn off some of those croissants, there are over 200 stairs to reach the city center. But if climbing isn’t your thing, the Montmartre Funicular will take you right below the basilica.
Trust me—the stairs here are a real challenge. Even the most dedicated StairMaster routine won’t prepare you for this climb.
Why Every Paris Trip Needs A Stop In Montmartre |Basilica of Sacré-Cœur
Basilica of Sacré-Cœur
Perched atop Montmartre’s highest hill, the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur greets visitors with gleaming white domes and breathtaking views across the city. Inside, soaring arches and intricate mosaics create a serene, almost dreamlike atmosphere—a peaceful counterpoint to the lively streets below. From the basilica’s steps and terraces, Paris stretches out in every direction. With its sweeping panorama of rooftops, monuments, and winding avenues, visiting Sacré-Cœur is more than checking off a landmark; it’s a chance to pause, soak in the city, and experience Montmartre’s unique perspective on Paris.
The climb to the basilica is challenging, but the reward is one of the most breathtaking views in all of Paris.
Wander Through The Place du Tertre
Forget what social media says—Place du Tertre is absolutely worth a visit. It offers an authentic glimpse into Montmartre’s artistic soul. For generations, the square has attracted painters and portrait artists, their creative energy still palpable as they work outdoors on new masterpieces. One of my favorite moments was wandering through the square, watching art come to life in real time rather than behind museum glass. I even had the chance to meet several artists, learn about their techniques, and discover what inspires their creativity.
I may have gone a bit overboard and brought home not one, not two, but five new pieces of art. Many artists accept credit cards, though some are still cash-only. If you’re caught off guard, there’s an ATM just a short walk away.
If you have time, grab a table at one of the many restaurants around Place du Tertre, order a glass of wine, and soak in the moment. This lively square reminds you that Paris’s true elegance often resides in its quieter corners.
Why Every Paris Trip Needs A Stop In Montmartre | Street Artists In Place du Tertre
Why Every Paris Trip Needs A Stop In Montmartre | Valerii Antonciuc Signing One Of Three Pieces Of Art I Purchased
Why Every Paris Trip Needs A Stop In Montmartre | Street Artists In Place du Tertre
Pay A Visit To The Accordion Cat Man
One of my favorite Montmartre memories was stumbling upon the Accordion Cat Man. As I headed to the ATM, accordion music drifted above the crowd. Looking up from my phone, I saw a charming gentleman with his tuxedo cat serenading passersby. Although I was eager to return to the artist and secure my artwork, I couldn’t help but pause and watch him play. I’m still not sure what amazed me more: his accordion skills or the way his cat remained perfectly perched on his shoulder.
It’s truly a sight worth pausing for!
Why Every Paris Trip Needs A Stop In Montmartre | The Duo You Didn’t Know You Needed
soak up the vibes and grab a bite en terrasse
After waiting in line for the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur and weaving through the crowds in Place du Tertre, it feels only right to grab a seat at one of Montmartre’s many picturesque cafés and settle in for a glass of wine or a light bite. With sidewalk tables perfect for people-watching, that simple carafe of wine or snack becomes less about the food and more about soaking up the atmosphere. In my opinion, there’s no better way to relax in Montmartre than sitting back and letting the neighborhood unfold around you.
Why Every Paris Trip Needs A Stop In Montmartre | One Of Many Picturesque Cafes
Why Every Paris Trip Needs A Stop In Montmartre | One Of Many Picturesque Cafes
Peak Parisian Vibes- After all, it’s more than a ride- it’s a mood
Stopping at the Carrousel de la Place des Abbesses is one of those moments that feels quintessentially Parisian. Watching it spin evokes memories of childhood fairs, simple joys, and times when everything felt slower and lighter. Even if you don’t take a ride, the carousel makes a charming photo spot, especially at golden hour or in the evening when the lights glow. People pass by, children’s laughter fills the air, cameras come out, and for a brief moment, the city’s chaos quiets. It’s a lovely reminder that the magic of Paris often lives in these small pauses.
Why Every Paris Trip Needs A Stop In Montmartre | Carrousel de la Place des Abbesses
Stop at Le Mur des Je t’aime (“I love you wall”)
Tucked away in Jehan Rictus Square, Le Mur des Je t’aime—the “I love you wall”—offers a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle. This art installation features “I love you” written in over 250 languages, serving as a gentle reminder that love is truly universal. Couples, friends, and solo travelers linger here, each connecting with the wall in their own way. It can get crowded, so for a more tranquil visit, I recommend coming early in the morning.
Why Every Paris Trip Needs A Stop In Montmartre | Le Mur des Je t’aime
Montmartre feels less like a place you visit and more like a place you experience. It’s the kind of neighborhood where you wander without a plan, stop when something catches your eye, and realize you’ve lost track of time in the best way. Between the quiet streets, surprises tucked around corners, and views that stop you mid-walk, it’s always worth a visit. When you leave Montmartre, it doesn’t feel finished—it becomes something you continue to daydream about. Maybe it’s a moment that made you smile, an unexpected favorite spot, a piece of artwork that captivated you, or just the way the neighborhood made you slow down without realizing it. While it may not be everyone’s favorite part of Paris, letting yourself wander and take it all in has a way of sticking with you long after the day and the trip are over.
