Montmartre isn’t just a Paris neighborhood — it’s a village within the city, wrapped in cobbled lanes, crowned by a basilica, and soaked in artistic legend. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Paris regular, wandering Montmartre on foot is one of the most atmospheric experiences the city offers.
Here’s your curated walking tour of the top 10 must-see attractions in Montmartre:
1. Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Rising like a pearl above Paris, the Sacré-Cœur offers panoramic views and Roman-Byzantine elegance. Step inside to admire its mosaics and peaceful interior. For the best views, climb to the dome (300 steps) — sunrise here is unforgettable.
📍 Tip: Come early or stay for sunset. The basilica is free, but access to the dome has a small fee.
2. Place du Tertre
Just steps from Sacré-Cœur lies Place du Tertre, a square humming with open-air painters, caricaturists, and café-goers. This was once the heart of bohemian Paris, home to artists like Utrillo and Modigliani.
🎨 Fun Fact: You can still get your portrait sketched here, just like visitors did in the early 1900s.
3. Wall of Love (Le Mur des Je t’aime)
Tucked into Jehan Rictus Square, this poetic mural features “I love you” in 250+ languages. It’s a popular photo stop, especially for couples — and a peaceful corner of romance in busy Paris.
📍 Address: Place des Abbesses (near the metro)
4. Clos Montmartre Vineyards
Yes, Paris has vineyards — and Clos Montmartre is a tiny patch of winemaking history. Hidden behind iron gates, it produces limited batches of local wine. While it’s not open daily, you can admire it from outside or visit during the Fête des Vendanges in October.
🍇 Tip: Ask local guides about special access tours.
5. Rue de l’Abreuvoir
Often named the prettiest street in Paris, Rue de l’Abreuvoir is a pastel-hued curve lined with ivy-covered homes and vintage lanterns. It’s postcard-perfect, especially when viewed facing La Maison Rose, the iconic pink café at its end.
📸 Best time for photos: early morning or golden hour.
6. La Maison Rose
This 100-year-old café is beloved by artists and influencers alike. Once a haunt of Maurice Utrillo, La Maison Rose offers a pastel façade, rustic charm, and great views up and down Rue de l’Abreuvoir. Perfect for a coffee or light lunch stop.
7. Montmartre’s Hidden Staircases
Lose the crowds by finding Montmartre’s scenic staircases, like Rue Foyatier, which zigzags up beside the funicular. These stairs are popular with photographers — especially in the rain or fall foliage.
🥾 Pro Tip: Wear good shoes and take your time. Some stairways lead to quiet corners with lovely views.
8. Dalí Paris Museum
This quirky museum is home to 300+ works by surrealist legend Salvador Dalí, including sculptures, engravings, and dreamlike drawings. It’s one of Paris’s most offbeat and inspiring galleries.
🎟️ Tickets available online — book ahead during weekends.
9. Moulin de la Galette
One of the last remaining windmills in Paris, the Moulin de la Galette was immortalized by Renoir. Once a dance hall, it’s now a private residence, but you can admire it from the street and nearby restaurant of the same name.
🖼️ Tip: Look up Renoir’s Bal du moulin de la Galette before visiting!
10. Le Bateau-Lavoir
This legendary building was a creative hive for Picasso, Braque, and Modigliani in the early 20th century. Though the original was lost to fire, the reconstructed Bateau-Lavoir honors its Cubist legacy.
📍 Location: 13 Place Émile Goudeau — it’s easy to miss, so keep your eyes peeled!
🗺️ Suggested Walking Route
Start at Abbesses Metro ➝ Wall of Love ➝ Rue de l’Abreuvoir ➝ La Maison Rose ➝ Clos Montmartre ➝ Sacré-Cœur ➝ Place du Tertre ➝ Dalí Museum ➝ Rue Foyatier ➝ Le Bateau-Lavoir ➝ Moulin de la Galette
✅ Quick Map & Highlights Grid
Attraction | Type | Best For | Entry |
---|---|---|---|
Sacré-Cœur | Landmark | Views, History | Free (dome €) |
Place du Tertre | Square | Art, Atmosphere | Free |
Wall of Love | Mural | Romance, Photos | Free |
Clos Montmartre | Vineyard | Hidden Gem | View only (tour €) |
Rue de l’Abreuvoir | Street | Photos, Stroll | Free |
La Maison Rose | Café | Rest stop, Instagram | Meal €€ |
Dalí Museum | Museum | Art lovers | €€ |
Moulin de la Galette | Historic Site | Art, Architecture | Free |
Le Bateau-Lavoir | Studio site | History buffs | Free (outside) |
🧭 How to Explore Montmartre on Foot
- Start early to beat the crowds and afternoon heat
- Bring water and good walking shoes — it’s hilly!
- Stop often: Montmartre is meant to be savored, not rushed
- Consider joining a local walking tour for insider stories
📌 Book a Guided Walking Tour of Montmartre
👉 Reserve your spot here