Neighborhood Guide: What to do in Montmartre

Montmartre, in the 18th arrondissement, is a neighborhood known for it’s views, it’s artists, and it’s charm. The Sacré-Cœur Basilica and Place du Tertre are well-trodden paths for visitors, but Montmartre is more than just those famous landmarks. At Your Paris Photographer, we spend a lot of time in Montmartre’s cobblestone streets and we wanted to make a guide for anyone wondering what to do in Montmartre besides the obvious tourist traps. Here’s a guide to exploring the less obvious side of this amazing neighborhood.

Start Your Day with an Artisan Bakery

Skip the overly crowded bakeries near Place du Tertre and hit Le Grenier à Pain Abbesses on Rue des Abbesses on your way up the hill. This local gem has won the competition for Best Traditional Baguette in 2010 and 2015, and their pastries are equally fantastic. Pain Pain is also an award winning bakery in the area that we love!

Have some food restrictions? Check out copains! Everything this bakery makes is delicious, gluten free and they also offer vegan options.

Lots of other great pastry chefs and bakers have shops in Montmartre too, some of our favorite are Pierre Hermé, Boris Lumé, Gilles Marchal, and Arnaud Lahrer.

2. Discover Street Art on the Butte

Montmartre is synonymous with art, but you don’t need to stick to the usual galleries. Venture into Passage des Abbesses, a tucked-away alley adorned with murals and street art that celebrate the area’s bohemian spirit. The walls are ever-changing, making each visit unique.

Keep an eye out for works by Miss.Tic, M Chat, Invader, Amour Anarchie and more.

Another hidden treasure is La Cave des Abbesses. While it’s primarily a wine cellar, its walls are lined with quirky, hand-painted murals that tell tales of Montmartre’s vinous history. Pop in for a wine tasting while soaking in the artistry.

3. Find Serenity in a Quiet Garden

Tourists flock to the gardens below Sacré-Cœur, but the Square Marcel-Bleustein-Blanchet offers a different kind of escape. Tucked back behind the Sacré-Cœur, this park is usually much less busy and provides incredible views of the iconic basilica.

Nearby, the Clos Montmartre, one of Paris’ last working vineyards, offers a peek into the neighborhood’s agricultural past. While it’s not open to the public, the view from Rue des Saules is enchanting, especially during grape harvest season in October.

4. Visit Unique Local Museums

Montmartre houses the Dalí Paris Museum. Dedicated to the surrealist master Salvador Dalí, this museum houses a fascinating collection of his works, including lesser-known sculptures and illustrations.

Situated at the foot of Montmartre hill, we love the Musée de la vie Romantique. This museum is set in a charming 19th-century house that was once the residence of painter Ary Scheffer. It offers insights into the Romantic era, featuring artworks, furniture, and personal items of notable figures like George Sand and Frédéric Chopin. It’s currently closed for renovations but is slated to open back up in March of 2026.

Lastly, the Musée de Montmartre is our personal favorite. Located inside the former atelier of Susan Valadon and Maurice Utrillo, it is usually not very crowded and houses an impressive collection of lithographs, exhibits about the history of Montmartre and access to the private gardens behind the museum.

5. Sip Coffee Where the Locals Do

Instead of stopping at Café des Deux Moulins (famous from Amélie), try Cœur Coffee Roasters. This coffee shop is small and inviting, plus they serve excellent coffee – they won the French Championship of Coffee Roasting in 2023.

For a bit more space, check out one of two Dose locations in Montmartre. We also love the Beans on Fire, Two Doors and Hardware Société.

6. Seek Out Montmartre’s Quirky Side

The Wall of Love (Le Mur des Je t’aime) in Square Jehan Rictus is a popular attraction, but nearby, you’ll find an intriguing statue: Le Passe-Muraille. This bronze figure, inspired by a story from Marcel Aymé, appears to be walking through a wall. It’s a delightfully surreal photo opportunity.

Another hidden gem is Au Lapin Agile, Paris’ oldest cabaret. Its history is rich with stories of Picasso and other artists who frequented it. Attend a live performance here to experience Montmartre’s bohemian legacy in a truly authentic setting.

Montmartre’s charm lies in its layers. Beyond the iconic landmarks are streets, stories, and surprises waiting to be discovered. By stepping off the beaten path, you’ll uncover a neighborhood that feels personal and timeless, like a Parisian secret shared just with you. Whether you’re a photographer chasing the perfect shot or a traveler seeking a deeper connection, Montmartre never fails to inspire.

Pack your curiosity, wear comfortable shoes, and let Montmartre work its magic. And don’t forget your camera — the light here has inspired countless masterpieces, and it might just inspire yours too.