When you visit Paris, Montmartre probably jumps straight to mind—thanks to the world-famous Sacré-Cœur. But honestly, this hilltop neighborhood hides so much more around its winding, cobbled streets.
My favorite things to do in Montmartre go way beyond the usual tourist checklist. Think secret vineyards, offbeat museums, and bustling local markets.
Every time I wander these charming streets, I stumble on something new—a tiny bakery with flaky pastries, an art-filled square, or just a quiet bench where locals pause for a chat. If you want a Paris experience that feels real and sticks with you, Montmartre is the spot.
Let me show you my top five things to do in Montmartre that capture its true spirit—beyond the classic Sacré-Cœur view.
Exploring Montmartre’s Secret Vineyards
Montmartre stands out in Paris not just for its history and views, but also for its hidden vineyard scene. The area lets visitors discover local wine traditions you’d probably miss if you only hit the big sights.
Discovering Clos Montmartre
On Rue des Saules, you’ll find Clos Montmartre, a real vineyard tucked right into the city. It surprises a lot of people—grapevines have grown here since Roman times. The plot is tiny, just about 1,500 vines, but it’s packed with quirky charm and old stories.
I like walking along the iron fence, admiring rows of Pinot Noir and Gamay grapes. The vineyard bottles a small batch each year under the label “Clos Montmartre.” You can’t just stroll in; it only opens during special events. Still, peeking through the fence and snapping a photo or two always feels worth it.
The best time to visit is during the Fête des Vendanges in October. This annual harvest festival brings parades, art, and food stalls to the area. Locals get really into it, so it’s a fun way to tap into Parisian wine culture without ever leaving the city.
Participating in Wine Tastings
Tasting wine from Clos Montmartre is a rare treat. You won’t find bottles in shops, and tastings only happen during special events. During the Fête des Vendanges, I managed to try the local wine with a plate of cheese and charcuterie. The flavor is rustic and honestly, it’s got plenty of Parisian personality—don’t expect Bordeaux, but it’s memorable.
Some guided walking tours offer private tastings, often mixing in other French wines and sometimes Champagne. If Clos Montmartre isn’t open, you can still find plenty of cozy wine bars in Montmartre. I always look for places where the staff love sharing stories about the neighborhood’s winemaking past.
Tip: Book tours or tastings ahead of time during festival season. These events fill up quickly, and locals love them just as much as visitors. If you’re curious about Paris’ wine culture, Montmartre is a pretty great place to start.
Art and Culture Beyond the Sacré-Cœur
Montmartre isn’t just about the famous white basilica. There are hidden museums, buzzing artist squares, and some of the best city views you’ll find anywhere in Paris.
Musée de Montmartre Experience
Up on a quiet hill, the Musée de Montmartre lets you dive deep into the area’s bohemian past. The museum sits inside a 17th-century house where Renoir and other artists once lived and painted.
I like wandering through rooms filled with old posters, paintings, and bits of Montmartre’s wild history. The gardens out back are peaceful, and they overlook the tiny Clos Montmartre vineyard. I always tell friends to stop here—just to breathe in the same views that inspired legends.
Entry comes with the Paris Museum Pass, so if you’re museum-hopping, it’s a good deal. There’s usually a temporary exhibit highlighting a particular artist or art theme. It rarely gets crowded, so you can actually enjoy the space. For anyone who wants to feel Montmartre’s real spirit, this museum is a gem.
Wandering through Place du Tertre
Place du Tertre buzzes with energy, no matter the weather. Artists set up their easels every morning, painting portraits and colorful scenes for anyone passing by.
I love strolling through the square, watching the painters at work, and sometimes chatting about their styles. Each piece is different, and I’ve even taken home a sketch or two. There are lots of little cafés and shops around the square. Sitting down for coffee here feels special, knowing you’re surrounded by Montmartre’s creative heart.
If you’re up for it, you can get your own portrait drawn—a tradition that’s been around for generations. Place du Tertre gets crowded in the afternoon, so I like to visit early in the day when it’s quieter. It’s one of the last places where Montmartre’s artistic history still feels alive.
Capturing Panoramic Views
Montmartre’s hills and winding streets offer some of the best views in Paris. Climbing the steps next to Sacré-Cœur brings you to a lookout with sweeping city sights. On a clear day, the Eiffel Tower pops up above the rooftops.
I pause on terraces and benches along the hillside to snap photos. Watching the light shift over the city from up high is always a little bit magical. For a different angle, I wander the back streets near Rue Lepic, where crowds thin out and the views feel more personal.
Montmartre’s vantage points reveal Paris from unexpected perspectives. Whether I catch the sunrise or stick around for sunset, these moments remind me why artists and dreamers fall in love with this place.
Indulging in Montmartre’s Culinary Delights
Montmartre captures so much of what I adore about French food. From creamy cheese plates to the smell of fresh pastries drifting from a bakery, I can never resist.
Tasting Local Cheeses and Charcuterie
Whenever I’m in Montmartre, I make time for cheese and charcuterie. Tiny shops and bistros line the winding streets, many serving platters stacked with regional specialties. Brie de Meaux, Comté, Roquefort—they all show up alongside slices of savory saucisson and pâté.
Wine pairings are a given, and I’ve joined tours where an expert explains what to drink with each cheese. Sampling cheese and meats at a market or on a foodie tour always deepens my appreciation for Parisian flavors.
Here’s what I’d try:
- A cheese board with three or four French cheeses
- A mix of charcuterie—keep an eye out for smoked hams and artisanal sausages
- A glass of crisp champagne or a local wine
Some tours even swing by Montmartre’s only working vineyard, which is a neat little secret.
Savoring Fresh Pastries and Pastry Tours
Nothing beats a warm, flaky croissant or a buttery pain au chocolat from a Montmartre bakery. My mornings usually start with a visit to a favorite café or boulangerie for something fresh from the oven.
Pastry tours go beyond the basics. On one, I tasted airy choux buns, delicate macarons, and chocolate eclairs while a local pastry expert explained what makes each one special. Many tours stop at places like Pain Pain or La Maison Rose, where you can watch pastries being made and then taste the results.
These tours help me appreciate the care that goes into every bite. Plus, they lead me to bakeries I might have missed. Eating pastries in Montmartre isn’t just about food—it’s about soaking up the neighborhood’s café culture and daily life.
Hidden Gems and Shopping Adventures
Montmartre is packed with creative surprises. Unique boutiques, artisan shops, and markets show off a different side of the neighborhood.
Visiting Artisan Shops and Cafes
One thing I love about Montmartre is slipping into the small artisan shops scattered along its old streets. Local artists and makers show off their work in cozy, welcoming spaces. Handmade jewelry, paintings, and vintage posters make cool souvenirs—and it feels good to support local talent.
Here are a few gems I’d recommend:
| Shop Name | Specialty | Location |
|---|---|---|
| L’Échoppe de Paris | Handmade gifts & jewelry | Rue des Abbesses |
| Pain Pain | Artisanal bakery | Rue des Martyrs |
| La Maison Rose | Iconic café & art prints | Rue de l’Abreuvoir |
Stopping at a café here is never just about the coffee. Places like Café des Deux Moulins, made famous by Amélie, blend movie magic and classic Paris vibes. I usually linger over a pastry, people-watching and soaking up Montmartre’s creative buzz.
Treasure Hunting at the Paris Flea Market
If you love treasure hunting, the Paris flea market—Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen—is just a short trip from Montmartre. Wandering its endless rows of vintage finds and antiques, I always feel like I’ve stepped into another world.
I keep a list on my phone of dealers who specialize in art deco, retro posters, or old French books. Haggling is the norm, and friendly chats with shopkeepers sometimes lead to the best finds. Some stalls even sell Montmartre souvenirs, like hand-painted tiles and antique café signs.
Mornings are the best time to browse—there’s less of a crowd, and you get first pick. Even if I leave empty-handed, the market is always an adventure and a great place to meet locals who are passionate about art and history.
Montmartre by Night: Entertainment and Nightlife
When the sun sets, Montmartre glows with a mix of cabaret glitz, local arts, and that unmistakable Paris energy. The neighborhood offers unforgettable nights, whether you’re after iconic shows or curious about the opera and performance scene.
Iconic Evening at the Moulin Rouge
Whenever I think of Paris nightlife, the Moulin Rouge comes to mind first. Its bright red windmill lights up Boulevard de Clichy, drawing in both locals and visitors. The cabaret opened in 1889 and still stands as a symbol of Montmartre’s artistic soul.
Inside, velvet curtains reveal a stage packed with music, dance, and sparkling costumes. The Féerie show is the main draw, with can-can dancers, live music, and wild set designs. Tickets often include dinner and French cuisine to go with the show.
Seating fills up fast, so I’d book ahead, especially on weekends. Dress up a little—most guests enjoy fitting in with the cabaret mood. You can’t take photos during the show, which honestly makes the whole experience feel more special and in-the-moment.
Uncovering Cultural Performances at Opera Houses
Montmartre doesn’t have those grand opera houses like Palais Garnier, but you’ll find some pretty unique spots for classical music and theater if you know where to look.
Take the Théâtre de l’Atelier, for instance. It’s been putting on elegant shows in a historic space since the 1800s.
I’ve caught a few intimate opera performances there—honestly, they really capture that deeper, artsy side of Paris.
If you’re into music, check out smaller concerts or indie productions at places like Espace Diamant. The events change all year, so you might stumble on chamber music, classic French chansons, or even a quirky play.
These shows usually feel way more personal and down-to-earth than what you’d get at the bigger city venues.
So, if you’re in Paris and itching for a night that’s a little off the beaten path, head to Montmartre for a show or concert. You’ll get a real taste of Parisian culture, and tickets are often easy on the wallet.
It’s these creative voices that make Montmartre’s nightlife so vibrant—sometimes you just have to see it for yourself.
