Montmartre

The hilltop 18th crowned by Sacré-Cœur, with cobbled lanes, a vineyard, artist history, and huge city views. A friend sends you for the panorama and the village streets — but early. Caveat: Place du Tertre is a portrait-artist tourist scrum, and pickpockets work the crowds; go at 8:30am or after 5pm to actually enjoy it.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

How much time do I need in Montmartre?

Half a day covers the basilica, the village lanes, and a viewpoint comfortably. Add time if you climb the dome or visit the Musée de Montmartre and its gardens.

When should I visit Montmartre to avoid crowds?

A weekday between about 8:30 and 10am is the sweet spot — the basilica's open but Place du Tertre hasn't filled. After 5pm is also good, when day-trippers thin and the light softens. Midday weekends are the worst crush.

Is Sacré-Cœur free to visit?

Yes, entering the basilica is free, open daily about 6:30am to 10:30pm. The dome climb is separate and paid — around €8 for adults, €5 for kids — with its own shorter hours, and it's worth it for the view.

Is Montmartre good for the view?

Excellent — the terrace in front of Sacré-Cœur gives one of the widest free panoramas over Paris, and the dome climb goes higher still. Clear mornings and sunset are the best light.

Is Place du Tertre worth it?

Honestly, it's the most touristy corner — the portrait artists are aggressive and prices are steep. See it briefly for the atmosphere, don't feel obligated to buy, and spend your time on the quieter surrounding lanes instead.

How do I get up to Sacré-Cœur?

Metro to Anvers (Line 2), then either climb the stairs or take the funicular, which runs daily roughly 6am to 12:45am and costs one standard Metro ticket (€2.55 full fare in 2026). Abbesses on Line 12 is the other main approach.

Are pickpockets a problem in Montmartre?

Yes — the crowds around Sacré-Cœur and the funicular attract pickpockets, and the steps below the basilica are a known spot for pushy 'bracelet' scammers. Keep bags zipped and in front, and firmly ignore anyone trying to tie string on your wrist.

What's the best walking route in Montmartre?

From Abbesses or Anvers, head to Sacré-Cœur first, then Place du Tertre, then the quieter vineyard-and-museum side (Clos Montmartre, Musée de Montmartre), and drift down toward Pigalle last. That saves the steep climb for when you're freshest.

Nearby in Ask Paris

• Basilique du Sacré-Cœur de MontmartreAttraction0 km · 0 min walk
• CloveCafé0.25 km · 3 min walk
• Sacrée Fleur MontmartreRestaurant0.37 km · 5 min walk
• Simple CoffeeCafé0.48 km · 6 min walk
• Les Crèmes - Coffee HouseCafé0.55 km · 7 min walk