The city of love, the capital of romance? Paris, of course! And there’s one neighborhood where romance truly reaches its peak: Montmartre. This charming district is a hymn to love and discovery. Whether you’re an art lover, a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or a seeker of hidden gems, Montmartre has something for everyone. Here are four themed walks through Montmartre that will sweep you off your feet.
Montmartre for the nature enthusiasts
Even in the heart of Paris, Montmartre is a haven for those yearning for greenery. This enchanting neighborhood has preserved secret pockets of nature that feel like a world apart.
Start your stroll at Anvers metro station. After a quick detour through rue Steinkerque, you’ll arrive at Square Louise-Michel, nestled at the foot of the majestic Sacré-Cœur Basilica. The park’s terraced steps offer breathtaking views over Paris, making it a perfect spot for a romantic pause. For a quieter moment, take one of the park’s lesser-used paths—you’ll quickly leave the crowds behind and find serene nooks where time slows down.
Behind the Sacré-Cœur, step into the tranquil charm of Square Marcel-Bleustein-Blanchet, known for its wisteria-covered arcades. This hidden gem is a favorite backdrop for couples, especially newlyweds from all over the world.
Continue your journey to the Saint-Vincent Garden, a biodiverse haven tucked away in Montmartre. Open seasonally for free visits, this little wilderness is home to frogs, dragonflies, and a host of other species, alongside lush vegetation. It’s a striking contrast to the bustling city outside.
A bit further on, the Square Suzanne-Buisson invites you to relax under trees specially chosen for their vibrant blooms. And for a classic romantic landmark, head to Abbesses to admire the famous Wall of Love (Mur des Je t’aime), where “I love you” is written in 250 different languages. See if you can spot your native tongue—or the one closest to your heart.
Montmartre for artists
Montmartre is alive with art; every street seems to celebrate the creativity of past and present artists. It’s the ultimate bohemian neighborhood.
A visit to Place du Tertre is a must—it’s the iconic square where portrait artists await to capture your likeness. For a deeper dive into surrealism, don’t miss the Espace Dalí, home to over 300 captivating works by the Spanish master.
If you’re drawn to raw or contemporary art, stop by the Halle Saint-Pierre, a bold space dedicated to unconventional artistic expressions, or explore the Galerie W, renowned for its street art exhibitions and emerging talents.
If music is more your thing, Montmartre is the perfect place to dive into the cabaret scene. Whether it’s the timeless charm of Le Lapin Agile, the legendary Moulin Rouge, or the extravagant Chez Michou, each venue offers a unique experience where art and entertainment collide.
Cinephiles will recognize Montmartre as the backdrop of Amélie. Stop by the Café des Deux Moulins (15 rue Lepic) or the shop owned by Monsieur Collignon (56 rue des Trois Frères). For a romantic movie night, head to the quaint Studio 28 (10 rue Tholozé), where the charm of Montmartre extends to the big screen.
Montmartre for foodies
For food lovers, Montmartre is a delicious paradise. From cozy tea rooms to intimate restaurants and sweet shops, every bite here is a memory in the making.
Start with a comforting stop at La Bossue (9 rue Joseph-de-Maistre). This vintage tea room serves organic pastries and local delicacies, making it the perfect place for an afternoon treat or a weekend brunch.
Looking for a romantic dinner? Try Square Marcadet (227 bis rue Marcadet), with its sleek decor and charming patio, or L’Été en Pente Douce (23 rue Muller), where the vibrant, bohemian atmosphere complements the fresh, colorful dishes—including vegetarian options.
If you want to take home a sweet souvenir, head to the Compagnie Générale de Biscuiterie (1 rue Constance). Their cookies pay homage to Montmartre’s cancan dancers, and their buttery sablés are irresistible. Prefer chocolate? Stop by Maison Larnicol (7 rue de Steinkerque), where macarons, meringues, and handcrafted chocolates await your taste buds.
Montmartre for the adventurous
There’s something undeniably thrilling about hidden places. If you want to live out a romantic adventure, Montmartre’s best-kept secrets and tucked-away spots are ready to be explored.
Start at Pigalle metro station. By day, discover the small, secluded courtyards hidden in the bustling streets. The Cité du Midi (48–50 boulevard de Clichy) offers a quiet cobblestone alley that opens into a circular courtyard with retro charm. Nearby, at 94 boulevard de Clichy, you’ll find Cité Véron, a picturesque passage where author Boris Vian once lived.
Don’t miss the Villa Léandre, a peaceful cobblestone street lined with red brick houses that feel like they’ve been plucked from an English village. Artists often seek refuge here, and the houses have been passed down through families for generations. Take your time to admire the details of the architecture and the flourishing greenery.
For a hidden gem, look for the M18 Passage (23 avenue Junot), also known as the “Witch’s Passage.” With a bit of luck, you might slip in behind a local and find yourself in a private haven with beehives, a pétanque court, and even a curious rock said to belong to a witch.
End your stroll with a visit to the Saint-Vincent Cemetery. Overshadowed by the more famous Montmartre and Père Lachaise cemeteries, this lesser-known spot has a unique charm and offers a peaceful view of the Sacré-Cœur. To find it, head to rue Lucien-Gaulard.
