Winding cobblestone streets. Artists painting outdoors. Fresh-baked baguettes. These are just a few of the sights and smells you’ll experience on this Semi Private Montmartre Tour. From Le Moulin Rouge to the Sacré-Cœur, our expert guides will take you on a leisurely stroll up this northern hill stopping along the way to view the lovely vineyards, lively squares, and former Impressionists’ homes. With our expert local guide, you’ll get to experience all the charms this bohemian district has to offer at a relaxed pace.
Your tour begins outside the legendary Moulin Rouge windmill. Built in 1889, the same year as Paris’ World Fair Expo, this famed eye-catching cabaret shares a birth year with the Eiffel Tower and has become a symbol of Montmartre. Home to the risqué cancan dance, Le Moulin Rouge has been delighting visitors for over 130 years with its Vegas-like theatrics and sumptuous interior.
As you turn towards Montmartre’s cobblestone streets, you will soon notice the village-like ambiance of this distinct neighborhood. This is especially true as you see the shops along the Rue des Martyrs, which legend has it was the very street the first bishop of Paris was crucified. Your guide will also draw your attention to Montmartre’s historic vineyard landscape, and the centuries’ old history behind some of the winemakers in the area. See a 100-year-old winery which is known throughout France for its autumn festival.
Interestingly, Montmartre was initially a tax-free haven separated from Paris by physical borders. This “outsider status” paired with cheaper rents attracted countless artists over centuries. On your
Montmartre Tour, you will have plenty of time to take pictures by the former homes of artists such as Van Gogh, Renoir and Picasso. You will also have the chance to stop by Montmartre’s oldest cabaret - Au Lapin Agile. Founded in 1860, Au Lapin Agile frequently hosted famous artists such as such as Edith Piaf and inspired paintings by the likes of Picasso and Utrillo. Thankfully, Montmartre’s artistic spirit isn’t just in the past! Keep your eyes peeled for contemporary painters and musicians entertaining guests in the Amélie-featured Cafe des Deux Moulins.
Before reaching Montmartre’s summit and the pure white Sacré-Cœur basilica, enjoy a delicious slice of fresh baked bread from one of Montmartre’s highly awarded bakeries.
