How To Spend A Day In Montmartre

Once a haven for the artists and bohemians of Paris, Montmartre has become an area heavily populated by tourists eager to see one of the most quintessentially Parisian neighbourhoods. Discover the beauty of the charming 18th arrondissement with our guide on how to spend a day in Montmartre.

Morning

1. Hardware Societé

Restaurant, Cafe, French, Australian

The Hardware Societé serves up some of the best breakfasts in Paris; think lobster eggs benedict and fried brioche. Owned by Australians Di and Will Kaser, the menu puts an Aussie spin on breakfast staples – you’ll find lamingtons alongside the traditional croissants and pain au chocolat. You might find yourself waiting in line to get in, but the friendly staff, great food and excellent coffee are worth the wait.

2. Sacre Coeur

Church, Park

After you’ve fuelled up with breakfast, take on the stairs leading up to the Basilica de Sacre Coeur. It’s worth climbing up the 270 steps to take in the stunning architecture of the second-most visited church in Paris. If you step inside you’ll find stunning mosaics and beautiful architecture, or you can join the throngs of tourists staring at the incredible view of Paris from the foot of the church.

Afternoon

3. Abattoir Vegeta

Restaurant, Vegan

If you’re after something a little lighter than the traditional Parisian bistro, head to Abattoir Vegetal which offers some of the best vegan and vegetarian food in Paris. Chef Gloria Kabe’s restaurant is an Instagrammer’s dream, with beautifully presented dishes in a stylish, modern setting. Try the falafel burger, or pick up one of their fresh cold-pressed juices.

Walk through the Place du Tertre

It may be overrun with caricaturists trying to scam you for a few euros, but the Place du Tertre is steeped in Parisian history. During the Belle Epoque, it was frequented by Van Gogh and Picasso, and there are still touches of the incredible art scene that once thrived here. The place is still home to a variety of artists, who must apply at the town hall of the 18th arrondissement before they can set up an easel (and the waiting list is up to ten years long!).

Artists sell their work at Place du Tertre

4. Musée d'Art Naïf – Max Fourny, Paris

Bookstore, Museum

La Halle Saint Pierre Modern Art Museum, Montmartre, Paris

Montmartre is home to some incredible museums and galleries, but none quite capture the bohemian spirit like Halle Saint-Pierre. Dedicated to art brut, or “outsider art”, Halle Saint-Pierre is not only a museum but also an auditorium, bookstore and café. The Musée d’Art Naïf – Max Fourny is also located inside the building, featuring unique pieces from artists with no previous formal art education.

Night

5. Le Coq Rico, Paris

Restaurant, French

Le Coq Rico restaurant entrance on Rue Lepic.

Le Coq Rico serves up some of the best poultry in Paris; whether you’re after chicken, duck, squab or partridge, you’ll find poultry dishes that have been made with the utmost care and attention by chef Antoine Westmann. Adventurous diners can try the offal plate or the lamb’s gizzard lettuce. While the prices might be high, the quality of the ingredients are second to none and reflect Westmann’s commitment to working closely with the farmers raising the heritage breed birds.

6. Marlusse et Lapin, Paris

Bar, German

Squeeze into this tiny bar to start your night with a bang. With cheap shots (and absinthe) on the menu, Marlusse et Lapin is a popular place for locals to hang out, with a distinct grandma-chic vibe to the decor – expect to see patterned wallpaper, sewing machines and beds in place of sofas. It’s a friendly atmosphere but be warned, it does get incredibly busy around happy hour (though with pints at three euros it’s not hard to see why).