Paris: Montmartre Tour with Sacré-Cur and Optional Wine Tasting

Explore Montmartre in an Authentic Small-Group Tour

This 2-hour guided tour of Montmartre costs $68.78 per person and is led by an expert guide who shares stories about the neighborhood’s artistic past and lively present. The tour emphasizes off-the-beaten-path sights alongside iconic landmarks, making it ideal for visitors seeking a more genuine Paris experience beyond the usual tourist crowds.

Starting from 5 Pl. Blanche, the tour concludes at the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, giving you an excellent chance to explore the basilica and its panoramic views at your own pace. With a small group size capped at 10 participants, the experience remains intimate, allowing for personalized attention and plenty of photo stops, including popular spots like the “I Love You” wall and historic streets once home to Picasso and Van Gogh.

A key feature of this tour is the optional wine tasting upgrade, which offers a taste of France’s celebrated wines, adding a flavorful layer to the Montmartre exploration. The tour’s flexibility, combined with expert recommendations for local attractions and hidden gems, makes it a standout choice for travelers eager to uncover the neighborhood’s authentic charm.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $68.78, with optional wine tasting to enhance your experience
• Approximately 2 hours of walking, perfect for a quick yet rich introduction to Montmartre
• Visit iconic sites like Sacré-Cœur, Le Bateau-Lavoir, and Le Moulin de la Galette
• Small-group format ensures personalized attention and greater interaction
• Expert guides share engaging stories about Montmartre’s history and art scene
• Includes plenty of photo stops at picturesque streets, the “I Love You” wall, and more

Starting Point and Tour Logistics

This Montmartre tour begins at 5 Pl. Blanche, a central location near public transportation options for easy access. The tour ends at the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, located at 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre in Montmartre. The walking pace is moderate, designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness.

Since admission tickets are not included for stops like Le Bateau-Lavoir or Le Moulin de la Galette, visitors should plan to explore these sites from outside. The tour emphasizes external visits and sightseeing, giving a comprehensive view without long waits or entry lines.

Highlights of Montmartre’s Artistic and Historic Landmarks

Walking through Montmartre’s winding streets, visitors encounter a blend of charming cafés, historic shops, and lively artist spots. The Le Bateau-Lavoir house is a highlight, known as the residence of Picasso during his groundbreaking work on Les Demoiselles d’Avignon. Although entry isn’t included, the outside view alone offers a glimpse into the neighborhood’s artistic legacy.

Le Moulin de la Galette stands out as a lively former gathering place for artists and locals alike, inspiring Renoir’s famous “Bal du moulin de la Galette”. This locale captures the neighborhood’s bohemian spirit, even from outside. Nearby, Le Passe-Muraille features a unique optical illusion sculpture inspired by Marcel Aymé’s story, adding a playful touch to your walk.

Place Dalida offers a quiet moment with a statue of the beloved singer, where touching her bust is believed to bring good luck. The pink Montmartre Maison Rose, dating back to 1920, once hosted artists like Picasso and Modigliani, standing as a vibrant reminder of Montmartre’s artistic past.

Discovering the Artistic Heart of Montmartre Square

The Place du Tertre, renowned for artists setting up easels daily, remains a lively center of Montmartre’s artistic legacy. Visitors can enjoy watching painters at work or browse their creations—though the tour focuses on the outside view, it offers a sense of how art continues to thrive in this neighborhood.

This square is surrounded by charming cafés, making it a perfect spot for a quick coffee break or a memorable photo. It also acts as a hub connecting many of the tour’s other highlights, like La Petite Maison Rose and the basilica.

Ascending to Sacré-Cœur for the Best Views

The tour culminates at the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre, perched atop the highest point in the neighborhood. Visitors are treated to spectacular panoramic views of Paris, while the basilica itself is a striking symbol of faith and resilience. Entry to the basilica is free, but access to the dome requires an additional fee.

From the basilica’s steps, you can enjoy a sweeping vista of Paris’s rooftops and landmarks, making it an ideal spot for photos. The basilica’s white facade and impressive interior add a sense of grandeur to the tour’s finale.

The Optional Wine Tasting Experience

For those eager to add a tasting element, the wine tasting upgrade offers an opportunity to sample French wines in a private or exclusive setting. This experience complements the cultural journey through Montmartre by highlighting French viticulture. It’s a popular choice, especially for visitors wanting to savor local flavors after a walk through the neighborhood’s historic streets.

Expert Guides Who Bring Montmartre to Life

The guides leading this tour are highly praised for their knowledge and friendly approach. Reviews highlight guides like Ifi, who share interesting stories about Montmartre’s art, history, and legends. They are patient, answer questions, and make the neighborhood’s history engaging and accessible.

The small group size helps foster a more personal experience, allowing for better interaction and more photo opportunities. The guides also offer recommendations for further exploring Montmartre and its hidden corners.

Practical Tips for Participants

Since the tour involves significant walking, travelers should have moderate physical fitness. The tour is primarily outdoor, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advisable. All attractions are viewed from outside, which means no long lines or entry fees, but you should be prepared for some outdoor exposure.

The tour provides plenty of photo opportunities at iconic spots like the “I Love You” wall and Montmartre’s lively streets, perfect for capturing memories of your visit.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This small-group Montmartre tour offers a balanced mix of famous landmarks and lesser-known streets, with an emphasis on local charm. The inclusion of expert storytelling and photo stops makes it more than just a walk; it’s an immersive experience.

The option to add a wine tasting enhances the cultural flavor of the trip, especially for those interested in French cuisine and traditions. The high ratings and positive reviews reflect the tour’s quality, particularly praising the knowledgeable guides and authentic atmosphere.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour suits those looking for a more intimate, less touristy exploration of Montmartre. It’s ideal for art enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone wanting a personalized introduction to the neighborhood’s stories and sights. The small-group setting and expert advice make it particularly appealing for visitors eager to connect more deeply with Paris’s bohemian side.

Final Thoughts on the Montmartre Experience

This guided walking tour of Montmartre delivers a well-rounded, engaging glimpse into one of Paris’s most artistically rich neighborhoods. Its affordable price point, expert guides, and rich itinerary make it a strong choice for visitors who want a culturally immersive experience without the crowds.

While it doesn’t include tickets to inside attractions like Sacré-Cœur dome or art museums, the outdoor sightseeing and photo stops provide plenty of memorable moments. The optional wine tasting adds a delightful taste of France, perfect for completing your Montmartre adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the entrance fee to Sacré-Cœur included?
No, entry to the basilica is free, but access to the dome requires an additional fee. All other stops are viewed from outside.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it suitable for a quick yet enriching exploration of Montmartre.

Can I participate if I have moderate physical fitness?
Yes, the tour involves walking at a moderate pace and outdoor sightseeing, so those with moderate physical fitness should be comfortable participating.

Is the wine tasting included in the base price?
No, the wine tasting is an optional upgrade that can be added for those interested in sampling French wines.

Where does the tour end?
The tour concludes at the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, giving easy access to explore the basilica and enjoy the views afterward.